Ben's Chili Bowl
The U Street landmark that's been serving chili half-smokes since 1958 and stands as a pillar of Black Washington history.
The call
Worth it if you are watching the budget and you only have one day.
Why
- 01
A no-frills counter with red stools, a half-century of photos on the walls, and a line out the door.
Our read - 02
You come for the half-smoke and the history, not the decor.
Our read
Is it a fit?
Go if
You are watching the budget
On a budget, Ben's Chili Bowl still earns its price.
You only have one day
Even on a tight schedule, Ben's Chili Bowl earns the hours.
You are traveling with kids
With kids, Ben's Chili Bowl works.
You are traveling as a couple
As a couple, Ben's Chili Bowl works.
What to order
The plates that decide it
- The chili half-smoke — the dish the place is built on; the one thing you can't skip
- Chili cheese fries — the reliable, indulgent sidekick
- Anything off-menu or fancy — this is a half-smoke joint — keep it simple
Plan it well
- Cost
- Inexpensive
- Allow
- 30–45 minutes
Ready to plan it?
Booking may earn us a commission. It never changes the verdict.
Sources and method (2)
- Founded August 22, 1958, at 1213 U Street; named a James Beard Foundation 'America's Classics' honoree in 2004. en.wikipedia.org ↗
- The signature chili half-smoke is a quarter-pound half-pork/half-beef smoked sausage with mustard, onions and spicy homemade chili. benschilibowl.com ↗