Ben's Chili Bowl

A Washington landmark on historic U Street since 1958, famous for its chili half-smokes and a welcome extended to everyone from neighbours to presidents.

Ben's Chili Bowl opened on U Street in 1958, founded by newlyweds Ben and Virginia Ali, and it has been at the heart of the historic neighbourhood ever since. The menu is unapologetically classic: the famous original half-smoke smothered in chili, chili dogs, burgers, cheese fries and milkshakes, Generations of neighbourhood regulars, civil rights leaders, celebrities and presidents have eaten here, and the original restaurant has recently reopened after a careful restoration. It is a genuine taste of Washington, open late into the night at weekends.