Best Cheap Soup in Philadelphia | Top 14 Cheap Spots

29 restaurants in Best Cheap Soup in Philadelphia | Top 14 Cheap Spots

• Fergie's Pub — American · rated 5/5: This spirited neighborhood haunt hums with a convivial energy, drawing guests into a warm, lived-in space where the rich aroma of Guinness-infused onion soup mingles with the spicy zest of crispy buffalo wings. The kitchen elevates communal dining with playful touches, serving up golden cheesesteak spring rolls and oversized pretzels alongside steaming bowls of PEI mussels that invite lingering over a pint. It is a soulful retreat where the unpretentious charm of a classic pub meets a menu built for shared stories and hearty appetites.
• Popi's — Italian · rated 4/5: Popi’s serves as a bright, sun-drenched haven where the vibrant colors of garden-fresh produce and the comforting aroma of simmering chicken soup create an atmosphere of wholesome elegance. Crisp, artfully composed salads take center stage, ranging from zesty Mediterranean medleys to earthy beet and quinoa bowls that celebrate the pure, refreshing flavors of the season. It is a welcoming neighborhood gem where every dish feels like a revitalizing breath of fresh air, perfect for a light lunch or a nourishing midday retreat.
• Prohibition Taproom — American · rated 4/5: Step into a moody, vintage-inspired haunt where the air is thick with the savory aroma of bubbling French onion soup and the irresistible crunch of golden-fried snacks. This lively taproom invites guests to linger over shared plates of zesty wings and crispy Brussels sprouts, pairing elevated comfort food with a spirited atmosphere that feels like a well-kept neighborhood secret.
• Talula's Garden — American · rated 4/5: Step into a lush, sun-dappled sanctuary where the rustic charm of a farmhouse meets the vibrant energy of the city, creating a botanical escape that feels both intimate and grand. The air is perfumed with the scent of warm everything-spice scones and melting chocolate croissants, setting the stage for a whimsical journey through artisanal cheese boards and velvety seasonal soups. Every plate celebrates the art of the garden-to-table lifestyle, from the decadent crunch of candied bacon to the elegant sweetness of pear and goat cheese, inviting guests to linger over a meal that feels like a soulful embrace.
• Thai Singha House Restaurant — Thai · rated 4/5: The air at Thai Singha House Restaurant hums with the vibrant energy of a bustling market, filled with the enticing aromas of lemongrass-scented Fisherman Soup and savory, flame-grilled chicken satay. Guests are invited to linger over a colorful tapestry of hand-crafted treasures, from the delicate pleats of steamed shrimp shumai to the satisfying crunch of golden calamari and spicy, aromatic fish cakes.
• McGillin's Olde Ale House — American · rated 4/5: Stepping into this historic landmark feels like a warm embrace from the past, where the walls are layered with generations of memorabilia and the air is thick with the convivial spirit of a classic ale house. The kitchen turns out soul-warming comfort, from the satisfying crunch of golden cheesesteak eggrolls and zesty buffalo wings to the rich, melted indulgence of bubbling French onion soup. It is a timeless gathering spot where the clink of glasses and the aroma of hearty pub fare create an atmosphere of enduring hospitality and shared stories.
• Hymie's Delicatessen — American · rated 4/5: This bustling neighborhood institution hums with the nostalgic energy of a classic deli, where the comforting aroma of golden matzo ball soup and the sight of towering, hand-carved sandwiches like the legendary Reuben invite guests to settle into a cozy booth. The experience is a celebration of generous, time-honored flavors, culminating in decadent slices of Jewish apple cake or rich chocolate cake that offer a sweet and soulful finish to a quintessential dining tradition.
• Roberts Block Restaurant — American · rated 4/5: Roberts Block Restaurant pulses with a welcoming, communal energy, where the aroma of bubbling French onion soup and savory short rib tacos fills a space designed for lively gatherings and shared moments. The kitchen masterfully balances rustic charm with playful innovation, offering a menu where crispy, golden-breaded cheese curds and zesty ahi tuna share the table with inventive, hand-crafted bites like buffalo chicken pretzel strombolis. Whether sharing a sprawling charcuterie board or tucking into the daily soup du jour, guests find a spirited atmosphere that celebrates the art of elevated comfort food.
• Sea-lect Seafood — Seafood · rated 4/5: This bright coastal sanctuary invites guests to linger over steaming bowls of rich, homemade soups that capture the essence of the shore in every spoonful. Glistening displays of the morning’s freshest catch and plump shellfish are transformed into vibrant, flavor-forward plates, perfectly paired with a selection of soulful sides that celebrate the unadorned bounty of the sea.
• Turkey Berry — Thai · rated 4/5: Turkey Berry invites diners into a vibrant space where the air is perfumed with the citrusy zing of lemongrass and the irresistible aroma of golden, hand-rolled appetizers. The kitchen masters the art of the crunch, serving up an array of glistening, spice-dusted wings and savory satays that pair perfectly with the soul-warming heat of a classic, aromatic Tom Yum soup. It is a destination where bold Southeast Asian flavors collide, offering a playful yet refined experience that celebrates the perfect harmony of sweet, sour, and savory.
