It started with one frustrated food delivery order, but it’s turned into a full-blown debate online.
Chili’s customers are accusing the chain of cutting portion sizes while keeping prices the same, a classic case of what’s become known as shrinkflation.
Customer Calls Out “Tiny Portions”
The drama began on August 8 when a Reddit user posted a picture of their Chili’s DoorDash order — a brisket quesadilla that, in their words, looked more like a kids’ meal.
“I ordered a brisket quesadilla and it’s the size my child would eat,” the customer complained.
“When did they cut portion sizes and jack up prices?”
Social Media Piles On
It didn’t take long for others to chime in. One commenter compared the portion to something “the size of my hand when I was 6,” while another joked it looked like “mini pancakes” made for their toddler.
Many agreed they’d send food like that back immediately if it arrived at their table.
A Few Defend the Chain
Not everyone joined the outrage. Some users argued that the quesadillas haven’t actually changed size — they just look smaller because the packaging has gotten bigger.
Still, most seemed convinced that Chili’s was quietly giving customers less food for the same money.
Shrinkflation Becomes a Hot Topic
The term shrinkflation has been making waves for years now, especially as inflation drives up everyday prices.
It happens when companies reduce the size or quantity of a product but keep the price the same, or even raise it.
Customers have accused multiple restaurant chains of doing it — and Chili’s has been a frequent target of those complaints for at least a year.
Not the First Time Chili’s Sparked Debate
Chili’s has been in the spotlight lately for other reasons too.
After being written off by some, the chain was hailed earlier this year for pulling off what fans called “the best restaurant comeback of all time.”
The brand also recently changed its iconic Oldtimer cheeseburger, sparking mixed reactions from loyal customers.
The Brisket Quesadilla in Question
According to Chili’s, the Brisket Quesadilla should come with eight wedges made of smoked brisket, cheese, jalapeños, and BBQ sauce, served with pico, sour cream, and ranch.
Whether those portions have actually shrunk, however, is what many online are disputing.
Chili’s Parent Company Sees Strong Sales
Ironically, the uproar comes at a time when Chili’s parent company, Brinker International, is celebrating financial wins.
After a strong third quarter, the company announced it had also beaten expectations for the fourth quarter ending June 25.
Other Chains Face Similar Accusations
Chili’s isn’t alone in facing shrinkflation complaints.
Chipotle has also been accused of reducing serving sizes.
In fact, some cases have gone to court: Arby’s was sued last December by a New York customer who claimed their fries and drinks had shrunk, while The Cheesecake Factory is currently facing a lawsuit over allegedly smaller cake slices.
What Happens Next
So far, Chili’s hasn’t commented on the quesadilla backlash, though Daily Mail has reached out for a response.
Meanwhile, customers continue to debate whether they’re getting less food for their money — and whether shrinkflation has quietly become the new normal in the restaurant industry.
