The Absolute Best Soup in Arlington VA [Updated 2025]

After countless slurps, spoonfuls, and cozy conversations over bowls of broth, I’ve scoured the city to bring you my top picks for soup in Arlington. I’ve tasted my way through 12 standout spots, each with its own unique twist on this comforting classic.

Whether you’re a fan of rich, hearty stews or prefer something light and brothy, I promise you’ll find a flavor that speaks to your soul. As someone who has lived and breathed Arlington’s culinary scene, I can confidently say that these bowls are not just meals—they're experiences waiting to be savored. Let’s dive into the delicious world of soup together!

Pho & Banh Mi Eatery Cafe

Highlights
Perfect pho broth
Generous portion sizes
Friendly employees
Cute Sanrio-themed decor
Incredible sea salt coffee

Pho & Banh Mi Eatery Cafe is a delightful gem nestled in Arlington, and let me tell you, their pho is a culinary hug in a bowl! From the moment I stepped inside, I was charmed by the adorable Sanrio-themed decor that instantly transported me to a cozy haven. The friendly employees greeted me with warm smiles, making me feel right at home.

Now, onto the star of the show—the pho broth! This perfectly seasoned elixir is nothing short of magical, with a depth of flavor that dances on the palate. Generous portions made sure that I was never left wanting more, and the fresh herbs and spices added an aromatic twist that truly elevated the experience.

But wait, there’s more! After slurping down every delectable drop, I couldn’t resist sampling their incredible sea salt coffee. It was a luxurious treat that provided the perfect pick-me-up after indulging in such comforting soup.

In a city rich with options, Pho & Banh Mi Eatery Cafe stands out as a must-visit for anyone seeking the best soup in Arlington. It’s a winning combination of delightful cuisine and a cozy atmosphere that leaves you craving more!

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Hawkers Asian Street Food

Highlights
Fun and easygoing atmosphere
Diverse Asian street food options
Phenomenal curry dish
Outstanding and enthusiastic service
Great for sharing with friends

Hawkers Asian Street Food is a vibrant gem that instantly transports you to the lively streets of Asia, and I couldn’t wait to dive into their soup offerings. The atmosphere is so fun and easygoing, making it the perfect spot for a casual outing with friends. As the aromas from the kitchen wafted around me, I knew I was in for a treat.

What truly captured my heart, though, was the phenomenal curry dish—a silky, vibrant soup that made me feel like I was sipping liquid sunshine. Each slurp brought out layers of complex flavors, blending spices that danced on my palate while the coconut notes soothed my soul.

The service was outstanding, with enthusiastic staff eager to share their passion for Asian street food. They guided me towards a few hidden gems on the menu, proving that the culinary journey here is as exciting as the vibrant decor.

If you’re on the hunt for the best soup in Arlington, Hawkers is not to be missed. Bring your friends and share the experience because, trust me, this flavorful adventure is best enjoyed together!

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Lyon Hall

Highlights
Excellent food and beverages
Attentive and unobtrusive staff
Unique restroom design
Cozy atmosphere for conversations
Freshly baked French baguette

Lyon Hall, a charming bistro tucked away in Arlington, is much more than just a place to grab a bite; it’s a delightful experience that warms the heart—especially when it comes to their soup selection. As I nestled into a cozy corner, surrounded by rustic decor and soft lighting, I was immediately charmed by the ambiance, which seemed to invite conversation and connection.

The French onion soup arrived, an inviting cauldron of savory goodness topped with a bubbling layer of melted cheese. Each spoonful was a warm embrace, blending sweet caramelized onions with the rich depth of the broth. Accompanied by a freshly baked French baguette, it was the perfect vehicle for soaking up all that savory deliciousness.

The staff at Lyon Hall were attentive yet unobtrusive, making sure my experience was seamless while allowing me to savor every moment. Beyond the soup, the unique restroom design is worth a mention—definitely a conversation starter!

In a city filled with culinary options, Lyon Hall stands out not just for its irresistible soup but for the overall experience, making it a must-visit for any soup lover in Arlington.

