New York City is a melting pot of cultures, which means it's also a melting pot of flavors. From Italian wedding soup to ramen, there is a soup for every palate.
And with the city's cold winters, there's nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of soup.
But where can you find the best soup in the city? With so many options, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go.
That's where this guide comes in. We've scoured the city to find the top spots for soup, from classic delis to trendy restaurants.
Whether you're looking for a hearty bowl of chicken noodle or a spicy bowl of pho, we've got you covered.
And don't worry, we haven't forgotten about our vegetarian and vegan friends. We've included plenty of options for you too.
So grab your spoon and get ready to slurp your way through the best soup in New York City.
Whether you're a lifelong New Yorker or just visiting, you won't want to miss out on these delicious bowls of comfort.
1. Shanghai 21
Shanghai 21 is a Chinese eatery that serves up some of the best soup dumplings in town. This no-frills restaurant offers a wide variety of beyond-the-basics Chinese dishes, but the soup dumplings are the real star of the show.
The skin is thin, the savory soup broth is just the right temperature, and the taste is fantastic.
Although there may be a bit of a wait, the dining experience is well worth it. Prices are reasonable for the amount of food you receive.
If you're looking for an authentic Chinese dining experience, Shanghai 21 is the place to go.
2. The Original Soup Kitchen
The Original Soup Kitchen is a must-visit for soup lovers. With a wide variety of soups in three different sizes, this restaurant offers great value for money.
The soups are fresh, flavorful, and well-seasoned, making them perfect for a cold day.
The lobster bisque and lobster roll come highly recommended, as does the tomato bisque and vegetarian chili.
The service is quick and friendly, and the price even includes bread, chocolate, and fruit. Don't miss out on this gem of a soup shop!
3. Super Taste
Super Taste is a no-frills Chinese eatery that specializes in hand-pulled noodles. The broth is rich and flavorful without being too oily.
Customers can choose from beef, mutton, or pork soups that are all outstanding. The dumplings are fresh and delicious, especially when paired with hot chili oil.
The restaurant is often busy, but the efficient staff ensures that customers are seated and served quickly.
Takeaway is also available for those on the go. Super Taste is a must-try for anyone looking for cheap and delicious Chinese noodles and dumplings.
4. Joe's Home of Soup Dumplings
Joe's Home of Soup Dumplings is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic Chinese dining experience.
The restaurant specializes in soup dumplings that are packed with flavor and perfectly cooked. The menu also offers a variety of other Chinese dishes, including spicy shrimp udon and kaufu.
The service is excellent, and the restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for a casual meal.
Joe's Home of Soup Dumplings is reasonably priced and is a great choice for anyone looking for a tasty and affordable meal in the city.
5. Spring Cafe
Spring Cafe is a vegan eatery in Chinatown that offers a variety of delicious food options.
Their bao buns and soup are standouts, and their burgers are a lighter alternative to traditional burgers.
The portions are generous and affordable, making it a great spot for a quick bite or a full meal.
The service is prompt and friendly, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting. For those looking for a healthy and tasty meal, Spring Cafe is definitely worth a visit.
6. V-Nam Cafe
V-Nam Cafe is a hidden gem that serves up authentic Vietnamese cuisine at reasonable prices.
This no-frills joint specializes in staples like pho and banh mi sandwiches that are bursting with flavor. The portions are generous, and the quality of the food is impressive.
The staff is friendly and the service is quick, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner.
Whether you're a meat-eater or a vegan, V-Nam Cafe has something for everyone. Don't miss out on this delicious and affordable spot for soup.
7. Little Kirin
Little Kirin is a must-visit for soup lovers. This pan-Asian restaurant offers an impressive selection of pho and banh mi sandwiches, all served with a twist.
The portions are generous, and the flavors are outstanding.
The restaurant has limited seating, but the friendly staff makes up for it with their excellent customer service.
Little Kirin is a rare gem that is worth checking out for its unique take on Asian cuisine.
8. Carol's Bun
If you're looking for delicious, authentic Chinese soup, Carol's Bun is a hidden gem worth checking out.
This no-frills joint offers a variety of Cantonese-style dishes, including noodle soups, meat dishes, and dumplings.
