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Soup and lunch spots

A bowl of soup that actually fills you up for lunch without forcing you to sit through a formal, hour-long production.

Based on 592 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Golden Goose image 1
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Small restaurant with jade green finishes and convex mirrors creates a cozy, low-key atmosphere filled with artwork and Korean posters. Music and puzzles add to the casual, welcoming vibe. Seating includes outdoor options and window views.

Wagyu beef soup offers a deep, nutritious broth with super tender chunks of beef. It balances rich flavor and affordability, making it a satisfying hot soup option.

Lunch offers a satisfying meal around $18.39 without drinks. The spot has a relaxed vibe that fits well within a lunch hour.

People are saying

"The Korean fried chicken here is fantastic and amazing."

"The wagyu beef soup here is so tender and flavorful."

"This lunch spot's chicken curry was amazing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Brunch is served on Sundays from 10am to 2pm.

3

Parking at the garage on Laredo St. is free for 2 hours with validation.

02
Rita's on the River image 1

Restaurant offers great views of the Riverwalk with a loud, hectic, and fun atmosphere energized by an outstanding DJ. Guests enjoy top-notch margaritas and some of the best guacamole, queso, and tacos around.

Soups stand out with cream of cilantro and tortilla soup offering rich, unique flavors. The cilantro soup is a must-try for its distinct taste.

Attentive service stands out with servers like Bash and Greg checking in often and keeping drinks filled. Lunch moves quickly even during the Saturday rush, making it a smooth spot for midday meals.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and came out fast and hot."

"Our server made our lunch experience great."

"The soup here is out of this world."

Good to know

1

Rita's on the River offers a 10% discount for military personnel.

2

Expect high prices, with tacos costing around $18 for four.

3

The kitchen may run out of popular menu items like pork and quesadillas.

03
Thai Lao Orchid Restaurant image 1

Small dining space with blank walls and country music creates a cozy, authentic atmosphere away from busy surroundings. The interior feels like a Mom and Pop cafe with simple tables and chairs. Food matches Thai preferences and offers great value despite downtown pricing.

Vietnamese sweet and sour soup stands out with its rich, balanced flavors. Other soups offer deep, savory tastes that appeal broadly.

Lunch here features tofu fried rice paired with classic sodas like Coke. The setting includes blank walls and country music, creating a simple, laid-back vibe during late lunch hours.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is amazing, especially the pad thai."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is super solid and flavorful."

"I found the Vietnamese sweet and sour soup very very good."

Good to know

1

Expect a 45-minute wait during peak dining hours.

2

Combo rice is priced at $12.95 and spring rolls at $6.95.

3

You can only order takeout; no dine-in options available.

04
Potbelly image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop offers clean, spacious seating with a quiet lunchtime atmosphere and fair prices. Menu includes fresh sandwiches, soups, and salads with notable vegetarian options. Location is convenient for quick downtown meals near popular attractions.

Broccoli cheese and potato soups stand out with rich, creamy textures. Options include vegetarian soups and other hearty choices like chicken club and vegetable soup.

Offers a quick lunch option with satisfying meals. Suitable for a fast, casual midday break.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, hot, and tasty."

"I had an amazing, well-prepared sandwich with fresh bread."

"The sandwiches at this lunch spot are prepared well with warm, fresh bread."

Good to know

1

Potbelly closes at 5 pm.

2

The restaurant was nice and clean.

3

The location is convenient downtown.

05
KK Thai Lao & Sushi image 1
Asian restaurant

Small, cozy space filled with real plants creates a calming, comfortable atmosphere. Quiet and family-friendly, it suits long conversations and offers a classic small-town Thai vibe. Tight seating limits large groups or wheelchair access.

Large Tom kha soup stands out, especially on chilly days. Miso soup comes simple but may contain unexpected bits, like something hard that feels like a bone.

Lunch arrives quickly and stays fresh and piping hot. Meals feel satisfying and ready to eat without delay.

People are saying

"I thought the curry sauce was the best I've ever had."

"I had a great bowl of miso soup."

"I found the lunch spot satisfying and the food quality pretty good."

Good to know

1

Thai Thursday features special menu items not available on other days.

2

Prices are higher than average, with meals costing around $56 for two.

3

The restaurant is small, seating about 35 people, which can lead to tight spaces.

06
The Republic of Texas Restaurant image 1

Dining alongside the flowing river creates a bright, lively atmosphere with live Mexican and country music enhancing the experience. The space offers indoor and outdoor seating with unbeatable river views attracting families, couples, and solo diners. Strong, flavorful margaritas and a diverse menu complement the festive vibe.

Tortilla soup stands out with its very tasteful flavor and comes with chips instead of tortillas. It includes a thin slice of avocado and offers a delicious twist on a classic.

Lunch here offers quick service and good food by the water. Returning for lunch is common due to the consistent quality.

People are saying

"Our server Jordan was amazing and provided an awesome dining experience."

"Monica made our lunch so pleasant and was a great server."

"I loved the tortilla soup; it was so tasteful."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is available all day long.

2

The restaurant is dog friendly.

3

Expect no wait for a table during off-peak hours.

07
Waxy's image 1
Irish pub

Building shipped from Ireland creates a classic Irish pub feel with unique decor. Live music plays at a volume that allows conversation, adding to an intimate atmosphere that blends Irish pub tradition with a sports bar vibe. Outdoor seating by the water offers a relaxing spot with views and dog-friendly space.

Potato leek soup stands out as very tasty and often praised. The curry soup served with fries also draws attention for its flavor. Chips accompany some soup orders, adding a crunchy side.

Reasonable lunch prices match the exceptional staff service. The spot offers classic dishes like bangers and mash and sits quiet during Sunday lunch hours.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are funny and awesome."

"The potato leek soup and curry were fabulous."

"I found the potato leek soup to be very good."

Good to know

1

Waxy's allows dogs on the patio.

2

Expect a $3.25 fee for credit card payments.

3

Lunch prices are reasonable considering the location.

08
The Esquire Tavern image 1

Longest wooden bar in Texas stretches over 100 feet, setting a historic and classy tone. Romantic, old-timey atmosphere blends with classic rock music and a lively speakeasy downstairs. Multiple floors offer varied experiences, including an outdoor patio overlooking the river.

Chicken tortilla soup stands out with its smoky chipotle peppers and rich flavor. Tomato soup comes with baked cheese toast for a hearty touch.

Lunch features reasonably priced specials and happy hour drinks from Monday to Friday. The millionaire bacon BLT stands out as a solid choice, with options to enjoy lunch at the bar or on the patio.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are fantastic."

"The soup here has a great, cozy, dimly lit atmosphere."

"Daniel's drinks were great and made my stay enjoyable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5pm with drink specials available.

2

Lunch food specials and happy hour drink specials are offered Monday through Friday.

3

Food includes $2 deviled eggs during happy hour.

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