Omg I was GLUED to the screen when Mama was talking. It is so important to hear stories first hand from our elders who are still with us. Thank you Alex and Cuzzo!! 🎉
MAM is 91 years young????? Her memory and recant of the 60s experience is impeccable..She is truly blessed and I pray she stays that way with her sharpness and detailed stories..I could listen to her all day.❤. WE NEED TO KNOW THIS HISTORY AND SHARE THIS WITH OUR CHILDREN FIRSTHAND NOT WATERED DOWN COMIN FROM THEIR BOOKS.. thank you Alex!!!
Bro, next to the White House, Ben’s is the most iconic building in DC. And you had the privilege of interviewing the Queen, Ms. Virginia ,Who has a wealth of knowledge and interest of Washington! Much respect to you and your partners! I need to make a trip back there myself! ❤
This is why I love Washington DC because not only does it have amazing entertainment and so much nostalgia . it has a lot of black communities and history.
@spankbuda3769 yes the community is and was black, please don't speak on what you don't know were called chocolate city for a reason since the 70s. We are atlanta without the rainbow nonsense
That was so beautiful. Virginia Ali, The Matriarch of DC! All the history and love she brings everywhere she goes is legendary. Even the way she leaned her hand on your arm while she dropped all that knowledge the way our most beloved elders often do. Like family. Thank you, brother, for sharing these important moments among our people.
Man what lovely ladies. Nothing better than seeing someone proud about their people without saying how much they struggled or how wonderful they are. Probably my favorite episode thus far.
I'm 59 and I've been going to Ben's since I was 10 years old, going to the Lincoln Theater watching Bruce Lee movies, and hitting Ben's afterwards, I get my famous chili cheeseburger with onions, lettuce and mayo. And it still taste the same today...
Talking to the elderly is an experience you will never forget, they have lived and experienced so many things in their time that we can only see on TV.. when you speak to them and feel the energy of being in their presence, you are literally going back in time. Leo ,Brother August 12th here my mom's was August 14th....I knew you were awesome for a reason.
That was truly a amazing history lesson. She is a walking history, legend, and a person who survived a lot. Thank you for taking the time to care and talk with her. I Love that. ❤🥰👏🏽🙏🏽
Ben’s Chili Bowl has been a Washington, D.C. landmark since 1958, when it was founded by Ben and Virginia Ali on U Street NW, in a historic building that once housed the city’s first silent movie theater. At the time, U Street-known as "Black Broadway"-was a vibrant cultural hub, attracting legendary musicians like Duke Ellington and Miles Davis. From the start, Ben’s became a favorite gathering place for locals, musicians, and civil rights leaders. The restaurant’s signature dish, the half-smoke, helped put it on the map. This spicy, smoky sausage, topped with Ben’s famous chili sauce, became a must-try for visitors and a staple of D.C. cuisine. But beyond the food, Ben’s Chili Bowl has stood as a symbol of resilience. During the 1968 riots following Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, many businesses in the area were destroyed or abandoned, but Ben’s remained open, serving food to first responders and community members in need. The restaurant also survived economic downturns, Metro construction that disrupted U Street in the ‘90s, and the passing of its founder, Ben Ali, in 2009. In 2009, then-President Barack Obama made a surprise visit to Ben’s, ordering a classic half-smoke with chili. His visit brought even more national recognition to an already beloved establishment. Over the years, Ben’s has served countless celebrities, politicians, and everyday Washingtonians. From Anthony Bourdain to Oprah Winfrey, everyone wants a taste of this D.C. institution. Today, Virginia Ali and the Ali family continue Ben’s legacy, expanding to new locations while keeping the original U Street location as the heart of the brand. More than just a restaurant, Ben’s Chili Bowl represents community, history, and Black excellence. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime patron, Ben’s remains a place where everyone is welcome.
Alex this interview is a great start to our Black History Month 🎉I know that this video was supposed to be a few review, but it became a History lesson. Awesome job guys ❤
I'm so jealous that you got to interview. The owner she is amazing a doll when we got to meet her She was so warm and welcoming to us. She is a national treasure. She is black history, her and her husband and I have a picture with her me and my business partner. And the food is incredible, that place is black history and it's just incredible, and it's an honor and a privilege to be a part of black history. That's dope ❤❤
You Are a GOOD Brother LaTryGuy!!! Your Mother raised you So Well!! She should be Bubbling with Pride about her Baby Boy!!! God Bless you!! Your Energy is Amazing Brother!!
