Winter is a time when Torontonians across the city hunker down and count the days before those tranquil summers are upon us again. Until then, we’ve got to keep a fire lit in our bellies and see out these final few weeks. And what better way to beat those seasonal chills than with a delicious hearty soup at spoons length. If you’re looking to whet your appetite more, we’ve compiled for you a list of – what we believe – are the best soups in Toronto.
United Bakery – 506 Lawrence Avenue
This classic family-owned-and-run restaurant has been feeding the city traditional Jewish deli for over 100 years. Not unaccustomed to being packed out before noon, an unwavering menu option is their heavenly green split pea soup. Available every day, other options will alternate daily, however the green split pea – a family recipe made with the freshest vegetables and garnished with tender thin noodles – is definitely worth the trip.
Le Paradis – 166 Bedford Road
An ideal spot if you’re looking for a romantic getaway, Le Paradis is a dimly-lit French-style brasserie tucked away in the Annex. Renowned for offering nourishing food, they often change their soups to suit the seasons. A highlight of theirs however is the Southern France-inspired bouillabaisse shellfish and seafood soup, as well as a purée of carrot and parsnips soup infused in a chicken broth. It’ll be ideal for those brisk evenings with a rich glass of Pinot Noir.
Pho Huong – 394 Pacific Avenue
Comfort food at its very best, Pho Huong’s Vietnamese restaurant in the heart of the Junction district promises never to drop their high standards for taste and quality. They have so many soul-pleasing pho choices, though if we had to pick one it would be the Pho Tai Narn (rare beef, brisket with rice noodle soup). The portions are unreasonably generous and you’ll leave with a contagious smile on your face that only a full stomach can generate.
Hibiscus Café – 238 Augusta Avenue
Kensington Market can be pretty hectic during Pedestrian Sunday but once the dust settles, you’ll find a peaceful space in this vegetarian/vegan locale. Sourcing their produce from Ontario farms, you’ll find few things as satisfying as their butternut squash and ginger soup (which is exceptionally creamy and rich considering it is vegan). Their options alternate daily but their quality never diminishes in this its chic and intimate setting.
RaviSoups on Adelaide – 328 Adelaide Street W
Proclaimed as one of the best soup kitchens in the city, this downtown mainstay offers an array of internationally-inspired bowls since opening in 2007. There are so many great soups to pick from, however ours would be the staple Ravi Stew. It’s comprised of roasted chicken, baby spinach, mushrooms, edamame, wild rice, roast yams, root vegetables and delicious crispy shallots. It’s a feast served up in a bowl and you won’t leave dissatisfied. It even has a delightful patio area for when the cold breezes do subside and give way to warmer climes.
These are all excellent places to visit to get your soup fix, though sometimes the best soups are the ones homemade for you and your loved ones. With this in mind, we wanted to offer you a reliable chicken soup recipe that you can try for yourself.
https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/chicken-soup-108014
Enjoy!