Ben’s Chili Bowl

Everyone knows about Ben’s! Awesome food and great service… at least for us semi-​regulars.
To avoid the tourist rush visit around 2 – 4 pm on any weekday. Thanks Ben’s for another great experience!

You gotta be kidding me. How the heck did this place get so famous?
Went there fir dogs and fries. The chili dogs are, well, everyday hotdogs with thin, okay chili in them. Really, you can do just as well, probably better, at home. No «snap» to the dog at all, just mushy.
The chili fries with cheese rocked, but let’s face it, you put enough cheese on about anything and it tastes good.
If you’re in the area and just want to say you’ve been there, fine, go. But it’s not up to the hype.

Before I came here, I had seen so many people talking about it.
I mean President Obama comes here to eat! Along with icons like Muhammad Ali (rip) and many many celebrities.
I try to stay unbiased before I go into a place to eat. This place was actually really good. Cut out the reputation and try the food!
I got the legendary half smoke (beef). It was really good, a tad bit on the spicy side but definitely worth it. It comes with potato chips and the drink is optional.
The half smoke is topped with chili and your choice of condiments. I got it with relish and a little bit of mustard (how I get every hotdog!)
My favorite thing about this place was the atmosphere! Employees are very inviting and the place is a tourist heaven! Celebrities pictures all over the walls and pair that with the good food and you have yourself a very good tourist dining experience.
Also the service is fast! I was only in there for a good 15 minutes! And i took pictures for 5 minutes! =)

Dr King once stated in front of a crowd that he had a dream — one day this great nation will provide for all of its people with the fundamental rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Fast forward to 2016 — right outside Ben’s chili bowl, a poster seemingly remind the diners that the struggle for that dream continues.
The struggle is real, and you can see part of it at Ben’s. The first time when I show up at Bens U street was still a little bit sketch, and that part of town was dotted by cheap Ethiopian restaurants and the rather shady Sunday flea market to the east. Fast forward to today, where the Ethiopian places all vanish, the gastropubs are everywhere, and 14NW become more and more like a yupstery thoroughfare. One almost has to ask whatever happened to the black middle class residences surrounding Ben’s, and what’s with all the gentrification.
Well, Ben’s adapt to changes the best way you hope to change — which is by not changing at all — it has a charm all its own, and it’s not afraid to show it. It’s still a hot-​dog-​and-​greasy-​spoon diner where a chil half-​smoke never fails to satisfy, the fries are always hot-​and-​fresh, they might forget your shake but they’ll apologize profusely. The half-​smokes are still a decent bit of tube-​steak by any standard. The chili is not spectacular but it gets the job done. It’s not too expensive compared to location notables like Ooahs and Aahhs, and if you want something exotic, hit Habesha instead, or the Eritean Cultural and Civic Center (used to be near Vernon Square, now it’s closer to Dupont Circle). Remember, keep the struggle alive, enjoy your half-​smokes.

Anything that costs $ 7 or less for a meal, I can’t really complain about. I think its safe to say that one cannot expect quality food in a city like DC at that price. I was still hungry after eating dinner with a friend so I decided I would finally give Ben’s Chili Bowl a try.
I ordered the jumbo chili dog with cheese, chili and onions. The hotdog is nothing too spectacular — just your usual ballpark frank that you could find at a Costco. The chili itself isn’t very inspiring either — it tastes like it could’ve been from a can of Hormel’s chili (to be fair, Hormel’s chili isn’t that bad). The cheese reminded me of the cheese you get on nachos but not quite as thick. I also received a side of potato chips that I guess just comes with the meal (pleasant surprise).
While I don’t have anything particularly bad to say about the hot dog, I don’t think there was anything special about it that would make me want to return to the place. Just imagine that this joint is like Episode II from the Star Wars trilogy — it’s not really satisfying but it gets the job done for the sake of the storyline. If you’re, hungry, Ben’s Chili will get the job done. But it will just be another late-​night pub grub that only drunkards will appreciate.

My first half smoke, and I wasn’t disappointed! I’m not one for chili, but at a place like this, you order it the way it comes, if only to say you’ve had it. The half smoke was flavorful and beautifully grilled, and the chili appears to be just meat and sauce, but it’s delicious! The fries are good, and one basket is plenty to share. This was a bit out of our way today, but I’m glad we made the trek! No wonder it’s a stop for presidents and famous faces!

Never eat a dog outside of Chicago. This place is overrated and not good. Pretty sure I’m sick because of it. Service was horrible but expected to be that way. The only thing decent was the shake and they didn’t even get the order right.

