Best Affordable Soup in Los Angeles | Top 15 Affordable Spots

19 restaurants in Best Affordable Soup in Los Angeles | Top 15 Affordable Spots

• Hae Jang Chon — Korean · rated 5/5: The sizzle of marbled short ribs hitting the grill creates a rhythmic backdrop in this high-energy space, where the sweet scent of soy-marinated beef mingles with the pungent heat of house-made kimchi. Guests find soulful comfort in steaming cauldrons of spicy tripe soup and rich, savory galbitang, experiencing a masterclass in traditional Korean flavors that feels both timeless and vibrantly alive.
• Mediterranean Bistro — Mediterranean · rated 4/5: This sun-drenched retreat celebrates the vibrant spirit of the Levant, where the air is scented with fresh parsley, toasted pita, and the bright tang of citrus. A mosaic of herb-forward salads like zesty Fattoush and finely chopped Tabouleh offers a refreshing symphony of textures, from garden-fresh crunch to the creamy, savory depth of spiced Shanklish. The experience is anchored by soul-warming bowls of earthy lentil soup and cool, garlic-infused tzatziki, inviting guests to linger over a meal that feels like a bright afternoon on the Mediterranean coast.
• Pine and Crane Silverlake — Chinese · rated 4/5: Sunlight floods this airy, minimalist sanctuary where the aroma of toasted sesame and fragrant Thai basil beckons diners to gather over vibrant plates of Taiwanese soul food. From the comforting depth of slow-simmered beef noodle soup to the delicate snap of hand-folded dumplings, every dish celebrates fresh ingredients paired perfectly with a curated selection of premium loose-leaf teas and crisp craft pours.
• Olive and Thyme — Mediterranean · rated 4/5: Olive and Thyme invites guests into a sun-drenched space where the comforting aroma of golden-crusted chicken pot pie and simmering seasonal soups fills the air. The kitchen masterfully balances rustic charm with vibrant modern flavors, offering a menu where zesty lemon-kissed sandwiches and crisp arugula salads share the table with savory, flame-seared tacos and juicy smash burgers. It is a welcoming neighborhood retreat that celebrates the art of the handcrafted meal, turning simple ingredients into a soulful and satisfying dining experience.
• Genghis Cohen — Chinese · rated 4/5: This iconic neighborhood haunt blends New York nostalgia with a vibrant social energy, where the rhythmic clatter of the kitchen and the scent of toasted sesame invite guests into a warm, dimly lit sanctuary. Crispy, overstuffed eggrolls and delicate potstickers lead the way for a parade of classic comforts, from the citrusy zing of orange peel chicken to the rich, savory depth of beef and broccoli. Whether sharing a steaming bowl of hot and sour soup or indulging in the sweet crunch of walnut shrimp, diners find a soulful experience that celebrates the timeless allure of American-Chinese cuisine.
• Toast Cafe — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant neighborhood gem invites guests into a space filled with the comforting aroma of steaming bamboo baskets, where pillowy BBQ pork buns and delicate, translucent dumplings offer a masterclass in dim sum artistry. The experience deepens as the kitchen sends out fragrant plates of golden chicken satay and bowls of zesty Tom Yum soup, balancing the fiery heat of traditional Thai curries with the soul-warming comfort of classic noodle dishes.
• Brent's Deli — American · rated 4/5: The air hums with the comforting aroma of simmering matzo ball soup and sizzling griddles, drawing guests into a bustling space where classic deli traditions meet modern morning cravings. Towering Black Pastrami Reubens on toasted rye offer a savory masterclass in flavor, while vibrant avocado toast and hearty, overstuffed omelets provide a nourishing start to the day in an atmosphere of timeless warmth.
• Four Cafe — American · rated 3/5: This sun-drenched neighborhood retreat invites guests to linger over vibrant bowls of kabocha and chickpea stew and artfully prepared comfort classics. The air is rich with the scent of simmering chicken tortilla soup and the earthy crunch of golden potato wedges, creating a sanctuary of wholesome, soulful flavors. From the creamy zest of house-made guacamole to the nostalgic charm of seasoned deviled eggs, every dish celebrates the beauty of simple, nourishing ingredients served in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
• The Dresden Restaurant & Lounge — Steakhouse · rated 3/5: Stepping into this iconic Hollywood landmark feels like a journey back to the golden age of lounge culture, where dim lighting and plush leather booths create an atmosphere of timeless, mid-century sophistication. The air is thick with the savory aroma of bubbling French onion soup and garlic-kissed escargot, while classic starters like chilled shrimp cocktail and crisp iceberg wedges pay homage to an era of elegant, unhurried dining. Whether sipping a martini or sharing a plate of golden calamari fritti, guests are enveloped in a nostalgic charm that makes every evening feel like a storied occasion.
