Best Soups in London: A Warming Guide to the City’s Finest Bowls

When the chill of London’s breeze nips at your cheeks, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of soup. From velvety bisques to hearty ramen and traditional English broths, London offers a rich variety of soups that cater to every palate.

Whether you are seeking a cosy corner to warm up during winter or a healthy, flavour-packed lunch option, this guide to the best soups in London will take you through some of the city’s most beloved soup destinations.

The Enduring Popularity of Soup in London

Soup holds a timeless appeal in London. Historically, soups have been a staple in British households, providing warmth and nourishment during the damp, cold months. In recent years, the city’s culinary scene has elevated soup from a simple starter to a main event, with chefs experimenting with global flavours and local ingredients.

The diversity of London’s population has also contributed to this evolution, bringing in Asian broths, Middle Eastern lentil soups, and Mediterranean gazpachos, each adding to the city’s dynamic food culture.

Traditional British Soups You Must Try

Before exploring global options, one must start with some classic British soups:

1. Pea and Ham Soup

A true comfort dish, pea and ham soup combines the sweetness of garden peas with the smoky richness of ham. Often served with crusty bread, this soup is particularly popular in traditional British pubs across London.

2. Mulligatawny

Originating during the British colonial era in India, mulligatawny is a spicy, curry-flavoured soup that has become a favourite in London. Typically made with chicken, rice, and lentils, it offers a warming, aromatic experience.

3. Leek and Potato Soup

Simple yet satisfying, leek and potato soup is a creamy classic that highlights the natural sweetness of leeks. Many London cafes serve this with a drizzle of cream and fresh herbs.

International Soups Taking London by Storm

London’s multicultural spirit shines through its soup offerings. Here are some must-try international soups:

1. Japanese Ramen

Ramen has become a beloved dish among Londoners. Tonkotsu, Shoryu, and Kanada-Ya are among the most popular ramen spots where you can savour a rich pork or chicken broth, topped with noodles, soft-boiled eggs, and sliced pork.

2. Vietnamese Pho

Pho is a fragrant Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, fresh herbs, and rice noodles. Restaurants like Pho & Bun in Soho or Mien Tay in Shoreditch offer some of the finest versions in the city.

3. French Onion Soup

For a taste of France in London, many brasseries serve traditional French onion soup — a caramelised onion broth topped with cheesy toasted bread. Côte Brasserie and Balthazar are excellent choices.

4. Chinese Hot and Sour Soup

An excellent option on a cold evening, hot and sour soup combines a spicy, tangy broth with mushrooms, tofu, and bamboo shoots. Chinatown offers many authentic options, including at Four Seasons and Golden Dragon.

Vegan and Healthy Soup Options

For those seeking vegan or health-conscious choices, London’s plant-based scene does not disappoint. Soups rich in seasonal vegetables, pulses, and grains provide nutrition without compromising on flavour.

• Mildreds in Soho offers a daily soup special that is always vegan and accompanied by homemade bread.
• Redemption in Covent Garden focuses on nutritious vegan soups such as carrot and coriander or spiced lentil.
• Planet Organic branches across London offer a rotating selection of organic, dairy-free soups perfect for a quick lunch.

Hidden Gems for Soup Lovers

Beyond the popular establishments, there are lesser-known spots where soup shines:

• Honey & Co., a small Middle Eastern café, serves a legendary lentil soup with a citrusy punch.
• Lina Stores, famed for its pasta, also offers an Italian minestrone soup that is both hearty and fresh.
• The Good Egg in Stoke Newington serves an Ashkenazi chicken soup that is deeply comforting, often described as “Jewish penicillin.”

Seasonal Soups Worth Waiting For

Some soups are seasonal and eagerly awaited by locals each year:

• Pumpkin and Squash Soups: In autumn, many cafes such as Ottolenghi or Gail’s Bakery highlight these creamy, slightly sweet soups.
• Asparagus Soup: During spring, the delicate flavour of English asparagus is celebrated in soups across fine dining establishments like The Ivy.

Soup and Sustainability

In recent years, Londoners have become more conscious about sustainability and food waste. Many restaurants now use seasonal and local produce to prepare soups, turning leftover vegetables and bones into flavourful broths. This not only supports local farmers but also reduces waste and promotes eco-friendly dining.

Where to Enjoy Soup on the Go

Busy Londoners often prefer a quick, hearty meal without compromising on quality. Soup-focused outlets like Souped Up, Pret a Manger, and Leon offer fresh soups perfect for takeaway or a quick sit-down lunch.

Pairing Soup with Bread and Sides

A bowl of soup is often incomplete without the perfect accompaniment. London’s artisan bakeries, such as E5 Bakehouse and Gail’s, provide sourdough or seeded bread that pairs beautifully with soups. Some restaurants even serve cheese toasties or buttered soldiers alongside, elevating the entire experience.

A Few Tips for Soup Lovers Visiting London

• Timing Matters: Many restaurants offer soup specials at lunchtime, often as part of a set menu.
• Check the Weather: While soup is delicious year-round, it feels especially comforting during London’s rainy days.
• Ask for Recommendations: Servers often know the most popular or seasonal options that might not be on the printed menu.

Conclusion

London is a city where global influences and local traditions blend seamlessly, and this is beautifully reflected in its soup scene. Whether you crave the nostalgic warmth of a traditional leek and potato soup, the umami richness of Japanese ramen, or a bright and zesty vegan creation, London offers an endless array of bowls to explore.