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Ben’s Chili Bowl

By
Real Estate Agent

 

Located at 1213 U Street, Ben’s Chili Bowl is one of the famous places in Washington DC. It is a melting pot of residents and visitors where they bow down to the delicious taste of its chili dogs, half-smokes, and milkshakes. Since its establishment in 1958 by Ben Ali, the restaurant has been frequented by both common and famous persons. Chris Tucker and Bill Cosby are just two of its avid patrons.

 

Ben's Chili Bowl takes great honor after its founders were inducted in Washington DC’s Hall of Fame. Part of this recognition was the restaurant’s contribution not only in terms of the economic factors but also in terms of the rich history it has which in turn contributes to DC’s own history.

 

Throughout its 53 years of existence as one of Washington DC’s landmarks, many movies have been shot on it making it a true destination of Hollywood stars. In fact, the proximity of the restaurant to the Lincoln Theatre also attracted other famous personalities like musicians to have a stop on te restaurant for a taste of its chili dogs, half-smokes, and other servings.

 

Being located in the capital also makes Ben’s Chili Bowl a place to frequently spot politicians. According to the locales, anyone who aspires of taking a seat in the government would not skip a chance to eat at Ben’s. Hillary Clinton, current President Barack Obama, and other famous political figures have all stained their mouth and teeth with the delicious dishes of the restaurant.

Obama at Ben's

 

President Barack Obama eating his half-smoke during his visit at Ben's

Aside from serving walk-in customers, Ben’s is also a proud venue of many parties including the farewell party of journalist Ted Koppel when he stopped hosting Nightline in 2005. There are also instances of visits to Ben’s by famous non-Americans like French President Nicolas Sarkozy who ate two half-smokes during his Washington DC visit in 2010. His wife Carla Bruni Sarkozy who came along with him also consumed two half-smokes.

 

The popularity of Ben’s Chili Bowl signature dishes have been recognized by different entities. Proofs are the reviews it receive form magazines like Bon Apetit in 2009 where it was cited as one of Washington DC’s Best Chili Spots. Similarly, there were recognitions from the James Beard Foundation and regional food writer Michael Stern. The association of the restaurant to the American history and its relevance to popular American culture is a stronghold of its importance in the landscape of Washington DC.

 

Comments (2)

Charles Stallions Real Estate Services
Charles Stallions Real Estate Services Inc - Gulf Breeze, FL
Buyers Agent 800-309-3414 Pace and Gulf Breeze,Fl.

Sounds like our own Chris's Hotdogs and a wonderful place to eat, meet and just have fun.

Jun 09, 2012 03:24 PM
Bruno & Noel Tarquinii
Bowie, MD
www.search4homes.us

Just hearing the name of Ben's Chili Bowl  makes me crave for the half-smokes!

Jun 10, 2012 04:43 PM