• Panini Kabob Grill — Mediterranean · rated 3/5: Sun-drenched flavors and the bright, zesty aromas of the Mediterranean define this vibrant eatery, where the air is filled with the inviting scent of toasted pita and cooling cucumber. Velvety swirls of hummus and crisp, golden falafel anchor a menu that celebrates freshness, from the crunch of garden-plucked Greek salads to the comforting, earthy warmth of slow-simmered green lentil soup. Whether tucking into a sweet and savory strawberry date salad or sharing a colorful platter of traditional dips, guests find a refreshing escape that balances wholesome ingredients with bold, soulful seasonings.
• Pine and Crane DTLA — Chinese: Bathed in natural light and modern energy, this stylish destination reimagines Taiwanese soul food through a lens of contemporary elegance and vibrant, market-fresh flavors. Guests gather around tables laden with aromatic Three Cup Chicken and steaming bowls of beef noodle soup, rounding out the experience with delicate hand-pleated dumplings and a curated selection of premium teas or craft sake.
• It's Thai Casual Dining — Thai: Stepping into this lively neighborhood haunt, guests are greeted by the enticing aroma of charred chicken satay and the bright, citrusy steam rising from bowls of lemongrass-infused tom yum soup. The kitchen masters the art of the perfect crunch, from golden, molten cream cheese wontons to delicate fried tofu, all served alongside vibrant summer rolls that burst with garden-fresh clarity. It is a welcoming retreat where bold spices and comforting textures come together for an effortlessly authentic and soulful meal.
• Sun Nong Dan — Korean: Steam rises in fragrant clouds from bubbling stone pots at this bustling Korean haven, where the soul-warming aroma of slow-simmered bone broths invites guests to settle in for a deeply nourishing meal. Velvety, milky-white soups filled with tender brisket and succulent ox tail offer a masterclass in depth and patience, while fiery bowls of spicy beef and leek stew provide a vibrant, heat-filled contrast. Every spoonful captures the essence of traditional comfort, creating a communal dining experience that feels like a restorative embrace.
• Qin West Noodle — Chinese: The air hums with the steam of simmering broths and the pungent, savory aroma of fermented bamboo shoots, drawing diners into a vibrant space dedicated to the bold regional flavors of Shaanxi and Guangxi. Silky ribbons of cold-skin noodles glisten in chili oil alongside hearty bowls of snail-infused broth and hand-torn bread soaked in rich lamb soup, each dish offering a masterclass in the balance of spice, tang, and texture. It is a bustling sanctuary for noodle enthusiasts where the clatter of chopsticks and the warmth of deep, aromatic bowls transport guests to the lively street stalls of Western China.
• Casita Del Campo — Mexican: Stepping into this vibrant sanctuary feels like entering a cherished family home, where colorful decor and a lively atmosphere set the stage for a festive celebration of traditional flavors. The air is filled with the comforting aroma of simmering albondigas and toasted corn, while tables are laden with bowls of creamy, hand-mashed guacamole and zesty shrimp ceviche that capture the bright essence of coastal heritage. Whether sharing a plate of crispy taquitos or warming up with a soulful bowl of Abuelita’s lentil soup, guests find a spirited retreat that honors time-tested recipes with every soulful bite.
• Melrose Cafe — American: Sunlight dances across a bright, inviting space where the crisp snap of garden-fresh greens and the aromatic steam of slow-simmered soups create a sanctuary of wholesome comfort. Vibrant bowls of citrus-kissed shrimp and tender grilled salmon salads offer a refreshing brightness, while hearty pairings of house-made pasta and savory broths provide a soulful, nourishing experience that celebrates simple, high-quality ingredients.
• Ackee Bamboo — Caribbean: Step into a vibrant island escape where the bold, smoky aroma of jerk seasoning mingles with the sweet scent of golden-fried plantains and warm festival bread. The kitchen captures the sun-drenched spirit of the Caribbean through flaky, spice-filled patties and hearty, slow-simmered soups that offer a comforting, soul-satisfying taste of the tropics. Whether tucking into savory saltfish or crisp island salads, guests find themselves transported to a coastal paradise where every dish celebrates the rich, soulful heritage of Jamaican flavors.
• mdk noodles — Korean: Steaming bowls of hand-cut noodles take center stage at this vibrant eatery, where the comforting aroma of rich chicken and savory anchovy broths fills the air. The kitchen balances these hearty staples with refreshing, ice-chilled soups and chewy arrowroot noodles tossed in bold, spicy sauces that awaken the palate. It is a sanctuary of soul-warming textures and traditional flavors, inviting diners to linger over the simple, artisanal beauty of a perfectly crafted bowl.
• Pho America — Vietnamese: The air at Pho America is thick with the comforting fragrance of star anise and slow-simmered bone broth, drawing guests into a space where traditional Vietnamese soul food meets vibrant, modern energy. Crispy golden egg rolls and zesty spring rolls provide a satisfying crunch before the main event: steaming bowls of pho topped with paper-thin rare steak that cooks gently in the aromatic, savory soup. From the smoky char of grilled meats tucked into crusty baguettes to the tender richness of diced filet mignon over fresh greens, every dish celebrates a harmony of bold spices and garden-fresh ingredients.