Ben's Chili Bowl Reviews - D.C. Restaurant Finder

Address	1213 U St., Washington, DC 20009
Phone	(202) 667-0909
Fax	(202) 667-0058

Review by crutonconoisieur on January 23, 2008

The chili was everything that I had hoped for and I really enjoyed my chocolate shake. However, it took its toll on my digestive system later on in the night. I still think it's a must for living in DC!

Review by asafoss on August 2, 2007

I long for Ben's - a Washington institution - but can only go a couple times a year because it's so bad for me. But it's always worth it. There's always an amazing mix of people here. It's more diverse than almost any other place in the city. You must get the chilidog, chiliburger, or chilifries during each visit. The shakes are thick, but not amazing. But, you don't come for the shake.

Review by buddysorrel on February 3, 2006

It's rare to find such a downscale yet not grungy place. That's part of its appeal.

I knew I made the right choice when someone at another table said out loud, "how 'bout them Redskins." It's worth a visit just for the culture.

I was shocked at the tiny portion size of a regular bowl of chili. Very costly for the quantity and served in a styrofoam bowl. The chili had a little kick but it seemed to disrupt my digestive tract for four days. I've never eaten any food with such lingering effects but was glad the portion wasn't more generous. Next time I'll try a chili dog.

Nonetheless a visit to the landmark was not a disappointment.

Review by realchic1999 on January 26, 2006

The service was quick...the guy who runs the place seemed very amiable, as did the girl who served me. However, there seemed to be a few servers who were playing around too much and acting silly...plus one girl behind the counter who smacked her lips, rolled her eyes. She looked like she wanted to be anywhere else but there. The hot dogs were good...$3 and some change per dog is kinda pricy, though.

Review by ileschinder on July 18, 2005

Don't suggest Ben's Chili Bowl as a first date restaurant to a guy (I've tried this and I was unceremoniously dumped afterwards, twice!). Grab your best buddies instead (specially guys) and dig in the sinful burgers/dogs/fries all seasoned with home made chili. Still, if chili is not your thing, the visit is worth it to relax and laugh not worrying about some speedy waiter bringing the tab.
Enter to BCB, order, pay, go to your table and enjoy. It's easy, simple and delicious. A combination that very few restaurants in the area have managed to achieve.
Calorie conscious, anyone? Don't come... and you'll miss one of the best late-night hang-outs in town. What a shame!

Review by mfm76 on July 12, 2004

My one complaint: not enough pictures of Bill Cosby. Come on! This is an institution! It's sloppy dogs and chili and burgers. You can't say it's bad. Ben Ali and his wife have created a modern landmark, and a cultural melting pot. It's a great place. Read the article in Washington Magazine from few months back to see how this place is regarded in the city. Plus, they have veggie burgers and veggie chili, and for that I say thank you.

Review by PaxRyan on June 18, 2004

I had a new friend who had only been in DC for about a week. I decided that that was entirely too long to have lived in DC still have never eaten at this district institution! So, off we went. And, it was good as always! A chili cheese burger and cheese fries will always fill the belly, and the staff there is as friendly and competent as you could hope for!:-)

Review by whitsang on May 27, 2004

I'm here at least once a week. Ben's is a diamond in the rough. GO HERE!

Review by VNannery on May 4, 2004

Review by calnen on April 26, 2004

Ben's Chili Bowl is a historic restaurant in the DC area. It's unique ambiance combined with diner food makes it a fun place to visit on a date, family dinner or for Sat. AM breakfast. Ben's Chili Bowl's recent renovation has added seating to the restaurant as well as updated the restrooms.

This a great place for an inexpensive meal combined with the unique flavor of the city itself.

Review by gretchensmith291 on April 22, 2004

Review by willwheels on April 22, 2004

Not like this place needs a review, as everyone in the area should visit. Today was the first time I've been when it's light out--our office had a reservation for 20 and were seated immediately in the back. They couldn't have been nicer.

Review by cbrad45337 on January 21, 2004

There's no other chili like it. Amazing.

Review by llangbaum on December 15, 2003

Yum! Everyone says Ben's Chili Bowl is best at 2 in the morning on the weekend, but it was just fine at 8pm on a Tuesday night. The fries could be a bit more "well done" but the half-smoke was great, and I love the ambiance. Next time I'll try a milkshake. They looked awesome!

Review by amo on December 8, 2003

This place has character and good not-so-good-for-you food. Their chili (hence the name) is a must have. And for misplaced Southerners...they have sweet tea!

Review by alaaro on November 30, 2003

It's not the best looking place, it's not in the nicest neighborhood late nite, but it's a DC institution and it's goooood. Chili burgers, chili cheese fries, half smokes, amazing milkshakes. You dont come to Ben's for a nice special meal. You come here for tasty comfort food.

Restaurant Finder

Ben's Chili Bowl

Rater Comments