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Green Pig Bistro

Highlights
Fresh and well-seasoned dishes
Great service and friendly staff
Creamy and flavorful grits
Amazing Buffalo ribs
Welcoming chef

At Green Pig Bistro, soup isn't just a side dish; it's a star of the show! This charming spot has a reputation for elevating comfort food, and their soup selection is no exception. On my recent visit, I was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, with the friendly staff eager to guide me through their offerings.

I decided to indulge in their signature soup, a rich and creamy concoction bursting with flavors that danced on my palate. The chef clearly takes pride in using fresh ingredients, resulting in a bowl that felt both satisfying and luxurious. I appreciate how every spoonful was seasoned impeccably—just the right touch of herbs and spices!

Paired with their delicious grits, the soup became a hearty meal that left me smiling. And don’t even get me started on the amazing Buffalo ribs, which I couldn't resist trying! Each dish felt crafted with intention, making it clear that the Green Pig team is dedicated to delivering a memorable dining experience.

If you're on a quest for the best soup in Arlington, make sure to check out Green Pig Bistro—it might just steal your heart (and taste buds)!

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Spice Kraft Indian Bistro

Highlights
Amazing food with perfect flavors
Kind and helpful staff
Great service with attentive staff
Accommodates dietary needs
Delicious desserts to end the meal

A Soupy Delight at Spice Kraft Indian Bistro

When I stepped into Spice Kraft Indian Bistro, I was immediately enveloped by the tantalizing aromas wafting from the kitchen. The ambiance was vibrant yet cozy, setting the stage for a delightful culinary journey. I decided to kick things off with their signature Dal Makhani, a lentil soup that is nothing short of a warm embrace in a bowl.

The flavors were perfectly balanced—each spoonful packed a punch of earthy goodness, with a hint of smokiness that danced on my palate. The attentive staff were not only knowledgeable but also incredibly kind, always eager to ensure my dining experience was exceptional. They made recommendations that complemented my meal beautifully, showcasing their commitment to customer satisfaction.

To my surprise, the meal didn't end with the soup. Their desserts were the cherry on top—sweet, delightful, and not too heavy, leaving me blissfully satisfied. Spice Kraft truly excels not just in flavor but also in hospitality, accommodating any dietary needs with grace. If you're in search of a soupy adventure, this bistro is where you should indulge your senses!

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Sweet Leaf

Highlights
Excellent food quality
Outstanding service
Amazing app user experience
Fresh and balanced flavors
Quick and friendly service

Review of Sweet Leaf - Arlington, VA

During my recent culinary adventures through Arlington, I stumbled upon Sweet Leaf, and oh, what a delightful surprise it was! Stepping inside, the warm and welcoming atmosphere enveloped me, setting the perfect stage for what was to come. The soup selection was impressive, but I opted for the creamy tomato basil—a classic that they claim to have perfected.

From the first spoonful, I was captivated by the fresh and balanced flavors. Each bite sang with the vibrant notes of fresh basil, perfectly complemented by the richness of ripe tomatoes. It’s clear that the kitchen pays high attention to food quality, ensuring everything tastes as good as it looks. But it wasn't just the soup that impressed me; the friendly service made me feel right at home. The staff was quick to greet me and even quicker with my order—talk about efficiency!

And can we talk about the app? It offered an outstanding user experience, making ordering a breeze. Sweet Leaf is not just about soup; it’s about a wholesome experience, and I’m delighted to say they’re doing it right. If you find yourself in Arlington craving comfort in a bowl, Sweet Leaf should be your first stop!

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Cafe Colline

Highlights
Attentive and quick service
Authentic French cuisine
Great outdoor patio experience
Delicious Soupe a l'oignon
Fantastic duck and desserts

As I stepped into Cafe Colline, I was immediately enchanted by its charming ambiance, perfect for indulging in remarkable French cuisine. The attentive and quick service made me feel right at home, and my excitement grew as I anticipated the star of my meal: the legendary Soupe à l'oignon.

Once my bowl arrived, the rich aroma enveloped me like a warm hug on a chilly day. The caramelized onions swam gracefully in a hearty broth, topped with a golden crust of melted cheese that made my heart flutter. Each spoonful transported me to a cozy bistro in Paris, where every ingredient sings in harmony. The balance of flavors was superb, melding the sweetness of onions with a touch of savory depth.

