COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — While some Cincinnati Bengals fans flock to Kansas City for the AFC Championship, others in central Ohio have another big-game destination in mind: Skyline Chili.
The “epitome” of Cincinnati for many of the city’s natives, Scott Redwine, owner of the Skyline Chili franchise, said he expects large crowds at his restaurant locations on Olentangy River and Sawmill Road in Columbus. Visiting Skyline Chili before the Bengals game, he said, is traditional.
“We’re super busy today at both locations with lots to do, drive-thru, parties, tailgate parties,” said Redwine. “People are excited to get together and share it, whether they’re from the area or just love Skyline or love the Bengals.”
Growing up in the Cincinnati area, Redwine said he has been a lifelong Bengals fan. It was Redwine’s love of Cincinnati and its football team that prompted him to open his own Skyline Chili franchise.
“The Bengals started in ’68, and I’m just a little older than that, so I’ve been a Bengals fan my whole life,” he said.
With the Bengals just one win away from a Super Bowl appearance, Redwine said his stores will likely be filled with customers craving a cheese coney or a complete trio of spaghetti, chili and cheese.
There’s no question, Redwine said, that his team will defeat the Kansas City Chiefs.
“We think we’re going to win because Joe Burrow is fantastic, the defense is fantastic and the team has just had such a great bond over the last couple of years,” he said. “We think our chances are really great and we can’t wait for them to get back to the Super Bowl this year.”
If Redwine’s prediction is correct, Skyline Chili could rake in hefty profits, the franchise owner said. The restaurant chain witnessed its biggest profit day in Skyline Chili history when the Bengals played in last year’s Super Bowl.
Kickoff begins at 6:30 p.m. in Kansas City and can be seen on CBS.
