Original Soup Kitchen
Iconic NYC soup spot famous from Seinfeld, serving delicious, no-nonsense bowls with legendary efficiency.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the buzz
Original Soup Kitchen
Best Time
Experience the buzz
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic NYC soup spot famous from Seinfeld, serving delicious, no-nonsense bowls with legendary efficiency.
"It’s not fancy dining, it’s a New York experience in a cup."
🎯 Know Your Order
Decide before you reach the counter to keep the line moving! :fast_forward:
💰 Great Value Meal
Soup comes with bread, fruit, and sometimes chocolate. Amazing for the price! :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Legendary Lobster Bisque
Counter
Rich, creamy, and utterly comforting. A must-try for seafood lovers and Seinfeld fans alike.
Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup
Counter
A classic done right. Flavorful broth and tender chicken make this a satisfying choice.
The 'No Soup For You!' Experience
Ordering Counter
Channel your inner Seinfeld fan and experience the legendary, efficient ordering process.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Seinfeld Legacy
Speedy Service, Simple Rules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Know Your Order
Decide before you reach the counter to keep the line moving! :fast_forward:
💰 Great Value Meal
Soup comes with bread, fruit, and sometimes chocolate. Amazing for the price! :moneybag:
🚶♀️ Grab & Go Style
It's a quick-service spot, perfect for a meal on the move. :running:
📸 Seinfeld Photo Op
Snap a pic with the iconic sign for a fun souvenir. :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Know Your Order
Decide before you reach the counter to keep the line moving! :fast_forward:
💰 Great Value Meal
Soup comes with bread, fruit, and sometimes chocolate. Amazing for the price! :moneybag:
🚶♀️ Grab & Go Style
It's a quick-service spot, perfect for a meal on the move. :running:
📸 Seinfeld Photo Op
Snap a pic with the iconic sign for a fun souvenir. :camera:
🍜 Variety of Soups
Daily specials offer diverse flavors beyond the classics. :bowlwithspoon:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about The Original Soup Kitchen for its delicious, hearty soups and incredible value, often highlighting the Lobster Bisque and Chicken Noodle. The efficient, Seinfeld-inspired ordering process adds to the unique New York experience, though some note it's not a sit-down restaurant and the owner isn't as gruff as depicted on TV. Overall, it's a highly recommended spot for a quick, satisfying, and iconic meal.
"You don’t come here just for soup. You come for the soup.
The Original Soup Kitchen lives up to the legend. The line moves fast, the rules are clear, and the reward is worth it. Everything is rich, perfectly seasoned, and made with actual care. The lobster bisque is thick and comforting; the vegetable soup tastes like someone’s grandmother still runs the kitchen.
It’s not fancy dining, it’s a New York experience in a cup.
If you’re nearby, skip the pretentious spots and grab the soup that started a sitcom episode. Just follow the line, don’t hesitate when you order, and prepare to be converted."
Berele
"I tried their chicken noodle and lobster bisque. Both soups were good. I liked them, although not as much as the Seinfeld series exaggerated. Chicken noodle was better. The bread (yes, bread), banana and chocolate they gave as a complimentary treat made me happy."
Biggie Little
"5/5 Stars - A Soup-er Spot That's Pure Gold 🍲
I'm obsessed with The Original Soup Kitchen! 😍 This Portland institution has been serving up delicious soups and unforgettable experiences since 1984 📆. As a huge Seinfeld fan, I was thrilled to discover that this place was featured in one of my favorite episodes 🤣. Who can forget Elaine's infamous jambalaya soup grab? 🤪
The Soup Game is Strong 🍲
The soup selection is always on point, with a variety of options to suit every taste bud 🤤. From creamy tomato to broccoli cheddar, each spoonful is a taste sensation 😋. And don't even get me started on the bread – freshly baked and perfect for dipping 🍞.
Grab-and-Go Perfection 🚀
Just a heads up – this isn't your typical sit-down restaurant. It's a grab-and-go spot, so you can fuel up and go! 🏃♀️ Perfect for a quick lunch or snack on-the-go. I love that it's fast, friendly, and no fuss 🤩.
A Spot That's Truly Iconic 🌟
The atmosphere is cozy and eclectic, with a fun 90s vibe that'll make you feel like you're hanging out with the Soup Nazi himself, Jerry Seinfeld 😂. The staff are friendly, and the lines move quickly – it's a win-win! 💸
Tips for Visitors 📝
- Get there early – the lines can get long, but trust me, it's worth the wait ⏰.
- Try the jambalaya soup – it's a nod to the iconic episode, and it's SO GOOD 🔥.
- Don't be afraid to get a little messy – it's soup, after all! 🍴
- Take a photo with the iconic Soup Kitchen sign – it's a Portland bucket list moment 📸.
The Verdict 🤩
The Original Soup Kitchen is a must-visit destination for any Portland newbie or Seinfeld superfan 🤓. With its delicious soups, fun atmosphere, and grab-and-go convenience, this place is sure to leave you feeling soup-tastic 😊.
