You can't visit DC and not visit Ben's! Came to try a dog and the chili - I opted for the vegetarian/ vegan option and some banana pudding. My sister in law got the turkey dog and chili with fries and a cup of cheese. My brother got the original spicy chili. We unanimously agreed that the food was delicious. The service was good and the ambiance was fire. They answered our questions and didn't rush us - we felt welcomed. An extra plus is all the space/ seating they gave, the walls full of photos and their accolades and the mural outside. If you're in the area, visit Ben's - especially this location as it's the original. read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - Veggie Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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The photos on the walls? Wow! This original location DC staple has been on my husband's "I gotta do this" list for years...so on our way to Richmond we took a detour to DC to eat at the World famous Ben's Chili Bowl! What did we have? Why the Original Half Smoke of course! Lucky for us, it was a random weekday and there wasn't a line waiting to get in. Upon entering this diner you can feel the nostalgia, but let's just say the employees aren't the most welcoming (it could have been an off day). The restrooms definitely need a bit more care (at least keep the paper towels restocked), but other than that, the seat yourself eatery wasn't too bad. The link didn't disappoint! The flavor has the perfect combination of seasonings and the chili and onions on top paired perfectly. If this place has been on your list, definitely take the opportunity to support this local business and put a check in the I Did It column! read more

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Ben's Chili Bowl is a must visit in DC! There is no other hot dog like it, I mean look at the bun and sausage ratio. It is juicy, meaty, and keeps you coming back for more. Topped with that smoky chili and crunch chips, probably one of the best hot dogs you can get. The interior has so much charm, the checkered floor and photos on the wall really makes the place nostalgic. There is something special about a place with history and people from all walks of life gather just for a hot dog. Service is good, they get your order right and they get it done quick. I spoke to the owner and photographer during my last visit and they were just delightful. You can tell they care about the people and food, it really warmed my heart. read more

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I think this is a good place to try once just due to its history. However was it an amazing chili dog? No but it was good. A bit pricey but given the location and its fanfare- it doesn't surprise me. The line can get long so be patient. Standard fast food cleanliness and employees so temper your expectations. read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Stopped here after their grand opening! This is our second trip. Still iconic! We loved the home grown feel, the history inside and the murals on the wall outside and just being around other patrons at this historic venue. Do not miss visiting this spot. read more

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DC institution for a reason! Super authentic, homey diner vibes complete with checker floors and red vinyl seats. I tried the classic half smoke with chili, mustard and onion. It was definitely loaded! The hot dog was juicy with a good snap. I got the onion rings which were crispy and hot and a chocolate shake to wash it all down. Definitely a solid spot, I thought it was reasonably priced and would def come back for a late night bite! read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - Chocolate Milkshake - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Coming to DC and not hitting up Ben's???? That's what I was told!! So you know what I had to hit it up!! Can I just say "Yes" this place has that nostalgic feel. But can we talk about this chili!!! Omg it's delish! Paired with fries or sausage.....this hit the "spot". The half smoke is a must!!! The sausage had this pop and the chili flavor was on point!!! One wasn't enough!! Staff is super friendly and food came out fast!!!! When I'm back in DC I'm hitting this place up again!!!! read more

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I brought my girlfriend here to try their famous chili. The location was great and the service was good. Plenty of seating in the back of the restaurant. We shared a cup of chili, chili cheese fries, and chili burger sub. The chili was great as always. So adding it to the fries and burger sub made everything near great as well. The fries alone are average, but the chili and cheese brings it to another level. Same for the chili burger sub. Where the patty and bread were good, but that chili sauce makes it so much better. read more

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Ben's Chili Bowl's veggie hot dog with coleslaw is so good! The service was great, and the vibes were even better.

Everyone in DC knows Ben's Chili Bowl, so I had to finally give it a try. I got a bowl of chili with cheese and onions on top. The chili was good, though it was small for $10. It also came with two crackers that were stale. We also got the chili cheese fries that didn't have much flavor. The fries and cheese were basic, and this lead to a lack of flavor. The location is easy to get to, it's across the street from the U Street metro. The service also lacked a bit, I stood waiting to order for a few minutes before an employee would help me (this was while an employee was telling other employees that there were people waiting.) read more

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Ben's Chili Bowl is the iconic stop within the DC area. I always enjoy getting their chili products, especially their half baked dog. This most recent visit, I had their Oreo milkshake. It was a bit disappointing for me to try as it just seemed like milk with Oreos on the bottom of the cup. The service is always A+ here though and I'm glad the place got the remodel it deserves! read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - Oreo Milkshake - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Excellent food! The half somked with chiki and onions was sooo good!. Also great story about Bens snd Virginia snd Ali!!. Loved it!

