Ben's Chili Bowl
Historic chain eatery that's famous for its spicy hot dogs, chili-cheese fries & milkshakes.
Ben's Chili Bowl is rated 4.4 / 5 from 7,904 Google reviews and sits about 4.5 km (56 min walk) from Fort Totten station.
General overview
About Ben's Chili Bowl
Ben’s Chili Bowl is a landmark Washington, DC diner on U Street, famous for half-smokes—local smoked sausages served with chili—and its long history as a gathering place for residents, musicians, politicians, and visitors. It is a casual restaurant rather than a ticketed attraction.
- Try the signature Ben’s Original Half-Smoke with chili, mustard, and onions.
- Historic U Street location associated with Washington’s African American cultural and civil-rights history.
- Casual counter-service atmosphere with memorabilia and photographs.
- Convenient stop while visiting the U Street corridor, Howard Theatre, and nearby nightlife and music venues.
Things to do here
Ben’s Original Half-Smoke
The restaurant’s best-known specialty: a grilled half-smoke sausage traditionally served with chili, mustard, and onions.
Classic chili and diner fare
Menu options generally include chili, chili dogs, burgers, fries, breakfast items, sandwiches, and other casual American comfort food.
Historic U Street visit
Visit one of Washington’s best-known neighborhood institutions and view the restaurant’s historic photographs and memorabilia while dining.
Late-night dining
Ben’s Chili Bowl has traditionally been known for extended late-night hours, making it a popular stop after U Street entertainment.
The restaurant is on the U Street NW corridor and is accessible by Metro via the U Street/African-Amer Civil War Memorial/Cardozo station. Street parking can be difficult, especially at night; public transportation or rideshare may be easier.
Reservations are generally not necessary or typically offered for ordinary counter-service visits. Groups should contact the restaurant in advance.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
See it before you go
Most asked
How to reach
Ben's Chili Bowl is about 4.5 km (~56 min walk) from Fort Totten station on the Washington Metro.
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
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Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Ben's Chili Bowl from Fort Totten station?
Ben's Chili Bowl is about 4487 m (roughly 56 min walk) from Fort Totten station on the Washington Metro. Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is Ben's Chili Bowl rated?
Ben's Chili Bowl has a Google rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 7,904 reviews.
What's near Ben's Chili Bowl?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Walmart Supercenter, Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America.
Is Ben's Chili Bowl wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for Ben's Chili Bowl: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking, wheelchair-accessible restroom, wheelchair-accessible seating.
Is there parking near Ben's Chili Bowl?
Google lists these parking options near Ben's Chili Bowl: free parking lot, paid parking lot, free street parking, paid street parking.
Is Ben's Chili Bowl good for children?
Yes — Google lists Ben's Chili Bowl as good for children.
Are dogs allowed at Ben's Chili Bowl?
Google does not list Ben's Chili Bowl as allowing dogs.
Does Ben's Chili Bowl have outdoor seating?
Yes — Google lists Ben's Chili Bowl as having outdoor seating.
Does Ben’s Chili Bowl require an admission ticket?
No. It is a restaurant, so there is no attraction admission fee; you pay for the food and drinks you order.
What should I order?
The classic choice is Ben’s Original Half-Smoke with chili, mustard, and onions. Chili, fries, burgers, and breakfast items are also associated with the menu.
Can I make a reservation?
It is generally a casual counter-service restaurant without ordinary reservations. Contact the restaurant ahead of time if you are bringing a large group or arranging an event.
Is Ben’s Chili Bowl open late?
Historically, yes. The U Street location has often operated late into the night, especially on Friday and Saturday, but current hours must be confirmed before visiting.
How long should I plan for a visit?
Allow about 30–60 minutes for a normal meal, with extra time during peak meal periods, weekends, concerts, or late-night rushes.
How do I get there without a car?
The U Street/African-Amer Civil War Memorial/Cardozo Metro station is nearby, and several Metrobus routes serve the U Street corridor.
Is the restaurant suitable for children?
Yes, its casual diner-style food can work well for families, although the area and restaurant may be especially crowded or lively late at night.
Are the prices and hours current?
No. All details here are based on training data and have not been live-verified. Check the official website or contact the restaurant before relying on them.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 23, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.