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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Hillcrest

Authentic soup spots

Authentic soup that tastes like a family recipe instead of something pulled from a commercial kitchen.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
CURRY NATION - INDIAN RESTAURANT & CATERING image 1
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Modern interior combines with beautiful decor and clean, comfortable atmosphere. Calm environment features Indian music that suits families and friends. Staff attire varies, but overall vibe remains welcoming and cozy.

Lentil soup comes piping hot and delicious, with a version made as dahl. Vegetarian samosas often accompany the soup.

Food bursts with authentic Indian flavors and fresh, well-spiced dishes. Portions come generous with rich, traditional tastes from Indian and Pakistani cuisine.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The authentic Indian food here is bursting with flavor."

"I thought the Daal soup was the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the lot under the Atlas building, which is free.

2

The restaurant does not yet have a liquor license, but it is being worked on.

3

The menu features a good variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

02
Taste of Denmark image 1
Danish restaurant

Small indoor space with a street front patio offers a relaxed, friendly vibe. Danish classics play softly, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels like a piece of Denmark. The place draws those interested in authentic Scandinavian flavors and casual outdoor dining.

Butternut squash soup stands out with its rich cheese addition, creating a perfect balance. Mushroom soup offers a creamy texture from Danish cheese and deep, flavorful notes.

Danish meatballs and gravy come with fresh, authentic flavors. The menu features 100% authentic Danish dishes including classic danishes and traditional cuisine.

People are saying

"The food, especially the rye bread and Danish pastries, is amazing."

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

"I thought the mushroom soup was delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult and requires payment.

2

Everything at Taste of Denmark is cooked to order.

3

You can buy the bread and take a huge loaf home.

03
Corner Cafe image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, family-owned Chinese restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere with a warm, comforting vibe. Seating faces the street, creating a casual, chill setting. Food arrives quickly, featuring authentic Cantonese-style dishes that stand out in the area.

Wor-Wonton Soup stands out with its fresh and tasty broth and large portion size. The wontons are warm and considered the best ever, making it a go-to for feeling under the weather.

Cantonese-style fried rice with preserved meat and stir-fried beef noodles show authentic Chinese flavors. Pork dishes carry a homemade taste that feels true to traditional recipes.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here tastes homemade and authentic."

"I found the most authentic Chinese food here."

"I loved their warm wonton soup; it's the best."

Good to know

1

Parking could be an issue depending on the hours.

2

There aren't many tables, so during peak times, it might be better to order takeout.

3

There is 15-minute parking outside for pickup.

04
Ortega's A Mexican Bistro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Quaint bistro with authentic Mexican decor and soft lighting creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Classic Mexican music plays, adding to the vibrant yet cozy vibe. Outdoor seating and a separate upstairs area offer varied spaces for dining and meetings.

Chicken tortilla soup stands out with a cornucopia of flavors and is a favorite lunch choice. The soup and sides consistently come out tasty and well-liked.

Decor reflects authentic Mexican culture with a vibrant atmosphere. Dishes like perfectly seasoned tacos, rich mole, and creamy guacamole show dedication to authentic flavors.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the fresh tortillas and flavorful tacos."

"I found the authentic Mexican flavors to be exceptional and lovingly prepared."

"I thought the tortilla soup was the very best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Brunch includes unlimited mimosas at a great price.

2

Happy hour specials are available from 6pm.

3

Parking can be a challenge in the area.

05
Huapangos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with colorful decor and a dog-friendly patio creates a warm, festive atmosphere. Music ranges from loud and lively to cozy when lights dim and authentic tunes play. Outdoor seating offers an inviting space to enjoy the weather and vibrant surroundings.

Tortilla soup stands out with a warm, delicious flavor. The menu also features abondegas soup and other soups that pair well with dishes like enchiladas.

Food offers rich flavors and impeccable seasoning true to Mexican cuisine. Guacamole stands out as especially authentic, and the atmosphere includes authentic music played at low lights.

People are saying

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

"The food here is authentic Mexican, bursting with rich flavors."

"I loved the tortilla soup; it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Huapangos offers bottomless mimosas for $18 with a meal on weekends.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers every weekday.

3

Expect long wait times during peak brunch hours on weekends.

06
Baikohken Ramen image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, modernized Japanese ramen shop offers an upscale yet cozy vibe with a clean, bright interior. Atmosphere stays quiet and casual, welcoming for relaxed meals. Known for authentic broths and perfectly balanced saltiness, it serves some of the best ramen flavors outside Japan.

Soup features a very flavorful miso base with a warm broth that complements the chewy noodles perfectly matched in thickness to the soup.

Ramen here follows a traditional Japanese recipe from Hokkaido, featuring perfectly cooked noodles, tasty broth, and firm meat. The flavor profile closely matches authentic Japanese ramen.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be excellent and authentic."

"The ramen broth here is so flavorful and aromatic."

"I found the ramen here to be truly authentic, just like in Japan."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dining, which is a recent change.

2

Parking is very difficult, especially on weekends.

3

The Tonkotsu ramen costs about $24, while Miso ramen is $15.