This place came recommended by a friend, and I’m glad I got a chance to stop by! My mom and I were already full from an earlier meal, but we decided to get an afternoon snack.
The restaurant itself is very bright on the outside, there is a mural of Bill Cosby and Obama on the side — you can’t miss it. The inside of the restaurant is diner-​esque. There’s booths and a bar that you can sit at. You order and pay for your food at the register, grab a table, and wait for your number to get called to grab your food.
My mom and I got chili cheese fries w/​onions on top to go since we wanted to walk around. The chili cheese fries came packed with two paper trays (one on top, one on bottom) and then wrapped with foil. They were delicious!!! A little messy to eat, but that was no problem at all! The fries were crispy even after having chili and cheese doused on them. There was an ample amount of chili and cheese — no fry was bare! The portion was big enough for the two of us to share and feel satisfied!
Overall, loved their chili! Next time I’m in D.C., I will have to try the hot dogs!

Great place, fun, tasty, super nice staff! Ben’s original chili dog is delicious spicy.
Just FYI… It’s cash only but there’s at ATM inside; it’s pretty dirty and noisy. There is inside seating with AC. There’s one hour parking in the back, which is great because all the street parking around here is designated for residents only!

Had a bit of a history lesson before my Lyft driver dropped us off at this place. It’s extremely casual but I must say the dog was pretty good. I opted for the veggie dog with the vegetarian chili and some fries. The fries were nothing spectacular but the dog was pretty flavorful.
I’d go back.

The first week I moved to the area I was imparted with some local wisdom when I was told these two things 1) D.C. is not a big city, but it will always be an important city 2) Maryland has crabs, Virginia has ham, and D.C. has Ben’s Chili Bowl.
So I’ve been here over two dozen times over the years and every visit hit «my expectations». I’ve only ever had three items here and I honestly think they could stay in business if they simplified their menu (which isn’t extensive… but still) to these three items. I’ve always gotten a chili half smoke on every visit, on occasion if I’m with others we’ll split chili cheese fries, and I’ll sometimes get a milkshake (it helps balance the heat from the chili).
I have no interest in ever going here for breakfast, I’ll never get a hamburger, and by no means will I ever order anything off their menu that’s listed as «healthy». Their half smokes are the star here, half pork/​half beef smoked and grilled to a crispy & juicy perfection. I go all in, onions, mustard, and chili sauce. Their sauce to me is also a separator from what makes this version superior than most chili dogs I’ve had. I’ve seen too many places try to use a «spoon eating chili» on top of a sausage. Its usually falling and running off. This chili sauce uses finally minced beef and is cooked down to the right viscosity so that it clings and stays on for every bite.
Ben’s is also an amazing D.C. cultural landmark (look it up) which is a historical time bridge in a city that has many, but fortunately limestone doesn’t taste as good.

The vegetable chili is my favorite especially when you add onions and sour cream. My least favorite, and would advise you avoid, are the cakes they make. The cakes taste artificial as heck which is funny coming from me but that’s HOW artificial they taste. The chili cheese fries can be hit or miss but the nacho cheese is really tasty. The beef dogs are good too. The half and quarter pound burgers are decent too especially with jalapeños on it but the bottom of the bun gets soggy pretty quickly if you take it home. The store is super old but has character. The staff is friendly and they usually get our order correct (the last visit they forgot most toppings). You can’t beat their late night hours on the weekend. They offer their food thru über eats too now. I was super hesitant to try this place for so long because of the mixed reviews but I’m glad I gave them a chance. Also, don’t expect gourmet food. It’s quick grub especially for the late nights.

This place didn’t wow me. Honestly, just come in for a cup of chili to try it but don’t bother with fries or hot dogs or anything like that. My hot dog actually came out cold at first (they fixed that really fast). The chili is good, but I think that his place is more famous for its history than its food.

The half smoke was very tasty. The only thing we didn’t like was the local homeless dude that kept trying to get into the restaurant. They kicked out the same guy twice — who apparently frequents the place looking for handouts and then passes out drunk on the floor.
Again the food was great and I would definitely go back.

I was recommended to check out Uncle Ben’s by a dear friend who said it was a must to stop by and try during my trip to D.C. As we arrived we happened to come during the middle of DC’s Funk Parade and music festival which made the experience even better. The energy was so alive that you couldn’t help but boogie your way down to the end of the long line as the old school music was blaring inside. When visiting local spots we always like to go with the most popular which happened to be their half smoked hot dog and chilli fries. You’ll definitely need to burn some calories after this meal so what better way than to make your way down from U Street to H street and tour DC’s African American Heritage Trail.
Rumor has it that there is always a long line that is out the door but what famous landmark doesn’t have that?! Uncle Ben’s should be added onto everyone’s «To-​do list» when visiting Washington D.C.

