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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Lake Forest

Soup and food spots

Made for those who find comfort in a warm bowl and refuse to treat a meal as an afterthought.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
House of Cedar - Lebanese Restaurant image 1
House of Cedar - Lebanese Restaurant image 2
House of Cedar - Lebanese Restaurant image 3
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Ghost kitchen setup offers halal Lebanese cuisine with pick-up only and picnic-style outdoor benches nearby. Atmosphere feels cozy and unassuming, with occasional airplane sounds overhead. Food stands out for fresh, authentic flavors and use of premium ingredients like filet mignon in beef shawarma.

Chicken soup features a rich, flavorful, and elegant tomato base that tastes like home cooking. Lentil soup also appears on the menu, offering a hearty option alongside the chicken soup.

Authentic Lebanese food shines with fresh halal ingredients and flavors that feel like home. Catering and takeout options maintain the same high-quality preparation every time.

People are saying

"I found the Lebanese food here to be authentic and delicious."

"The Mediterranean food, especially the shawarma, is melt-in-your-mouth delicious."

"The chicken soup here is rich, flavorful, and tastes home-cooked."

Good to know

1

House of Cedar is a ghost kitchen that only offers pick-up options.

2

Customers can order through the app or ring the bell for pickup.

3

There isn't restaurant seating available, but meals can be picked up.

02
U Babci Polish Kitchen image 1

Small restaurant with warm, homely atmosphere and Polish folk art on the walls creates a feeling of dining with family. Traditional Polish music plays softly, enhancing the authentic cultural vibe. The space combines simple wood tables and floral decor, reflecting pride in Polish heritage.

Soups here include a chicken noodle that feels nostalgic and a rye soup with a unique flavor. The beet soup also stands out as well made and satisfying.

Authentic Polish cuisine shines here with dishes that taste just like home. Food comes out delicious and beautifully presented, offering a great variety unusual for the area.

People are saying

"The sour rye soup wasn't like anything I've had before and was really good."

"It's a cozy spot that feels like stepping into a warm, welcoming home kitchen."

"The food here is handmade, authentic, and delicious."

Good to know

1

The grand opening is on the 28th.

2

Music and dancing start after 7pm.

3

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

03
QJ Kitchen 秋金 image 1

Restaurant offers authentic Sichuan cuisine with fresh ingredients and spicy flavors. Interior is clean and spacious with comfortable, high-end furniture. Atmosphere stays casual and comfortable, suitable for groups and quiet dining.

Beef noodle soup comes with a large portion and plenty of beef, bok choy, and noodles. Wonton soup looks simple but has many tasty wontons. Fish soup balances Sichuan spice, sourness, and savory flavors well, while beef and mushroom soup is sour and spicy.

Food features authentic Sichuan flavors with fresh, clean ingredients and generous portions. Seasoning strikes a good balance, delivering a flavorful and satisfying experience.

People are saying

"The Szechuan food here is so authentic and flavorful."

"I found the food to be truly authentic Sichuan cooking."

"The beef noodle soup has a large portion and generous beef."

Good to know

1

Bobo chicken isn't always available, which can be disappointing.

2

The dining area and restroom are spotless.

3

QJ Kitchen offers a good variety of food for spicy and non-spicy enthusiasts.

04
Longs Noodles El Toro Lake Forest image 1

Bright, clean space with cozy atmosphere and family-friendly vibe. Vietnamese dishes feature flavorful pho broth and large portions served quickly. Menu offers customizable vegetarian options and affordable prices.

Soup offers a variety of flavors with Vietnamese spices and a strong aroma in pho. Options include soup dumplings, duck soup, and a pork and pickle spicy soup, all balanced and not too salty.

Food features generous portions with savory flavors and high quality ingredients. Dishes come at a reasonable price and offer a great taste experience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and high quality."

"The pho soup here is so authentic and filling."

"I loved the fish sauce chicken wings."

Good to know

1

The filet mignon fried rice costs less than $20.

2

Customizable menu options are available for vegetarians.

3

Prices are affordable and reasonable.

05
Nory's Restaurant image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian restaurant offers authentic cuisine in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere that feels like dining at home. The space is warm and welcoming with attentive seating accommodations. It maintains a quiet, unpretentious vibe ideal for leisurely meals.

Chicken soup appears often in set meals and pairs well with bread. The minute soup stands out for its flavor. Italian-style tripe soup also features as a notable option. Mixed seafood soup lacks freshness and quality.