07
Maisa formerly Aladdin Hillcrest image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Large indoor space with quaint decor and a pleasant, low-key atmosphere creates a cozy, cafe-like vibe. Outdoor patio surrounded by beautiful palm trees offers a nice setting for dining. The place draws those seeking authentic Middle Eastern flavors in a relaxed environment.

Lentil soup stands out with its flavorful and hearty profile. It pairs well with dishes like schwarma wraps and Mediterranean chicken salad.

Middle Eastern dishes come with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. The food stays true to traditional recipes and tastes.

People are saying

"I found the chicken salad to be very fresh and delicious."

"I enjoyed the flavorful lentil soup."

"I found the food here to be fresh and authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

2

Parking is available nearby for customers.

3

Expect smaller portion sizes than typical for the prices charged.

08
Dumplings N More image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, cozy space with wooden tables and chairs and a quiet, warm atmosphere. Guests watch dumplings being handmade through a window, adding a hands-on feel to the experience. The place offers vegetarian-friendly options and feels like home cooking.

Soups here have a satisfying depth with well-balanced flavors and plentiful vegetables. Options like the hot and sour soup, soup dumplings, and braised beef soup stand out for their rich taste and quality ingredients.

Authentic Chinese dumplings stand out here, including XiaoLongBao and wontons. The food delivers a genuine Chinese experience whether dining in or taking out.

People are saying

"I found the dumplings here to be authentically delicious."

"I found the dumplings to be authentic and delicious."

"The soup dumplings were delicious and out of this world."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough around the restaurant, so plan accordingly.

2

Lunch specials offer great deals for budget-conscious diners.

3

The restaurant is family-run and known for handmade dumplings.

09
HiroNori Craft Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small space with wood style design feels cozy but can get crowded quickly. Atmosphere stays calming and intimate, attracting those who appreciate quiet dining. Seating is limited and uncomfortable, contributing to a packed yet popular vibe.

Broth stays hot and offers a rich, flavorful taste without being salty. Tonkotsu soup comes out thick and creamy, even in veggie options.

Broth stands out as authentic and flavorful, though it can be quite salty. Food quality matches traditional Japanese ramen closely, offering a high-quality and genuine experience.

People are saying

"The Tonkotsu Ramen broth is rich, silky, and well-balanced."

"The tonkotsu soup here is rich, flavorful, and not too salty."

"I found the ramen here to be authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The place fills up quickly, and they do not take reservations.

2

Expect wait times of over an hour on Friday evenings.

3

Parking can be inconvenient due to nearby construction.

10
Alexi's Greek Cafe image 1
Greek restaurant

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.

Greek dishes taste very authentic and affordable. The staff adds an authentic vibe that feels like an immigrant's straightforward style.

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."

"The Greek food here is authentic and a great value."

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 entrรฉe for $12.

11
TASTE OF THAI - HILLCREST image 1

Small dining space features authentic Thai decor and classical music playing softly. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy, often quiet on weekdays, making it suitable for a relaxed meal. Walls display beautiful tapestries that add to the pleasant and casual vibe.

Soups include a nutrient-packed duck soup that is very filling and gentle on the stomach. Tom Yum soup varies, sometimes bland and served in aluminum cookware, while the Tom Kah and sukiyaki-style Tom Yum offer richer, more comforting flavors.

Dining room features authentic Thai decor. Menu offers flavorful, fresh dishes with an authentic taste throughout.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is delicious and flavorful."

"I found the flavors here to be authentic, fresh, and delicious."

"This duck soup is so soothing and filling."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a bit tricky in Hillcrest.

2

Their entrees with rice are priced around $13-$16.

3

They can accommodate very mild spiciness if requested.

12
White Elephant Asian Kitchen image 1

Quaint restaurant with decor that resembles a wine shop offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere with soft background music. The vibe stays relaxed and quiet, making it suitable for casual meals. It stands out for its inviting ambiance and chilled setting.

White Elephant noodle soup features house-made knife cut noodles that are super chewy and a broth with a white pepper spicy kick. Tom Kha soup offers a rich flavor with mushrooms and vegetables adding texture.

Flavors stay true to authentic Thai spices and freshness. Some dishes like drunken noodle lean less authentic, and spice levels skew more American than traditional.

People are saying

"The salads here are so fresh and full of flavor."

"I craved this chicken soup, especially when it was chilly."

"The food here is authentic and full of Thai spices."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult, so consider arriving early.

2

Seating is limited, especially during peak hours.

3

The patio is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

13
Ramen Ryoma Hillcrest image 1
Ramen restaurant

Spacious interior with a huge pot of broth simmering creates an authentic ramen atmosphere. Warm, cozy vibe contrasts with loud music that sometimes echoes, shifting energy from casual dining to nightclub-like late at night. Upstairs bar offers a quiet, peaceful retreat amid the lively main area.

Ramen soup offers an authentic taste with a Miso base featured in the Deluxe Ramen. No seafood options exist, and the soup fills but can feel unsatisfyingly plain.

Broth simmers in a huge pot, creating a rich base for the ramen soup. The food tastes authentic and delicious, though the tempura does not match that standard.

People are saying

"The ramen here is cheap and delicious."

"The ramen soup here is authentic and tasty."

"I thought the ramen soup was authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open late on weekdays.

2

Expect to pay around $40 for multiple dishes.

3

They charge extra for certain sauces and toppings.

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