Rating Breakdown 📊
- Soup Quality: 5/5
- Atmosphere: 5/5
- Service: 5/5
- Overall Experience: 5/5
Will I go back? Oh, you bet I will! I'll be back for bowl after bowl of that amazing soup 🍲."
amarilis paz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Original Soup Kitchen is located at 259A W 55th St, New York, NY 10019. It's easily accessible by subway, with several stations nearby including the N, Q, R, W, E, and M lines at the 5th Ave/53rd St station, or the 1, C, and E lines at the 50th St station. Many visitors also find it a convenient stop after visiting nearby attractions like Central Park. +1
Yes, The Original Soup Kitchen is conveniently located a short walk from Central Park, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner before or after exploring the park.
The closest subway stations are 50th Street (1, C, E lines) and 5th Avenue/53rd Street (E, M lines). Both are just a few blocks away from the restaurant.
Street parking in Midtown Manhattan can be very challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation or a rideshare service to reach The Original Soup Kitchen.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes from the southern end of Times Square to The Original Soup Kitchen.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need to purchase tickets to enter The Original Soup Kitchen. It operates as a walk-in restaurant where you order and pay at the counter.
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during typical lunch and dinner hours. It's always a good idea to check their most current hours before visiting, as they are a popular spot and can have busy periods.
There is no dress code at The Original Soup Kitchen. It's a casual eatery, so feel free to come as you are, whether you're dressed up or in casual attire.
The Original Soup Kitchen is a fast-casual establishment and does not take reservations. It's designed for quick service, so you order at the counter and find a spot to eat.
Soups are very reasonably priced, often around $5 for a small bowl, which is a fantastic deal for New York City. The price includes complimentary bread and fruit.
🎫 🥣 Onsite Experience
The ordering process is famously efficient and direct, inspired by the Seinfeld show. Know your order before you get to the counter, speak clearly, and be ready to pay. Hesitation can lead to a 'No soup for you!' +1
The Lobster Bisque and Chicken Noodle Soup are consistently popular choices. Many visitors also enjoy the Vegetable Soup. +1
Yes, they typically have a delicious vegetable soup option that is vegetarian-friendly.
Your soup order usually comes with a slice of bread, a piece of fruit (like a banana), and sometimes a small piece of chocolate, offering great value. +1
Seating is limited and often consists of small counters or 'rocks' where patrons can stand or perch to eat their soup. It's more of a grab-and-go experience than a sit-down restaurant.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunity is with the restaurant's exterior sign, which is instantly recognizable from its Seinfeld appearance. Capturing your soup with the bread and fruit is also a popular shot.
Yes, you can take photos inside, but be mindful of other customers and the fast-paced ordering process. Focus on your food and the general ambiance rather than lingering for staged shots.
The entire experience is a Seinfeld photo op! The exterior sign and the direct, no-nonsense ordering style are direct nods to the show. +1
Early morning or late afternoon might offer slightly fewer crowds, potentially making it easier to get clear shots of the exterior. However, the vibrant atmosphere during peak hours also makes for interesting candid shots.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the essence of The Original Soup Kitchen. The focus is on the food and the experience, not professional photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that seating is very limited and informal, so it's best suited for families who don't mind a quick, casual meal. Be prepared for the fast-paced ordering; having everyone decide on their soup choice beforehand will make the experience smoother. It's a great way to get a taste of authentic New York street food without breaking the bank.
💰 Budget Travelers
You get a substantial and satisfying meal for a fraction of the cost of many other NYC eateries. The efficient service means you won't spend a lot of time waiting, making it perfect for those on the go who want to maximize their sightseeing time while minimizing expenses.
🎬 Seinfeld Superfans
Beyond the show's legacy, the quality of the soup itself is a draw. Many fans are pleasantly surprised by how genuinely good the food is, proving that the restaurant is more than just a pop culture gimmick. It’s a chance to taste a piece of television history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Seinfeld Connection: More Than Just Soup
While the real-life owner, Al Yeganeh, was known for his strictness, the establishment today offers a more welcoming, albeit still efficient, experience. Visitors often come not just for the delicious soup but to relive a piece of television history and experience the legendary ordering process firsthand. It's a pilgrimage for many fans of the show.
This connection has cemented The Original Soup Kitchen's status as a must-visit New York City landmark for foodies and Seinfeld enthusiasts alike. The legacy continues to draw crowds eager to taste the soup that launched a thousand memes.
Navigating the Ordering Process
When it's your turn, state your order clearly and concisely. The staff are efficient and expect promptness. If you hesitate, ask too many questions, or seem unsure, you might be met with a stern 'No soup for you!' – though this is more of a playful nod to the show now than a harsh reality.
Once your order is placed and paid for, you'll receive your soup, bread, fruit, and any other accompaniments. The entire transaction is designed to be quick, allowing the line to move swiftly. It's a unique, fast-paced culinary experience that's part of the charm.
What to Expect in Your Bowl (and Beyond)
Beyond the soup itself, the value proposition is a significant draw. For a modest price, your order typically includes a slice of freshly baked bread, perfect for dipping, a piece of fruit (often a banana), and sometimes even a small piece of chocolate. This makes it a surprisingly complete and filling meal.
While it's not a sit-down restaurant, the grab-and-go nature means you can enjoy your meal nearby, perhaps in Central Park or on a bench, savoring the flavors and the bustling New York atmosphere. The focus is on delicious, no-frills food served with speed and a touch of pop culture flair.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit