Best Cheap Soup in Portland | Top 21 Cheap Spots

30 restaurants in Best Cheap Soup in Portland | Top 21 Cheap Spots

• Ma-Kin Thai & Sushi — Thai · rated 4/5: Ma-Kin Thai & Sushi invites diners into a vibrant space where the fragrant steam of lemongrass and galangal-infused soups mingles with the crisp, golden crunch of perfectly fried tempura. The kitchen balances the bold, creamy heat of traditional Tom Kha with the delicate artistry of hand-rolled sushi, creating a sensory journey through the bright, soulful flavors of Southeast Asia. Every plate, from the savory snap of a pot sticker to the zesty depth of Tom Yum, is crafted to offer a comforting yet elevated escape for the palate.
• Jade Bistro — Chinese · rated 4/5: Jade Bistro invites guests into a vibrant, modern sanctuary where the fragrant steam of coconut rice noodle soup and the earthy aroma of truffle-dusted fries create an immediate sense of culinary intrigue. The kitchen artfully balances tradition and playfulness, serving up everything from the delicate, translucent chew of authentic banh bot loc to the golden, irresistible crunch of salt and pepper squid. Each plate arrives as a colorful mosaic of Southeast Asian-inspired flavors, offering a sophisticated yet soulful dining experience that feels both familiar and refreshingly bold.
• Lucky Labrador — American · rated 4/5: This neighborhood gathering spot hums with a relaxed, communal energy, inviting guests to linger over wholesome, shareable plates in a space that feels like a welcoming home away from home. Vibrant mezze platters and garden-fresh salads like the roasted beet and Italian chop offer a burst of seasonal color, while warm breadsticks and steaming bowls of the daily soup provide a comforting anchor to the meal. Whether you’re crunching through house-made chips or sharing a generous hummus plate, the experience is one of effortless hospitality and simple, honest flavors.
• Marco's Cafe — Italian · rated 4/5: Marco's Cafe invites guests into a sun-dappled sanctuary where the gentle hum of neighborhood conversation mingles with the comforting aroma of slow-simmered stocks and fresh herbs. The kitchen finds its heart in soulful, seasonal creations like the velvety Soup du Jour, where earthy mushrooms are transformed into a rich, cream-kissed masterpiece that warms from the inside out. It is a charming retreat that turns a simple midday meal into a lingering moment of culinary comfort, perfect for those seeking a refined yet cozy escape.
• Muddy Rudder — Seafood · rated 4/5: This inviting waterfront-inspired escape welcomes guests with the vibrant colors of crisp organic salads and the savory aroma of daily-simmered soups. Friends gather over overflowing snack boards and golden bruschetta, enjoying a laid-back atmosphere where fresh, wholesome ingredients take center stage in every thoughtfully prepared bowl.
• Gluten Free Gem — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams into this inviting bakery-cafe, where the air is thick with the comforting scent of golden vegetable quiches and bubbling seasonal soups. It is a vibrant sanctuary where gluten-free diners indulge in everything from chewy, toasted bagels to savory vegan tarts bursting with fresh, garden-inspired flavors. The glass cases overflow with an artisanal bounty of crumbly coffeecakes, fudgy brownies, and citrus-glazed tea cakes, proving that dietary freedom can be just as decadent and soul-warming as any traditional pastry shop.
• Gluten Free Gem — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight dances across glass display cases filled with golden vegetable quiches and seasonal tarts, filling the air with the comforting scent of toasted bagels and warm spices. This inviting sanctuary transforms gluten-free baking into an art form, offering everything from crumbly pear cardamom coffeecakes to rich, fudgy brownies that pair perfectly with a steaming bowl of vibrant seasonal soup.
• The Lucky Labrador Brew Pub — American · rated 3/5: Steeped in a relaxed, neighborhood charm, this lively brewpub invites guests into a communal space where the aroma of fresh-baked breadsticks and savory soups fills the air. The kitchen focuses on bright, wholesome flavors, offering everything from vibrant roasted beet salads to shared mezze plates that perfectly complement a cold, house-crafted pint. It is a quintessential gathering spot where the casual, dog-friendly atmosphere and honest, garden-fresh fare create a sense of effortless belonging.
• Lucky Labrador Beer Hall — American · rated 3/5: Housed in a spacious, industrial-chic hall where the hum of lively conversation mingles with the clinking of pint glasses, this neighborhood staple offers a warm and unpretentious retreat. Guests gather around communal tables to share vibrant mezze platters and crusty bread dipped in creamy hummus, while crisp, colorful salads and steaming bowls of seasonal soup provide a fresh, wholesome balance to the rotating craft brews. It is a place where the casual spirit of a classic public house meets a menu of bright, Mediterranean-inspired flavors, creating an inviting atmosphere for friends and four-legged companions alike.
