Ben’s Chili Bowl reopens Friday and the family is keeping one surprise quiet

The wait for half smokes is almost over. The original home of Ben’s Chili Bowl reopens on D.C.’s U Street Friday after months of renovations.

Grand reopening festivities also celebrate Virginia Ali, the 92-year-old matriarch behind the local landmark that opened in 1958.

Ali told News4’s Molette Green she has had the privilege of serving everyone from presidents to people living with addiction – and she still loves to hear every customer’s story.

“We all have a story. From all over the world, I want to know your religion. I want to know what kind of food you have, and I want to hear about your culture,” she said.

For over 9 months, Ben’s Chili Bowl has been under renovation for its plumbing, electrical systems and HVAC. But any other upgrades will be a surprise. Even Ali will be surprised when she walks through the door; her family members, who still run the business, have kept any possible cosmetic changes quiet.

A lot of people are expected to attend the grand reopening festivities with live go-go music. Mayor Muriel Bowser is set to cut the ribbon. The celebration kicks off at 11:45 a.m., and Ben’s Chili Bowl will stay open as usual until 4 a.m. Saturday, serving its iconic half smokes, chili cheese fries and shakes.

The restaurant is located at 1208 U Street NW. Expect part of the road to be blocked during the festivities.

Ahead of the 65th birthday party for Ben’s Chili Bowl, Virginia Ali shares how she and Ben Ali fell in love and opened the iconic restaurant that serves up D.C.’s signature dish. News4’s Tommy McFly reports.

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