Using just the old family chili recipes, brothers Jim and Fred Parker opened Hard Times Cafe in Alexandria, Va., in 1980. They now offer chili in four varieties: Texas, Terlingua, Cincinnati 5-way and a meatless version that’s hard to tell from the real thing. Dress it up over corn bread (chili Bubba), corn chips (Frito pie) or fries (chili cheese fries: Is there a more American concoction?). Besides chili, there are burgers, ribs, wings, nachos and chicken fingers. Pretend you’re in the Old West and swagger around with a draft root beer or one of the many beers from the full bar while you soak in the Faux West saloon décor (steer horns, Texas flag and film posters). Hard Times has locations throughout the D.C. area — some have a poolroom attached or offer weekly poker nights. Serving lunch and dinner daily. Late-night Fri–Sat at some locations.