January 10, 2009
Posted: January 10th, 2009 05:37 PM ET

From
Obama made a Saturday stop at Ben's Chili Bowl, a local DC institution.
Obama made a Saturday stop at Ben's Chili Bowl, a local DC institution.

WASHINGTON (CNN) –- Obama popped in for lunch Saturday at Ben’s Chili Bowl, the 50-year-old Washington fast food institution famous for its “half-smokes” –- sausages smothered in spicy homemade chili sauce, mustard, and onions.

The visit came as a complete surprise to Sonya Ali, one of the owners of the family-run business.

“Do you think I’d look like this if I knew?” she said, referencing her red blouse and slacks. The Secret Service came in and secured the location. Ali asked them how soon they could expect the president-elect. “Within minutes,” they told her.

And sure enough, he did, with Washington D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty in tow.

Security barricaded the U Street block, and hundreds rushed out of restaurants and apartment buildings to catch a glimpse of the incoming president.

Listen: Hear the crowd react and the owner reflect on the visit

Obama posed with diners and staff in all three rooms of the restaurant, before returning to the counter to collect his order: a chili half-smoke and sweet tea. Fenty had cheese fries and water.

There is a sign near the cash register that reads: “Who Eats Free at Ben’s. Bill Cosby. The Obama Family.” For years, the privilege was reserved for Cosby, a frequent patron and friend of the owner’s family.

“I actually changed that sign two days before the election,” Ali said. “I sat up in the office. I said: ‘I am changing the sign because he’s going to win. He’s going to be the president and we’d love to have him in here.’ We heard he liked chili.”

Seeing the sign, the president-elect said he appreciated the gesture, but paid with a $20 bill, telling the counter attendant who asked if he wanted change, "No, we're straight."

The president-elect and mayor took a two-person table, and joked with diners as they ate. Asked about the significance of the visit, Obama simply said: "It means I'm going to get a hot dog."

“It is a very historic moment,” Ali said. “[T]o actually have him here was just wonderful. It just kind of proves that what we felt all along: that he is really a president for the people. He is just a man among men. So it’s an honor.”

This was Obama's first visit to Ben’s.

The president-elect posed for a photo with a group of policemen and Fenty outside the restaurant, and refused to take sides on a question of local loyalties: “I'm a Bulls fan. White Sox fan. Neutral when it come to Maryland and Georgetown."

Saturday’s half-smoke sausage may be just about all the smoking Obama is doing of late. The president-elect has made an effort to quit smoking, although he admitted in recent interviews that he has, on occasion, "fallen off the wagon."

Filed under: President-elect Obama


The Real Question   January 11th, 2009 1:52 am ET

Can you substitute onion rings for the fries?

Get a grip, lovers and haters!   January 10th, 2009 11:20 pm ET

OK,. so this story was not particularly newsworthly - in the legit news world - in light of the chaos around the globe (and the NFL playoffs, ok?)

But if this were instead a story about the president-elect having half a cigarette, it would ALSO not be news worthy, yet EVERYONE WHO GRIPED ABOUT THIS STORY CLICKED ON IT. The headline was actually not misleading. This story was about a mudane personal event. Anyone who clicked on it could not possibly be dissappointed, unless you've had a relative die from lung cancer. The headline set you up precisley for the pay-off.

If you wanted a story about foreign policy or the economy, this was obviously not it. So if you clicked and were dissapointed, or felt like it wasted your time, you are the stupid one - not the writer, or the network. Given the headline, this was a human-interest story all the way. And if you clicked on it, then you are responsible for the media running many more stories like it.

Was this a publicity stunt? Maybe. More probably it was a meeting with the mayor of DC, and the newbie wanted to know where the iconic DC eateries were, and the mayor took him to one. That is a personal touch you normally only get to read in biographies years after it takes place. So perhaps it does shed light on the president-elect. Down-to-earth? Yes. In-touch? Yes. At a cost to the taxpayers and local area (security, etc), yes. News-worthy? We will only find out years from now. In the meantime, your clicks are the only things that make it so.

cobra   January 10th, 2009 10:39 pm ET

All the idiots that run out to see obuma make me want to throw and just seeing him on the boob tube makes me want to throw up again.

Michael   January 10th, 2009 10:34 pm ET

I love this kind of coverage.....it shows a gentler side of all the craziness in this world. And to all of the right wingnut foamers, I didn't hear you complaining about Bush taking a trip on Air Force One at taxpayer expense to see his daddy get his own aircraft carrier.

Sorry, but some of the posts here are just stoooopid.

Ron in Asheville, NC   January 10th, 2009 10:32 pm ET

You're all missing the most important thing: Ben's half-smoke is one of the best food items in the country. The man is informed!

Get Real   January 10th, 2009 10:31 pm ET

Please before you people keep fainting over him why don't you wait and see if he is capable of doing something besides walking into a restaurant?
This tabloid press the Obamas are getting is making me sick.
I think he is very intelligent and a great speaker but let's see what he can do to fix this mess that our country is in.
When none of you have a job and you're standing in the bread lines we'll see if you only want to talk about where Obama is eating or what Michelle is wearing.

lisafree   January 10th, 2009 10:28 pm ET

Hebrews 11:32 And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gideon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: 11:33 Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, 11:34 Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.

J. Sully   January 10th, 2009 10:27 pm ET

I'm so looking forward to the era of Obama. After 8 long hard years of Bush and his corrupt cronies, will this be a breath of fresh air!!! Thanks America and Godspeed Obama/Biden.

Mike, Syracuse NY   January 10th, 2009 10:26 pm ET

Ronnie Patrick January 10th, 2009 9:41 pm ET
This beautiful man is just like Jesus hanging with common people.

Oh, pleeease. You're making me sick with this idol worship.

get real dude   January 10th, 2009 10:23 pm ET

girltexas:

What you wish on others, shall you have for yourself. Becareful what you wish for!!