I've been going to Ben's Chili Bowl since I was a little girl: a DC staple and more than just a tourist spot. The food is delicious, and there is so much lore and history to this place that it's a gratifying place to spend your money. I know they're known for their half-smokes with chili, but I love myself a chili cheeseburger with a side of fries. Sometimes I'll get chili and cheese on my fries instead of the burger. The chili has the right amount of spice and it's really well seasoned. The chili is def more of a topping chili not one you sit down and eat on a cold day with some bread. If you're hitting up the original U St location be mindful of what time you go, ya might struggling to find seating but this is worth a visit! read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - Chili Cheese Fries (Beef) and a Ben's Famous Burger - DOUBLE with cheese - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Excellent hotdog, thicker and beefier than the usual dog, good chili, good onion rings. The soda out of the dispenser is a little flat and the service is a bit on the slow side but otherwise a DC institution and worth stopping in if you're in the area and like hot dogs. read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Food was amazing and simple. The host taking the order was very helpful in deciding what to get. The food came out really fast too. Ambiance is one of a quick eat. Very dim but plenty of space to sit. The location is across the street from the original location. The signs haw changed to be more conservative compared to the original signage that could be seen from down the street . read more

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Really want to go back to this place but it's so Far Far Away in DC Downtown Original Getto Area made famous by mom and pop shops from back in 1959 That's over 65 years ago ‼ read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - Original Ben's Half Smoke - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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I think Ben's Chili Bowl is at least a must visit if you're travelling for a DC visit, but I find it more of a one and one kinda experience. The place is known for their halfsmokes and chili which has a slight kick but not overpowering. The original building is down for renovations unfortunately but across the street there is a temporary location where you can order from there. I wasn't feeling too hungry but I ended up wanting to try their Halfsmoke only. It came with chips but for the price I paid for it's a bit steep. The halfsmoke had a nice snap to it. Pair with the chili it left a messy, fiery and delicious bite each time. I think my only complaint is more or so just that the building was hot. I don't know if it was the AC or from the chili I ate, but I ended up going outside after finishing my halfsmoke. Maybe when the original building reopens I'll try out the chili bowl next time. read more

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I got the half smoke and it was good. We were in a rush so I didn't get to sit and eat and take in the ambiance. Service for the hot dogs was very quick. It took forever for the kids grilled cheese to come. In fact so long that our uber left and we had to get another one The chili was good. Glad I could support a black owned business read more

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I've heard about Ben's Chili Bowl for years and had even seen it featured in the TV series *Cross*, so I was excited to finally visit the iconic spot on U Street. The overall vibe was great, and the food definitely did not disappoint! It was a fun experience being able to see and taste a piece of DC history. Definitely worth stopping by if you're in the area! read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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I arrived here late in the evening after a very long day of flights. Hadn't eaten much since breakfast, so I was running on fumes. This place definitely revived me. It was my first time in DC, so I wanted to find a spot that had great food and was open late. I ordered the Spicy Half Smoke as well as Ben's Famous Burger. The Half Smoke was a great Chili Dog. The Burger also came with Chili on it, and I very much enjoyed it. The staff was kind and considerate. The Chili definitely lived up to the hype. I will be returning next time I'm in DC. read more

Ben's Chili bowl is an iconic restaurant that is rich in history. Co- founder Virginia Ali remains a fixture at the U Street NW location (which is being renovated. Ben's chili bowl has half smokes, hot dogs (including vegetarian), chili (also a vegetarian option) and fries. The employees will make you feel like family. The historical murals outside the building are awesome and Instagram worthy. You will want to budget time to wait in line. This DC favorite spot gets full! The U Street location is near metro. Ben's Next Store is also owned by the Ali family. It has upscale choices and is a great venue location. There are location on H Street NE (less crowded), DCA Giant food sells many of the products in the restaurant. Yay! read more

Got the Spicy Half Smoke which had a decent kick to it, sausage was nice, chili overpowered the onions and mustard but of course was still good. Came with a bag of ruffles! read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - Spicy Half Smoke - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

The restaurant was clean and the service was friendly but I don't know what all the hype is about. This was the most expensive hot dog I've ever bought and not as good as a roller dog from the gas station! Two hotdogs and a single order of French fries $31.00. My advice is look elsewhere if you're looking for something that isn't just a tourist trap. read more

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This is a must try for anyone coming to dc for the first time. I have done takeout here before. When I first tried it, they had this great cake. I'm not always a chili person so it's not my go to place but I love how iconic it is and I do love the chill vibe. The service is great and quick. They have a soda machine available for you along with anything else you need. I got the burger with chips and the beef chili fries. I loved it! It was simple and well flavored. For anyone looking for a relaxed and historical food option, always come here! read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Bluf: chili tasted great. But there was maybe one small spoonful on the chili fries. Should have ordered just a bowl of chili read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

