Ben’s Chili Bowl is a gotta do. Their half smoke, a cross between a hot dog and sausage covered with chili, has been a D.C. staple since the 60’s. On a trip to D.C. with the family a few years ago, we visited Ben’s on a day Ms. Virginia was there – Ms. Virginia was Ben’s wife and a founder of the restaurant. Was humbled and honored that she spent time at our table telling us the history of the restaurant and the area, including how Dr. King planned activities for the March On Washington while eating at the restaurant. “You make sure you get some of my banana pudding! My secret – I use Biscoff cookies instead of Nella Wafers.” Never had better. My kids still talk about their Ben’s Chili Bowl experience.