Citizen Pained   January 10th, 2009 10:18 pm ET

Isn't this a typical liberal parasite interfering with the everyday lives of Americans. Look at how much he disrupted everyone not already in the eatery. Why can't he use the federal employees food court and stay off the streets. The man is a parasite.

Pat   January 10th, 2009 10:15 pm ET

What a stupid, mis-leading headline. Can't you professional journalists come up with something better than that? Just because it "seems like a good idea at the time" doesn't mean that you shouldn't rethink it after writing it.

Home of the Free   January 10th, 2009 10:12 pm ET

Gordon, Payson, Az January 10th, 2009 6:29 pm ET

Here come the Libtards in 3….2…1….

(is my comment witty or insightful or both?)
___________________________________________________
Neither it just shows how stupid you are. Idiot

German,Irish American   January 10th, 2009 10:12 pm ET

Mark- As an ex smoker of 30 years who finally quit after my fifth attempt, trust me , when Obama says he has made an "effort" to quit smoking,but has on occasion" fallen off the wagon", he is still smoking. I am not criticizing his smoking, I am just saying do not idolize another unfounded myth about the man.

Wisest one of All   January 10th, 2009 10:12 pm ET

Just another photo op for the ultimate phoney in D. C. Proven Fact!

Dave   January 10th, 2009 10:10 pm ET

I am glad the man likes to eat good food, and I will support him as POTUS, but people he isn't the mesiah, just a regular man. Relax.

andrea   January 10th, 2009 10:06 pm ET

What a great Guy, what a great Predident he wil be!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Paul   January 10th, 2009 10:06 pm ET

Why is "half-smoke" in quotation marks? This blogger's never heard of a half-smoke?

go away mongers -Ventura ca   January 10th, 2009 10:05 pm ET

A REAL PERSON as President- It will be a welcomed CHANGE!

Lily   January 10th, 2009 10:02 pm ET

He's so down to earth....i love mr. Prez!!!

Dimitri Clark   January 10th, 2009 10:00 pm ET

It is a shame that you sorry clowns would use that headline.

ja   January 10th, 2009 9:58 pm ET

man, i should have been there. i go to the chili bowl every other day or so and (go figure) i missed it the day obama shows up. they added the obamas to the "eats free" list (now consisting of bill cosby and the obama family) back in november...it was only a matter of time before he swung in. he ordered it right too–half-smoke w/ chili. the best food in the world.

mARGE   January 10th, 2009 9:57 pm ET

I just can't believe people are so stupid as to rush around like a bunch of helots (Meet John Doe) to see obama. In fact they act the same way over any rock star. Goes to show this country is celebrity crazy.

tired of corporate politics   January 10th, 2009 9:56 pm ET

"JUST A EVERYDAY MAN " says some Obama sheep.

If the everyday man is a rich, connected, lawyer, from a preppy background. Which we are NOT.

Did you really but in the everyday man myth? Dude – take a few more brains cells to think about it a minute.

Jacqueline Ramsdell   January 10th, 2009 9:56 pm ET

He's a winner through and through !!!!!!!

Texas Teacher   January 10th, 2009 9:53 pm ET

a man of the people for the people.. he is not so far removed from the average man that he does not know what it is to be like the average man.... or woman... I think he is letting us know that he does not mean to get out of touch with HIS base! Go Obama! :)

proud american   January 10th, 2009 9:49 pm ET

i like to touch little boys and i am really just a stupid democrat that knows nothings, well guess ill leave you all with that

Virginia Republican   January 10th, 2009 9:47 pm ET

Well, even this is Clintonesque-stops at fast food joints already?

German,Irish American   January 10th, 2009 9:44 pm ET

I was kind of wondering who has the dirty job of cleaning up the "wet" spot on the chairs of MSM "reporters" who write these fluff stories about the Messiah. Knowing the liberal mentality, I'm sure they only get minimum wage. HEIL OBAMA!

Joe   January 10th, 2009 9:43 pm ET

Obama half smoking? what kind of crap is that cnn ? the man was eating and yall call it half smoking?

Ronnie Patrick   January 10th, 2009 9:41 pm ET

This beautiful man is just like Jesus hanging with common people. I knew when I worked in his campaign for twenty one months, gave of my money and lots and lots of prayers, chased by dogs, walking in dog mess, being cursed out, doors closed in my face. Having my WHITE REPUBLICAN husband who by the way voted for Mccain working daily in the field with me. Still married to me and still just as loving as he was before Obama came in the picture (smile). Never changing the channel on my TV from CNN, MSNBC and NBC, I was doing the right thing. God is with you Obama all the way. You will be the best President this Country have ever had. While that you are not perfect you are perfect for us. You might not see me on the 20th but I will be there with my WHITE REPUBLICAN husband. By the way I would rather Obama smoke a cig once in a while than cheating on his wife and country. Get over it he will be delivered.

joanna   January 10th, 2009 9:39 pm ET

who gives a crap

allys   January 10th, 2009 9:38 pm ET

I just love him.

sam   January 10th, 2009 9:37 pm ET

you guys are hilarious, guy eats a hot dog and its like he pated the Red Sea.

texasgreenacres   January 10th, 2009 9:35 pm ET

Blossum it may give him gas.But how presidential it will be is another question. in most cases. methane gas smells really bad in other words stinks like hell.and you know this guy isn't supposed to stink.

Carole   January 10th, 2009 9:35 pm ET

I applaud PEBO for keeping it real! I will pray that you continue to be yourself. Be who you are, do you!

Brian from SC   January 10th, 2009 9:33 pm ET

The title was very misleading and inappropiate.

Aside from this, it is great to see our president-elect, continuing to fellowship and reach out to the people he will serve. I love the way the new administration and cabinet is looking. A great sampling of America's finest from all four corners.

Let us continue to stay involved in our government and serve for the greater good of all Americans in our respective professions.

Way to go Obama!