• Monk's Cafe — American · rated 3/5: This dimly lit sanctuary hums with the warmth of a storied neighborhood haunt, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of golden pommes frites and simmering seasonal soups. The kitchen masterfully bridges the gap between casual comfort and culinary artistry, pairing silky chicken liver mousse and smoky trout dip with inventive plates like lion’s mane mushroom cakes. It is a place designed for lingering, where guests gather over fiery "Spanish Flies" and tender lamb meatballs in an atmosphere that feels both timeless and vibrantly alive.
• Grandma's — American · rated 3/5: This vibrant eatery captures the soulful essence of a family kitchen, where the air is perfumed with the bright, citrusy steam of lemongrass and the comforting aroma of golden curry puffs. The experience centers on a bold balance of heat and heart, ranging from the refreshing, zesty crunch of traditional papaya salads to the fiery, deep-flavored intensity of the signature Crying Grandma. Every bowl of aromatic noodle soup and coconut-laced broth feels like a warm embrace, inviting guests to savor the nostalgic, punchy flavors of authentic home-style cooking.
• Zio's Brickoven Pizzeria — Italian: The golden glow of the brick oven serves as the heart of this inviting neighborhood retreat, where the comforting aroma of toasted crust and simmering seasonal soups fills the air. Vibrant, farm-fresh salads and crispy calamari provide a bright, textural contrast to soulful Southern-style sides, creating a menu that balances rustic indulgence with modern bistro flair. Whether lingering over a zesty chipotle chicken salad or enjoying the simple comfort of creamy mashed potatoes, guests find a sanctuary of honest flavors and warm hospitality.
• Bad Brother — American: Bad Brother captures the spirit of a modern neighborhood haunt, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of slow-roasted beef and the sharp, spicy tang of Sriracha-glazed wings. The kitchen elevates familiar comforts into soulful experiences, pairing velvety bowls of broccoli cheddar soup and crisp, garden-fresh salads with the indulgence of a perfectly seared cheeseburger. It is a space that invites guests to settle in and linger, balancing a laid-back atmosphere with a menu that celebrates the hearty, satisfying flavors of a contemporary public house.
• Sakura Japanese Cuisine — Japanese: Step into a serene sanctuary where the delicate aroma of dashi and toasted sesame sets the stage for a masterclass in Japanese craftsmanship. The kitchen transforms fresh ingredients into edible art, from the airy, golden crunch of tempura-fried soft shell crab to the zesty, melt-in-your-mouth elegance of spicy tuna tartar. Whether sharing plates of savory, pan-seared gyoza or savoring a quiet bowl of silken miso soup, guests find themselves immersed in a dining experience that balances traditional soul with modern refinement.
• Marathon - 16th & Sansom — American: This vibrant Center City cornerstone hums with the energy of a classic urban bistro, where floor-to-ceiling windows invite the city’s pulse into a space filled with the comforting aroma of simmering matzoh ball soup and golden, pan-seared pierogies. The menu celebrates elevated comfort, offering a soulful journey from bubbling pots of vegetarian chili to the nostalgic indulgence of creamy, oven-baked mac and cheese. It is a welcoming sanctuary where the bustle of the street fades behind plates of crispy calamari and shared flatbreads, making every meal feel like a warm neighborhood homecoming.
• Dim Sum Garden — Chinese: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive at the table in a flurry of activity, releasing fragrant clouds that unveil rows of delicate, broth-filled soup dumplings. The experience centers on the perfect contrast of textures, from the silken pleats of spicy pork xiao long bao to the satisfying, golden-brown crunch of pan-fried dumplings sizzled to a savory crisp. It is a lively culinary sanctuary where the rich aroma of ginger and chives invites guests to partake in the soulful ritual of the perfect first bite.
• Vernick Coffee Bar — American: This sun-drenched, sophisticated cafe invites guests into a polished space where the hum of a high-end coffee bar meets the refined artistry of a modern bistro. Vibrant grain bowls brimming with wild mushrooms and avocado sit alongside artfully plated salads of bitter radicchio and crisp Granny Smith apples, offering a masterclass in balanced, seasonal textures. From the delicate warmth of miso soup to the bold, seared flavors of blackened king salmon, every dish reflects a commitment to culinary precision that elevates a casual daytime meal into a truly elegant experience.
• Sampan — Chinese: Step into a high-energy oasis where dim lighting and a buzzing atmosphere set the stage for a playful reimagining of modern Asian street food. The kitchen transforms traditional dim sum into bold, inventive bites, from pillowy bao buns stuffed with savory cheesesteak to delicate soup dumplings that burst with the nostalgic heat of General Tso. Each plate arrives as a colorful mosaic of textures and spices, inviting diners to linger over shared cocktails and a parade of small plates that bridge the gap between classic technique and contemporary flair.
