Cincinnati’s signature chili style comes with a unique pricing structure based on how many layers you add. If you are looking for the Gold Star Chili Menu with Prices, you have landed in the right spot. This guide breaks down every item, portion size, and current cost so you can order like a local without any guesswork.
Gold Star Chili is a staple in the Queen City. They have been serving their secret-recipe chili since 1965. Unlike traditional Texas chili, this version has a thinner consistency and is packed with Mediterranean spices like cinnamon and allspice. It is served over spaghetti or hot dogs, and the “ways” determine what goes on top.
Understanding The “Ways” System
Before we get into the full Gold Star Chili Menu With Prices, you need to understand the lingo. The “ways” refer to how the chili is dressed. This is the core of the entire menu.
- 2-Way: Spaghetti topped with chili.
- 3-Way: Spaghetti, chili, and a mound of shredded cheddar cheese.
- 4-Way: Spaghetti, chili, cheese, and either onions or beans.
- 5-Way: Spaghetti, chili, cheese, onions, and beans.
You can also get these “ways” on a potato or a salad. But the classic order is always the pasta version. The pricing scales slightly with each addition, so a 5-Way will cost more than a 2-Way.
Gold Star Chili Menu With Prices
Here is the most current breakdown of the menu. Please note that prices can vary slightly depending on the specific franchise location. However, these figures represent the standard average across the Greater Cincinnati area as of this year.
Signature Chili Bowls And Spaghetti
These are the heart of the menu. You can order a small or a large portion. The “large” is substantial and often enough for two meals.
- Small 3-Way: $6.49
- Large 3-Way: $8.99
- Small 4-Way (Onions): $6.99
- Large 4-Way (Onions): $9.49
- Small 4-Way (Beans): $6.99
- Large 4-Way (Beans): $9.49
- Small 5-Way: $7.49
- Large 5-Way: $9.99
- Small Cheese Cone: $3.29
- Large Cheese Cone: $4.79
The Cheese Cone is a hidden gem. It is a paper cone filled with crispy fry-like chips, smothered in chili and melted cheese. It is perfect for walking around or a quick snack.
Hot Dogs And Coneys
No trip to Gold Star is complete without a Coney. They use a natural-casing frankfurter that snaps when you bite it. The bun is steamed to perfection.
- Regular Coney (Mustard, Onions, Chili): $2.99
- Cheese Coney (Adds Cheese): $3.29
- Chili Dog (No Onions): $2.79
- Plain Hot Dog: $2.49
You can usually get a “Coney Combo” which includes fries and a drink for around $6.99. This is often the best value on the board if you are hungry.
Burritos And Wraps
Gold Star isn’t just about pasta. They have a solid line of Mexican-inspired items that use the same chili as a base. These are hearty and filling.
- Bean Burrito: $3.49
- Chili Burrito: $4.29
- Cheese Burrito: $4.49
- Chicken Wrap: $5.99
- Crispy Chicken Wrap: $6.29
The burritos come with a generous amount of shredded cheese and sauce. If you want it “wet,” they will pour extra chili on top for a small upcharge.
Salads And Potatoes
For a lighter option, you can get your chili over a baked potato or a fresh salad. These are popular for lunch.
- Chili Potato (Plain): $4.99
- Cheese Potato: $5.49
- 5-Way Potato: $6.99
- Taco Salad: $7.29
- Grilled Chicken Salad: $7.99
The 5-Way potato is a massive loaded baked potato with chili, cheese, onions, and beans. It is a meal in itself.
Sandwiches And More
If you aren’t in the mood for chili, they have other options. These are great for picky eaters.
- Grilled Cheese: $3.29
- Fish Sandwich (Friday Only): $5.49
- Chicken Sandwich: $6.49
- Pulled Pork Sandwich: $6.99
These items come with the standard toppings. You can add chili to any of them for a unique twist.
Sides And Snacks
You need some sides to round out the meal. The fries here are crinkle-cut and always crispy.
- Small Fries: $2.49
- Large Fries: $3.29
- Cheese Fries: $4.29
- Chili Cheese Fries: $5.49
- Onion Rings: $3.99
- Mac and Cheese Bites: $4.49
I highly recommend the chili cheese fries. They load them up with so much topping that you might need a fork.
Desserts And Shakes
Save room for dessert. The shakes are thick and made with real ice cream.
