Ben’s Chili Bowl Announces Grand Re-Opening & Ribbon Cutting Honoring “Mom” Virginia Ali During National Small Business Month
You are warmly invited to join the Ali family, special guests, and friends from near and far as Ben’s begins its next chapter — together.
In celebration of National Small Business Month and after nine months of repairs and restoration, Ben’s Chili Bowl will officially reopen its doors with a Grand Reopening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Friday, May 1st at 1:00 PM, preceded by live Go-Go music beginning at 12:00 Noon. Ben’s will remain open until 4:00AM as always on weekends.
More than a reopening, this moment is a heartfelt tribute to co-founder Virginia Ali — lovingly known throughout the city simply as “Mom.” As Washington celebrates the small businesses that create jobs and support local communities during Small Business Month, Ben’s proudly celebrates Mom’s extraordinary 67-year legacy as a pioneering Black woman entrepreneur, community leader, and cultural icon.
Since 1958, Mom has stood behind the counter, greeted generations by name, offered encouragement during difficult times, and helped make Ben’s a symbol of unity, resilience, and hope in the nation’s capital.
For nearly seven decades, Ben’s has served far more than its legendary Half Smokes and Burgers. It has been:
A safe haven during moments of unrest, including the days following the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.
A gathering place for civil rights leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr., John Lewis, Jesse Jackson, Kwame Ture (Stokely Carmichael), and Andrew Young
A late-night refuge for students, artists, activists, and locals
A welcoming table for presidents, celebrities, and everyday Washingtonians alike
A cornerstone of the historic U Street Corridor, also known as Black Broadway
A global destination welcoming guests from every corner of the world, uniting international communities around a shared table in the heart of Washington, DC
Through decades of change in Washington, Mom’s steady presence, grace, and open heart have remained constant. As a trailblazing woman in business during a time when opportunities were limited, she built not only a successful restaurant, but a lasting institution rooted in dignity, hospitality, and service. She has mentored young people, supported local causes, championed small businesses, and ensured that everyone who walks through the doors feels like family.
“This reopening during Small Business Month makes this celebration even more meaningful,” said the Ali Family. “It is our way of honoring Mom — not only as the heart of Ben’s, but as a woman whose leadership, strength, love, and wisdom have shaped this community for more than six decades. This reopening is a gift from our family and from the city to Mom.”
Celebration Details
12:00 Noon: Live Go-Go Music – Sirius Company Band
The celebration begins with live music from D.C.’s own Sirius Company Band, honoring the city’s rich musical heritage and the vibrant culture that Ben’s has helped uplift for generations.
1:00 PM – 2:00PM: Official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
The Ali family will lead the ceremonial ribbon cutting in tribute to Mom’s legacy and the restaurant’s continued commitment to serving the community for generations to come.
2:00PM – 4:00PM: Live Go-Go Music – Sirius Company Band
Ben’s will remain open to celebrate until 4:00AM
A Legacy Continues
There are places you visit…and then there are places that help define a city.
From civil rights leaders to celebrities, from longtime regulars to first-time guests, Ben’s has long been woven into the cultural fabric of Washington, D.C. Its walls tell stories of history, perseverance, and community pride.
Now refreshed and restored, the restaurant reopens during Small Business Month with the same spirit it has always carried: service, unity, empowerment, and love.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Vida Ali (310) 859-4730 or via email vida@benschilibowl.com