Texas couple goes to Chili’s. They take one look at the menu and have to order a kids’ meal: ‘This is not the Chili’s I remember’

Restaurants used to be a fun, affordable alternative to cooking and fast food, whether you’re out with your partner, friends, or family. Nowadays, it seems that each visit reminds customers of the pinch on their wallets. Unfortunately, the thought of food prices decreasing doesn’t seem promising.

In May alone, the cost of eating out has jumped 3.5% since last year, Food & Wine reports. While it may not sound too costly, the numbers printed on menus seem to prove that wrong. At least, that’s what one Texas-based married couple experienced after they were caught off guard during a recent trip to Chili’s.

What Happened At Chili’s?

TikTok creators Miranda (@mirandarenee87) and Antonio (@antonio.deleon697) sit at a table with their children.

“This is so expensive, ” Miranda says, referring to the prices on the menu.

Then, she flips the camera to her husband, who expresses his grievances.

“This is not the Chili’s I remember,” he remarks. “Remember it was 2 for $20, then 2 for $25?”

When the wife flips the camera, she points to the price of the Sausage & Chicken Cajun Pasta as an example.

“$22.89?” the content creator asks, aghast.

Instead, Miranda chose the most budget-friendly option she could find. “I sure did get a [kids’] meal,” she shares in the caption.

People Agreed It Sounded Too Expensive

Miranda’s video garnered over 198,000 views, sparking an argument in the comments section about how reasonable Chili’s is. Some sided with the couple, believing the prices are sky-high.

“$23 for Sysco food is insane,” one viewer commented.

“I was just at chilis today and lamenting this exact thing. One cheeseburger with fries, one kids meal and one appetizer and it was 50 bucks like what,” another stated.

“Yeah my husband and I haven’t been back in years because of how expensive it got,” a third concurred.

However, others disagreed to some extent, claiming the restaurant chain can be a steal if you order the viral three-for-me deal.

“The 3 for me on the back of the menu is literally the best deal of all restaurants in these times. It’s big, delicious, and cheap,” one commenter revealed.

“I go to Chili’s all the time because it’s so cheap and they give u so much food 3 for 10,” a second echoed.

Is Chili’s Considered Overpriced?

It all varies on what you order. If you opt for the Fajitas for 2, this can easily exceed $40. Even a couple of the steak combos can be more than $30, and the appetizers can meet $20. This can make for a very pricey meal. On the flip side, discount deals, especially the 3-for-Meal Deal as viewers mentioned, are more reasonable. 

Since Chili’s launched the deal in June 2022, it has become a headliner by appealing to budget-friendly customers, which was a smashing success. Starting at $10.99, customers can choose from a whopping 13 adult-sized entrees, plus an appetizer, a beverage, and a dessert (for an extra charge). Depending on the entree, the cost will vary.

Because Miranda ordered a kids’ meal, it’s still a fair price. At $6.99, there are eight kid-sized dishes, along with smaller portions of French fries, a drink, and even a dessert (this too is extra). For some, the portions may be too small. Not to mention, certain locations may prohibit adult patrons from ordering off this menu because it’s exclusively for those under 12. Ultimately, it all varies on your budget, location, and your appetite. Just note that menu prices may vary.

@mirandarenee87

I sure did get a kids meal ??

♬ original sound – mirandarenee87

The Mary Sue reached out to Miranda via email and TikTok comment.

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