PRESS RELEASE
January 18, 2014
“Virginia Ali Day”
Jack Evans Presents Ceremonial Resolution Honoring Virginia Ali, Owner of Ben’s Chili Bowl
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Councilmember Jack Evans presented a ceremonial resolution honoring Virginia Ali, owner of the historic restaurant Ben’s Chili Bowl, during her Birthday celebration at Lincoln Theater. The ceremonial resolution recognizes Ali’s dedicated service to the community and congratulates her on the celebration of her 80th birthday. The resolution also designates December 17th as “Virginia Ali Day” in the District of Columbia.
Ali is the wife of Ben’s Chili Bowl co-founder, the late Mahaboob Ben Ali, and is the current owner of Ben’s Chili Bowl and Ben’s Next Door, with her two sons. The U Street restaurant has been the flagship location since 1958 and is expanding to a second location on H Street NE and a third in Rosslyn, VA.
Ben’s Chili Bowl survived the race riots during the 60’s, rough times during the 70’s and 80’s, to the revitalization of U Street in the last decade. During the race riots, Ben’s Chili Bowl remained open to serve policeman, fire fighters, and protestors, while many restaurants were closed or looted. The U Street location has been awarded the prestigious “American Classics” award from the James Beard Foundation. Known for its chili hot dogs and half smokes, Ben’s Chili Bowl has served renowned individuals including Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Nat King Cole, Dinah Washington, Bill Cosby and President Barack Obama.
Courtesy: Jackevansfordc.com