Visited Ben’s Chili in 2016 & Mother was just as welcoming/inviting to our family as you see here. We loved her stories. May she continue to be blessed. 🙏🏾
I am glad you captured the moment with Mrs. Virginia. It was special. Ben's is great. My husband and I went there in 2018. When you asked where you should go in DC a few days ago, we both said Ben's Chili Bowl. So glad you went.
Thank you for leaving the camera rolling. My grandmother lived until 98 and I miss listening to stories of her past. Thank you for allowing a space for her to speak wisdom. We are missing wisdom in many folks nowadays. Thank you for letting her to speak and share real historical information with us.
Wow, this is your best interview this was absolutely amazing she reminds me of my great grandma. The amount of history that she has evolved through is astounding ❤
Alex, I really enjoyed listening to Ms. Virginia! She is speaking wise words of wisdom here and I love it ❤ Her spirit is bright and genuine. She is a beautiful soul ❤❤❤
So glad you were able to speak to Ms.Virginia. ❤ she is an American treasure. This is one of your best Videos. I hope you do more like it. And the food looks delicious. Wow, just Wow. ❤
I love my people , shoutout to Mama Virginia !! A beautiful soul, class personifed ! Her words of empathy and understanding of compassion for everyone is what more of the world needs!!!Her embrace im sure makes us all want to hug her !!
I was born and raised there in 1963 . I used to eat there all the time! ❤ Great job in what you're doing. You are growing in leaps and endless bounds! ❤
I was born and raised in DC. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been on U Street and passed by Ben’s Chili Bowl. I finally had the pleasure of sitting at the counter. The food is good, but; it’s not about that. Being in such an iconic place is what brings people there. The half smokes are for sale in Costco’s, now. You can’t go wrong by having them in your refrigerator or freezer. The U Street location is truly a historical DC landmark. There should be a place for it in the African American Museum.
Thank you Miss. Virginia for sharing KNowledge with us. I am 41 years young and it does my heart good to talk and listen to wisdom. LATRYGUY, you gave a us a nugget with this one! ♠🖤🌹
I love Ben’s Chili Bowl! My mom would send me there to pick up a few half smokes with chili, mustard and onion. You can never go wrong with that combo! So so delicious 😋
“I love DC..The beautiful Ms Virginia Given history of her restaurant and how it started, her southern hospitality is phenomenal .. may God continue to bless this lovely angel 😇 and her place of business, her workers who are pleasant..said this is the community Ben’s chili 🌶️ ❤i love good home cooking from a place that been in the same community for over 40 years..Im definitely going to visit.. Enjoy yourself..
I've been to D.C. and never heard of Ben's chili bowl. What a wonderful history this place has. Mrs. Virginia is a treasure. These are the stories and places we as a people should honor and support always. Next time I'm in D.C. I'll definitely be visiting Ben's Chili bowl. Thanks Alex this was by far your best review yet.
The interview was so amazing. Mama Virginia looks amazing at 91. I enjoyed hearing her speak about the history of the area and the amazing people she had the pleasure of meeting over the years.
It is crazy! I didn't know that Ben's Chili Bowl has Trini roots! We everywhere! 🇹🇹 Wow! You also gotta hit up Crown Bakery! They are off of Georgia Avenue in NW DC where you are! Best Caribbean food in the region. The Sellmans are the best! DC got deep history in food and civil rights! ♥️
This was a great video. I live here in Virginia...born and raised. I never thought I'd see you over here on the east coast ...but I'm glad to see you did. I've heard of Ben's chili bowl...but I'm sad to say I've never been there. But it is definitely a spot you had to try coming to the DMV. So I'm glad you did and liked it. Makes me wanna go there even more now. Keep doing what you do my dude and I appreciate all that you and cuzzo do. Much respect.