Oops!!!   January 10th, 2009 9:22 pm ET

That One !!!! January 10th, 2009 9:19 pm ET
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
@Mike, Syracuse NY Please find TCM and you guys take your Racist
A_S to H_LL
****************************************************************************
@Eve and Mark ….half-smokes” –- sausages smothered in spicy homemade chili sauce, mustard, and onions.Saturday’s half-smoke sausage may be just about all the smoking Obama is doing of late. The president-elect has made an effort to quit smoking, although he admitted in recent interviews that he has, on occasion, "fallen off the wagon."

AM from Eugene Oregon   January 10th, 2009 9:21 pm ET

Smoker here.
What is up with smoker phobia. I am sick of it.....the way people go on and on about it....it so bad alot of smokers take it to the closet....they should just make it illegal if they don't want us addictied....I don't get it. We cant smoke indoors anymore here in Oregon and frankly I never smoke indoors anyways, I think Tobacco education has created a bunch of non-tolerant bigets....for god sakes leave the fien alone!!!! This article is sweet but its twisted headlines are spun to draw the condemer. If you knew what kind of energy it took in your own life to be president you would realize Obama has every right to manage his stress how he wants. STFU

Intelligent American   January 10th, 2009 9:14 pm ET

So Obama has sausages and people are praising him for it? Jesus Christ. I supported Obama and donated to his campaign, and *I'm* sick of the Obama worship. Support him, people, don't worship him.

Intelligent American   January 10th, 2009 9:12 pm ET

Mark: Gee, so you figured out CNN's angle on making the title eye-catching. Very astute.

Steve in Las Vegas,NV   January 10th, 2009 9:08 pm ET

I can only hope Ben's Chili Bowl opens a resturant here in Las Vegas.

Their food sounds great.. Not only that, it sounds healthier than Mc D's extra greasy crud. I'm sure Obama's security detail enjoyed this place as well!!

Well, we have a Hooters here so that will do just fine.

John   January 10th, 2009 9:08 pm ET

Ben's chili bowl is a DC staple. It is the same half smoke served in National's park. You're not a 'DC' rsident if you have never dined there.. this is important b/c even though he is new to town he is embracing the community of where he lives. He has met with our mayor Fenty at least twice that I know of. And his daughters are enrolled in school here. G. Bush – I'm sure has never even heard of Ben's chili bowl – hated DC – and was completely out of touch.

Erinel Faustin   January 10th, 2009 9:05 pm ET

Obama You are a good man.

ChicagoSuz   January 10th, 2009 9:03 pm ET

I swear that man has a cast-iron stomach... ;-)

Ann   January 10th, 2009 9:02 pm ET

This is news HOW?? Come on people.

Matt   January 10th, 2009 9:00 pm ET

Lol, This is our president? Whats next, bailout for mcdonalds?

Rob   January 10th, 2009 8:59 pm ET

Please look at the spelling errors of the Obama supporters in this article. If this is his "base" we are in serious (or seeryus) trouble.

I'm amazed!   January 10th, 2009 8:58 pm ET

Wow, he eats food...with his mouth. The Democrats are right;.

He's a GOD!

Mike   January 10th, 2009 8:58 pm ET

The title of this article is misleading.

DC Resident   January 10th, 2009 8:58 pm ET

Oh man I went to Ben's late Friday night, I wish I had went today for lunch instead, I just missed him! And I noticed the addition of the Obama family to the "People who eat free at Ben's" sign. I'm glad he went! Welcome to DC!

DC Steve   January 10th, 2009 8:57 pm ET

lol @ people coming to this thinking it was something about Obama smoking.

Hi Haters!!!!

Ilona Hussein Proud Canadian   January 10th, 2009 8:57 pm ET

Folks, you do not know just how lucky you are
in having BARACK as your PRESIDENT!

BUT WAIT, I FORGOT, YOU FOLKS ACTUALLY
VOTED FOR HIM!

WELL GUESS WHAT? AMERICANS HAVE
MADE HISTORY!

WE CANADIANS LOVE BARACK. we have
even said on our BLOGS, that if you do not
appreciate Barack, we would love to have him
and his family move to Canada...........darn...
you decided. (rightly so) that YOU WANT TO
KEEP BARACK AND HIS FAMILY, SO WHAT
CAN I SAY? WE ARE OUT OF LUCK!

BARACK IS A MAN FOR THE PEOPLE, SO
PLEASE, WATCH OUT FOR HIM, THERE ARE
MANY WHO WOULD LIKE TO SEE BARACK
COME TO HARM! AMERICA AND THE REST
OF THE WORLD IS IN CHAOS, AND
BARACK AND HIS ADMINISTRATION
ARE FACING A MONUMENTAL TASK!

GOOD LUCK FOLKS!

Griff   January 10th, 2009 8:55 pm ET

Pity there is no Sauce On the "Barbi" Cue for such Comedy???? Just another Plastic Doll???.

Elizabeth   January 10th, 2009 8:55 pm ET

Obama is the man. I would love to just hang out with him for a day.

Ryan   January 10th, 2009 8:55 pm ET

Amy-wake up and realize that Obama is yet another elite...the way you think of him is a joke. He wouldn't give you the time of day if you could not advance his political career someway.

Nicole   January 10th, 2009 8:55 pm ET

Enough! I'm cringing as I'm (trying) to read the last few comments. Get off of your computer and go back to school so you can learn how to write a coherent sentence!

annon   January 10th, 2009 8:54 pm ET

Glad we're focusing on the important stuff.

Rick   January 10th, 2009 8:52 pm ET

All show and loking for the Cheese to kiss up to people before ruining our livelyhood with tax increases. First one will be the GAS TAX.

peace   January 10th, 2009 8:52 pm ET

Obama is just natural like like many of us.I hope the media give him some time .They are everywhere with him.I just wish I can meet obama.But I like what he says to the people all the time."ONE PRESIDENT AT A TIME"

Tracey   January 10th, 2009 8:51 pm ET

He is so cool! Just a regular guy! And Ben's is the best! They're gonna be packed though b/c of this article so don't even bet on getting in there next weekend.

