Started up in the late 50s and now a famous restaurant/diner in the U st/Shaw neighborhood area of DC, Ben's Chili Bowl is known for it's unbeatable chili dogs, half-smokes (half pork half beef sausage), and milkshakes. It was a popular spot for both police and activists during the DC riots of 1968 and is still regularly visited by a diverse crowd of customers today. Bill Cosby is the most famous regular, and other celebs, including Bono and Chris Tucker, have also visited. The restaurant's reputation for chili made with love and its unique history has been recognized throughout the world, and it's founders were even inducted into the D.C. Hall of Fame in 2001.Grant and I went to Ben's Chili Bowl for dinner last week to check it out. Indeed it was packed with all sorts of different people, from smartly dressed business professionals to local youth. The walls were covered with pictures and autographs, awards and newspaper articles. We tried all the famous specialties: Bill Cosby's favorite chili half-smoke, chili cheese fries, and milkshakes (chocolate and strawberry!). Everything was really good and cheap, filling and classic. The look of the place is classic 60s diner, complete with a jukebox, barstools along the counter, and a sign that says only Bill Cosby eats there for free :). It was fun people-watching and enjoying our meal in such a unique, warm environment, which is why so many people seem to love it.
Ben's promises to never change, and that's a great thing. I love to know that I can come back years from now and everything will still taste as great, and it will still look the same. That also means it will probably stay cash only, but there's an ATM inside for convenience. The only thing that seems to have changed is the addition of a backroom to accommodate all its hungry customers :) Grant and I had a great time eating there, and we agree that Ben's is definitely a must-go place for anyone in search of good, cheap eats and a unique historical landmark :D
