Ramova Grill Closing April 14

By Chuck Sudo in Food on Mar 12, 2012 6:00PM

Chuck Sudo/Chicagoist

Spring is a time of flux. Rob already posted about the drama surrounding the Portage Theater this morning. Down Bridgeport way, the status of one of the best diners in the city has a certain sense of finality.

The Ramova Grill, home to undoubtedly the best bowl of chili in Chicago, announced they'll be closing for good April 14, after 82 years of service. Owners Tony Dinos and Bob Gertos said in a Facebook post announcing the move they'll "finally get to enjoy retired life."

The Ramova has long been a favorite of ours here at Chicagoist, and for more than the chili or their take on the mother-in-law. The diner feels as though it's been unchanged since it opened, with the grill and located next to one of the storefront windows, allowing passers by to get a bird's-eye view of the cooks manning the station while the smell of home fries, eggs and chili have tempted more than a few of them to come in and have a nosh. Anthony Bourdain, while filming the Chicago episode of No Reservations in 2009, also made a pit stop at the Ramova.

Dinos and Gertos also announced that March is "March Chili Madness." Our opinion of their chili as the best in the city is absolute and not subject to debate. Get a bowl, or bring a few quarts home with you, while you still can.