Traditions and Bens Chili Bowl
Unlike social progress, we expect little variance in our favorite foods. Regulars at a restaurant expect consistency, and it is through consistency that we judge who excels at the craft. Social progress however, should never be hampered by sameness. Depending on which section of the U.S. you poll, and whether the individual reside in a city or rural area, your odds of of meeting someone who favors social progress is very different. Ask the same folks about classic American foods and the mood changes. Whenever I think about iconic foods that Americans love, the chili dog is certainly in the Hall of Fame. There are those who would claim such a classic could get opponents to sit down at a counter, and glaze over their difference in politics. Ben's Chili Bowl in Washington DC is that kind of place. They are known for their half-smokes, which is some sort of hybrid between a hot dog and a sausage. The way this place has stayed the same is why many love it. It's why I love it. Does that mean I use that thought process for everything in life? In the words of Lee Corso, "Not so fast, my friends."
Ben's Chili Bowl has been covered by Anthony Bourdain's No Reservation show on the Travel Channel. It's been around since 1958, and by all accounts, a beloved institution in D.C. There's comfort in such consistency year over year. It's probably why they have regulars like Bill Cosby, who even gets to eat for free. The level of quality that's achieved after so many years is awesome and admirable. The chili there is mildly spicy and the chili dog comes with a side of Utz potato chips. The half-smoke is great because it's meatier than a hot dog, and chili on a sausage just wouldn't be tradition anymore.
When I look at life and society though, instead of consistency, I prefer progress and change. New York state legislature is tackling the issue of Marriage Equality right now (NYTimes). It is a measure that must pass the state senate if society is to move forward. There is no such thing right or wrong that lives innately within us. But there are rules that society places on itself to allow each and every member to pursue happiness and fulfill dreams. These rules, when judged in a historical perspective, will show what is right and wrong. The founding fathers, awesome as they might be, owned slaves. We know now that it was a grave mistake on their part. The idea they put forth was one of progress, and that society protects its own, allowing all the opportunity to live and prosper. Greater fairness is within the grasp of New Yorkers. And I really really hope the New York State Senate passes the Marriage Equality bill. Let us keep traditions in our foods, and set new ones for social change.
Ben's Chili Bowl
1213 U St NW.
Washington, DC 20009
202-667-0909
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ha, the way I see it, Ben's Chili Bowl must be good... that has to be the most non-photogenic sort of hot dog topping in existence (which is no fault of the photographer). When people start to rave about poo covered hot dogs... you know it's good shit.
Nicholas
June 23, 2011 12:57 pm
@Nicholas,
haha that's true, chili does resemble poo depending on the lighting and ingredients. we need more 'poo' covered hot dogs in New York though.
Danny
June 24, 2011 11:54 am
Oh man.. i wanted to try this place when i was in DC last year
stphn
June 24, 2011 5:24 pm