Obama Takes a Break for Some Chili and Sausage

By CHRISTINE SIMMONS
Associated Press Writer

WASHINGTON (AP) - You never know who you might find at Ben's Chili Bowl, the venerable diner in Washington's U Street district. Even a president-elect.

Barack Obama dropped in Saturday afternoon for a bite to eat with Washington's mayor, Adrian Fenty.

Obama drew laughs from the Ben's staff and nearby patrons when he walked up to the counter and asked, "Where's the food at?"

They ordered a house specialty, a Chili Half-Smoke—a quarter-pound half pork and beef smoked sausage on a steamed bun with mustard, onions and chili sauce. They also picked up some chili-topped french fries and ice tea.

Ben's Chili Bowl celebrated its 50th anniversary last summer. Asked if this was his first visit, Obama replied: "It is, actually, and it was terrific."