Ken in NC   January 10th, 2009 8:50 pm ET

DANG .... Bens Chilli Bowl is less than 500 miles from my house. If only I had driven up there for a bowl of chilli today. This PE Obama is one of the people of this country. He is as we are. Normal everyday people.

mom for obama   January 10th, 2009 8:48 pm ET

I agree with Mark...poor title choice for this article.

Republican for Obama - TX   January 10th, 2009 8:46 pm ET

I agree with Amy; I just wish I could meet Obama 1 time. That would make my day!

Mike   January 10th, 2009 8:46 pm ET

Mark,
Get over it !
the dude had a lunch.
My god man

LILLIE JACKSON   January 10th, 2009 8:45 pm ET

I will continue to pray for President Obama, Michelle and our first little girls.Obama please always remember to HANG TUFF and PRAY MUCH!!

Richie   January 10th, 2009 8:45 pm ET

He did the same thing in my town, just showed up at a restaurant for food. That's way cool.

Common Cents   January 10th, 2009 8:43 pm ET

Dude, your headline was MISLEADING!!!

Who's responsible for this?!?

He or she should be skinned and half-smoked themselves!

rich   January 10th, 2009 8:41 pm ET

What can I say other than I luv the man. America's future is bright despite we appear to be in the dumps right now.

RaeofSun   January 10th, 2009 8:36 pm ET

You know, I love CNN. I think they are as unbiased as they can be. But seriously, this title deluded even me. I expected some comment about Obama falling off the wagon. While I love a play on words, Sarah Palin (unfortunate, but true) comes to mind about the media's ability to distort the truth. Obama hadn't had a cigarette, but clearly the headline was hoping most would read it that way. I don't want the media to appeal to the lowest common denominator, but perhaps, a little more thought and discretion should be used in these headlines.....

BluesBrother   January 10th, 2009 8:35 pm ET

Another example of the socialist, Muslim, super liberal, policies of the President Elect.

Give us more Palin stories!

Palin/Cheney 2012!!!

jesuino leduino rosa   January 10th, 2009 8:35 pm ET

God save the president Obama. The furure of all natins depend on him.

gregg45   January 10th, 2009 8:35 pm ET

wow,, sounds like jesus is in the house,, obvious,, they dont close streets and all for jesus,,, but , my god its obama,,, never mind posting this,, its all obama on cnn,,, god forbid ,, you say anything bad,,, well . rule our world ,, and why even post anything bad . about your god,, it will never be seen ,, HEIL HITLER

Pinko Punko   January 10th, 2009 8:25 pm ET

Ben's Chili Bowl is a famous African-American institution from back when this part of DC was called "Black Broadway"- and it is totally awesome.

Rich   January 10th, 2009 8:24 pm ET

Hey Mark at 7:41 p.m.: My understanding is he has failed to kick the smoking hoping. Besides: If they're called "half smokes," light up! ... I mean LIGHTEN up. :)

Dwayne Pennel   January 10th, 2009 8:23 pm ET

Ya, no kidding. That was stupid on CCN's part. The title should easily say "Half Smokey" they did it on purpose to get people to read it. Typical false statements for better viewer turn out.

Ray Fisher   January 10th, 2009 8:22 pm ET

I'm happy to see our President enjoying his weekend as our nation is worn to a frazzle from worry about the economy, jobs, and the daily grind so must he. With 10 days remaining, he better enjoy this time before entering the forbidden zone where time stands still and he will forever be scrutinized by a desparate nation. God bless our new President and his family.

MICHAEL   January 10th, 2009 8:21 pm ET

WHO CARES

Stacy from Leesburg, VA   January 10th, 2009 8:21 pm ET

Ben's Chili Bowl is awesome! If you are coming for the Inauguration, you should go there for lunch! Kudos to Obama for knowing the best place in DC.

jason, tx   January 10th, 2009 8:20 pm ET

What a great, down to earth guy. GOBAMA

sdundon   January 10th, 2009 8:19 pm ET

I just love him.

oh man...   January 10th, 2009 8:13 pm ET

Missed it.... grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

Anonymous   January 10th, 2009 8:05 pm ET

what a horrible misleading title, shame on you CNN

Xavier   January 10th, 2009 8:04 pm ET

Nick,
You're entry was a grammar nightmare. What exactly are you trying to say? Are you trying to insult Obama? I can’t tell.

kathy   January 10th, 2009 8:04 pm ET

The cult of personality is the reality of the USA.

CapitolHiller   January 10th, 2009 8:03 pm ET

Ben's is overrated

rueters   January 10th, 2009 8:02 pm ET

and what does this have to do with accomplishing anything. if i am correct, each of your presidents have done many of these events.

Ohio lady   January 10th, 2009 7:59 pm ET

While the title of this article may be cute, it's rather misleading. I thought perhaps the press was writing about Obama falling off the wagon and smoking. (Which I hope and pray he doesn't do!) Yesterday on CNN there was a subtitle which said "Cloak and Dagger" talking about Obama's choices for CIA. It gave the impression that there was something very secretive going on in his administration. Imaginary scenarios are being thrown out already that Hillary may be jealous of Joe Biden. Then there is the constant dribble about Sarah Palin. Really, who cares? Blah blah. This is what happens when you have to manufacture news. How about showing us more about what is going on in the Middle East or something with substance. The BBC in America and Link t.v. (available on Dish) are two great sources if you want something
that offers a little more balance to the news. Less hype for ratings.

Elvis   January 10th, 2009 7:58 pm ET

I'll bet his gas smells like freshly baked cookies and sounds like kittens purring. I can't wait for the coronation!

Larry   January 10th, 2009 7:57 pm ET

CNN, Your moderator appears to be vary biased today,if you do not worship Obama and slander Bush you will be censored and not posted,I thought you would like to know,if you even get to read this.

chooker   January 10th, 2009 7:53 pm ET

good point, powwow. a Secretary of Common Sense. would be a good Cabinet position

girltexas   January 10th, 2009 7:52 pm ET

Too bad he didn't choke on it.