Beyond the soup, I couldn’t resist indulging in a few other delightful offerings. Their duck dish left me yearning for more, and the dessert selection had me in a sweet reverie. The great outdoor patio experience provided a lovely escape, making it clear that Cafe Colline is a standout when it comes to the best soup in Arlington. I will certainly be returning for another cozy, culinary adventure!

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Maison Cheryl

Highlights
Exceptional dining experience
Deliciously perfect duck
Charming and elegant ambiance
Creative cocktail selection
Outstanding and attentive service

Review of Maison Cheryl

When I stepped into Maison Cheryl, I felt as though I had entered a cozy French bistro right in the heart of Arlington. The elegant ambiance instantly set the tone for an exceptional dining adventure. As I settled in, I was eagerly anticipating their renowned soup options, and let me tell you, I was not disappointed!

I opted for their duck soup, and it was nothing short of a culinary revelation. Each spoonful delivered a harmonious blend of flavors that danced on my palate. The duck was cooked to perfection—tender, succulent, and bursting with an essence that only quality ingredients can achieve. It was undoubtedly one of the standout offerings I encountered in my quest for the best soup in Arlington.

What truly elevated my experience, however, was the outstanding and attentive service. The staff exuded warmth and made me feel like a valued guest rather than just a customer. Coupled with their creative cocktail selection, my visit to Maison Cheryl turned into a delightful culinary journey.

In conclusion, if you’re seeking a soup that delights the senses and an atmosphere that complements your dining experience, Maison Cheryl should be at the top of your list!

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Four Sisters Grill

Highlights
Cozy Vietnamese atmosphere
Quick and friendly service
Generous portion sizes
Excellent cold Thai tea
Great variety of choices

Upon stepping into Four Sisters Grill, I was instantly enveloped by a cozy Vietnamese atmosphere that set the stage for a comforting meal. The aroma wafting through the air was enough to warm my soul and whet my appetite. I was impressed by the quick and friendly service; the staff greeted me with genuine smiles, making me feel right at home.

Now, let’s talk soup! I opted for their famous pho, and it did not disappoint. The broth was rich and fragrant, lovingly simmered to perfection. Each spoonful was a delightful explosion of flavors that danced on my palate. With generous portion sizes, I felt like I was indulging in a hearty hug from a long-lost friend. Paired with a refreshing glass of their excellent cold Thai tea, my experience was elevated to new heights of satisfaction.

If you’re on a quest for the best soup in Arlington VA, Four Sisters Grill is a must-visit. Whether you're a soup aficionado or just looking for a cozy meal, this gem has something special waiting for you. Go ahead, treat your taste buds!

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Open Kitchen

Upon entering Open Kitchen, I was enveloped by the tantalizing aromas wafting from the kitchen. I opted for their renowned Mediterranean Lentil Soup, a delightful blend of spices and hearty lentils that danced on my palate. Each spoonful offered warmth and comfort, accentuated by a drizzle of olive oil that added a touch of richness. The fresh herbs sprinkled on top brightened the dish beautifully. The ambiance was inviting, making it a perfect spot for soup enthusiasts. Overall, Open Kitchen serves a symphony of flavors that leaves you craving more—definitely a contender for the best soup in Arlington!

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AMBAR Restaurant, Clarendon

At AMBAR Restaurant, I was greeted by an inviting ambiance that set the perfect stage for a culinary adventure. Their Balkan-style soup, a delightful blend of flavors, was both hearty and comforting. With a rich, savory broth infused with spices, every spoonful tasted like a warm hug! The addition of fresh herbs brought a vibrant touch, enhancing the overall experience. Whether it’s a chilly day or you just need a pick-me-up, this soup is a must-try. AMBAR has certainly secured a spot in my heart—and my list of the best soups in Arlington!

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JINYA Ramen Bar - Arlington

At JINYA Ramen Bar, every bowl of ramen is a delightful adventure! I savored the rich tonkotsu broth, which enveloped my senses with its creamy depth and umami goodness. The perfectly cooked noodles danced playfully among fresh veggies and tender chashu. Each sip was a warm hug on a chilly day, making it an instant favorite. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff added to the overall charm. If you’re seeking a bowl that whispers comfort while promising flavor, don’t miss JINYA! This spot truly stands out among Arlington’s best for those craving a soup experience that warms the soul.

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