Ben's Next Door
✨ Vibe
A high-energy, soul-infused "fun dining" landmark on U Street where the sophisticated ambiance of a cocktail lounge meets the lively, communal spirit of a neighborhood staple.
🍸 Best For
Bottomless mimosa brunch, game day watch parties, late-night cocktails, soul food cravings, and high-energy group celebrations.
🔥 Highlights
- DC’s Longest Bar: Take a seat at the venue's centerpiece—an impressive 53-foot bar—where expert bartenders serve up strong cocktails and an extensive drink menu in a stylish, dimly lit setting.
- Elevated Comfort Classics: The menu shines with "Black Excellence" Chicken + Waffles, flash-fried calamari with a signature sweet sauce, and perfectly fried wings featuring their famous sweet and tangy Mambo sauce.
- Curated R&B Atmosphere: Known for its incredible music and curated playlists, the venue offers a "lively vibe" that transforms brunch into a soulful social event with a rhythmic, club-like energy.
ℹ️ Need to Know
- Conveniently located directly next to the Metro on U Street, making it a perfect spot for those planning to enjoy the bottomless mimosas or happy hour specials.
- Reservations are highly encouraged for their popular weekend brunch, and keep an eye out for weekly events like Tequila Taco Tuesday.
🔄 Weekly Events
Brunch 🥂
Join us for a communal, hyper-local brunch experience at Ben's Next Door.
Happy Hour
Need a drink? Meet us at DC’s longest 53ft bar for Happy Hour!
📰 In the News
The Resy Guide to Incredible Desserts Around D.C. — Resy | Right This Way
Ben's Next Door is recognized for its standout Bourbon Bread Pudding, a dense and chewy dessert featuring a golden crust and a sweet whiskey glaze. The venue is featured in this curated guide as a top destination for signature and beloved desserts in Washington D.C.
DC's very own DJ 24/7 inspires through music, overcoming autism to electrify events
Ben's Next Door on U Street serves as a residency venue for Jay "DJ 24/7" Martin, a local disc jockey who has overcome challenges with autism to build a successful career. The establishment provides a platform for Martin to connect with patrons and showcase his talent behind the booth during his regular Friday night sets.
For Decades, Ben’s Chili Bowl Has Been an Integral Part of DC
Ben's Next Door, located on D.C.'s historic U Street, is highlighted as an integral part of the city's cultural and civil rights history alongside its famous sibling, Ben's Chili Bowl. The venue serves as a community landmark where diners can enjoy classic American fare in a space that has hosted generations of advocates, leaders, and locals.
16 Essential Black-Owned Restaurants in DC You Need to Know
Ben's Next Door is a sit-down restaurant and bar located on U Street, serving as an upscale extension of the historic Ben’s Chili Bowl. The venue offers a popular bottomless mimosa brunch featuring chicken and waffles, as well as dinner specialties like blackened salmon served with organic three-cheese grits.
DC Rolling Out 4 Sports Betting Kiosks at Bars, Restaurants
Ben's Next Door is one of the first establishments in Washington, D.C. to offer in-person sports betting kiosks through the D.C. Lottery. These cash-only machines allow patrons 18 and older to place bets on various sporting events directly at the venue without the need for a mobile account.
Recent Reviews from Google
First and foremost, I went for Sunday brunch and if you don’t like super loud music then this isn’t for you. I personally loved it although you can’t have much conversation with people (it’s that...
Great service. Made reservations for Mother's Day. Walked in with seated promptly. Party of two had to sit at a high top It was pretty busy however our service was very consistent . We went in during...
Super chill bar, extensive cocktail menu as well as drink options. Didn’t eat here, just came for drinks on their patio before catching my plane. Nice atmosphere. 🩷
Came to BND to for a brunch with my girlfriend and we had a great time! Dre was our server, he was really nice to us in letting us move our seat twice haha. We ordered the Black Excellence Chicken +...
I always love it here. It’s not usually my first stop unless it’s happy hour. But I will always end up here for some wings and Ben’s for a chili dog. The food is good here. The service is kind of...