Brian   January 10th, 2009 7:50 pm ET

I would have ordered the same exact meal that Obama ordered.

Whatever is good enough for the man of change is good enough for me!

Awesome!
:D

Bea   January 10th, 2009 7:46 pm ET

My next stop to DC..lol..reading this makes me want to drive to DC right now....sounds tasty

SMR   January 10th, 2009 7:45 pm ET

We have a great human as President. GOTTA LOVE IT!!!

Mark   January 10th, 2009 7:41 pm ET

I don't think you should have put anything about Obama smoking in your headline. Everyone knows he has battled cigarette smoking, so your title implies that he has failed to stop smoking.

Amy   January 10th, 2009 7:40 pm ET

Darn it man I just want to meet him 1 time! Love how he is keeping in touch with the people and actually listening. Keep it up!

Love you Obama!

Ro   January 10th, 2009 7:40 pm ET

How nice wish I could have meeted and greeted.

TheTruthHurts   January 10th, 2009 7:40 pm ET

I agree with Pat from Omaha. Obama knows how small gestures go a long way. We have missed that in this country. He's just a guy who wanted a hot dog, but he's aware that many of the people are awestruck and personally happy for him and the country. Great that he hasn't let victory change him - Not that I expected it would.

However, I would go nuts if I were with the secret service. He's gonna have to show more restraint or he's gonna burn those poor folks out.

MT   January 10th, 2009 7:40 pm ET

There's always a critic- I mean honestly, are you really criticizing Obama for being a real person, eating a local place??? Give me a break! People like you should stay at home cooking and let people like me enjoy reading about our soon to be president going about his day just like everyone else.
We love Obama!!!

eve   January 10th, 2009 7:35 pm ET

Jesus is with you Abama .You are admired all over the world. GOD will help you to avoid smoking. Love you Abama

Dick Bloom   January 10th, 2009 7:34 pm ET

NO! "Referencing" is what a scholar does with footnotes. The restaurant owner "referred to" her outfit or, better yet, was "pointing to" it.

Tom in CA   January 10th, 2009 7:33 pm ET

It's a fantastic place to go for some great food!

I'm glad Barack knows where the good food's at.

eve   January 10th, 2009 7:33 pm ET

Jesus is with you Abama .You are admired all over the world. GOD will help you to avoid smoking.

tishoogle   January 10th, 2009 7:31 pm ET

He is so down to earth! Love this man! Make us Proud Obama!

Blossum   January 10th, 2009 7:30 pm ET

That food will give him presidential gas!

Rich   January 10th, 2009 7:29 pm ET

Is he holding a cigarette in his fingers? That certainly was my first thought, particularly with the "half smokes" headline.

Matt   January 10th, 2009 7:24 pm ET

This just made me hungry!

Al   January 10th, 2009 7:24 pm ET

What yellow journalism this is! "President spends day half-smoking" and in the picture it looks like he's holding a cigarette. But it turns out he isn't smoking at all.

Roland   January 10th, 2009 7:23 pm ET

I never could understand why anyone would want to drink a beer with Bush. He has always seemed like an arrogant, insecure, idiot to me. I couldn't imagine a bigger waste of 15 minutes than spending it with a guy like him.

Um... what   January 10th, 2009 7:23 pm ET

wow, misleading title supported by a misleading photo making Obama look like he has a cigarette in his hand.

Simmy   January 10th, 2009 7:23 pm ET

Love him, love him!

Ernie in LA   January 10th, 2009 7:22 pm ET

To Nick, many people that are already in school need to STAY in school. Kids are worried about affording to go to college when they do not even want to finish high school. The drop out rate is awful.

No Peace   January 10th, 2009 7:21 pm ET

Another planned photo op to eat a chili dog. Anything to keep feeding the kool-aid drinkers thirst.........and to make sure their minds are ful of these images instead if realizing he has no clue how to run this country.

Betty Phillips   January 10th, 2009 7:19 pm ET

What does awaiting moderation mean????? I seem to get this a lot on my comments, I do not think I am too well liked!!!!!!!!!!So sorry. Betty

Mike   January 10th, 2009 7:18 pm ET

I am a 23 year USMC combat vet (Ret ,2003) . Respect and voted for McCain, but this new young man is providing me with something that my 26 year old daughther saw, and I called her crazy.
President Obama, I wish you the best Sir!
On a different note, take the 50 million and do the blackberry endorsment, put that money in to the DC area for education.
I live in Califiornia, but DC can use it more.
Great Danes are wonderful family pets.
Keep you promises and God Bless you and yours.

Ralph   January 10th, 2009 7:18 pm ET

Love him, your's was the first of what will likley be many ignorant comments. Back in your hole, fool.

adele   January 10th, 2009 7:17 pm ET

Obama is like Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday.

Joe   January 10th, 2009 7:17 pm ET

I hate the title of this article. I guess it does get more people to click on it, but Obama does have a history of smoking, and it despicably plays on that.

Betty Phillips   January 10th, 2009 7:17 pm ET

oops! I did it again, I submitted a comment that did not squeeze by the bias on CNN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!too bad, so sad. Betty

mark   January 10th, 2009 7:15 pm ET

I love Obama, I can't wait til he pays my mortgage!!!

Farrell, Houston, Tx   January 10th, 2009 7:15 pm ET

ENJOY EVERY MOMENT MR. PRESIDENT OBAMA BECAUSE YOU ARE WHAT AMERICA REPRESENTS, REAL PEOPLE. OBAMA DOESN'T LOOK DOWN HIS NOSE AT ANYBODY.

Bryan   January 10th, 2009 7:13 pm ET

Hooray – He likes hot dogs, Hooray!!!!

