Every neighborhood in the country has that one eatery that many consider their go to, family tradition, all time favorite, etc. But, which restaurant in our beautiful country of ours is the most loved? I'm sure this question brings up all kinds of responses. There are so many loved eateries all over the country. One place in Washington D.C. is so loved, during a riot in 1968 it was the the only building on the block that was left untouched. Ben's Chili Bowl is this place.
The year is 1958. Some states had certain establishments segregated, and Dwight D. Eisenhower was president. Ben Ali and Virginia Rollins were an engaged couple in their mid 20s with a dream of opening an eatery. With $5000 to their name, the couple renovated a pool hall into Ben's Chili Bowl. The couple married 7 weeks after opening their restaurant. Located on U Street nicknamed Black Broadway, Ben's Chili Bowl offers amazing American favorites with their legendary meat chili. Their Half-Smoke hotdogs (half wiener, half sausage) are the favorites of everyday people, celebrities, and Presidents. Bill Clinton and Barack Obama were frequent visitors to Ben's.
Why is Ben's Chili Bowl so loved? It has a barbershop vibe for all creeds and colors. It's the CHEERS of restaurants. Their customers are so loyal, some come for all three meals of the day. Anthony Bourdain visited Ben's in 2009, he could not get over the sense of community at Ben's Chili Bowl. "I have never visited a place that was more loved by its customers", said Anthony. He was right. Still going strong after 62 years, Ben's shows no signs of slowing down. Ben Ali passed away, and his sons carry on his rich tradition. Virginia is still around, and patrons give her the adulation her hard work deserves. If you are in the nation's capitol, and want some great American fare with killer chili, come on down to BEN'S CHILI BOWL. You will have a satisfying food experience, and make a new friend. It's the place that love built.
