Ben’s Chilli Bowl

Cuisine: American
An institution and a landmark in Washington, newlyweds Ben and Virginia Ali launched this neighborhood institution in 1958. It has not changed much since- with a jukebox that plays Motown and reggae tunes and Formica counters lined with red vinyl barstools still the same, as is the chilli half – smoke , the restaurant’s signature dish. You can find people streaming in as late as 2 or 3 in the morning- on weekends especially.
Breakfast items like the salmon cakes, grits, scrapple, or blueberry pancakes are great and available during breakfast hours only.

1213 U Street, NW
Tel: (202) 667 0909.
Website: www.benschilibowl.com