• Wilfs Restaurant — Steakhouse: Stepping into Wilfs Restaurant feels like entering a timeless sanctuary of refined comfort, where the rich aroma of bubbling French onion soup and velvety crab bisque sets the stage for an evening of classic indulgence. Guests linger over golden fried oysters and sizzling steak bites in an atmosphere that balances sophisticated elegance with the intimate charm of a traditional supper club. The experience is anchored by shared moments, from the crisp theatricality of a Caesar salad prepared tableside for two to the delicate crunch of coconut prawns, making every meal feel like a celebrated occasion.
• India Oven — Indian: Step into a vibrant sanctuary where the intoxicating aroma of toasted cumin and coriander heralds a feast of bold, traditional flavors. Golden-hued vegetable pakoras and crisp lamb samosas offer a satisfying crunch that transitions into the fiery, crimson heat of Chicken 65 or the tangy, cooling layers of a classic aloo tikki chaat. The experience is anchored by a sense of deep warmth, whether you are finding comfort in a steaming bowl of earthy daal soup or the bright, garden-fresh snap of a zesty kachumber salad.
• Addy's Sandwich Bar — American: This charming sandwich bar hums with the satisfying crunch of crusty baguettes and the savory aroma of house-cured meats, offering a sophisticated yet soulful take on the midday meal. Guests can tuck into a classic ham and butter baguette or explore vibrant daily specials, from earthy farro salads to fragrant, steaming bowls of kale coconut soup. It is a bright, inviting sanctuary where the simplicity of a perfectly composed sandwich meets the artistry of artisanal ingredients, creating a lunch experience that feels both indulgent and effortless.
• Habibi — Middle Eastern: Soft lighting and the comforting aroma of simmering lentil soup set the stage at this inviting Mediterranean sanctuary, where communal dining is elevated to an art form. Silk-smooth hummus and smoky baba ghannouj share the table with hand-rolled grape leaves and savory cabbage rolls, offering a tapestry of textures that celebrate a rich culinary heritage. Each meal feels like a heartfelt invitation into a family kitchen, where the tang of fresh lebney and the warmth of traditional spices linger long after the final bite.
• Portland Kettle — American: Steaming cauldrons of slow-simmered comfort define this inviting retreat, where the air is perpetually perfumed with the savory aroma of mirepoix and rich, golden broths. Whether tucking into a bright, citrus-kissed lemon chicken soup or a robust bowl of smoky split pea and ham, diners find a soul-soothing sanctuary in every ladleful of these hearty, handcrafted classics.
• Behind the Museum Café — Japanese: Tucked away like a well-kept secret, this serene sanctuary blends the minimalist elegance of a Japanese tea house with the inviting warmth of a modern neighborhood café. The air is filled with the comforting aroma of savory miso soup and toasted baguettes, while the kitchen artfully pairs hand-pressed onigiri and delicate wasabi chazuke with hearty, artisanal sandwiches. It is a soulful retreat where every bite offers a moment of quiet contemplation, perfectly capturing the harmony between traditional craft and contemporary comfort.
• Tasty Corner Chinese Restaurant — Chinese: Clouds of steam from delicate pork soup dumplings mingle with the bold, numbing aroma of Szechuan peppercorns in this vibrant space where authentic flavors take center stage. Guests navigate a landscape of fiery Chong Qing fish and chewy, hand-shaven noodles tossed in house-made oils, each bite offering a masterful balance of intense heat and rustic heartiness. The experience finds its perfect counterpoint in the cooling crispness of a Tsingtao beer or the gentle, fermented sweetness of sticky rice wine, creating a spirited dining journey that lingers long after the last bite.
• Nong's Khao Man Gai — Thai: Stepping into this vibrant eatery, guests are greeted by the comforting aroma of ginger, garlic, and slow-simmered broth that defines their signature poached chicken and fragrant, fat-rendered rice. Each plate is a masterclass in soul-warming simplicity, where tender poultry or succulent braised pork meets a punchy, fermented soybean sauce, all rounded out by a clear, peppery soup that captures the heart of authentic street food culture.
• Crema — Mexican: Sunlight dances across this airy neighborhood haunt, where the comforting aroma of buttery, golden-crust quiches and toasted focaccia invites a lingering moment of calm. The kitchen transforms fresh ingredients into elevated café classics, from crisp garden salads and savory turnovers to warm, pressed paninis that pair perfectly with a steaming bowl of the day’s featured soup.
• Chens Dynasty II — Chinese: Chens Dynasty II invites diners into a world of classic comfort, where the rhythmic clatter of the wok and the enticing aroma of toasted sesame fill the air. Golden, crispy crab puffs give way to creamy centers, while bowls of steaming hot and sour soup offer a bold, peppery warmth that perfectly sets the stage for vibrant plates of glazed sweet and sour shrimp. Each meal is anchored by the smoky, savory depth of wok-fired pork fried rice, creating a timeless dining experience that celebrates the heart of traditional flavors.
• Nuestra Cocina — Mexican: Step into a vibrant, soul-warming space where the bright tang of lime soup and the intoxicating aroma of slow-simmered mole transport you to the heart of Mexico. The kitchen honors tradition through tender folds of cochinita pibil and succulent lamb barbacoa, perfectly paired with the crisp, salt-rimmed zing of a signature house margarita. Every plate, from the golden crunch of shredded beef taquitos to garlic-infused shrimp, captures a festive spirit that turns a simple meal into a rich, sensory journey.