I'm sure it was cool to be in the restaurant though! Seriously – He's such a vast improvement over the current occupant of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. I particularly enjoy the complete sentences – it's very refreshing!

Stephanie   January 10th, 2009 7:12 pm ET

I fully agree with love him....good ridance to 'W' which now stands for worthless. Go Obama....I know you have a tough agenda, but I have total faith that you will lead us in the right direction....

ANNE   January 10th, 2009 7:10 pm ET

I love my new President! Go Obama

KB in Co   January 10th, 2009 7:10 pm ET

This man is bursting with intellect and he's still not to elitist to stop for a Chili dog with the common man how cool is that.

Christophe   January 10th, 2009 7:09 pm ET

Thanks for including the audio so we can "Hear the crowd react and the owner reflect on the visit." Is this a joke? We already had to be barraged with Malia and Sasha's school lunch menu for 2 days, and hear about a doll that was pinned to one of the children's backpacks.

Are there not more important things to discuss, write about, cover, you know, BE A JOURNALIST, REPORT NEWS on.

Seriously, this is getting ridiculous.

Leah DiMarco, Texas   January 10th, 2009 7:09 pm ET

We're having left over home-made chili with tons of cheddar cheese on top tonight here at home in Texas.

God bless the Obama family ;)

Judy Zukoski, Barnesville, PA   January 10th, 2009 7:07 pm ET

President Obama and Vice-President Biden are both terrific in that they are down to earth and approachable, and combine those qualities with intelligence, common sense, and a well-rounded knowledge of U.S. and international affairs. I am SO thankful they won the election. Here's to a good 4 years America!

Paul in VA   January 10th, 2009 7:07 pm ET

Ben's Chili Bowl is the best! They should be coming up on their 50th anniversary.

PowWow   January 10th, 2009 7:06 pm ET

you still have not answered my question. who is going to be the Secretary of Common Sense and Honest Policy Quality Control ?

Candia   January 10th, 2009 7:04 pm ET

In answer to commenter "Love him": I agree. Isn't it odd how the argument has often been made that you have either a president who is intelligent or one you can have beer with – when in fact I'd think that most people would appreciate to have beer with someone who is ALSO intelligent?

Sadie   January 10th, 2009 7:00 pm ET

We were all so right about him. Everything I read and hear about his approach to legislators, people on the street, his family etc...just confirms how right we were to send him the Washington. I understand and expect that he will do things that I disagree with. But it is this open and engaging approach that will enable us to work together to fix this country.

Yes...we can!

Embrace the Dream   January 10th, 2009 7:00 pm ET

Welcome to Washington Mr. President....and God bless and keep you and the First Family...and may God bless America.

BJ   January 10th, 2009 6:59 pm ET

Sorry that I'm not all that excited about this news. Of all the crisis going on right now. Seems a little silly, a story about Obama eating at restaurant named Ben's Chili Bowl. Good for Ben though.

BB   January 10th, 2009 6:59 pm ET

Our new prez loves the people. He's going to be a challenge for the security details. ha ha ha

Maybe someone in DC will finally earn their money (if they keep him safe).

9-1/2 days

Mike, Syracuse NY   January 10th, 2009 6:57 pm ET

Ben January 10th, 2009 5:43 pm ET
Now you would see people who don't read or don't want to read writing what it isn't………

It isn't news!

Obama spends his Saturday 'half-smoking'   January 10th, 2009 6:56 pm ET

I wish President-Elect encourage everyone home-cooked food instead of fast-food full of grease. One can have steak at home for the price of a hamburger – a profound statement every one to read into it.

Pat Omaha, NE   January 10th, 2009 6:55 pm ET

Enjoy our spur-of-the-moment trips to restaurants, etc.! I hope you can continue doing this since it endears you to us all! But you are probably a real nightmare for the security people!!!
Thanks for being a real person...one who cares about all of us!
Good luck! Don't let DC change you! Hopefully Michelle will help keep you real!!

machu peachu   January 10th, 2009 6:53 pm ET

Taking a good natured event your happy about and using it as an opportunity to insult americans is just lousy.Our great country is not ruined and never will be.Love it or leave it Love him.Go obama!

VA/DC/MD   January 10th, 2009 6:51 pm ET

I hope he chokes on it

Should've had BCB   January 10th, 2009 6:48 pm ET

Rats! Ben's Chili Bowl is less than a mile from my house... if only I'd headed down there for a chili dog.

Coultergeist   January 10th, 2009 6:48 pm ET

I like my new President!

aj in sf   January 10th, 2009 6:45 pm ET

bens chili bowl RULES

parker's in the house   January 10th, 2009 6:42 pm ET

just live up to it, man. just please live up to it.

Larry   January 10th, 2009 6:39 pm ET

It doesn't take much to be a great president in our country,you just need to eat at Ben's.

Jerry   January 10th, 2009 6:39 pm ET

Nice to have him in the neighborhood! A shame we are denied full American citizenship despite having one of the highest tax rates in the nation. We need representation in the U. S. Senate and House of Representatives like other Americans. Taxation without representation.

chuck   January 10th, 2009 6:39 pm ET

HE WILL BE A PEOPLE'S PRESIDENT. WE ALL LOVE YOU PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA.

DavidinCA   January 10th, 2009 6:37 pm ET

Love him...." Security barricaded the U Street block, and hundreds rushed out of restaurants and apartment buildings to catch a glimpse of the incoming president. " ...how many of those people do you think got to drink a beer with Obama?

I voted for Bush twice and he delivered; no more US attacks; Al Queda hiding in mountain holes and an independent Iraq democracy over the insurgency. Obama hasn't done squat yet except offer to "save" or create jobs for $200,000 a pop. That's a joke, but I'm not laughing. The Democratic Congress may actually borrow money from our children to buy into it.

Jared   January 10th, 2009 6:37 pm ET

What is the deal with the title of this story? You take a mundane story and insight the idea that Obama is smoking cigarettes with the title...I feel dumber now that I've read it.