Being from Washington DC born and raised Watching this warmed my heart and made me sooooooon PROUD of being from this city and community. LOVE YALL BENS BECAUSE THE FOOD THAT'S BEING SEVERE IS 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥
I loved everything about this video - such a wealth of Black history and delicious food. ❤ Thanks for sharing her interesting lived experience. Bless up
Broooooooo!!! Me and my aunt Collette (R.I.P) have been going to Ben's since the late 80s early 90s. I clearly remember one visit that we went to, and we asked the same exact question (where do you get your smokes from) to Mrs Ali in her younger days, Her answer was THE EXACT SAME THING 30+ years ago. 💯😂😂 "sorry honey it's a secret"😂😂😂 me and Auntie used to literally try and sneak pictures of the boxes they were taking the half smokes out of and we could never locate them joints anywhere. You went to a true place of history and culture bro 💯 Google what they were doing back in the days during the riots 💯💯. They changed the sausages for a few years about a decade or so ago but the reviews were so bad it looks like they ended up switching back to the originals, and goddamn if that wasn't the right call💯 We love you Mrs Ali ❤️ I knew I've been following you for a good reason LATG God Bless boy! 🙏🏽#DMV4L
This is my favourite episode!! Alex u sitting with Momma and learning not only about the restaurant but her own history!! Trinidadian Men are strong men, lots of love to her
Alex is the most authentic You Tuber I have ever had the pleasure of viewing👍👍…Words do not and cannot fully describe and express how talented and professional he is--THE BEST in da biz yo⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!
DC Resident here. You have to try mumbo wings before you leave. I personally like the ones at Howard China (aka HoChi) it's on Georgia Ave by Howard University. I also heard Wingos has good mumbo wings but I personally havent tried them myself.
Shoutout to Magic 102.3 and Deja Perez ❤I had a great time watching this today. I've lived in DC Maryland all my life. DC locals occasionally painted colorful animals you see outside of some of the locations like Ben’s and the zoo. When I was in elementary school in the NE in the 90s, the entire school painted a big bear that stood in front of Ben's for the longest time. Special thanks to Mr. Coletrain who was the art teacher for the entire school house🙏🏾 I think it's great that viewers learned about Ben's past, DC history, and the Industrial Bank, which supported numerous businesses during America's difficult times. I'm delighted you liked it and thank you for sharing. In our area, a lot has changed. On U Street, I would attempt Dukem and Oohs and Aahs. You could also try a soul food spot called Henry’s located in pg county, md. Henry’s used to be on U street and has beautiful history. 🥂🪬
We need more human being like this one he bless to let others share there story around the world great energy lil bra keep up good work in devil world is what u call legendary Marathon I'm with u on that brother hahahaha Lol😂😂😂😂😂 let's get get get it fashow
Welcome to the DMV young man. This was a great interview. You gave Miss Virginia the respect she deserves. She is part of D.C. royalty. Check out Della J's in Alexandria, Virginia. It is a black owned restaurant with great food. Enjoy your time in the area.
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The owner is a national treasure
So is Alex, what a tremendous person 👍👍, 20 minute vid seemed like 5💗💗!!
Yes
NOT THE OVERRATED FOOD
Omg I was GLUED to the screen when Mama was talking. It is so important to hear stories first hand from our elders who are still with us. Thank you Alex and Cuzzo!! 🎉
Facts ❤❤❤ blessings
Yes !!❤
She is captivating!
🙌🏾👍🏾🙏🏾
Frfr😁 I didn’t want it to end🙏🏾👍🏾
MAM is 91 years young????? Her memory and recant of the 60s experience is impeccable..She is truly blessed and I pray she stays that way with her sharpness and detailed stories..I could listen to her all day.❤. WE NEED TO KNOW THIS HISTORY AND SHARE THIS WITH OUR CHILDREN FIRSTHAND NOT WATERED DOWN COMIN FROM THEIR BOOKS.. thank you Alex!!!
Yea
I love how she didn’t cave to wearing wigs.
Blessing ❤
Her memory is immaculate 🙏🏽❤️🙏🏽
Yes, she is very sharp!
I love it! My grandmother is 94 and I just let her talk. Then she says something wild and we crack up!
I love when elders tell their stories
Mama Virginia makes me miss my Grandmother's 😢 Appreciate your elders while you have them 🙏❤
Bro, next to the White House, Ben’s is the most iconic building in DC. And you had the privilege of interviewing the Queen, Ms. Virginia ,Who has a wealth of knowledge and interest of Washington! Much respect to you and your partners! I need to make a trip back there myself! ❤
The White House USED TO BE iconic! 🙄🤡
🔥
STILL IS YOUUU HUSH 😢😮😂😂😂😂@@JWC24.7
FOOD NOT GOOD
This is why I love Washington DC because not only does it have amazing entertainment and so much nostalgia . it has a lot of black communities and history.