• Nong's Khao Man Gai — Thai: Nong's Khao Man Gai is a vibrant destination where the comforting aroma of ginger and garlic-infused jasmine rice fills the air, drawing diners in for a masterclass in Thai street food simplicity. Tender poached chicken and succulent slow-braised pork leg are served alongside bowls of soul-warming "Super Soup," all elevated by a legendary, pungent sauce that balances spicy, sweet, and savory notes in every bite. This bustling spot captures the heart of Bangkok’s culinary spirit, offering a focused experience where every element is refined to fragrant perfection.
• Crisp — Korean: Crisp is a sun-drenched sanctuary of freshness where the rhythmic sound of chopping and the bright aroma of citrus-infused dressings create an atmosphere of wholesome vitality. Diners navigate a kaleidoscope of textures, from the satisfying crunch of golden-brown chicken to the zesty, herb-forward notes of the San Pancho bowl and the fragrant warmth of Thai Yum Curry soup. This vibrant destination elevates the art of the salad, inviting guests to savor thoughtfully curated combinations that transform seasonal ingredients into a vivid, sensory celebration.
• Vista Spring Cafe — American: Vista Spring Cafe invites guests into a sun-drenched, welcoming space where the comforting aroma of golden garlic knots and savory baked meatballs sets the stage for a relaxed neighborhood meal. The kitchen balances playful textures and fresh flavors, serving up everything from crispy fried ravioli and beer-battered pickles to elegant pear salads and vibrant Mediterranean platters. Whether warming up with a steaming bowl of the daily soup or sharing a bright caprese salad, diners find a soulful retreat that celebrates the simple joy of well-crafted comfort food.
• Justa Pasta — Italian: Sunlight dances across vibrant plates of roasted beets and pear-studded salads in this inviting space, where the earthy fragrance of creamy wild mushroom soup fills the air with a sense of home. The kitchen strikes a harmonious balance between garden-fresh lightness and soulful comfort, serving up golden, herb-crusted Chicken Parmesan alongside crisp organic greens that celebrate the season’s best flavors. It is a welcoming retreat where every bowl and plate feels like a nourishing embrace, perfect for a restorative midday escape or a relaxed evening meal.
• Davenport — American: Davenport offers an intimate escape where the briny brightness of raw oysters and the earthy depth of celery root soup invite guests into a world of sophisticated, seasonal flavors. The kitchen excels in a harmonious blend of textures, from the delicate fold of rabbit agnolotti to the golden sear of scallops and the savory richness of a perfectly prepared crepinette. Each plate is a testament to refined craftsmanship, creating a dining experience that feels both effortlessly chic and soulfully satisfying.
• SeaSweets Poke — Japanese: This vibrant coastal escape invites diners to dive into bowls of jewel-toned sashimi, where the ocean’s freshest catch is transformed through bold, aromatic infusions. Earthy truffle oil, fragrant lemongrass, and zesty cumin lime elevate traditional Hawaiian poke into a sophisticated sensory experience, perfectly balanced by the comforting warmth of savory miso soup. It is a bright, modern sanctuary where every customizable creation celebrates the clean, bright flavors of the Pacific.
• Nova Coffee — American: Nova Coffee serves as a sun-drenched sanctuary for the morning crowd, where the aroma of freshly toasted Bowery bagels and artisanal espresso creates an inviting neighborhood hum. The kitchen transforms simple staples into vibrant masterpieces, from zesty jalapeño salmon spreads and creamy avocado toasts to soul-warming bowls of tomato soup paired with perfectly melted grilled cheese.
• Mio Sushi — Japanese: Mio Sushi invites diners into a vibrant, contemporary space where the timeless art of Japanese cuisine is reimagined through a lens of playful innovation. The kitchen turns out striking creations like the architecturally stunning Mio Tower and the inventive Sushizza, alongside steaming bowls of miso soup and perfectly crisped gyoza that ground the meal in classic comfort. Every plate arrives as a colorful celebration of fresh ingredients and bold textures, making each visit a lively exploration of both tradition and modern culinary flair.
• Thai Peacock — Thai: Vibrant colors and the intoxicating aroma of lemongrass and toasted spices fill this lively space, where every dish tells a story of tradition and heat. From the comforting warmth of golden egg noodle soups to the savory-sweet perfection of crimson-glazed Khao Moo Dang, the kitchen transforms fresh ingredients into a symphony of bold, aromatic flavors that transport diners to the heart of a bustling Thai market.
• Jake's Grill — American: Stepping into Jake's Grill feels like entering a timeless sanctuary of Pacific Northwest bounty and classic American elegance. The air is thick with the savory aroma of bubbling French onion soup and rich duck confit, while plates of chilled Dungeness crab and delicate Kobe beef carpaccio showcase a commitment to refined, coastal flavors. It’s a sophisticated destination where every meal feels like a celebration of tradition, from the crisp snap of a jumbo prawn cocktail to the comforting warmth of a velvety clam chowder.