On Monday, July 14, 2025, at midnight, Ben’s Chili Bowlon U Street in Washington, DC, will close for the first significant repairs in more than 60 years. The restaurant is expected to return in November. During the shutdown, a temporary pop-up will serve patrons across the street, and the renovations are intended to maintain the building’s historic charm.
According to Ben’s Chili Bowl: In order to make necessary repairs and improvements, Ben’s Chili Bowl U Street will temporarily close at midnight on Monday, July 14, 2025. A grand reopening is scheduled for November 2025 after an anticipated four-month closure. This is the historic building’s first significant repair in more than 60 years. The renovations will prioritize maintaining the cherished area’s legacy and character while making sure that it continues to be a warm and secure meeting spot for years to come.
Since 1958, neighbors, politicians, celebrities, and generations of families have gathered at Ben’s Chili Bowl, a mainstay of the DC community, to enjoy delectable food, fantastic music, and heartwarming tales. We encourage everyone to honor the past while we get ready for the future.
Food has never been the only focus of Ben’s. According to Virginia Ali, it’s also about history, community, and family. We’re utilizing this opportunity to take care of the place that has meant so much to so many people after welcoming generations of visitors. In order for it to serve another generation, it is time to show it some love.
Before July 14th, stop by Ben’s U St. to honor the legacy!Whether it’s a late-night supper following a concert, a first date, a family tradition that has been passed down through the years, or pals sharing a fun time, Ben’s encourages you to stop by, take a picture with Virginia Mom Ali, and share your greatest Ben’s Chili Bowl story between July 7 and July 14.
Visitors are invited to send images or videos to [email protected] or share their recollections and photos on social media using the hashtag #MyBensStory. Throughout the repair phase, a selection of photos and tales will be shared on Ben’s Chili Bowl’s social media channels as a way to honor those who have contributed to the establishment’s success.
It’s see you soon, not farewell! We should take a minute to consider our past and anticipate our future. Later this year, we can’t wait to welcome you all home with the same history, energy, and flavors in a renovated facility that pays homage to our origins.
Key Details
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Last day of service before closure:
Monday, July 14th, 2025 (closing at midnight) -
Estimated reopening:
November 2025 -
Location:
Ben s Chili Bowl, 1213 U Street NW, Washington, DC -
Mom at the Bowl:
Mom opened Ben s when she was 24 years old and is now 91. Her most precious memories are listening to your stories. Please stop by and share your favorite Ben s story with her between July 7th and July 14th. We will post stories on our social media platforms (IG: @benseverything and FB: @benschilibowl) -
Hashtag to share stories/photos:
#MyBensStory -
Pop-up location:
Our temporary pop-up will open Thursday, July 17th at 11 am across the street at 1208 U Street to serve you during the closing. -
Retail availability:
All 166 Giant Food stores have our Chili Con Carne and Turkey Chili in their hot bars and refrigerated sections, along with our Half Smokes (Original and Spicy) and Famous Chili Sauce.
