Happy 90th Birthday, Virginia Ali!

Virginia Ali surrounded by family and friends at her 90th birthday celebration

Friends and family from near and far recently gathered in celebration of the 90th birthday of Virginia Ali, the beloved matriarch of Ben’s Chili Bowl. With moving tributes, beautiful musical performances, and many moments of laughter and joy, the evening honored a true icon of DC. Special thank you to Celebrity Chef and TV Personality Carla Hall and Chef and Restaurateur Alexander Smalls for emceeing the evening, and to Mayor Muriel Bowser and Congresswomen Eleanor Holmes Norton - among many others - who shared kind words and memories on the impact that Virginia has had on so many of our lives.

We appreciate everyone who joined us in person, and all of those around the world who join us in wishing Mom (aka Virginia) a very happy birthday!