As the crisp air of fall settles in, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of soup. From savory chicken noodle to creamy tomato bisque, soups are the perfect go-to meal or appetizer during colder months.
While it’s easy to whip up a homemade soup, sometimes you just want the convenience of grabbing a delicious, ready-made bowl from your favorite restaurant. Luckily, many popular restaurant chains have soups on their menus, with some serving up varieties so flavorful and hearty that they keep customers coming back for more.
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic bowl of chicken noodle or a unique lobster bisque, these 9 restaurant chains are known for their outstanding soups. Let’s dive in and discover what makes each of these chains stand out when it comes to serving delicious soups.
1. Panera Bread
Panera Bread is a go-to for soup lovers. Known for its fresh ingredients and homestyle cooking, Panera offers a wide variety of soups that can be enjoyed as a main course or paired with a sandwich or salad. You can choose from favorites like Broccoli Cheddar, Chicken Noodle, and Creamy Tomato, all of which can be served in a bread bowl for an extra indulgent experience. As the seasons change, Panera also introduces limited-time options such as Autumn Squash Soup and Baked Potato Soup, making it a great stop for seasonal flavors.
Additionally, Panera’s soups are also available in grocery stores, allowing customers to enjoy their favorites at home.
2. Pret A Manger
With nearly 60 locations across the United States, Pret a Manger offers quick, nutritious meals, including a fantastic selection of soups. Their soup offerings, such as Moroccan Lentil, Super Greens, and Tomato & Feta, cater to both vegetarian and vegan preferences. Pret’s soups are made with high-quality ingredients, ensuring that you get a healthy and delicious meal on the go. The Turmeric Chicken & Farro is a standout option for those who want something warm and protein-packed.
Soup lovers often rave about Pret’s wholesome approach to meal preparation, making it a great choice for both taste and nutrition.
3. Olive Garden
Who could forget the never-ending soup, salad, and breadsticks deal at Olive Garden? This Italian-American favorite serves up four delightful soups, including Zuppa Toscana, Minestrone, Pasta e Fagioli, and the fan-favorite Chicken Gnocchi. Known for their rich flavors and hearty ingredients, these soups are perfect for anyone seeking comfort food in a bowl. The Zuppa Toscana, with its blend of Italian sausage, kale, and potatoes, is especially popular among regulars.
With Olive Garden’s homemade approach to soups, it’s no surprise that fans have tried replicating their recipes at home.
4. LongHorn Steakhouse
Though famous for its steaks, LongHorn Steakhouse also serves up some highly-rated soups. The menu currently offers options like Loaded Potato, Shrimp and Lobster Chowder, and a delectable French Onion Soup. The French Onion is particularly noteworthy, featuring a seasoned crostini, Swiss and provolone cheeses, and the chain’s signature parmesan and garlic cheese crust.
Soup lovers often praise LongHorn for their hearty servings and comforting flavors, making it a top pick for those who love rich, savory soups.
5. Outback Steakhouse
Known for its robust menu, Outback Steakhouse adds an exciting twist to its soup offerings with choices like Baked Potato Soup, French Onion Soup, and the spicy Tasmanian Chili. The Tasmanian Chili is a unique, all-steak chili without beans, making it a hit for those looking for something different. Topped with cheese and green onions, it’s available in both cup and bowl sizes, ensuring you can get just the right portion for your appetite.
The Australian-themed steakhouse’s variety of soups provides a welcome complement to its hearty entrees.
6. The Capital Grille
For a more upscale dining experience, The Capital Grille offers a refined selection of soups, including New England Clam Chowder, Lobster Bisque, and a perfectly executed French Onion Soup. The clam chowder and bisque are rich and creamy, providing a luxurious start to your meal. Fans particularly enjoy the lobster bisque, with its rich, buttery flavor and generous chunks of lobster.
These soups are ideal for those seeking a more indulgent dining experience in a sophisticated setting.
7. P.F. Chang’s
While known for its Asian-inspired cuisine, P.F. Chang’s also offers a few classic soups, including Wonton, Egg Drop, and Hot & Sour. Each of these soups is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, offering a balance of flavors that perfectly complements the restaurant’s other dishes. The Hot & Sour Soup delivers a tangy, spicy kick that fans adore, while the Wonton Soup provides a lighter, more delicate option.
These flavorful soups make a perfect addition to any meal, offering warmth and comfort with every spoonful.
8. Chili’s
Famous for its Tex-Mex dishes, Chili’s also serves up hearty soups, including its renowned Chicken Enchilada Soup and Baked Potato Soup. The Chicken Enchilada Soup is packed with flavor, featuring shredded chicken, melted cheese, and a zesty enchilada base. Fans of the chain often rave about the Baked Potato Soup as well, which is loaded with bacon, cheese, and green onions.
Chili’s soups provide the perfect blend of bold flavors and comforting ingredients, making them a top choice for fall and winter dining.
9. Applebee’s
Applebee’s may be best known for its burgers and ribs, but the chain’s soups are not to be overlooked. Applebee’s offers a variety of soups, including French Onion, Chicken Tortilla, and Tomato Basil. The French Onion Soup, in particular, has a loyal fan base and is frequently praised for its deep, savory broth and generous topping of melted cheese.
Applebee’s soups offer an affordable and delicious option for those seeking comfort food without breaking the bank.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re looking for a quick cup of soup on the go or a hearty bowl to complement your meal, these 9 restaurant chains deliver some of the best soups you can find. From the indulgent lobster bisque at The Capital Grille to the comforting chicken enchilada soup at Chili’s, there’s something for every soup lover.
As soup season approaches, be sure to explore these options and savor the warm, comforting flavors each chain has to offer.
FAQs
1. Which Chain Has The Best Selection Of Soups?
Panera Bread stands out with its wide variety of soups, including seasonal and year-round options, making it a top choice for soup lovers.
2. Are There Vegan Or Vegetarian Soup Options At These Chains?
Yes, chains like Pret a Manger and Panera Bread offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly soups such as Moroccan Lentil and Tomato Basil.
3. Can I Buy Restaurant Soups At Grocery Stores?
Yes, Panera Bread offers many of its popular soups, like Broccoli Cheddar and Creamy Tomato, in grocery stores for easy at-home enjoyment.
4. What’s The Most Popular Soup At Olive Garden?
The Chicken Gnocchi and Zuppa Toscana soups are fan favorites at Olive Garden, loved for their creamy, hearty flavors.
5. Which Soup Is The Healthiest?
Many soups can be healthy, especially those with broth bases and lots of vegetables. Options like Pret a Manger’s Super Greens Soup or Panera’s Vegetarian Black Bean Soup offer nutritious, lighter choices.
