Ben's Chili Bowl, Washington, District of Columbia Restaurant Details

Food:

If you've never tasted a half smoke, consider yourself lucky. Why? Because then you'll be satisfied with the normal, everyday hot dogs that people outside of Washington, DC are subjected to.

Granted, there are some decent ones, but none like the quarter pound of half pork and smoked beef sausage topped with mustard, onions and the infamous spicy chili sauce over a steamed bun. If that sentence didn't make you drool, then congratulations, you are a robot.

The half smoke is meatier than a normal hot dog and tastier than a normal polish dog. The spicy kick juices things up to blend everything together perfectly.

$5.50 buys a half smoke with chili and a side of chips. Not the cheapest or healthiest option, but your taste buds will give you a standing ovation upon consumption.

Ben's Chili Bowl is located across the street from the U Street stop on the Metro Green Line. Within walking distance for tourists visiting the White House, or a quick bus/metro ride away. No excuses. Go visit now!

Food:

Let me just say that those of you who gig a restaurant becauseof their clientele are simply a-holes. You got a beef with Cosby, fine but don't slam an area icon, especially when you say you I you loved the food. There are those of us who lose our appetite seeing the picture of O'Bamy on the side of the building, but we appreciate good chili and red hots in spite of his lousy politics. Don't like Cosby? Don't see his show. Don't like the food? Fair enough but don't drop the ratings over crap politics.

Food:

This became my favorite place to get french toast on the east coast! Thanks to the owner and BMe I will always make this a must stop and eat every time I visit DC.

Food:

Whish I had a chance to eat my hot dog I spent so much money on. But the staff was nice and setting us very retro 1950s. It is cash only but they have a ATM inside. Nice local spot

Food:

I understand that this is a neighborhood institution and that is wonderful! The service was great and the people super friendly. The chili dog was good and the meat in the half-smoke very hearty! But all in all, it's a chili dog. It's also a bit disappointing to see they still openly support Bill Cosby in light of all that's gone up in the press lately. They have a mural of the President right next to Cosby...really?!