Authentic Peruvian dishes deliver super tasty flavors with a focus on health-conscious ingredients. Food consistently comes out very good and satisfying.

People are saying

"I found the Peruvian food here to be authentic and super tasty."

"I found it to be very affordable and not expensive."

"I found the minute soup to be incredible."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials offer great value for the quality and portion size.

2

The restaurant is owner-run, ensuring personal service.

3

The price is reasonable, with good portion sizes for the cost.

06
Bangkok Thai Cuisine Restaurant image 1

Tiny space with plenty of outdoor seating and well-done decor creates a cozy atmosphere. New ownership brings authentic Thai cuisine with a unique menu featuring classic dishes and fresh lunch specials. Prices stay reasonable despite current inflation, attracting locals seeking genuine flavors.

Coconut mushroom soup and Tom Kha soup stand out with rich, creamy flavors. Soups here pair well with dishes like pad see ew and pad thai.

Food features fresh ingredients and delicious flavors with a strong focus on authentic Thai cuisine. Plenty of outdoor seating complements the dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the curries and spicy dishes."

"I found the pineapple curry to be amazing."

"I found the Tom Kha soup and other Thai soups delicious."

Good to know

1

The lunch menu has a great variety of classic Thai favorites at reasonable prices.

2

There is plenty of parking available at the restaurant.

3

The restaurant offers lots of outdoor seating.

07
Sizzler image 1
Restaurant

Spacious dining area combines elegant decor with a family-friendly atmosphere that suits both casual and formal gatherings. The environment stays fresh and clean, with a well-maintained salad bar offering fresh options. It fills up quickly but maintains a pleasant vibe where conversation is easy.

Menudo and clam chowder offer consistent quality. Beef stew soup features chunky beef pieces. Soup options come with an all-you-can-eat salad bar.

Food features fresh ingredients and great steak with crispy toast. Meals come at a price that matches the quality and cleanliness.

People are saying

"I found the salad bar to be fresh and well-stocked."

"The food, especially the salad bar, was so fresh and well-kept."

"The salad bar and soup station had a great selection."

Good to know

1

The salad bar is well-stocked and kept clean.

2

Prices for the Unlimited salad bar are over $19 per person.

3

Sizzler offers options for vegetarians and vegans.

08
Mustard Cafe & Grill Foothill Ranch image 1

Small, inviting restaurant offers casual, chill atmosphere with outdoor seating and French music playing softly. Space feels cozy and clean, attracting a mix of business lunches and families. Staff provide warm hospitality, creating a welcoming and relaxed vibe.

Soups here include a tomato bisque that pairs well with sandwiches and a lentil soup noted for its balance. The tortilla soup stands out as a flavorful option among a variety of choices on the menu.

Food comes out fresh and made to order, showing clear care in preparation. Sandwiches, salads, and entrees offer bursting flavor and consistent high quality at an affordable price.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has outstanding service and a wonderfully positive owner."

"I found the tomato bisque soup to be flavorful and satisfying."

"The food here is delicious and the flavors are amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a diverse selection of dishes, including sandwiches, salads, and breakfast items.

2

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible near the restaurant.

3

Reservations are not required, and seating is first-come, first-served.

09
Alien Döner Halal Turkish & Mediterranean Grill - Lake Forest image 1

Small space with space-themed decor and alien artwork creates a cozy, laid-back atmosphere. Easy self-order kiosks add convenience to the modern, clean environment. Friendly vibe suits quick bites or relaxed meals.

Lentil soup stands out with a rich oil drizzle and pairs well with their fresh bread. It tastes fresh and flavorful, matching the quality of their other dishes like the beef and chicken döner.

Food here stays fresh, healthy, and delicious with a focus on tender, juicy beef that melts in your mouth. The menu offers real Turkish dishes at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"This food tastes like authentic Istanbul döner."

"The doner wraps are packed with juicy, seasoned meat and fresh ingredients."

"I had some excellent döner kebabs."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect a wait during peak hours.

2

The restaurant is primarily a take-out spot with limited seating available.

3

Parking is ample and free in the surrounding area.

10
Pho Lab Lake Forest image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Bright interior with floral decorations and large TVs creates a lively, inviting atmosphere. The space feels clean and modern, bustling with energy during busy times. Guests enjoy a comfortable setting with a cool vibe that complements the fast-paced service.

Soup features a premium base with a flavorful and rich broth that avoids excessive sweetness. Pho comes out quickly and pairs well with dishes like Filet mignon and fried rice.

