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Ben's Chili Bowl

Fast Casual · 4.4 (7978 reviews)

Ben's Chili Bowl is a diner and hot dog spot at 1213 U St NW on the U Street corridor. Google describes it as a historic eatery famous for its spicy hot dogs, chili-cheese fries and milkshakes.

It holds a 4.4-star Google rating across nearly 8,000 reviews. The half-smoke is by far the most-mentioned item, followed by chili dogs, hot dogs and chili cheese fries; banana pudding and milkshakes also come up often. Many reviewers talk about the history of the place and the murals and wall art of famous visitors. Reviews are mostly warm about the atmosphere and the classic chili, though a minority are unimpressed with the food, and one recent reviewer says it is a little pricey.

It is open daily from 11 AM, closing at 11 PM Sunday through Thursday and at 4 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. Google lists a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, restroom and seating.

1213 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009

+1202-667-0909

benschilibowl.com

  • Sunday: 11 AM–11 PM
  • Monday: 11 AM–11 PM
  • Tuesday: 11 AM–11 PM
  • Wednesday: 11 AM–11 PM
  • Thursday: 11 AM–11 PM
  • Friday: 11 AM–4 AM
  • Saturday: 11 AM–4 AM

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Good to know

What are Ben's Chili Bowl's hours?

Sunday–Thursday 11 AM–11 PM, Friday–Saturday 11 AM–4 AM (per Google, October 2026).

What should I order at Ben's Chili Bowl?

The half-smoke is the most-mentioned item in reviews by a wide margin, followed by the chili dog, chili cheese fries, banana pudding and milkshakes.

Is Ben's Chili Bowl open late?

Yes, until 4 AM on Friday and Saturday nights and 11 PM the rest of the week (per Google, October 2026).

Is Ben's Chili Bowl wheelchair accessible?

Google lists a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, restroom and seating.

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Description written from public review evidence; verify details directly with the business.