Absolutely
But this community wasn't originally black. Heck, the owners aren't black.
@spankbuda3769 yes the community is and was black, please don't speak on what you don't know were called chocolate city for a reason since the 70s. We are atlanta without the rainbow nonsense
@@spankbuda3769 damn
@@spankbuda3769 What was it then?? I think he was speaking for the time period.
This was beautiful. The history alone was worth it. God bless Mrs Virginia.
Awesome right? Almost felt like I was a part of the history as she told the story'
!!!
I LOVE HOW YOU GAVE MAMA YOUR UNDIVIDED ATTENTION 🥰🥰🥰..That was truly Beautiful to see and hear.
Absolutely RIGHT ON!!!!!!
Alex is truly incredible, I just luv him💗💗!!
That home training kicked in big time and that’s when the magic happened ❤
This is your best interview yet, love the atmosphere the owners and food , a lot if history
Right. I could listen to those women talk for hours.
facts! Great video
!!!
That was so beautiful.
Virginia Ali, The Matriarch of DC! All the history and love she brings everywhere she goes is legendary.
Even the way she leaned her hand on your arm while she dropped all that knowledge the way our most beloved elders often do. Like family. Thank you, brother, for sharing these important moments among our people.
Listening to her tell her story gave me chills! We’ve come along way
Just gotta stop shooting one another
This is why it is imperative that we don't go backwards ✊🏿✊🏿✊🏿
Chillis*
What an honor to get an interview from Virginia Ali. She is a living legend.
Man what lovely ladies. Nothing better than seeing someone proud about their people without saying how much they struggled or how wonderful they are. Probably my favorite episode thus far.
Bruh the way you connect with the people is top tier!! Never change!!
I love alex man taking the time to let that lady to tell her history, alex is a good dude fr
I miss my grandma 😢😢Thank you Miss Virginia ❤❤
Yeah my grandma just died a few months ago she was 92.
She is a walking history book. Cherish it!
I’m in love with momma and her wonderful stories she’s a legend
I’m in luv with Alex✅✅, he is such a pleasure, makes life worth living 👍👍!
That little sweet lady has been through it all God love her! I could sit and listen to her talk for hours. The things she has seen and done amazing.
God Bless our Ancestors. We do not want to let them down!!!!
I was born 1958 which was a good year to be alive 66 years old! Love your channel ❤and your videos with lil cuz ❤❤❤❤
But didn't the lady say that they've been around 75 years lol??
Damn
I love the owner she looks and reminds me of my nana who by the grace of God is 85. I liked this episode so much
The stuff that Mama has seen and lived is unreal. That woman is a treasure fr
I wish I could have liked this 1,000 times. Great video!
Me too💯
I'm 59 and I've been going to Ben's since I was 10 years old, going to the Lincoln Theater watching Bruce Lee movies, and hitting Ben's afterwards, I get my famous chili cheeseburger with onions, lettuce and mayo. And it still taste the same today...
Talking to the elderly is an experience you will never forget, they have lived and experienced so many things in their time that we can only see on TV.. when you speak to them and feel the energy of being in their presence, you are literally going back in time. Leo ,Brother August 12th here my mom's was August 14th....I knew you were awesome for a reason.
That was truly a amazing history lesson. She is a walking history, legend, and a person who survived a lot. Thank you for taking the time to care and talk with her. I Love that. ❤🥰👏🏽🙏🏽
Mama Virginia is amazing
She's such a beautiful spirit
Ben’s Chili Bowl has been a Washington, D.C. landmark since 1958, when it was founded by Ben and Virginia Ali on U Street NW, in a historic building that once housed the city’s first silent movie theater. At the time, U Street-known as "Black Broadway"-was a vibrant cultural hub, attracting legendary musicians like Duke Ellington and Miles Davis. From the start, Ben’s became a favorite gathering place for locals, musicians, and civil rights leaders.
