Giant Food launches Ben's Chili Bowl in stores

Giant Food, a greater Washington, D.C., regional grocery chain, has partnered with another 65-year-old D.C. institution.

The grocery retailer announced this week that Ben’s Chili Bowl’s world-famous chili and half smokes are now available in the prepared food sections and hot bars in Giant stores throughout Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia and Delaware.

Founded by Ben and Virginia Ali, the local landmark in D.C. is now an inter-generational family business.

“Ben’s Chili Bowl has remained a respected business within our community since 1958, and the opportunity to partner with the brand and expand the Ali family’s legacy was a no-brainer,” said Ira Kress, president at Giant Food, in a statement. “We are proud to introduce Ben’s Chili Bowl’s fan-favorite recipes and menu items into our stores, and we are sure they will be a welcomed addition for our customers.”

Giant said it will offer Ben’s Chili Bowl Original and Spicy Half Smokes, Chili Con Carne, Turkey Chili and the secret Chili Sauce that cannot be purchased anywhere else.

“We’ve been blessed to serve our beloved DMV community for nearly 65 years, and in all that time we never expected to sell our products at the retail level,” said Virginia Ali, co-founder of Ben’s Chili Bowl, in a statement. “When we first met the wonderful team at Giant, we realized that it would be a perfect fit because we all share the same values, including our deep dedication to serving our community. I only wish Ben was still here with us because he would be so proud!”

This isn't the first time Giant Food has partnered with a local restaurant.

In March, the Landover, Maryland-based grocery retailer opened its first in-store fast-casual restaurant with Maryland-based restaurant chain Nalley Fresh.

"We are thrilled to bring Nalley Fresh to our Ellicott City store and provide our customers with an unbeatable one-stop shopping experience," said Gregg Dorazio, director of e-commerce at Giant Food, in a statement. "We know our customers will enjoy the convenient, healthy and delicious meal offerings, and we're proud to welcome this local concept right in-store at Giant."

Giant Food was founded in Washington, D.C., in 1936 and now operates 165 supermarkets in Virginia, Maryland, Delaware and Washington, D.C.