I hate to admit it but we’ve been living just outside of Washington, DC for the past 3 1/2 years and it was only just today that we finally made it to Ben’s Chili Bowl – the iconic diner.
Ben’s Chili Bowl: A Classic
It’s not often that I write a review of a foodie destination, but as I mentioned, Ben’s Chili Bowl is a DC icon and a tourist mecca for those looking for the best chili in the city. It’s also a place where one can have a bowl of chili and take in the classic diner experience where pictures of famous personalities adorn the walls.
Most everyone who visits the city knows about the Smithsonian Museums and the presidential monuments, and a few infamous eateries such as Old Ebbitt Grill. But the city has so very much more to experience, I think it’s high time I start sharing some of the highlights. Because, you never know when you might find yourself in Washington, DC wanting to eat a good great chili dog, or chili cheese fries, or just a bowl of chili topped with onions and cheese and a few packs of classic saltine crackers on the side.
Hot Dogs on the Grill
Having been gifted with two theater tickets for a live performance, at an intimate theater on the U Street Corridor, we decided a bit of a daycation was the order of the day. And, we decided that it was about time we visited Ben’s Chili Bowl. As it happened the original location was just around the corner from the theater.
We bellied up to the bar so-to-speak and got up close and personal with the menu while drooling at the burgers and dogs sizzling on the grill.
Best Chili for 59 Years
Founded in 1958 by Ben and his bride, Virginia, award winning Ben’s Chili Bowl has been serving up the best chili for 59 years. That is a lot of chili! If there’s an accolade to be had, Ben’s has earned it while serving Presidents, politicians, celebrities, and locals alike.
“I am the kind of person who really will drive hours for a bowl of chili. I’m not a three-star restaurant kind of a person; I’m just a food person.” Nora Ephron
Since it was our first visit, we decided to try three different items and share them. A bit of a sample menu if you will. “Let’s see,” we said to the server, “please bring us a bowl of chili and an order of chili cheese fries.” Several bites later we were hooked and decided to order an all-beef hot dog split, grilled and topped with chili, mustard, and onions. Holy Moly it was good! Before I even finished my fries, I was figuring out what I wanted to order the next time we go.
It may have taken us 3 1/2 years to get there, but believe me it won’t take us that long to return. I’d seriously go back tomorrow. So, what do you think? Will you head for Ben’s Chili Bowl when you visit Washington, DC?
If You Go
Ben’s Chili Bowl – The Original
1213 U Street NW
Washington, DC 20009
Facebook: @benschili
- vegetarian options are available
- gluten free options available
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I love the “American dinner” places. There is a really nice one in Brighton that I love visiting whenever I am in town. The food is so yummy, great to know that they have gluten free and vegetarian options also
Gilda Baxter recently posted…A Tibetan Buddhist Temple In The South Of Brazil
Ben’s has definitely become one of our local favorites!
Going retro is so much fun and diners are retro personified. Bring on the chili! Seriously though, I’m drooling at the thought of an authentic beef hot dog on a fresh bun. Next time I visit the States, a hot dog just might be my first meal. As much as we rave about all the good food options we have in Portugal, finding an American-style hot dog is impossible. The closest things seem to be something offered by the Brits that look like sickly Vienna Sausages crammed in glass jars. UGH!)
Ha! Ha! Ha! Anita. I know EXACTLY the jars of hot dogs you’re talking about. They do indeed look disgusting and I would NEVER try them. Yuck!
Such classic food to go with the decor. One chili dog to go for me please.
Gaelyn recently posted…I have no job at Grand Canyon this summer
Make it two chili dogs, Gaelyn! You’ll love em!