- Chocolate Shake: $3.99
- Strawberry Shake: $3.99
- Vanilla Shake: $3.99
- Brownie Sundae: $4.29
- Chocolate Chip Cookie: $1.99
You can also get a “Skyscraper” shake which is an extra-large size for about $5.49. It is huge.
How To Order Like A Pro
Ordering at Gold Star is fast. The staff expects you to know what you want. Here is a simple step-by-step guide for your first visit.
- Decide on your base: Do you want spaghetti, a dog, or a potato?
- Pick your “Way”: Determine how many toppings you want (3, 4, or 5).
- Choose your size: Small is good for a snack. Large is a full meal.
- Add a drink: They have a self-serve fountain machine.
- Order at the counter: Give your number and they will call you when it is ready.
If you are confused, just ask for a “Cheese Coney and a small 3-Way.” That is the most classic order in Cincinnati.
Value Meals And Combos
If you are watching your budget, the combos are the way to go. They bundle a main item, a side, and a drink for a discounted price.
- Coney Combo: 2 Coneys, Fries, Drink – $8.99
- 3-Way Combo: Small 3-Way, Fries, Drink – $8.49
- Burrito Combo: Burrito, Chips, Drink – $7.99
- Family Pack: 6 Coneys, 2 Large 3-Ways, Fries – $24.99
The Family Pack is a steal for feeding a group. It comes with enough food to feed four people easily.
Secret Menu And Customizations
Gold Star has a few unofficial items that regulars love to order. These are not on the printed menu but the staff knows how to make them.
- The “Cheese Coney with Everything”: Add lettuce, tomato, and mayo. It sounds weird but it works.
- Triple Cheese: Ask for extra cheese on any item. It costs about $0.79 extra.
- Chili on the Side: Get your chili in a separate cup so your fries stay crispy.
You can also request “no beans” or “extra onions” at no charge. They are usually very accommodating to custom requests.
Nutritional Information And Allergens
If you are counting calories, you should know that Gold Star is not light fare. A regular 3-Way with spaghetti contains about 480 calories. A Cheese Coney is around 320 calories.
The chili itself is gluten-free. However, the spaghetti and buns contain gluten. If you have celiac disease, you can order a chili bowl without pasta. The cheese is real cheddar, and the beans are vegetarian. The chili does contain beef, so there is no vegetarian chili option available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Gold Star Chili offer a senior discount?
A: Yes, most locations offer a 10% discount for seniors aged 65 and older. You just need to ask at the register.
Q: What is the difference between Gold Star and Skyline Chili?
A: The main difference is the spice profile. Gold Star is slightly sweeter and has a more pronounced cinnamon flavor. Skyline has a stronger cumin presence. Both are good, but locals have a strong preference.
Q: Can I buy Gold Star chili in a can at the grocery store?
A: Yes, you can purchase canned Gold Star chili in most grocery stores in Ohio and Kentucky. You can also order it online from their official website.
Q: Are there any low-carb options on the menu?
A: Yes, you can order a chili bowl without the spaghetti. They will serve it in a bowl with just chili, cheese, and onions. This is a popular keto-friendly choice.
Q: Does Gold Star offer catering for parties?
A: Yes, they have party trays that serve 8-10 people. You can order a “Coney Bar” or a “Spaghetti Bar” for events. You need to call ahead 24 hours to place a catering order.
Final Thoughts On Pricing
The prices at Gold Star are very reasonable for the portion sizes you receive. A filling meal for one person will cost between $8 and $10. If you bring the family, the Family Pack is the best economic choice.
Keep an eye out for their digital coupons. They often have “Buy One Get One Free” deals on Coneys through their mobile app. Signing up for their loyalty program, “Gold Star Rewards,” also gives you a free item on your birthday.
One last tip: the chili freezes well. If you go to the counter and ask for a “quart of chili to go,” they will pack it in a plastic container. It costs about $7.99 and you can use it for several meals at home. This is a hack that many locals use to stretch their grocery budget.
Now you have the full picture of the Gold Star Chili Menu with Prices. You can walk in with confidence, order your “ways,” and enjoy a true Cincinnati tradition. Dont forget the oyster crackers on the table. They are free and perfect for crumbling on top of your chili.
Whether you are a first timer or a seasoned pro, this menu guide ensures you get exactly what you want. The prices are fair, the food is hot, and the service is quick. Go ahead and treat yourself to a Cheese Coney. You will not be disappointed.