BEST OF 2009

Best Meal Under $20 & Best Comfort Food: Ben's Chili Bowl

Bens Chili Bowl, Best Meal Under 20, Best Comfort Food
THERE'S A REASON that Ben's is a name that doesn't wear out. "It's about the atmosphere and the history of the restaurant," says manager Maurice Harcum. "We give value to the community." The 24/7 joint has been serving up chili half-smokes, burgers and dogs since 1958. "The half-smoke and the chili cheese fries are two of the best things you can cheat on your diet with," Harcum says. And Ben's has got a cool catchphrase: "From a pitbull to a ball park frank, our chili can make any dog bark," quotes Harcum.

By the Numbers: Ben's Chili Bowl served 555 gallons of chili during inauguration week last January.

» Ben's Chili Bowl, 1213 U St. NW; 202-667-0909.

» Explore a full list of the year's winners at the Best of 2009 index.

Written by Express contributor Robyn Mincher
Photo by Michael Williamson/The Washington Post

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