The veggie chili cheese fries is Just Kidney beans over a little melted cheese. My partners burger simply ok.
I did really enjoy the side of chopped Coleslaw with a little mayo and nice green spice. I’d only return for that.
The front room was like a very big old fashioned diner, bright and lively. Tourists from all over were shooting pics and happy to be there. I’m glad I could cross off my list of gtg places, but food no big whoop.

We saw this restaurant featured on Man vs Food several years ago and it looked so amazing. When we made the trip to DC my husband insisted on finding this place. We were not disappointed.
This place is a DC staple and has been around since the 50’s. It was packed when we got there. You could tell that it was primarily locals, which is always a good sign! If paying separate than those that you go with, you should order at the counter. It will make it easier for everyone involved. *They do not accept debit cards, so make sure you have cash on you. There is an ATM inside the restaurant, but the fee is pretty steep.
Based on the name, the obvious reason to go here is the chili. My husband & brother ordered the Half-​Smoke. The chili was amazing and the half-​smoke gives it a distinctive flavor to it, because it isn’t your standard hot dog. They also ordered the loaded fries. So great!
My sister and I ordered the rice bowl and it was so great. It is super filling, so you won’t need anything else! You can order your chili with meat or vegetarian as well.
The price wasn’t terrible and it is worth it to see a neighborhood outside of the «touristy» area of DC.
There is parking in the back, which we didn’t find out until parking on the street. I would get there early though, because like I said before, it gets packed quickly!

After taking in a Nationals game, my friend and I were pretty tired, having had a full day exploring DC. But I couldn’t be this close to an American institution like Ben’s Chili Bowl and not check it out. So we forged ahead.
I was surprised there were so many items on the menu to choose from. But how could I not get the Original Chili Half-​Smoke with fries and a shake?
The prices were right and the food was good. It hit the spot for a late night snack. Inside it feels like your typical diner. I would have probably settled on 3 stars but the history behind this place definitely earned it that extra star. Not much more can be said of a place with over 3000 reviews. Stop by and take it all in.

This is an American cultural icon! Located in a legendary DC neighborhood right across from the U St. Metro station, this brightly painted oasis of comfort food will satisfy more than hunger.
Like Fenway Park in Boston or St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, Ben’s Chili Bowl on U Street actually feels like a religious experience. It is essentially American, in the heart of where the civil rights movement was strong and this institution held a community together through thick and thin.
My family and I return time and time again for the delicious half-​smokes, spicy chili, spectacular music, cheese fries, burgers, open kitchen and great atmosphere. This most recent visit, Mrs. Ali herself manned the grill and cooked son’s burger. I told him it was an honor.
Trust me, if you’re in DC, see the monuments, see the sites and see Ben’s.

Located on historic U street, Ben’s chili bowl is a landmark for locals and tourist alike. The half smoked hot dog are juicy and packed with flavor. The chili is a bit spicy and the cheese reminds me of nacho cheese.
Overall excellent dining experience.
My only regret is that I ordered the chili cheese dog and the chili cheese fries. I can eat a good amount of food but this stuff is pretty heavy. Expect a nap afterwards.

I was in DC visiting my sister and she said this is a place someone HAS to go to if they’re from out of town, so we came here after a night of light drinking around 1:30 am with some of her friends. The line was really long as I hear is expected and for a good reason too :). I can see how this is really good late night drunken food, but maybe because I wasn’t drunk, I just thought of this as a pretty average, decent chili dog. There’s nothing bad about that, but it wasn’t holy grail amazing.
But I would recommend a friend to come here if they’re having that type of night! I can see it really hitting the spot.

Came across Ben’s Chilli by accident while exploring the hip area of DC past weekend. My friends and I noticed a big line inside a typical hot dogs pace on U street. Immediately, we made a legal cross to go check them out!
Everyone in front of us was getting the famous half smoked hot dog and chilli fries. Guess what? We were getting the same thing too! Duh
My first impression to the dining area and the whole thing was like… I don’t know why people talk about it so much or even rate this place so much. But, then I bit my very first bite and I still don’t know why it’s so famous. The hot dog was decent. It went kinda well with their well known chili fries. The fries itself was a bit on the salty side to me but it was still good.
So why is this place so popular? Maybe president Obama gave Ben’s a few visits? Maybe it’s really good? Or maybe it’s just overrated? I guess I still don’t know…

During a recent visit to Maryland, my cousin and her husband brought us here on a Saturday afternoon. How haven’t I ever heard of this place? I must have been hiding under a rock all these years.
The place was busy once we got there. The line wrapped inside and many tables and even the counter seating was packed. My husband and I decided to just copy my cousin and her husband’s order since they were regulars so an order was placed for 2 Original Chili Half-​Smokes and 2 Chili Cheese Fries.
My cousin and I grabbed a table while our husbands waited in line. There was plenty of seating in the back. Once our husbands placed the orders, the food came out fairly quickly. The staff was nice and friendly. The food was fantastic. The Chili was delicious and I understand how they have a few different locations where this Chili is the star and placed on everything. There was a bit of a kick to it too!