No way was I leaving DC without stopping at Ben's Chili Bowl. The reputation precedes itself and the vibe inside lived up to every bit of it. The music was great, the energy was great, the service was great. I loved all of it. What I didn't love was the chili, which is kind of the whole point of being there. Got the rice bowl with veggie chili and it was just basic. And look, I hate to say this, but I've had better chili out of a can. I really do hate saying that. Sorry Ben. The experience was worth it, the chili just wasn't my thing. read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - Rice Bowl with Veggie Chili - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Listen, Ben's is a DC treasure. They're iconic, and the family who owns the establishment has a great story as well. As a Washingtonian, I've had the pleasure of enjoying their decadent menu for decades. The place is set up like a diner from the '70s-'80s. It's small--somewhat crammed--but full of delicious smells, a happening vibe, and a crew that embodies that unique DC charm. Because Ben's has been covered by countless reviews, news articles, and magazines, I won't belabor my take any further. Long story short: if you're a resident of the DMV and you haven't been, GO! If you're visiting, GO! And when you have a taste for a delicious chili dog or a juicy burger, Ben's will meet--and quite possibly exceed--your belly's desire. Recommendation level: Make it a bucket list item read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - Store front - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Yum!!! The food is absolutely delicious, and I love all the vegan options! If you're in the DC area, do yourself a favor and stop by Ben's Chili Bowl. You won't be disappointed! read more

I was in the area and my flight got delayed so I opted to come visit this spot for dinner before a flight home. The first thing you'll notice is the cute bear statue outfront. The 2nd is the diner like vibe the place has. The menu is fairly standard: chili dogs, burgers, fries, etc. I got the chili dog and french fries. Neither were anything that stood out and I felt slightly underwhelmed when I was hoping for so much more. read more

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Last time I came to Ben's Chili Bowl, it was 2017. I had never even heard of the place. I was just like, wow, this is a nice little local place. I hope it does well. In the years since, I've learned that not only does this place do well, it's a national legend that many people go out of their way to eat at. Egg on my face. Anyway, so when I came to visit a friend earlier this year, I decided we had to get Ben's again. The only problem was that our timeline was so tight, we were forced into getting it Uber Eats'd over to our hotel room. So we loaded up the app, and placed our order. I got an Original Half Smoke (Enjoy Ben's Original Half Smoke (mixed pork and beef) served on a warm steamed bun with your choice of condiments. We suggest mustard, onions and our homemade spicy chili sauce). This dog was amazing. Such a nice snap on the bite, a decent size, and good flavor within. The thing doesn't even need to be smothered with excess. I, of course, did smother it, though, which added to the mess and the experience. That mustard was potent, so if you don't like mustard, skip it, but I had to try it as-is. No regrets. Tasted like a legend. I also got a side of Cheese Fries (A generous portion of golden fries, topped with delicious nacho cheese sauce). Classic. Really a lot of fries, and absolutely obliterated with nacho cheese sauce. Just go look at the pic. You're gonna need some napkins. Amazing. Overall, I'm so glad I got to try Ben's again. Even if I missed it, though, I saw that they have a Ben's at the airport now. But I think I'll just keep coming back every time I come back to town. read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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This is a restaurant that has withstood the test of time and has welcomed a national audience to taste the great, humble chili that began with Ben and Virginia Ali. With visitors like Anthony Bourdain or being a staple campaign spot for the Obamas, tells me to look at Ben's as the representation of the true essence of American restaurants. Hot dogs, burgers, fries, cheese, onion rings, and of course, chili all not trying to be anything else than what it is. There is just something so honest about these foods that we take for granted. I'm sure their menu has evolved since its founding, but the offerings still stand. Its simple yet varied, expected in a comforting way, and unpretentious. In 2026, its still affordable which is such a big win since its visited by so many tourists across the country, but its still situated in the neighborhood of Northeast, DC. So you see it brings in all sorts of folks-- an office employee who was waiting for this all work-day, students celebrating an exam win, couples stumbling in after an expensive date night. These are all things I can easily picture in Ben's and not anywhere else. I attest that the best vehicle for the chili is their half smoke, spicy. A half smoke is their version of a real-meat hotdog that blends beef and pork. From footage I've seen of Virginia Ali, they're rendered on their flattop, which makes this iconic snap when you bite in. This is a really good sign that they have retained the quality of their food. The chili is more like a condiment for burgers, sandwiches and fries, but eaten alone its a very complex and spiced chili. I find it to be a little bitter, so for me, it pairs well eaten on other things. There are many landmarks and symbols that tell us what the capitol represents to the nation. Ben's Chili Bowl is a fairly modern (1959) addition to all of the historic places you can visit. I love the slideshow of famous people who have have passed through this place, even folks who are from my hometown in California. In there, you can feel like you're in the warm heart of DC. Still a must-try. read more