The restaurant’s signature dish, the half-smoke, helped put it on the map. This spicy, smoky sausage, topped with Ben’s famous chili sauce, became a must-try for visitors and a staple of D.C. cuisine. But beyond the food, Ben’s Chili Bowl has stood as a symbol of resilience. During the 1968 riots following Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, many businesses in the area were destroyed or abandoned, but Ben’s remained open, serving food to first responders and community members in need. The restaurant also survived economic downturns, Metro construction that disrupted U Street in the ‘90s, and the passing of its founder, Ben Ali, in 2009.
In 2009, then-President Barack Obama made a surprise visit to Ben’s, ordering a classic half-smoke with chili. His visit brought even more national recognition to an already beloved establishment. Over the years, Ben’s has served countless celebrities, politicians, and everyday Washingtonians. From Anthony Bourdain to Oprah Winfrey, everyone wants a taste of this D.C. institution.
Today, Virginia Ali and the Ali family continue Ben’s legacy, expanding to new locations while keeping the original U Street location as the heart of the brand. More than just a restaurant, Ben’s Chili Bowl represents community, history, and Black excellence. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime patron, Ben’s remains a place where everyone is welcome.
Thank you for sharing
I love the way you summarized that, great job 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
👏🏼
FOOD VERY OVERRATED
Alex this interview is a great start to our Black History Month 🎉I know that this video was supposed to be a few review, but it became a History lesson. Awesome job guys ❤
Indeed!!! ❤
I'm so jealous that you got to interview. The owner she is amazing a doll when we got to meet her She was so warm and welcoming to us. She is a national treasure. She is black history, her and her husband and I have a picture with her me and my business partner. And the food is incredible, that place is black history and it's just incredible, and it's an honor and a privilege to be a part of black history. That's dope ❤❤
UMMM BLACK ,??????
God bless the beautiful lady owner !! Can't believe she is 91 years old❤love her history lesson❤
Man! I'm so glad that you're in my neck in the woods! We appreciate you giving us some luv! There is a lot of good food in the DMV (DC, MD & VA).
You Are a GOOD Brother LaTryGuy!!! Your Mother raised you So Well!! She should be Bubbling with Pride about her Baby Boy!!! God Bless you!! Your Energy is Amazing Brother!!
Visited Ben’s Chili in 2016 & Mother was just as welcoming/inviting to our family as you see here. We loved her stories. May she continue to be blessed. 🙏🏾
That feeling you got when you heard the elder talk is the feeling of knowing you are great! You just need the inspiration.. keep pushing
I love DC. Words can’t express my love for DC.
I am glad you captured the moment with Mrs. Virginia. It was special. Ben's is great. My husband and I went there in 2018. When you asked where you should go in DC a few days ago, we both said Ben's Chili Bowl. So glad you went.
My father lived a few blocks from U Street, and he use to take us to Ben's regularly, but the "smokes" were the best.
Thank you for leaving the camera rolling. My grandmother lived until 98 and I miss listening to stories of her past. Thank you for allowing a space for her to speak wisdom. We are missing wisdom in many folks nowadays. Thank you for letting her to speak and share real historical information with us.
Wow, this is your best interview this was absolutely amazing she reminds me of my great grandma. The amount of history that she has evolved through is astounding ❤
That's you in your profile picture
@quanbrooklynkid7776 lmao 🤣 of course, it's me
Alex, I really enjoyed listening to Ms. Virginia! She is speaking wise words of wisdom here and I love it ❤
Her spirit is bright and genuine. She is a beautiful soul ❤❤❤
So glad you were able to speak to Ms.Virginia. ❤ she is an American treasure. This is one of your best Videos. I hope you do more like it. And the food looks delicious. Wow, just Wow. ❤
God bless Ms. Virginia. Salute to her for all she’s done and all she’s seen in her 91 years. Give flowers 💐
This was nice and wholesome God bless that 91 year old woman 🙏🏽🤎
if i make it to 91 years old that'll be a blessing
God's continued blessings upon Mama Virgina. Such a sweet lady. ❤❤😊
Alex: "What does this place mean to the community?" Lady w/the white hat: "This IS the community!" That was Golden!! ❤
I'm honored to hear her talk we are loosing our generation that teaches us our history it's a Blessing to listen to any Grandma ❤️
I love my people , shoutout to Mama Virginia !! A beautiful soul, class personifed ! Her words of empathy and understanding of compassion for everyone is what more of the world needs!!!Her embrace im sure makes us all want to hug her !!
