Soup’s On: Where to Grab a Bowl of the Good Stuff

When you don’t feel like cooking (guilty), avoid the drive through and make a stop at one of our favorite places around town for a bowl of delicious, healthy soup. It’ll warm your belly and sneak in a serving of veggies. From chowder to matzo ball to spicy pozole, we’ve found steamy goodness that will satisfy your family’s hearty appetites.

Photo: Jack M. via Yelp

For Pozole Go to El Comal
In the hustle bustle of North Park you’ll find this Mexican taco shop that offers lots of Mexican classics but may be overlooked for its outstanding soups. All the soups are homemade, but the Red Pozole steals the show with tender chicken was hominy and rich broth. It is served with a tostada and fresh cilantro and avocado fixings. The authentic Albondigas is full of fresh veggies and tender meatballs. Never tried either of these Mexican favorites? Stop in and spice up an otherwise boring weeknight!

Insider’s Tip: Closed Monday through Wednesday between 3-5 p.m. Open again for dinner.

3946 Illinois St.
San Diego, Ca 92104
619-294-8292
Online: elcomalsd.com

For Matzo Ball Soup Go to D.Z. Akins
This East County spot has been making chicken soup for generations. In an unassuming diner atmosphere, you’ll feast on perfect matzo balls in a rich broth. No wonder your grandmother always told you to have a bowl of chicken soup when you were feeling sick. Don’t overlook the soups of the day. They are delicious, plentiful and comforting. Choices include potato, cream of broccoli, black bean, split pea and more.

Insider’s Tip: Ready to make soup part of your weekly meal plan? Sign up for their Nosher’s list and get coupons and a list of soup of the day in your inbox for inspiration.

6930 Alvarado Rd.
San Diego, Ca 92120
Phone: 619-265-0218
Online: dzakinsdeli.com

Photo: Melissa Mullen

For Chowder Go to The Fish Market
If you’re near the coast, don’t miss an opportunity to chow down on chowder at this spot with its warm decor and casual vibe. Whether you choose the red spicy Manhattan clam chowder or white creamy New England style, you’ll savor fresh, flavorful clams in this hearty chowder. Its rich texture will keep you coming back for more. Get it to go with some fresh French bread.

Two locations: San Diego Harbor and Solana Beach
Online: thefishmarket.com

For Homemade Soup of the Day Go to Girard Gourmet
Translated from Spanish, La Jolla means “the gem”. We think this delicious deli is one of downtown La Jolla’s most delightful gems. The soup (and everything else!) is homemade with love and uses fresh, local vegetable straight from the owners’ farm in Julian. They offer a variety of delicious soups each day: mushroom, white bean and ham, and tomato basil to name a few. Their stew is also out of this world. Call ahead to see what’s cooking before you arrive. While there, pick up some homemade goodies or bread made with old world style. We can’t keep our hands off their almond croissants!

7837 Girard Ave.
La Jolla, Ca 92037
Phone: 858-454-3325
Online: girardgourmet.com

Photo: Lanya G. via Yelp 

For Carrot Ginger Go to The Naked Cafe
If a creamy bowl of vegetarian soup is what best satisfies your crew, nothing beats The Naked Cafe. You’ll love the modern vibe of this place where the focus is all about healthy eating. They are known for their Carrot Ginger Soup. Creamy with a bit of bite, try this delightful soup with one of their delicious salads, wraps, or sandwiches.

Four Locations: Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana Beach, and Point Loma
Online: thenakedcafe.com

Photo: Dustin C. via Yelp

For Tom Yum Soup Go toThe Original Sab-E-Lee
You can’t help but say, “Yum!” when your spoon hits the spicy, flavorful broth of Sab-E-Lee’s wonderful Tom Yum soup. Made to order to your spice request, be careful of what you wish for here. Anything over a “5” has real kick to it!  You’ll love slurping the sour,spicy, savory broth with lots of crunchy vegetables, lemongrass, and nice portions of chicken or beef. Their drunken noodles are delicious too!

2 Locations: Linda Vista and Rancho Penasquitos
Online: originalsab-e-lee

We bet you have your favorite spots for soup. Where (and what picks) should we add to our list? 

— Cherie Gough