Solid Voter   January 10th, 2009 6:33 pm ET

Obama is way too shady to be president. I mean, come on, it's ridiculous.

torn up   January 10th, 2009 6:30 pm ET

The caption should have read: Guess who's coming to dinner?

Irving, TX - Loves President Obama   January 10th, 2009 6:30 pm ET

I am so proud to know that we have a president that is for the people. I Love president obama and his family.

We are in store for great things under President Obama administration.

lj   January 10th, 2009 6:29 pm ET

well for a guy that promotes preventative health programs ...wow talk about truth and honesty??????

Gordon, Payson, Az   January 10th, 2009 6:29 pm ET

Here come the Libtards in 3....2...1....

(is my comment witty or insightful or both?)

Democrat   January 10th, 2009 6:29 pm ET

actually Bush is very approachable...he was in Greensburg, KS to the community that lost their town to a tornado...he was in Arizona...he was in New York...yeah...he's pretty much one of the most approachable presidents ever...

and he even ate healthy food...as opposed to "half-smokes"

Gordon, Payson, Az   January 10th, 2009 6:28 pm ET

Here come the Rethuglicans in 3....2...1....

(is my comment witty or insightful or both?)

Pie   January 10th, 2009 6:28 pm ET

Hey Freddie, betcha wish u were at Ben's at that time, huh?!

Annie   January 10th, 2009 6:27 pm ET

Am I missing something? What is with the misleading title?

Sean   January 10th, 2009 6:25 pm ET

He figured it would fit in with all those cigarettes he is slowly giving himself lung cancer and other various life threatening illnesses with. And we were all worried about a little treatable skin cancer on McCain! My family and I did vote for Obama, but after recent events and if Burris is seated...we will not make the same mistake of voting for Obama again in 4 years!

strong   January 10th, 2009 6:25 pm ET

As for The Chosen One - who cares what he eats, and where. If he wants to smoke, who cares. This over-gushing public adoration of Obama is sickening. This is not the American Idol. (.... cnn won't post this, of course).

No Hillary = No Obama   January 10th, 2009 6:25 pm ET

Obama is mimicing Bill Clinton in so many ways. Obama is not an original – he just like to let people think he is.

Bev   January 10th, 2009 6:23 pm ET

All this Obama adoration reminds me of the movie Life of Brian by Monty Python. You people seriously need to stop watching TV and the movies and find out facts about what's going on the world and stop relying on the liberal news media who feed you garbage like this. There are serious issues going on this world and believe it or not...George Bush is not the anti-Christ. What is with this Bush bashing syndrome? It's an illness. What on earth are you people going to do when you can't blame him for everything under the sun? You will go through withdrawal. It's not healthy and it's wrong.

I feel sorry for Obama. You have put the expectations so high on the post there is absolutely no way he can meet them. It's sad.

Snickers   January 10th, 2009 6:22 pm ET

Nick, I agree. People need to go to school.
Perhaps you should repeat your spelling courses.............

Spellcheck   January 10th, 2009 6:20 pm ET

Hey Nick....you spell it "ridiculous."

floridian loves Obama   January 10th, 2009 6:19 pm ET

Aw, what a nice feel good story. Finally CNN! I think that is neat that he can spend time with powerful leaders and traditional working Americans. I know he gets a lot of flack for smoking hence the smoking parallel in the ticker title, but I think it's a personal choice and many people fight nicotine addiction...I bet half of the people who judge him are smokers. I am NOT a smoker and I still don't judge him.

Bev   January 10th, 2009 6:17 pm ET

Let's see....Russia has cut gas supplies to Europe in the middle of winter. Israel is fighting for its life (and everybody hates this apparently...as evidenced by protests against them trying to defend themselves)...But the liberal news media is fainting in adoration because Obama went into a fast-food place and ...get this...ATE FOOD. Ohhh...can you BELIEVE it???? It ATE FOOD. Please...

Trevor   January 10th, 2009 6:16 pm ET

Nice story about Obama, the down-to-earth President.

Not sure why it needed to be given a somewhat sensationalist headline, using a play on words to imply that Obama was seen smoking cigarettes. The article even acknowledged that this was the intent, by explaining at the end that he has quit smoking.

Patrice   January 10th, 2009 6:15 pm ET

Once again, for the thousandth time, I know why I voted for this man. He is of the people and is not hesitant to be amongst them. Just the thrill and memory of being in a restaurant, a regular place, where the President-elect comes in for an order of chili and sweet tea. This is something that all who are present can tell over and over again to their family and friends and the story will travel through generations. He is having community balls for the regular people of this country in Washington on that grand day. Hearing that he has done this lets me know that he will look out for the regular American. He may rub shoulders with the leaders of this country and the world, yet he has that common touch which will benefit all of us. Alexander Hamilton, Teddy Roosevelt, Abraham Lincoln, Franklin Roosevelt, Harry Truman all possessed that quality that made them mindful of the common folk who truly stand for what this country is about. It may have seemed like a small thing but in the bigger picturewe know that President Obama will always have us on his mind when he seats behind the desk in that Oval Office. All I can say is Thank You, President-elect Obama for not only satisfying your appetite for that chili and sweet tea but for also reminding us that we have made an excellent selection in electing you the 44th President of this great country. May God continue to bless you.

Pat   January 10th, 2009 6:14 pm ET

Like Princess Diana was the people's Princess, so will Obama be the people's President. He is so approachable.

Change - Yeah Left!   January 10th, 2009 6:11 pm ET

Oh my goodness, the annointed one ate!

bk   January 10th, 2009 6:11 pm ET

As soon as he gets elected he will no longer be approachable. You will also never have a beverage with him. He just needed your vote.

Sue   January 10th, 2009 6:11 pm ET

I am tired of every referring to him as the president. Last I checked, it wasn't Jan 20th yet. He will be the president but has not offically been sworn it and should be referred to with the proper terminology.