Food features amazing flavor and generous portions with dishes like fish sauce glaze wings standing out. Servers explain menu items clearly, enhancing the dining experience.

People are saying

"I found the pho here to be the best I've had in years."

"This pho is the best I've ever tasted."

"I thought the pho soup was very flavorful and rich."

Good to know

1

The pho arrives quickly, usually within 10-15 minutes after ordering.

2

Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes offered.

3

The ingredients used in dishes are of high quality.

11
Sunny Dumpling House image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, cozy space with an open kitchen where fresh dumplings are made by hand behind a clear divider. Atmosphere feels a bit cramped and loud, designed for quick table turnover and takeout focus. Digital ordering via QR code streamlines service, while wall art shares stories about dumpling origins, adding a unique touch.

Soup dumplings come with liquid soup fillings that stand out for their freshness and flavor. Beef noodle soup offers an explosion of flavor without any gamey taste, and shrimp and pork soup dumplings taste richer than plain pork ones.

Food features handmade dumplings with juicy, well-seasoned filling that tastes fresh and full of flavor. The dishes are consistently flavorful and satisfying, making them worth waiting for.

People are saying

"These dumplings are so fresh and flavorful, you'll love them."

"The food here is amazing, especially the dumplings."

"The soup dumplings here are juicy and heavenly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect to wait during peak dinner hours.

2

Customers must scan QR codes to place orders at the table.

3

Payment is processed online, and charges may double temporarily before refund.

12
Plern Thai Cafe image 1
Thai restaurant

Small cafe with simple, modern interior and a yellow and white color scheme creates a cozy, casual atmosphere. The vibe is chill and pleasant, attracting those who appreciate authentic Thai cuisine. Friendly service complements the authentic flavors and tasteful decor.

Rich, bold flavors define the Zapp Beef Soup and Panaeng Curry with a medium spice level. The Thai-style beef soup offers a unique twist on a familiar dish.

Food here is authentic Thai cuisine with flavorful, aromatic dishes that feel filling and satisfying. It stands out as some of the most genuine Thai food available outside Thailand.

People are saying

"This food is so authentic, it tastes like the owner grew up eating it."

"The Thai curry here is authentic, comforting, and made with real care."

"The soup here feels comforting and thoughtfully made."

Good to know

1

There are no public restrooms available for customers.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant recently reopened for dining after renovations.

13
Wagyu Factory | Lake Forest image 1

Restaurant offers modern, well-ventilated design with clean, relaxing atmosphere that avoids lingering BBQ smells. Energy stays easygoing and comfortable, suited for casual dining or dates. Guests experience unlimited soda and a 90-minute dining limit with a unique ordering system.

Tom Yum soup stands out with its rich, spicy flavor. The soup is consistently very tasty and pairs well with other dishes like wagyu galbi and bibimbap.

Food shows consistently high quality and flavorful preparation. Service matches the food with excellent care.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and served in a timely manner."

"The unlimited meats here were fantastic and kept coming."

"The Tom Yum soup here is a standout."

Good to know

1

There is a 90-minute dining limit at Wagyu Factory.

2

You can only order 6 items every 30 minutes.

3

Kids eat half off or free if they're small enough.

14
HanBop Kitchen 한밥 image 1
Korean restaurant

Roomy square space with clean white tile and modern decor creates a bright, energetic atmosphere. The vibe is friendly and welcoming, suited for cozy dinners or small gatherings. It draws a diverse crowd and offers a quiet, family-like ambiance.

Soups here are light and loaded with flavor, featuring options like tofu soup and dumplings soup. Miso soup stands out as a great side dish alongside other flavorful choices.

Authentic Korean food offers top-tier quality and excellent flavor with generous lunch deals. Meals consistently deliver healthy and delicious options.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has authentic Korean food and amazing lunch deals."

"The food here is delicious and homey."

"The soup here is light and loaded with flavor."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available from Tuesday to Friday between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm.

2

The restaurant closes from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm and is closed on Sundays.

3

Parking is always available in the plaza, making it convenient.

15
Thai Garden image 1
Thai restaurant

Thai restaurant offers a cozy, relaxed atmosphere with beautiful decor and a clean, welcoming space. It draws a bustling crowd on weeknights, creating lively energy while remaining suitable for dinner dates. Generous portions and well-prepared dishes define the dining experience.

Tom Yum soup appears often and pairs well with entrees. The house noodle soup serves as a solid option for takeout and lunch specials include soup and salad combos.

Food offers flavorful dishes with generous portions and perfect seasoning that avoids heavy oils. Quality and quantity combine for consistently good, delicious meals.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced."

