Austin, Texas, boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, and nowhere is this more apparent than in its soup offerings. From classic comfort foods to innovative and globally-inspired creations, the city’s restaurants offer a wide array of delicious and satisfying soups. This comprehensive guide explores 18 of the best soups Austin has to offer, categorized for your convenience. Whether you crave a creamy tomato soup or a spicy pho, you'll find something to warm your soul (and your stomach) in this list of the best Austin soups.
Hearty & Classic Soups
This category focuses on those comforting, familiar bowls of soup that never disappoint. These are the perfect choices for a chilly evening or a quick, satisfying lunch.
1. The Salt Lick BBQ's Smoked Sausage Soup
This isn't your grandma's sausage soup. The Salt Lick BBQ infuses its version with their signature smoky flavor, creating a rich and deeply savory broth. The generous chunks of smoked sausage add a satisfying texture, making this a true Texas classic.
2. Odd Duck's Seasonal Vegetable Soup
Odd Duck is known for its innovative and seasonal menus, and this is reflected in its ever-changing vegetable soup. Using locally-sourced ingredients, their soup is a vibrant showcase of fresh flavors and textures. Expect unique combinations and surprising depth of flavor.
3. Franklin Barbecue's Creamy Potato Soup (Seasonal)
While famously known for its barbecue, Franklin Barbecue occasionally offers a creamy potato soup that’s legendary amongst its fans. It's rich, creamy, and perfectly seasoned—a true taste of comfort. Note that this is a seasonal offering, so availability varies.
4. Güero's Taco Bar's Tortilla Soup
A Tex-Mex staple, Güero's Taco Bar’s tortilla soup is a crowd-pleaser. Filled with shredded chicken, crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and a flavorful broth, it’s a satisfying and authentic experience. They use fresh ingredients, creating a vibrant and flavorful soup that is consistently delicious.
International Flavors
Austin's diverse population brings with it a wealth of international culinary traditions, and these soups reflect that.
5. Pho Saigon's Pho
A true Vietnamese classic, Pho Saigon's pho is a must-try for any soup lover. The rich, flavorful broth, combined with tender beef, rice noodles, and fresh herbs, creates a truly aromatic and satisfying bowl.
6. Justine's Brasserie's French Onion Soup
Justine's Brasserie offers an authentic French onion soup, with a deeply caramelized onion broth, topped with a perfectly toasted baguette and melted Gruyère cheese. It’s rich, savory, and a quintessential French comfort food.
7. Uchi's Miso Soup
Uchi, known for its upscale sushi, also offers a delicious miso soup. While simple in its ingredients, the quality of the miso paste and the careful preparation elevates this classic to an art form. The subtle umami flavors are a perfect complement to the sushi menu.
8. Matt's El Rancho's Caldo de Res
A hearty Mexican beef soup, Matt's El Rancho's Caldo de Res is a warming and flavorful choice. The rich broth, tender beef, and assorted vegetables make it a filling and comforting meal.
Creative & Unique Soups
Austin's chefs aren't afraid to push boundaries, and these creative soup offerings are proof of that.
9. Veracruz All Natural's Caldo de Pollo
This isn't your average chicken soup. Veracruz All Natural infuses their Caldo de Pollo with fresh herbs and spices, creating a light yet flavorful broth that's perfect for a warm day.
10. Hopdoddy Burger Bar's French Onion Soup
Hopdoddy's take on French onion soup is a sophisticated twist on the classic. They often add unique touches to the traditional recipe, making it a memorable experience.
11. Josephine House's Creamy Tomato Soup
Josephine House provides an elevated creamy tomato soup experience, often incorporating unique flavor profiles and textures to make it stand out from the rest.
12. Barley Swine's Seasonal Soup (Check their website for details)
Barley Swine is known for its innovative and ever-changing menu, featuring creatively conceived soups that emphasize fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Vegetarian & Vegan Options
Austin's focus on healthy and plant-based options shines through in these delicious vegetarian and vegan soups.
13. Counter Culture's Vegan Chili
Counter Culture's Vegan Chili is a hearty and flavorful plant-based option that will satisfy even the most ardent meat-lovers. The rich texture and savory spices make it a truly delicious and satisfying choice.
14. Banger's Sausage House & Beer Garden's Vegetarian Chili (Seasonal)
Banger's offers a vegetarian chili during certain seasons, offering a flavorful and hearty alternative for those seeking plant-based comfort food.
15. Casa de Luz's Black Bean Soup
Casa de Luz's Black Bean Soup is a vegan staple, known for its rich and deeply flavorful broth. It's a testament to how flavorful a simple dish can be when made with high-quality ingredients and careful preparation.
Soups with a Twist
These soups offer unique twists on familiar favorites or introduce entirely new flavor profiles.
16. Easy Tiger Bake Shop & Beer Garden's Soup du Jour
Easy Tiger regularly features a different soup each day, always prepared with fresh and seasonal ingredients. This is a great option for adventurous eaters looking to try something new. Check their daily menu online.
17. Thundercloud Subs's Tomato Soup
While known for subs, their tomato soup is a surprisingly delicious addition to their menu. Simple and classic, it's a comforting and nostalgic choice.
18. Your Favorite Local Eatery’s Soup Special
Don't forget to explore the hidden culinary gems! Many smaller local eateries and restaurants often have daily soup specials, offering unique and exciting flavor combinations. Venture out and discover your new favorite soup in Austin!
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Austin Soup
Austin's soup scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Whether you're a fan of classic comfort food or adventurous culinary experiences, there's a perfect bowl of soup waiting for you. This list is just a starting point; the best way to discover your favorite Austin soup is to explore and try something new! So grab a spoon and embark on your own culinary adventure through the best soups Austin has to offer. Remember to check restaurant websites for menus and hours, as availability and offerings can change seasonally. Happy soup hunting!
