Ben's Chili Bowl is an institution on historic U Street, NW. The area, once an entertainment haven for blacks during segregation, is now a popular destination for residents and tourists alike.

BY OLIVE VASSELL

The night Barack Obama made history as the first African-American President of the United States crowds flocked to two areas in Washington, D.C. to celebrate. The first understandably was outside his future home, The White House, the second - historic U street, NW. As a longtime resident of the latter, I wasn't a bit surprised. U Street has long been the seat of black Washington expression.

Affectionately called "Black Broadway" during segregation, it was home to the likes of jazz great Duke Ellington, while its theaters and clubs played host to the brightest lights in American jazz including Cab Calloway and Pearl Bailey. Meanwhile, famed poet Langston Hughes lived and wrote at the YMCA on 12th& U.The current fascination with U Street began after President Obama joined Washington, D.C. mayor Adrian Fenty for a meal at the legendary Ben's Chili Bowl just days before he moved into town.

The 50-year-old restaurant, a favorite of comedian Bill Cosby, has been a popular gathering spot throughout its history. During the riots after the 1968 assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., while most establishments were burned to the ground, it was one of the few left standing. Its chili half smoke is the main draw, although you can have chili on pretty much anything else you want. President Obama had the half-smoke with chili and cheese fries (chips to those in the UK), if you're wondering.The President's "blessing" and a story on the nation's most popular television morning show, has turned the eatery and the street into a popular tourist destination. And it's worth a visit despite lines that frequently wind out the door, and wrap into a nearby alley on the weekends.

The area also has plenty of newer attractions. The popular Busboys & Poets, named for Hughes, (just off the strip at 14th & V), is the perfect spot for an afternoon on the computer; or a late night poetry slam. And, Republic Gardens, at 14th & U, is just one of the stylish clubs that run the length of the street. The best way to get to know U Street is to try one of the many walking tours available. Information posts will give historical tidbits along the way. A perfect stop on your sight-seeing itinerary, the neighborhood offers a glimpse of authentic D.C. If it's good enough for the President, well...need I say more? For more information on walking tours visit www.culturaltourismdc.org

Click on link following to see President Obama's visit to Ben's Chili Bowl.

Night Life