"The Thai food here is fantastic, with fresh ingredients and generous portions."

"I found the house noodle soup to be really good."

Good to know

1

Steamed rice is an extra charge with main entrees, so plan accordingly.

2

An 18% gratuity is added for groups larger than five without prior notice.

3

Lunch specials include soup and salad, making them a good value.

16
Shanghai Haus image 1
Chinese restaurant

Spacious dining area combines with a modern, cozy vibe and clean environment, though greasy air lingers due to kitchen ventilation. Loud chef activity adds energy to the atmosphere. Authentic Shanghai flavors stand out with dishes like braised pork belly and soup dumplings offering rich, bold tastes without Western adjustments.

Broths range from rich and savory to spicy, with noodles that have a nice chew. Portions can be huge, but some soups have minimal meat despite higher prices.

Food comes out hot and fresh with a mix of authentic and American Chinese flavors. Dishes are consistently sweet, crunchy, and tasty, served quickly and full of flavor.

People are saying

"The flavors here are so authentic, they're not watered down."

"The Chinese food here tastes so fresh and authentic."

"The beef noodle soup has a rich, savory broth and tender noodles."

Good to know

1

The price for the soup is $33.

2

The lunch special offers a great deal.

3

Portions of noodle soup are huge.

17
Long's Noodles image 1
Noodle shop

Spacious noodle shop with a modern clean look and cozy atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes patio tables suitable for dogs. Food features authentic Chinese flavors, especially notable for pan-fried dumplings and beef noodle soup.

Broths have a Taiwan flavor and come without MSG. Beef noodle soup stands out with al dente noodles and rich taste. Xiao Long Bao offers a delicate wrapper and plenty of soup inside.

Food here is consistently freshly made and authentic. Every dish tastes delicious and keeps you ordering more.

People are saying

"The XLB here are bigger and juicier than anywhere else."

"The braised beef noodle soup here is so tasty."

"The food here has great flavor and texture."

Good to know

1

Long's Noodles closes from 3pm to 4pm.

2

Parking is plentiful and there are no issues finding a spot.

3

There is outdoor seating available to sit with our dog.

18
Hot dumpling image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese restaurant offers authentic Wuhan cuisine with handmade dumplings and in-house chili oil. The space feels tidy and inviting, featuring exquisite tableware and QR code menus at each table. Portions vary, with some dishes designed for sharing, and the atmosphere suits quick, flavorful meals.

Beef tendon noodle soup offers a rich broth with tender meat. Dumplings come juicy and pair well with the reasonably priced soups.

Food features authentic Wuhan flavors that are consistently hot and fresh. Dishes come at a super affordable price and pack strong, memorable taste.

People are saying

"The shrimp and pork wontons in chili sauce were solid."

"The dumplings here are delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"I loved the beef noodle soup and juicy pork dumplings."

Good to know

1

Parking can be hard to find during peak hours due to neighboring businesses.

2

All dumplings are made fresh to order, ensuring quality.

3

Prices vary, with some dishes being reasonable while others are higher.

19
La Cocina De Ricardo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, quaint Mexican restaurant with warm, inviting interior and authentic Mexican music sets a chill, home-like vibe. Casual atmosphere feels like stepping into old Mexico, attracting those seeking genuine flavors and a cozy setting. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed option for dining.

Multiple soup options include a variety of ingredients that fly, swim, or graze, such as octopus. The shrimp soup stands out as a solid choice.

Mexican food and fish dishes stand out with very good to excellent quality. Options include dining in or takeout, paired with great service.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and delicious."

"The food here is amazing and authentic Mexican."

"I found the shrimp soup to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features a lively crowd and special menu items.

2

Expect generous portions with every meal.

3

The menu includes a wide range of classic Mexican options.

20
Pho So 1 Lake Forest image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Spacious Vietnamese restaurant with an 80's diner style and flat-screen TVs offers a clean, organized setting. The atmosphere feels comfortable and friendly with chill background music. Known for great prices and crispy pork egg rolls, it attracts those seeking affordable, tasty pho and Vietnamese dishes.

Pho soup features a chicken broth base with fresh vegetables, bean sprouts, mint, and jalapeños adding deep flavor. Options include raw steak, meatball, and extra spare ribs, which stand out for their taste.

Food arrives piping hot and super fast, even with kids around. The menu offers comfort food at good prices with consistently delicious flavors and friendly service.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food, especially the pho, was delicious."

"I found the food here to be delicious and tasty."

"The pho soup here is hot, fresh, and has many choices."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a great selection of Vietnamese dishes, including vegetarian options.

2

Takeout is quick and easy, making it convenient for busy diners.

3

They offer a lunch special with additional egg rolls for $2.

21
Frank’s dumplings & noodles image 1

Open kitchen design reveals fresh cooking in a clean, bright space with authentic Chinese flavors. The atmosphere stays warm and welcoming, suited for family meals and gatherings. Known for fish soup rice noodles and Hunan-style dishes, it offers a unique blend of northern and southern staples.

Fish soup stands out with its freshness and authentic flavor. Braised beef ox-tail noodle soup offers comforting meat on the bone, while the house noodle soup pairs well with added shrimp.

Food blends authentic homemade-style Chinese with a fusion of northern and southern staples. Dishes like Braised Beef Ox-tail Noodle Soup offer comforting, consistent flavors.

People are saying

"I loved the tasty fish noodle soup, it's perfect for cold days."

"I found the food here to be authentic Chinese."

"The Chinese food here is delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges a 20% service fee on each order.

2

There is ample parking space available for visitors.

3

The environment is clean and well-maintained.

22
Thai Corner image 1
Thai restaurant

Traditional Thai decor sets a cozy, authentic atmosphere with menus showing an 80's vibe. Food arrives in plastic to-go containers even for dine-in, reflecting a casual, no-frills service style. Generous portions and lunch specials with free Thai tea offer good value amid generally high prices.

Tom yum soup and beef noodle soup stand out with strong flavors. Soups come in paper bowls, adding a casual touch.

Authentic Thai food stands out with excellent flavors and delicious dishes that complement the ambiance well.

People are saying

"The food at this dinner spot is excellent and tasty."

"The lunch special was a pretty fair deal."

"I thought the Thai food was really authentic."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials include free Thai tea, offering good value.

2

Expect high prices for the portion sizes.

3

The restaurant serves food in plastic to-go containers.

23
Pho Tám Cali image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small and cozy space with a bright and clean design creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Busy and fast-paced environment carries a family feel that adds to the comfort. Known for rich and flavorful pho broth, it offers generous portions and a variety of Vietnamese dishes.

Soup features a great stock with a fall off the bone beef rib that avoids mess. The menu includes a spicy soup with crispy pork belly and a flavorful broken rice pork chop and beef pho soup.

Fantastic Vietnamese food shines here with a variety of dishes that consistently impress. Every visit delivers delicious and superb flavors that stand out.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here has such a flavorful pho broth."

"I found the food here to be amazing every single time."

"I loved the flavorful beef pho soup with crispy pork belly."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers daily promotions that change regularly.

2

Takeout orders are to the left when you enter, while dine-in is to the right.

3

All sauces and egg rolls are made in-house, ensuring freshness.

24
New Shanghai Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese restaurant offers an extensive menu with diverse Americanized dishes served quickly. Atmosphere feels somewhat cold but maintains consistent business. Known for reasonably priced meals and standout items like mapo tofu and chicken fried rice.

Chicken corn soup offers a soothing start. The menu features a house special noodle soup and a complementary egg drop soup that add variety to the options.

Food offers excellent quality and stays consistently good. Prices remain reasonable while flavors deliver strong satisfaction.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and never disappoints."

"I thought the chow mein was the best dish I had."

"I enjoyed their complementary egg drop soup."

Good to know

1

The food is reasonably priced with good portion sizes.

2

The menu offers a diverse selection, including some vegan options.

3

Orders are usually ready quickly, making it great for takeout.

25
Asia Buffet image 1
Buffet restaurant

Rows of steam tables offer a vast selection of seafood and Asian dishes in a spacious setting with booth seating. The atmosphere stays casual and family-friendly with pleasant flute music creating a relaxed vibe. The place balances a clean, cozy feel with a lively crowd, especially on weekends.

Soups come packed with flavor and include options like hot and sour and egg drop soup. They complement other dishes like shrimp stir fry and dim sum well.

A large variety of fresh Asian foods fills the buffet with quick turnover keeping everything fresh. The selection includes plentiful Chinese dishes that offer good taste and value for the price.

People are saying

"The buffet had a huge variety of fresh seafood and desserts."

"I found so many good food options here."

"The hot and sour soup was really good."

Good to know

1

Crab legs are only available on New Year's Eve and Christmas.

2

The lunch buffet costs $21, drinks not included.

3

They offer all-you-can-eat for a great price.

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