Ben's Chili Bowl reopens U Street home and celebrates Virginia Ali
Updated
Updated · WJLA · May 1
Ben's Chili Bowl reopens U Street home and celebrates Virginia Ali
7 articles · Updated · WJLA · May 1
The Washington landmark reopened Friday after months of renovations, with 92-year-old co-founder Virginia Ali honoured at the grand event and Mayor Muriel Bowser delivering remarks.
Officials called it a tribute to 67 years of love, service and dedication at the original restaurant, which closed in 2025 for its first major restoration in more than six decades.
Founded in 1958 by Virginia Ali and her late husband Ben Ali, the eatery has served generations of locals, presidents and celebrities, and planned to stay open until 4am.
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