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A DC creation and landmark, the half smoke chili dog is fiery and flavorful. With an interior resembling a diner, Ben's is the perfect place at DC airport for a quick bite or simple value meal. The fawning bear statue at the entryway enchantingly captures the city's history and achievements. I need to go back to try a milkshake! read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - Bear Statue - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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We had to try this chili dog as we saw so many recommendation on youtube. We came around 5:45pm and it wasn't too busy. We ordered at the cashier and they called us at the counter once our order was ready. There were plenty of tables and even at the back of the restaurant too. - half smoked chili dog: the half smoked dog was good. The bun was soft. The chili dog slathered on top was good. - chili bowl: disappointing. It was super salty even the cracker didn't help. The fresh onion gave a good crunch to the chili - chili fries: crispy & well seasoned. The chili on top made it so good. read more

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We just had to try this place for our first restaurant in DC! I believe this specific location is under construction or remodeling, so we ended up eating at a temporary spot across the street from the historical building. I can't lie, that was kind of a bummer, but the restaurant itself was clean, comfortable and everyone working there was friendly. After a short wait, we got our two Ben's burgers (I got mine with Ben's sauce, which made the burger go from a 3.5 to a 4.5 by itself) and their famous original chili dog to share. It was plenty of food, even for two starving people, but it was all very delicious! I've never had chili before, so this felt like the perfect time to try. I probably won't be adding it to my regular rotation of meals, but you seriously can't go wrong visiting such an iconic and beloved location. While it was probably the messiest meal I've had in quite some time, it was truly very good. Just make sure to not get any sauce on your clothes... like I did! read more

Much appreciated the local and friendly business. They strive for excellence and proud to be in DC. It's a landmark institution. Bus load's of students and adults will visit this restaurant. Come in and check it out. Call 1st or just show up. Plenty of seating. read more

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Iconic. Honestly, if you hate hotdogs and or chili, you probably won't like the food here. There's no denying that, so don't come to boo-boo the food. Come for the history and maybe just eat some fries instead. The Ben's Original Half Smoked (a mix of pork + beef) is what you should order. The half smokes are served in a warm steamed bun and topped with whatever, but they suggest mustard, onions and their house-made spicy chili sauce. I tried both the original and spicy versions of the dog and while both were good, I preferred the original more. I just thought the original dog was just a little snappier. The spicy and chili combo was a very flavorful one, but it was a little too much punch for me. I suggest ordering a bag of regular Ruffles to help break up all the chili. I also shared a small cup of chili which was really nice. Ben's Chili Bowl is such an institution and well worth a visit. It's a perfect pit stop if you're visiting - you can get a lil snack and take in so much history. read more

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You can use Local phone app from Toast to order ahead. Historic place with great food. Personally I like the spicy half smoke and probably should just order 2 instead of with fries or onion rings. I've been coming to the original location for over a decade. read more

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Food was served quickly. Very busy, historical site where people come and hang out to eat. I recommend visiting at least once one your trip to D.C. i think they have me a spicy hot dog by accident, but it was still tasty (just spicy). The other hot dog I got (not spicy) was good too. The chili itself (on top of the hot dogs) didn't have the flavor I was expecting, but happy I tried it. read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Guys I am so sad to say that I was not the biggest fan of Ben's Chili Bowl!!! I think the significance in DC is admirable and this spot has truly been able to thrive and become an iconic monument in the district. With that said... I really don't think it is worth the hype. I feel sad saying that! Maybe it's because we didn't do the chili dog (which it's more well known for), but I feel like even so, it should be better? I don't know. The chili with raw onions was lackluster and kind of lacked flavor. There wasn't a sweet heat. It was kind of.. bland? And the hot dog was $9 which is just absurd for a hot dog! Even the Nationals hot dogs are cheaper and that's at a stadium! The chili was also $10 and it was so small!! It is just all around disappointing! The vibe of course is stellar. Who doesn't love the diner like feel and the exterior which is so classic and fun. But it's really not worth the crazy price!! read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - Hot Jumbo Beef Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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I finally made it to Ben's! When I arrived there was only one person in line a head of us. The staff was nice ans clearly used to the hype surrounding this place because lots of people entered taking photos and videos. I turned around the line was out the door and the place was buzzing with people. I sat in the Cross booth which was very exciting. It was next to the Obama booth and that which was a real show stopper. Now for the food, we'll not much to write home about. The half smoke was so salty I could not have more than one bite. The banana pudding was very runny, similar to pudding when it hasn't fully set yet. The flavor was decent but I didn't enjoy it. I saw the burgers behind prepared to order and I would have preferred a burger because o only finished the fries. read more

Ben's Chili Bowl - The exterior - Hot Dogs Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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