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Ben's Chili Bowl
About
- 4.4 ( 22 reviews)
Virginia Ali is now 86 years old and she started the restaurant with her husband Ben when she was only 24. On August 22, 2019, Ben’s Chili Bowl will turn 61. But it’s not just a birthday for Ben’s, it’s a celebration of DC’s African American history, culture, and character. It’s a celebration of our city, and U Street’s resilience. Presidents, celebrities, neighbors and people from around the world have all enjoyed Ben's signature Half-Smoke, chili cheese fries, burgers and milkshakes.
| Day of the Week | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 7:00 - 2:00 |
| Tuesday | 7:00 - 2:00 |
| Wednesday | 7:00 - 2:30 |
| Thursday | 7:00 - 4:00 |
| Friday | 7:00 - 4:00 |
| Saturday | 7:00 - 0:00 |
| Sunday | 11:00 - 12:00 |
Cuisines
- 🍔 American
- 🍟 Fast Food
- 🥞 Diner
Dining Options
- 💺 Seating
- ♿ Wheelchair Accessible
- 🥡 Takeout
- 💳 Accepts Credit Cards
- 🍱 Lunch
- 🍽️ Dinner
Accepts Credit Cards
Recommended Reviews
4.4
Bill Mall
Apparently Ben's Chili Bowl is a beloved and well known spot in DC. I we want on a Saturday night around 8pm and it was jam packed for business. The chili half smoke and classic chili dog I ordered were very tasty. However I feel that they are overpriced, as this order cost me $15. The dogs and the chili were good, but I feel the history and feel of the place is what draws so many people. Of course their burgers and other items may be amazing, and I will definitely try those out on my next trip to the area.
Debra Kaspar
We had a great evening at Ben’s (U street). Went for a birthday party and Nizam worked with me a couple days in advance to quickly and easily secure the back room. We met Mrs Ali on the way in and loved hearing her stories of DC through the decades. Food was great, service was great. Loved it - we will be back. What a great time!
bry bry
Really loved this spot! I came in with an open mind, knew about it because of how Obama visited. Had to go while I was in DC man. Shout out Wale. My time here was quick, I just wanted to try it and that’s it. Man, that burger tasted REALLY good! It had such a nice flavor. Really was a straight up GOOD burger. That chili dog was great too. I’m not much of a hotdog person. I like em a lot, but they never stand out. This was also great. Now I know why Sonic the Hedgehog loves chili dogs. I expects this to be a one and done spot. Nah. I’m going again when I’m in DC and I’m not sharing. Big thank you to the staff who were super kind and lovely. I wish this place was just a short train ride away from me but it’s 4 hours away! I would be a regular.
Questions & Answers
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