The staff is friendly and the service is quick, making it a great spot for a cheap and satisfying lunch. Don't miss out on the off-menu options, which offer even more variety.
While the location may be a bit off the beaten path, the delicious food and reasonable prices make it well worth the trip.
9. Cha Pa's Noodles and Grill
Cha Pa's Noodles and Grill is a casual Vietnamese restaurant that serves a broad menu of traditional and modern dishes.
The restaurant is known for its delicious chicken pho, which is packed with vegetables and seasoned well. Other must-try items include the grilled pork vermicelli and the classic rare pho bowl.
The portions are decent, and the service is fast and friendly. Cha Pa's is a great spot for a quick lunch or a pre-theater dinner.
The restaurant uses a touch-free ordering and payment system, which makes the whole process efficient. If you're a fan of Vietnamese cuisine, Cha Pa's Noodles and Grill is definitely worth a visit.
10. Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles
Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles is a no-frills Chinese noodle restaurant that serves up delicious noodle soup and dumplings.
The portions are huge and the prices are affordable, making it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
The hand-pulled noodles are a must-try and the spicy chili oil adds a nice kick of flavor. The outdoor seating is a nice touch on a nice day.
If you're looking for a basic spot for some hearty Chinese food, Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles won't disappoint.
11. Springbone Kitchen
Springbone Kitchen is a health-conscious counter-serve restaurant specializing in bone broth and gluten-free eats.
The restaurant offers a variety of delicious broths and healthy food bowls at reasonable prices.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is clean and inviting. The restaurant is also handicapped accessible.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for healthy and tasty food options.
12. Soup Spot
Soup Spot is a must-visit spot for soup lovers. This small, cozy restaurant offers a rotating variety of grab-and-go soups that are perfect for a quick lunch or a warm dinner.
Each soup is made fresh with high-quality ingredients and comes with a side of bread and fruit.
The service is fast, and the staff is always friendly and welcoming. Although the place is tiny, it's always clean and well-maintained.
The prices are affordable, and the value is unbeatable. If you're in the mood for soup, Soup Spot is the place to be.
13. d Elici
d Elici is a compact counter-serve restaurant that offers a variety of soups, salads, and sandwiches for breakfast and lunch.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the prices are reasonable for the area.
The ingredients used are fresh and of good quality, making for a satisfying meal.
It's a great spot for a quick and simple fix, and highly recommended for those looking for a good bowl of soup.
14. Bite
Bite is a small takeout spot that serves up delicious soups and sandwiches. The menu features a nice variety of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern options, including vegan choices.
The food is fresh, flavorful, and affordable, making it a great option for a quick lunch.
The only downside is the limited seating, so it's best to take your order to go.
If you're in the area and looking for a satisfying meal on a budget, Bite is definitely worth checking out.
15. Soup Kiosk
Soup Kiosk is a tiny soup and sandwich spot that offers a great selection of soups for a quick lunch on the go.
While some soups could use a bit more flavor, the clam chowder and beef chili are definitely worth trying.
The staff is friendly and the prices are reasonable. Be prepared for a line during peak lunch hours.
It's a great option for a quick and satisfying lunch in the area.
16. La Bonne Soupe
La Bonne Soupe is a classic French bistro that serves delicious soup. The French onion soup is a must-try and is easily one of the best in town.
The restaurant has a pleasant and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a lunch date or a quick bite.
The staff is polite and attentive, offering excellent customer service. The menu has a variety of options, including salads, crepes, and desserts.
La Bonne Soupe is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for a taste of France in the city.
17. Kuu Ramen
Kuu Ramen is a cozy Japanese restaurant that specializes in noodle soups and donburi. The menu features a wide range of ramen options with tasty toppings.
The service is fast, and the staff is attentive. The restaurant has a hip ambiance with low lighting and concrete walls.
The Japanese fried chicken appetizer is a must-try, and the Kuu Chili is recommended for those who like spicy food.
The pork belly buns are tender and flavorful, and the Spicy Tonkotsu Miso ramen is the best in town. Kuu Ramen is a great spot for a quick, satisfying meal that won't break the bank.
