R.I.P. Ben Ali

Sadly, Ben Ali, founder and owner of Ben's Chili Bowl, an institution in DC, passed away yesterday at the age of 82. I've spent many a late night at the counter in Ben's patiently waiting my turn to get one of Ben's addictively delicious chili cheese half-smokes. Washington is full of monuments and museums to see but if you've been there and didn't go to Ben's you haven't truly experienced DC in all its glory.

May you rest in peace Mr. Ali.

From Wikipedia...

Ben's Chili Bowl was founded in 1958 by husband and wife team Ben and Virginia Ali. The building they chose was that of Washington's first silent movie house, the Minnehaha, which was established in 1911. Most of the furniture in the restaurant is original to the 1950s. At the time, Washington was officially segregated, and U Street was known as "Black Broadway". Many jazz greats of the day, such as Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, and Nat King Cole, would stop by the restaurant when they performed at U Street clubs.

From Ben's Chili Bowl's website...

Family, friends, and countless fans of Ben’s will sorely miss the energetic and unforgettable personality of Ben Ali. He was a true hero of the people and a great example of someone who actually epitomized the American dream. He and his loving wife Virginia created a landmark institution in D.C., tantalizing generations of residents and visitors with their spicy chili dogs and half smokes, but more importantly touching people of all walks of life with their exemplary dedication to the D.C. community.