• White Dog Cafe — American: This whimsical retreat celebrates the spirit of the local harvest, inviting guests into a vibrant space where the earthy scent of wild mushroom soup mingles with the lively hum of a neighborhood gathering. Artisanal cheese boards and house-made pastas showcase a commitment to seasonal storytelling, while plates of heritage-breed pork and sustainable seafood are perfectly paired with crisp local ales and rich, house-roasted coffee.
• Heng Seng — Chinese: Steaming bowls of fragrant broth and the comforting aroma of savory congee fill this bustling noodle house, where the air is thick with the rich, soul-warming scents of traditional Phnom Penh-style cooking. Silky rice noodles and springy egg noodles are served either submerged in delicate seafood or beef soups or tossed dry with savory seasonings, all perfectly complemented by the satisfying crunch of golden fried dough.
• The Continental Mid-Town — American: Step into a vibrant, multi-level playground of mid-century glamour where retro-chic aesthetics and whimsical hanging chairs set the stage for a high-energy social experience. The kitchen turns out a playful parade of global small plates, blending the gooey richness of French onion soup dumplings with the spicy crunch of Szechuan shoestring fries and tender short rib bao buns. Whether you are sipping cocktails on the breezy rooftop or sharing eclectic bites in a plush booth, the atmosphere hums with a stylish energy that makes every meal feel like a celebration.
• Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti — Italian: Step into a sun-drenched Mediterranean escape where breezy, cobalt-blue accents and an airy atmosphere evoke the effortless glamour of the Italian seaside. The kitchen celebrates the vibrant spirit of the coast through a parade of sophisticated small plates, from the smoky char of grilled octopus and golden, molten-centered arancini to the bright, citrusy notes of artichoke and lemon soup. It is a spirited sanctuary where the aroma of crisp fritto misto and the elegance of creamy burrata invite guests to linger over shared flavors and coastal dreams.
• Pearl's Oyster Bar — Seafood: Pearl’s Oyster Bar captures the spirit of a bustling coastal morning, where the briny aroma of freshly shucked oysters meets the sweet, comforting scent of cinnamon-dusted French toast and sizzling bacon. Guests gather over decadent plates of crab cake benedict and crispy chicken and waffles, while rich bowls of snapping turtle soup and velvety oyster stew provide a savory depth to the lively, sun-drenched atmosphere. This soulful retreat transforms the traditional raw bar into a vibrant brunch destination where every bite feels like a celebration of the sea and the shore.
• Trio BYOB — Thai: Trio BYOB invites diners into a vibrant culinary crossroads where the bold, aromatic spices of Southeast Asia meet playful global inspirations in a relaxed, intimate setting. The air hums with the scent of lemongrass and sizzling bulgogi as plates of crispy duck drizzled in golden apricot glaze and smoky pastrami drunken noodles arrive at candlelit tables. From the delicate crunch of real crab rangoon to the comforting warmth of herb-infused soups, every dish offers a soulful exploration of texture and tradition reimagined for a modern palate.
• Heng Feng — Chinese: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive at the table filled with delicate, hand-pleated treasures, from the rich, broth-filled Nan Xiang soup dumplings to the savory elegance of Shanghai-style shao mai. The air carries the enticing aroma of searing dough as pan-fried buns achieve a perfect golden crunch, while sweet, silken custard buns offer a pillowy finish to this masterclass in traditional craftsmanship.
• Chef's Table — American: Chef’s Table invites guests into a vibrant culinary hub where the comforting aroma of bubbling pasta and toasted artisan bread creates an atmosphere of soulful, scratch-made hospitality. From the golden, melted layers of their signature grilled cheese to the nostalgic warmth of a full Thanksgiving feast, every dish is crafted to elevate classic comfort food into a refined dining experience. Whether grabbing a thoughtfully curated boxed lunch or lingering over a steaming bowl of house-made soup, diners find a welcoming retreat that celebrates the art of the perfect meal.
• JiangNan Philadelphia — Chinese: JiangNan Philadelphia invites diners into a sophisticated sanctuary where the enticing aroma of honey-glazed Peking duck and the gentle steam from handcrafted soup dumplings fill the air. The kitchen masterfully balances the fiery tingle of Szechuan spices with the comforting richness of braised pork belly, offering a vibrant tapestry of flavors that transforms every meal into a celebrated exploration of regional Chinese excellence.
• Hibachi 2 Go — Japanese: This energetic neighborhood spot hums with the sizzle of the grill and the enticing aroma of pan-seared gyoza, inviting guests into a world of vibrant Japanese flavors. Golden, light-as-air tempura and savory takoyaki offer a satisfying crunch alongside steaming bowls of miso soup, creating a soulful dining experience that balances the speed of modern life with the warmth of traditional comfort food.