Who is "your people" that you love?
@ what understood doesn’t have to be explained!!! Beat it troll !!
❤🎉😊to Ben ‘s Chili’s 🌶️ Bowl 🥣 miss going and respecting the owner is awesome 👏 as always!
20:19 I got a bit emotional happingly. Great video!!
Amazing Alex, you got served real history, 15:46 young man. Also, you had good food.❤
I was born and raised there in 1963 . I used to eat there all the time! ❤ Great job in what you're doing. You are growing in leaps and endless bounds! ❤
Legendary, historical! You can hear the power and strength in her voice. The elders💪🏿
I was born and raised in DC. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been on U Street and passed by Ben’s Chili Bowl. I finally had the pleasure of sitting at the counter. The food is good, but; it’s not about that. Being in such an iconic place is what brings people there. The half smokes are for sale in Costco’s, now. You can’t go wrong by having them in your refrigerator or freezer. The U Street location is truly a historical DC landmark. There should be a place for it in the African American Museum.
Thank you Miss. Virginia for sharing KNowledge with us. I am 41 years young and it does my heart good to talk and listen to wisdom. LATRYGUY, you gave a us a nugget with this one! ♠🖤🌹
I love Ben’s Chili Bowl! My mom would send me there to pick up a few half smokes with chili, mustard and onion. You can never go wrong with that combo! So so delicious 😋
“I love DC..The beautiful Ms Virginia Given history of her restaurant and how it started, her southern hospitality is phenomenal .. may God continue to bless this lovely angel 😇 and her place of business, her workers who are pleasant..said this is the community Ben’s chili 🌶️ ❤i love good home cooking from a place that been in the same community for over 40 years..Im definitely going to visit.. Enjoy yourself..
I've been to D.C. and never heard of Ben's chili bowl. What a wonderful history this place has. Mrs. Virginia is a treasure. These are the stories and places we as a people should honor and support always. Next time I'm in D.C. I'll definitely be visiting Ben's Chili bowl. Thanks Alex this was by far your best review yet.
That young lady TEACHING my boy is priceless. 👍🏾❤️👍🏾
She’s beautiful to be 91 years old. I’m glad you enjoyed the food. That’s beautiful in love.
The interview was so amazing. Mama Virginia looks amazing at 91. I enjoyed hearing her speak about the history of the area and the amazing people she had the pleasure of meeting over the years.
It is crazy! I didn't know that Ben's Chili Bowl has Trini roots! We everywhere! 🇹🇹 Wow!
You also gotta hit up Crown Bakery! They are off of Georgia Avenue in NW DC where you are! Best Caribbean food in the region. The Sellmans are the best! DC got deep history in food and civil rights! ♥️
I love this video. Hearing older people stories is so fascinating to me... she is stunning in her 90's! I Love loving kind people...
Glad you came to my city 💪🏿 I love her and her Ben’s Chili Bowl she tells the truth about it all.
This was a great video. I live here in Virginia...born and raised. I never thought I'd see you over here on the east coast ...but I'm glad to see you did. I've heard of Ben's chili bowl...but I'm sad to say I've never been there. But it is definitely a spot you had to try coming to the DMV. So I'm glad you did and liked it. Makes me wanna go there even more now. Keep doing what you do my dude and I appreciate all that you and cuzzo do. Much respect.
That manager was special too. to offer you free food. But she knew it was a beautiful food:).
Being from Washington DC born and raised Watching this warmed my heart and made me sooooooon PROUD of being from this city and community. LOVE YALL BENS BECAUSE THE FOOD THAT'S BEING SEVERE IS 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥
I loved everything about this video - such a wealth of Black history and delicious food. ❤ Thanks for sharing her interesting lived experience. Bless up
But this restaurant owner wasn't and isn't black. The area originally wasn't black.