A DC institution. I sat where O’Bama sat as there is his photo above the booth. You walk in & see the half smokes & hot dogs on the grill. Gotta get a half smoke & the chili cheese fries. The chili is phenomenal. The half smokes are big and they snap when you bite in. There is usually a line no matter what time of day.
I’ve been 3x — all a year apart. The last trip, I was cleaning up our table & a man who worked there insisted he help. He asked if I was with my «mama”& told me to take care of her. I loved him immediately.
Not a place for the health conscious but… ahh who cares?

Overrated.
Simple chili bowl and a bit on the salty side. Got their beef dog with chili and it was good.
Cash only.
Nothing spectacular on the food, but reputable on the Obama visit.

If you are looking for a historic place to have lunch or a late night snack with a unique atmosphere, Ben’s Chili Bowl is the place to be! We ate here after a long day walking around during the Cherry Blossom Festival. There was a long line to get in, but it moves along quickly and once we got inside, there were plenty of tables to sit at. This is a self seating kind of place, so you order and get your food from the counter, and then take it to your table.
I ordered a chili cheese dog, fully loaded with a side of cheese fries to share with friends. It is by no means healthy at all, but these always taste amazing and is definitely good for the soul.
There is craziness happening behind the counter with employees singing and dancing while they cook and prepare the orders! I immediately thought to myself, this must be a cool and fun place to work!

Es wurde Musik gespielt, gesungen und die Athmosphere ist einfach toll. Das Essen ist okay, man sollte aber bei dem Standart (Bill Cosbys und President Obamas Half Smoked) geschmacklich nicht allzu viel erwarten. Der Laden ist nichts desto trotz ein «must see» in Washington. Von daher probieren und mitreißen lassen, weil die Leite wirklich cool sind. Hier erlebt man die Stadt an ihrem Puls. Preise sind okay. Die Besitzerin — man beachte das dass Geschäft 1957 gegründet wurde, schaut gern noch selber nach dem Rechten.

Ben‘s Chili Bowl located on U Street, Washington D.C.
Geworben wird mit Experience the Tast of Ben‘s Chili Bowl: und ein Wahrzeichen seit über 51 Jahren!
(Siehe Foto unten)
Präsident Obama‘s Favorite wenn es um Chiliburger geht. Hierher lädt er manchmal Staatsgäste zum Essen ein.
Diese Frittenbude, würde man bei uns sagen, muss man wirklich mal gesehen haben. Inzwischen ist die Location so bekannt, das man Schlange stehen muss, um reinzukommen.
Coole Music und ebensolches Personal im Laden sollen einen lockeren Eindruck vermitteln. Ebenso locker ist auch das drumherum. Auch die Sauberkeit. Siehe Bildergalerie.
Die Bratwürste kokelten auf einer Platte vor sich hin und wurden mit einem Gewicht beschwert?! Der Sinn hat sich mir nicht erschlossen.
(Siehe Foto unten)
Wir wagten, einen Chiliburger zu ordern und trotz des abenteuerlichen Aussehens dieser Delikatesse hatten wir auch nächsten Tag noch kein Magengrimmen. A Miracle!
Schlecht geschmeckt hat es auch nicht, nur die French Fries (Pommes) dazu kann man getrost weglassen.
Der Preis für einen lb (amer. Pfund) 100% Beef Chiliburger beträgt 4.90 $ Cola fängt bei $ 1,75 an. French Fries $ 2.45, Sandwichs ab $ 6.05.
Warmes Frühstück ab $ 4.65 (Eier, Toast, etc)
Die Tax in D.C. beträgt 10% (von Stadt zu Stadt unterschiedlich)
Geöffnet ab 6.00 (Frühstück) (Menu) ab 11.00 Uhr.
Auf der Homepage ist auf der Startseite ein Video (
) zu sehen, das von Obamas lukullischem Aufenthalt und die Euphorie über seinen Besuch zeigt
(Siehe Foto unten)
FAZIT: Wer einmal wie Obama speisen möchte und ein wenig FastFoodAbenteuer sucht, dem sei es empfohlen.