Ben's Chili Bowl

It feels like a time capsule eating here. You definitely feel the history. Great place to try as a tourist! Highly recommend the experience! Food though is just 4 stars. You can definitely still improve the taste with a little more salt but it’s not bad by any standard. Go experience it even just once!

Traveled from Texas to Maine and the kids said Ben's Chili Bowl was the best part of the trip. We got lucky and visited on a day he planned to close early. Had the place to ourselves. Kids enjoyed watching the crew cook their meals. Shakes are a must if you visit! Kids enjoyed chili cheeseburgers and I devoured the chili and cheese nachos.

Excellent spot to try out the local specialty, the Half-Smoke! Service was speedy and friendly, and the food was delicious. It is pretty decadent and rich, so be careful not to over-order, you WILL get full on a meal here. Restaurant was a bit dirty, but they seemed short handed at the time so I can't knock them too bad. You can definitely absorb the vibes from all the notable folks that have eaten here at this local institution! (Also for tourists, note there is a Capital Bikeshare rack right outside the joint!)

Ben’s Chili Bowl has the best beef chili burgers ever!!! So juicy and messy, just the best comfort food you could ask for. I ordered the single Ben’s famous burger as a meal with onion rings. Before going there, I did not know it was THE famous chili place that Obama ate at. And then I looked at the walls and saw all those celebrities who visited it. 🍔✨ It’s so good, you should definitely give it a try if you’re new to it. The neighborhood isn’t the safest place to be at night, so I’d recommend going earlier during the day.

Excellent choice for lunch. Chili fries and a burger were my choice and they were oh so good. The chili does have some heat to it, which I like spicy and enjoyed the added kick. My hubby enjoyed his chili dog along with the chili fries. I topped my lunch of with a vanilla milkshake.. wow! Best milkshake I've had, my cheeks were sore from trying to slurp it up, it was thick and just what one would expect of a great shake. The service was a bit laid back and slow, but the place was clean and wasn't too crowded to get a seat.