This video made my day ❤ she loved all people 😊crackheads included 😂❤❤
Broooooooo!!! Me and my aunt Collette (R.I.P) have been going to Ben's since the late 80s early 90s. I clearly remember one visit that we went to, and we asked the same exact question (where do you get your smokes from) to Mrs Ali in her younger days, Her answer was THE EXACT SAME THING 30+ years ago. 💯😂😂 "sorry honey it's a secret"😂😂😂 me and Auntie used to literally try and sneak pictures of the boxes they were taking the half smokes out of and we could never locate them joints anywhere. You went to a true place of history and culture bro 💯 Google what they were doing back in the days during the riots 💯💯. They changed the sausages for a few years about a decade or so ago but the reviews were so bad it looks like they ended up switching back to the originals, and goddamn if that wasn't the right call💯 We love you Mrs Ali ❤️ I knew I've been following you for a good reason LATG God Bless boy! 🙏🏽#DMV4L
91? Black don’t crack. What a beautiful woman, with an amazing memory!
I loved learning this American history from an elder who lived through it
Wow! This is Awesome! I love this interview. Just lovely people and so much history! ❤️😊
Grew up in D.C off 14th Street. Loved Ben's Chilli Bowl. My favorite was the chilli cheese fries 🤤🔥! So glad they are still around 😃!
This is why i love this side of YT, I get to see my people have interactions like this. I feel like I was there, thank you.
Born and raised on Ben's Chili Bowl burgers, chili fries, cheeseburgers, good food good people the best in the world !
This is on my bucket list of places to eat😋 thanks LA TRY GUY definitely a solid eatery
She dropped history and some jewels about life!! I saw Miss Virginia before and she is a walking history lesson!! ❤ Loved this interview!!
Welcome to the city😊
Aye! Nah fr 😊
This is my favourite episode!! Alex u sitting with Momma and learning not only about the restaurant but her own history!! Trinidadian Men are strong men, lots of love to her
Alex is the most authentic You Tuber I have ever had the pleasure of viewing👍👍…Words do not and cannot fully describe and express how talented and professional he is--THE BEST in da biz yo⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!
The tears won’t stop. LATRYGUY, thank you for the respect you gave that National treasure. You were raised the right way.
I can’t even hold you, but I enjoyed that interview with that lady so much and crazy how it’s right on time
That was an amazing interview! ❤❤❤
Hi Alex
I loved hearing the history of Ben's Chilli and Ms Virginia storytime. Thank you for sharing.
DC Resident here. You have to try mumbo wings before you leave. I personally like the ones at Howard China (aka HoChi) it's on Georgia Ave by Howard University. I also heard Wingos has good mumbo wings but I personally havent tried them myself.
Shoutout to Magic 102.3 and Deja Perez ❤I had a great time watching this today. I've lived in DC Maryland all my life. DC locals occasionally painted colorful animals you see outside of some of the locations like Ben’s and the zoo. When I was in elementary school in the NE in the 90s, the entire school painted a big bear that stood in front of Ben's for the longest time. Special thanks to Mr. Coletrain who was the art teacher for the entire school house🙏🏾 I think it's great that viewers learned about Ben's past, DC history, and the Industrial Bank, which supported numerous businesses during America's difficult times. I'm delighted you liked it and thank you for sharing. In our area, a lot has changed. On U Street, I would attempt Dukem and Oohs and Aahs. You could also try a soul food spot called Henry’s located in pg county, md. Henry’s used to be on U street and has beautiful history. 🥂🪬
Happy you got to get the owner in the video and tell you some history and her story 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
This was a really cool episode, Virginias tales something straight out of a history book
This was so Beautiful Alex & Cuzzo' 💙🙌🏾🙏🏾 Grandma "Mama" taught us the
GOLDEN RULE 👑
1. Treat People how you want to be treated! Amen 🙏🏾🙌🏾
That's number 2. The first is to love Yahuah your Elohim, with all your heart, mind, and strength.
Love the historical insight, glad you didn't cut it out thinking it was too long. awesome
I JUST TRULY LOVE MY PEOPLE AND THE FACT THAT SHE SAYS DO WHAT YOU LOVE Y’ALL ❤❤❤❤
Loved the history lesson with the founder. Beautiful lady serving good food.
We need more human being like this one he bless to let others share there story around the world great energy lil bra keep up good work in devil world is what u call legendary Marathon I'm with u on that brother hahahaha Lol😂😂😂😂😂 let's get get get it fashow
Welcome to the DMV young man. This was a great interview. You gave Miss Virginia the respect she deserves. She is part of D.C. royalty. Check out Della J's in Alexandria, Virginia. It is a black owned restaurant with great food. Enjoy your time in the area.