Ben’s Chili Bowl Reopens Historic U Street Location After Yearslong Renovation

April 29, 2026

Ben's Chili Bowl, a legendary Washington, D.C. restaurant that has served the community for 68 years, is reopening its historic U Street NW location on May 1 following an extensive renovation. What began as a simple plumbing repair in 2019 turned into a multi-year project after COVID-19 caused construction delays and increased material costs, forcing the family to pause work until 2024. The Ali family has kept the renovated space secret from 92-year-old co-founder Virginia Ali, planning to surprise her on opening day as a tribute to the legacy she and her late husband Ben created.

Who is affected

The Ali family, including co-founder Virginia Ali (92 years old), her oldest son and co-owner Sage Ali, public relations director and daughter-in-law Vida Ali
Long-time customers such as Carolyn Eaves-Goff who has patronized the restaurant since 1972
The broader Washington, D.C. community, particularly in the U Street NW/Black Broadway area
Patrons across the DMV area who visit the restaurant's seven locations

What action is being taken

The historic U Street NW location of Ben's Chili Bowl is reopening on May 1 after a multi-year renovation that addressed plumbing and electrical issues. The Ali family is keeping the renovated space secret from Virginia Ali to surprise her on opening day.

Why it matters

Ben's Chili Bowl represents nearly seven decades of Black entrepreneurship and community service in Washington, D.C., serving as a cultural landmark in what was historically known as Black Broadway. The restaurant has maintained its legacy not through pursuit of fame or profit, but through consistent dedication to serving the community and taking care of family, making it a symbol of resilience and community commitment that has attracted everyone from neighborhood residents to presidents.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer