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Affordable Soup in San Diego

A bowl of soup that feels like a genuine meal without the inflated price tag that usually comes with a sit-down lunch.

Based on 739 Opinions
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01
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Asian restaurant with modern, inviting decor and photo-worthy corners creates a friendly, vibey atmosphere. Loud, chill music and several TVs showing sports and K-pop fill the space. Cocktails like lychee and passionfruit complement soft dumplings and flavorful chicken rolls.

Soup dumplings stand out with their savory, melt-in-your-mouth quality. The menu also features spicy ramen and a flavorful Piggy soup that complement the dumplings well.

Food comes out quickly and stays affordable with inexpensive prices for the portion size. Cocktails, noodles, dumplings, and soups all fall within a fair price range.

People are saying

"The food and cocktails here are delicious and affordable."

"I found the soup dumplings to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 8pm with $1 wings and late night deals.

2

The $1 wings are a popular choice during happy hour.

3

Parking is easier at this location compared to others in the area.

02
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Small, family-owned Chinese restaurant with cozy atmosphere and simple decor. Guests can watch dumplings being handmade in an open kitchen while enjoying Studio Ghibli instrumental music. Seating is limited and intimate, creating a warm and inviting vibe.

Wonton soup comes in a very large portion that can feed three people. Beef noodle soup features Sichuan spice, tender meat, bok choy, and noodles with a generous size.

Prices stay affordable with good portion sizes and fresh ingredients in the dumplings.

People are saying

"The beef noodle soup has tender meat and flavorful broth."

"I found the dumplings here to be affordable and tasty."

Good to know

1

Make sure to come early because there are limited seats in the restaurant.

2

Be prepared to look for parking.

3

The restaurant was small and parking could be difficult.

03
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Small, quirky space offers authentic Somali cuisine with freshly cooked dishes and diverse menu options. Atmosphere feels welcoming and homey, filled with lively conversations and warm energy. Customers often test food before buying, and limited seating encourages takeout.

Barley soup comes with potatoes filled with boiled egg and is often offered free to customers. Regulars receive free soup and drinks as a gesture of hospitality.

Generous portions of authentic Somali cuisine come at prices that suit families well. Food quality stays high while keeping the menu affordable.

People are saying

"I found the Somali soup to be delicious and authentic."

"I found the authentic Somali food here to be affordable and unique."

Good to know

1

Everything is cooked to order, which guarantees freshness.

2

Expect a wait time if there are many people because most food is made on the spot.

3

It might be better to order the food to go because there are only three small tables inside.

04
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Hotel restaurant with modern design and artful decor creates a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere. Spacious seating and a dog-friendly outdoor patio add comfort and convenience. Noise levels can rise during events, affecting conversation.

Steak and tomato soups stand out with creamy texture and smooth flavor. Tomato basil soup blends richness with fresh herbs for a satisfying taste.

Food, beer, and dessert come at affordable prices here. The overall cost feels nice and reasonable for what you get.

People are saying

"I really enjoyed the creamy tomato basil soup."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Show your Broadway show tickets for a 20% discount on your meal.

3

Valet parking is available for $10 when dining and attending a theater.

05
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Charcoal grills create a smoky, vibrant atmosphere in a small, cozy space with tables close together. The place fills quickly, leading to long waits and a lively, bustling vibe. Strong smoke and limited ventilation add to the intense grilling experience.

Seafood soup stands out with its better soondubu quality and cracked texture. Spicy beef soup offers a rich flavor, while beef noodles serve as a filling noodle soup option.

Prices start around $32.99 for a basic package and go up to about $39 for premium options. These rates stay affordable compared to other Korean BBQ spots.

People are saying

"I thought the price offered good value for money."

"I thought the spicy beef soup was really good."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 1-2 hours during peak hours on weekends.

2

Parking can be difficult to find, especially during busy times.

3

Reservations are not accepted; arrive early to avoid long lines.

06
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Mysterious blue lights and vintage decor create a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere with a family diner vibe. The space feels unpretentious and welcoming, focusing on hearty, authentic Greek food at affordable prices. Generous portions and a no-frills setting make it a rare gem for casual dining.

Soups come as part of many combos, often paired with salad and protein like gyro or chicken kabob. The lemon rice soup and lentil soup stand out for their flavor and freshness.

Lunch and dinner sets cost around $9 or $10 including taxes. Portions come generous with authentic Greek seasoning. Lunch specials keep meals inexpensive and affordable.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and affordable."

"You can get a plate full of food including soup for only $10-11."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials make meals affordable, typically around $10-11.

2

Happy hour offers excellent deals on drinks and appetizers.

3

Dinner specials include a cup of soup, salad, and an entrée for $12.

07
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Large, bright space with spaced tables creates a comfortable, open environment. Atmosphere feels sterile and quiet, lacking warmth or mood. Ordering happens via table tablets, making service efficient and convenient.

Jjamppong soup stands out as a red spicy seafood noodle soup that matches the main dishes in quality. Beef soup and spicy chicken also appear, while spicy Jjangmyeon and beef noodle soup come off as unremarkable.

Prices stay affordable while offering good quality food. The meals are tasty but don't reach an excellent level.

People are saying

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

"The Jjamppong soup was a good deal and great as a hangover cure."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging during peak hours due to limited spaces.

2

Free parking is available in the lot for diners.

3

Ordering is done via tablets at the table, streamlining the process.

08
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Huge Korean grocery store with spacious food court featuring about eight vendors and a small French bakery. Crowded aisles make maneuvering carts difficult, but the place offers an outstanding selection of authentic Asian foods and fresh seafood. Walls display maker-inspired graphics, adding a unique visual touch.

Options include spicy tofu soup, soondae soup, and pork soup. Korean favorites like jjajangmyeon and naengmyeon come with hearty broths.

Affordable prices cover high-quality produce, meats, and Asian spices. Dishes and seafood also come at very reasonable costs.

People are saying

"I found the produce, meats, and spices here to be affordable."

"I loved the spicy tofu soup; it was so delicious."

Good to know

1

H Mart Balboa offers a large selection of Korean food and snacks.

2

Parking can be challenging at times.

3

The store is clean and well-organized.

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Traditional Chinese decor creates a cozy, warm atmosphere with soft piano music enhancing a calm, relaxed vibe. The space feels old school and quaint, attracting those who appreciate a quiet, family-friendly setting.

Lunch combos include soup and salad at a reasonable price. Egg soup features crispy noodles that stand out. Hot & Sour Soup tastes quite good. Homemade chili oil on the table enhances all soups.

Food comes at reasonably affordable prices and tastes good. The menu offers inexpensive options without sacrificing quality.

People are saying

"The Hot & Sour Soup was quite good."

"The food here is so tasty and authentic."

Good to know

1

Szechuan House only accepts cash, so be prepared with cash.

2

They offer lunch specials that are very filling and fairly cheap.

3

You get free wonton chips with your meal.

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Sushi restaurant offers local vibe with pleasant decorations and seating overlooking the street. Atmosphere feels quaint but pleasurable with reasonable prices and a varied menu including vegetarian options. Energy stays calm with a focus on fresh sushi and enjoyable sake.

Miso soup comes very hot and has a strong flavor that stands out. It consistently impresses with its rich taste.

Very fresh sushi comes at an affordable price with quick service. Japanese dishes are beautifully plated and easy to enjoy without spending much.

People are saying

"I found the sushi here to be fresh and affordable."

"The miso soup was so hot and good."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; the nearest public lot is a block away.

2

The menu features a large selection of sushi, non-sushi items, and appetizers.

3

Happy hour runs daily from 12-6pm with great discounts on sushi and drinks.

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Steampunk-themed interior with large seats and murals creates a lively, bustling atmosphere. Dim lighting and soft music add to the authentic Vietnamese vibe. The place suits groups and families more than quiet dinners due to its hectic and noisy environment.

Big bowls of Special Combination Pho come with fresh chicken and spicy beef options. Affordable daily specials include chicken noodle soup and beef noodle soup with tender filet mignon.

Prices stay affordable with most specials around $13. Portions come generous and meals like chicken noodle soup satisfy without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"I found the best pho soup in San Diego here."

"I found the prices to be affordable and the portions generous."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends due to popularity.

2

Arrive early to avoid a long wait, especially on Fridays.

3

The waitlist moves quickly, often under 20 minutes.

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Walls covered in manga pages create a casual, laid-back atmosphere that feels more like a burger joint than a traditional sushi spot. The place fills with an energetic, noisy crowd enjoying affordable, fresh sushi and a variety of sake cocktails.

Miso soup stands out as a highlight, often described as the best in the area. It comes with meals like sushi specials and is praised for its great flavor and reasonable price.

Offers a monthly sushi combo that lets you try four different rolls at a low price. Both sushi and bento plates come at affordable prices while maintaining good quality.

People are saying

"I found the sushi to be delicious and affordable."

"I drove from Valley Center just for this miso soup."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 3-6pm with food and drink specials.

2

Daily specials on food and rotating monthly specials are available.

3

Parking is limited, so consider arriving early or using public transport.

13
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Small, cozy sushi restaurant with intimate atmosphere and authentic Tokyo vibes. Limited seating creates a warm, inviting space often packed with charm. Music adds to the serene, chill energy, making it ideal for quiet meals or dates.

Spicy salmon and miso soups stand out with rich flavors. Curry udon soup offers a hearty option, while biria ramen soup has very little broth.

Unique layers of flavors come with affordable pricing. Sushi offers quality at a super affordable cost.

People are saying

"The shiso complemented the roe quite well in the soup."

"I found the sushi to be delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6 PM with discounted prices on select items.

2

The restaurant can only accommodate about 25 customers at a time.

3

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and popularity.

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Small, cozy restaurant offers a warm and intimate atmosphere with friendly service and authentic Thai cuisine. The space feels quaint and personal, making dining feel special and cared for. Affordable prices and well-prepared dishes create a satisfying experience in a modest setting.

Tom Yum soup stands out with its freshly made and delicious flavor. The yum soup also delivers a tasty and satisfying experience.

Prices stay affordable for locals and not just tourists. Lunch options offer delicious meals at very reasonable prices compared to downtown.

People are saying

"I found it to be an amazing spot for an affordable lunch."

"The tom yum soup here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash at Thai Island.

2

The lunch special prices were unmatched in this part of town.

3

Prices were extremely reasonable for the portion size.

15
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Bright space with tall glass windows and high ceilings creates a warm and lively atmosphere. Seating includes both booths and bar options, offering comfort and convenience. The environment feels modern and cozy, welcoming guests with an artsy mural reflecting campus life.

Offers a variety of dishes with large portions at low prices. Food stays affordable without cutting back on options.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 30% off select drinks and specific food items, not the buffet.

2

Fan-Fan accepts only card payments; no cash or dining dollars are accepted.

3

Prices are based on weight, approximately $0.79 per pound for food.

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Small, family-owned Italian restaurant with a cozy, authentic atmosphere and dated interior that feels like a time capsule. The place hosts an eclectic group of local regulars and offers a locals-only secret vibe. It serves excellent Italian food with standout dishes like lasagna and Oso Buco.

Minestrone soup and lasagna soup stand out as flavorful options. Soups often come paired with entrees like veal or salmon, adding variety to the meal.

Prices stay very affordable here, making it easy to enjoy good food without spending much. The setting feels a bit cramped but peaceful enough to focus on the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is good and affordable."

"I found the minestrone soup delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for large parties to ensure seating.

2

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

3

A 20% service charge is automatically added to all dining bills.

17
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Vietnamese restaurant offers cozy, calm atmosphere with simple, clean decor and authentic culinary traditions. It draws a welcoming crowd seeking outstanding pho and bánh mì sandwiches. Indoor seating feels dated, but the place remains a chill spot to relax and enjoy flavorful food.

Broth options focus on Hue beef noodle soup and Filet Mignon pho with good flavor. Soup choices are limited to two to four, mainly with or without filet mignon meat.

Meals cost around $40 total, which is very affordable compared to other spots. The local Vietnamese cuisine offers great value with consistently affordable prices.

People are saying

"The pho soup broth was good, with tender meat and perfect noodles."

"The food here is amazing and affordable."

Good to know

1

The best parking is behind the building.

2

The prices are very affordable, with meals around $23.

3

They are closed on Wednesdays.

18
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Small, quiet restaurant with a pretty interior and affordable prices. Atmosphere feels comforting and uplifting, with attentive, friendly service creating a welcoming vibe. Lunch specials offer generous portions and authentic Thai flavors.

Tom Yum soup stands out with its balanced spices and fresh ingredients. The Tom Kha Soup offers a rich, creamy flavor, and lunch specials pair soup with salad for a contrasting taste experience.

Prices stay consistently affordable, with lunch specials around $11. The spot keeps things inexpensive while maintaining a clean environment.

People are saying

"The Tom Yum soup is a revelation of balanced spices."

"The food here is always delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials end at 3 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

The restaurant offers large portions at affordable prices.

3

You can choose your spice level when ordering.

19
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Buffet restaurant offers an enormous dining area with live cooking stations including Mongolian and teppanyaki grills. Atmosphere varies from cozy and quiet to lively and crowded during peak hours. Tables are close together, creating a bustling environment with fresh sushi and stir fry options.

Soups come piping hot with options like clam and vegetable varieties. The selection includes miso soup and other Asian broths alongside a salad bar and sushi.

Buffet options come with inexpensive prices and senior discounts. Location by the sea helps keep the overall cost affordable.

People are saying

"I found the buffet to be good and affordable."

"The clam soup was delicious and served piping hot."

Good to know

1

The buffet is available every day, regardless of weather or season.

2

The restaurant has a birthday policy where you eat for free if it's your birthday, but you must show an ID.

3

Lunch costs around $20 for one person, including tip.

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Medium-sized dining room shows signs of wear with a minimalist Chinese style. Atmosphere suits takeout and delivery more than dine-in. Menu offers authentic Chinese dishes with generous portions and reasonable prices despite some inconsistencies.

House soup offers a rich, delicious flavor. Wonton soup is filling but surprisingly lacks wontons. Egg drop soup stands out as a comforting choice.

Offers a wide variety of authentic dishes at very affordable prices. Food quality matches the budget-friendly cost.

People are saying

"I found the soup here to be the best Chinese I've had."

"I found a wide variety of authentic and affordable dishes."

Good to know

1

The prices are reasonable and portions are generous.

2

China Ann offers delivery, pickup, and dine-in options.

3

Dinner specials are available.

21
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Vietnamese restaurant with an old, hole-in-the-wall appearance and casual, quiet atmosphere. It offers authentic, flavorful pho broth and a homey, nostalgic vibe reminiscent of traditional settings. Payment is cash only, with an ATM available on site.

Broth stands out with authentic pho and a spicy beef soup called Bun Bo Hue. Portions are fair and the soup base carries good flavor.

Prices range from $12.25 to $13.25, which is lower than the typical $17 elsewhere. Vietnamese dishes offer great value without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"The broth in this pho soup is savory with a nice depth."

"I thought the Vietnamese food was great and affordable."

Good to know

1

Phở Hòa Restaurant accepts only cash payments.

2

There is an ATM on site with a $2.50 transaction fee.

3

Parking at Phở Hòa Restaurant is easy.

22
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Colorful interior with bright decorations and big screens showing sports creates a lively yet laid-back vibe. The space feels authentic and welcoming, offering plenty of seating without any pretension. Regulars enjoy huge, flavorful burritos and house-made salsa in a clean, casual setting.

Albondigas soup stands out with its full flavor and solid preparation. Menudo also gets strong recommendations and shows care in its making.

Food costs stay low with inexpensive prices and generous portions. This spot offers more food for less compared to similar Mexican restaurants.

People are saying

"It's affordable and the portions are huge."

"Their pozole soup is sometimes really good."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers 3 tacos and a drink for $6.

2

Expect large portions, often enough for two or three meals.

3

Credit cards accepted, but there's a $0.30 fee for using them.

23
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Small, cozy space with a subtle tropical vibe and bright lighting creates a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. Friendly energy and clean, uncluttered design make it feel like eating in someone's home. The setting includes tuk tuk models and a few seats facing the front window.

Tom kha soup offers a very flavorful experience with a rich blend of spices. The pineapple curry and coconut soup stand out as fresh and delicious options.

Prices stay quite affordable throughout the menu. It suits those looking for good, affordable food on a weekday without cooking.

People are saying

"The Tom Kha soup here is so flavorful and comforting."

"I found the prices here to be quite affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a lunch menu available on weekends.

2

Expect a wait time of about 25 minutes for orders during peak hours.

3

Prices have increased by $3-4 per dish recently.

24
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Sushi restaurant offers modern decor with traditional touches and an open, clean space. Atmosphere is loud and lively, making conversation difficult but energizing. Staff engage actively with guests, and amenities include warm towels, endless green tea, and outdoor seating.

Sushi prices stay around $5-7 for ala carte, including 2 Nigiri. Food remains affordable compared to other sushi spots.

People are saying

"The sushi here is really affordable."

Good to know

1

The dinner price is $39.99 for all-you-can-eat sushi.

2

Expect an hour and a half wait during busy times.

3

Lunch pricing applies if you arrive before 2:30 pm.

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