Granforchange   January 10th, 2009 6:09 pm ET

THIS STORY IS A OUTRAGE.. WHO REALLY CARES ABOUT HIS SO CALLED 'SMOKING" THIS STORY JUST SHOWS HIS DISREGARD FOR HUMAN LIFE IN THE MIDDLE EAST ,THERE ARE PROTESTS OF THOUSANDS OF FOLKS GOING ON TODAY ,WHILE INNOCENT LIVES AND CHILDREN ARE BEING BLOWN AWAY , THIS IS JOURNALISM AT ITS VERY WORST... UPSET GRANFORCHANGE IN MADISON WISCONSIN

sherm   January 10th, 2009 6:06 pm ET

Love him,
E-mail me in in two years and tell me how great it is.

dennis   January 10th, 2009 6:04 pm ET

isn't it amazing how you americans love some one who has done nothing so far, just like you loved bush eight years ago. will history repeat itself

ah   January 10th, 2009 6:03 pm ET

He needs to stop smoking. It is not healthy for him and those close to him.

Don, NY   January 10th, 2009 6:03 pm ET

To the owner of the establishment: If he is merely a "man among men," why are you drooling? He is not deserving of his "rock star" status amongst so many uninformed Americans.

James Thompson   January 10th, 2009 6:02 pm ET

This headline is very sensational and misleading; when coupled with the misleading picture (making it look like president elect Obama is holding a cigarette) this is a sleazy ploy. CNN Show some journalistic integrity and avoid tabloid trash.

John Magret   January 10th, 2009 6:02 pm ET

Hes definitely more of a every day man than previous presidents, unless you happen to be from the south and voted for Bush twice; Then hes your personal nightmare :)

Amber   January 10th, 2009 6:01 pm ET

Love him @ 5:31, I hear ya.

I think that the only drink I could have with Bush would be four back-to-back whiskey shots followed by a Drano chaser.

I don't think there's anyone in the world I'd rather sit down for a Mai Tai with than the president elect, however.

When he is unscripted and talking about non-governmental issues, he seems like the most down-to-earth person you could hope to meet.

I hope they let him keep his Blackberry so he can stay in contact with and connected to the real world. It would be a shame to lose that.

Pepou   January 10th, 2009 6:00 pm ET

This place is great. I eat there all the time when I am in DC.

mary faye brown   January 10th, 2009 5:58 pm ET

What a breath of fresh air Obama is....I love that man. Boy oh boy are we lucky this time.......God bless America

Lol   January 10th, 2009 5:57 pm ET

Well I'm sure glad that he's trying to quit actually smoking... wouldn't that be great. A man smoking among the people. Doesn't CNN have an article on that?

Rob Stumpf   January 10th, 2009 5:57 pm ET

"President Obama is so approachable. Now he's someone that I'd want to have a beverage with. "

And you say this because you know him personally by watching him on TV.

Sure you do.

Can't wait until the Obama circus is out of town.

Rob Stumpf   January 10th, 2009 5:56 pm ET

Obama was half smoking? Too bad. I wish he was completely on fire.

Has anyone seen Paulson?   January 10th, 2009 5:55 pm ET

Good man eats good food.

swissmiss   January 10th, 2009 5:54 pm ET

Ben's Chili Bowl is Bill Cosby's favorite place in D.C. His wife went to school here.

maurice from ontario   January 10th, 2009 5:53 pm ET

Cool, Pres-Elect! Just cool! Nice to have someone who likes to be with the "people"...even though I don't share your love of the White Sox!

Rhonda   January 10th, 2009 5:53 pm ET

I think he's going to be a good president!!

Posn   January 10th, 2009 5:51 pm ET

I love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sue Ellen Stamp   January 10th, 2009 5:49 pm ET

I think it's wonderful!

micheal   January 10th, 2009 5:47 pm ET

Obama posed with diners and staff in all three rooms of the restaurant, before returning to the counter to collect his order: a chili half-smoke and sweet tea. Fenty had cheese fries and water.

Phew!

Richard Komi   January 10th, 2009 5:46 pm ET

Obama is demonstrating that he will be a president of the people. It is good politics when the president-elect is able to stop into a joint like Ben's chilli bowl for lunch. That is the kind of president we want in the White House

Nick   January 10th, 2009 5:45 pm ET

We need to improve our schools because many people need to go to school.

I am waiting for rediculus comments contrary to article, 3.2.1........

Ben   January 10th, 2009 5:43 pm ET

Now you would see people who don't read or don't want to read writing what it isn't.........

Please people, read and understand
before commenting........

Buckeye   January 10th, 2009 5:39 pm ET

Now make a surprise visit to Gaza and eat the food residents there have left...

Joanna   January 10th, 2009 5:37 pm ET

I love it that he is so interactive with the common person. I hope he stays that way. I also hope he stays very careful and the secret service keep our man safe.

Love him   January 10th, 2009 5:31 pm ET

President Obama is so approachable. Now he's someone that I'd want to have a beverage with. For all the people that helped ruin our country by voting – twice for Bush....was it worth it? Did you drink beer with him yet? Good riddance Bush! Love you Obama!!!!!!

John G   January 10th, 2009 5:31 pm ET

Not news!

Mark, B'ham., Al.   January 10th, 2009 5:23 pm ET

Next thing you know he will be making McDonalds runs!

S Callahan   January 10th, 2009 5:21 pm ET

I see two pluses with this 'catchy' headline story...
!. He is supporting private buisness
2.He is letting people know for the upcoming cornation there is a place to go for a reasonable price and something tasty as well.

I'd say it's a WIN WIN for Ben's .

Willy Brown   January 10th, 2009 5:20 pm ET

They ain't got no grits there.

Proud American   January 10th, 2009 5:20 pm ET

Gee I wonder how many local business in Washington did Bush stop into in the past 8 years. Most would have put a closed sign in the window when they say him coming.

Meka   January 10th, 2009 5:11 pm ET

JUST A EVERYDAY MAN . . . FANTASTIC!

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