I found a gem in Michigan. The waiting staff is genuinely polite and friendly. I am impressed in Hirams ability to interact, serve and pack "to go" orders, with grace. The onion soup was tasteful. The service, even better.
(5)
Stefanie D.
I was surprised by the large portions and the quality of the food at Soup Spoon Cafe, especially for the price! Service was a little slow but friendly. The wait was worth it. The shrimp voodoo pasta had a mild kick. If you're doing carry out, order ahead of time. My order took nearly 40 minutes and the place wasn't busy on a weekday.
(4)
Paige H.
This is probably my favorite place in the entire world. From the days that I just turned 21 and would be so hungover on a Saturday or Sunday morning, I would head into soup spoon and guess what! FULL BAR! so that means I can get something with my breakfast or brunch to knock the hangover! WOO! Now, I have grown to just loveeee the food. Quality is wonderful and so many healthy alternatives. always, always, always, have to go back when I head back into Lansing from the Ann Arbor area, and thats saying a lot, with how great Ann Arbor's food is!
(5)
Jordan P.
Great food and a nice atmosphere. Solid selection of lunch items.
(4)
Nellie T.
One of my favorite places to eat while I'm in Lansing. They have a great selection of soups, sandwiches, salads, and fancy entrees. The only problem I have there is deciding what to eat - there's too many choices! Ugh. Good thing they have a great selection of beer and wine that you can sip on as you mull over your menu choices.
(4)
Lauren A.
If you fancy delicious food, friendly servers, and a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, you'll probably like the Soup Spoon. If you don't.... Who are you? But seriously, their soups are (obviously) fantastic, but I also highly recommend just about any sandwich on their menu. Oh, and try the bread pudding. It's like swimming in a hot bowl of butter and angel lullabies. Lights out. Also, order anything that involves their homemade spicy feta spread/dip. Do yourself a solid and order some to-go while you're at it. Almost forgot to mention: BISCUITS AND GRAVY. Asiago and rosemary biscuits and gravy, no less. Simply.... yes. So. Much. Yes. Last tip: go for lunch! Their menu at that time is pretty much the same as the dinner menu, just a lot cheaper.
The soup is a must obviously. Tried three types and all were so delicious and warm. Truly home made. I don't think you can go wrong with any flavor. Get the soup flight! And the seafood chowder is my favorite. The small plates are actually filling. The lamb sliders are so good, reminded me of the lamb cooked home. The sandwiches are good for most part. But didn't like the burger. I felt heavy and not lean.
(4)
Lea C.
Hidden gem near sparrow hospital. I had the chicken PO boy for lunch and then came back to pick up the Kobe burger for dinner
(5)
Mandana Y.
With out any other place to compare, I'll comfortably declare Soup Spoon Cafe as the best restaurant in Lansing. Well, first, it was the one locals recommended to a group of us from out of town. Second, we walked in, fortunately with a reservation, on a Thursday night, into the most crowded atmosphere. Folks were waiting by the door, by the bar and scattered all over waiting for their tables. The decor, hipster/industrial/antique, is right up my alley. They have an open kitchen concept and extremely friendly staff. Their menu is creative and their drink menu is extensive. I want to say it's a plain and simple great dining experience, but designed with Lansing in mind. It didn't feel like a non-NYC town trying to pull off a NYC experience. This was Lansing, pulling off a great Lansing experience for its locals and out of towners. I just loved it and look forward to coming back next time I'm there.
(5)
Randy A.
Wow!! Just had a splendid chorizo hot sandwhich at this place....everything was perfect....they make it all fresh..it takes some time,,but its worth it..props to the chefs.
(4)
Alyona Z.
I came upon this establishment upon finding it on the yelp reviews. I was pleasantly surprised with how delicious and quick everything was. I ordered the smoked salmon eggs benefit and coffee and it was divine. The coffee is Rudy baggs which is a local coffee shop in Lansing. I appreciate the fact that they use local shops and local ingredients from farmers markets. Id highly recommend checking this place out.
(4)
Tyra N.
Im surprised. Good Surprise! After a reality check, I wanted to sulk but reality bites so hard that sulking does nothing so I went for a bite. Yes I'm always this corny. My shock of this gem kitchen was not only because it's in my new hometown but because my friends had not invited me here. The service, decor and ambiance is on par with many midway eateries. It's not hype here though. They have the kitchen to backup the gourmet feel. I ordered the cuban (pork loin) with chips and the infamous bread pudding. My mouth was not ready. I have not eaten pork loin since 2001 and oh had I missed out. This was juicy and lean but very soulful tasting. The cuts were well proportioned. It was cooked just before well. I'm not sure what seasoning or marinade was used. The bread toasted and crisply, gruyere cheese melted and blended with my bread, onions and pork loin. This was a sandwich. I must learn to make this for my man, he won't ever leave me. lol syke he will I'm a bi... The bread pudding was worth writing home to Momma about. Not too dense or doughy, not too sweet, not too anything. Just Right. Magnificent. I shall return.
(5)
Jordan L.
I didnt love the food. The wait time was long, not much seating available. It was ok
(3)
Kaitlyn C.
I came here several months ago with a friend. I ordered the salmon wrap and he got some kind of sandwich. I am 99% sure I ended up with a mild case of food poisoning. I will not be going back.
(1)
Denise G.
We were just delighted with our experience at Soup Spoon Cafe. My husband had the pastrami sandwich and I had the turkey. The recommended pasta salad was delightful. When in Lansing, we know you will enjoy eating here, it has that "neighborhood" feel!
(4)
David H.
Came here while on business in Lansing based on user reviews and glad we did. Restaurant was very unassuming and close to the MSU campus. Menu was much broader than anticipated with a number of nightly specials. Full bar with many local brews as well as both local and varietal wines. There are a number of vegetarian and vegan options, we had the homemade lentil patty that was really great. The soup of the day and other soups on the menu were very good as well. What really set this restaurant apart was the service, from when you walk in the door to your food being delivered to the table was spectacular, I believe our server's name was Roger and he did a phenomenal job. Definitely worth a stop if you are in the area.
(4)
Sasha P.
I LOVE the Soup Spoon. It is my favorite restaurant in Lansing and I have many fond memories of it. You can go to the Soup Spoon for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and never be disappointed. Or at least, I was never disappointed! :-) For breakfast, I love the Baja Scramble. It's scrambled eggs with chorizo chunks, peppers, onions, cheese, sour cream and avocado. Anything with chorizo and avocado is a true winner for me. I can't get away from ordering this dish! I've also had the Stacked French Toast and Gourmet Breakfast Wrap. Both were really good but like I said, I'm a sucker for egg scrambles! For lunch, I've had the BLT & Avocado sandwich, the French Dip and the Lamb Burger, listed in order of preference. All of these dishes were simply amazing. The BLTA is fresh and always filling. I love the addition of avocado on what I consider to be a traditional sandwich. The French Dip au jus is absolutely delicious and flavorful. The lamb burger is full of flavor and nicely paired with the yogurt mint sauce. For dinner, I've had the Braised Lamb Shank, Hangar Steak, Voodoo Pasta and Fresh Salmon. I truly feel like you can't go wrong here. The braised lamb shank is a popular dish. It's so tender and juicy, definitely fall-off-the-bone good! The hangar steak chimichurri is an absolute winner in my heart because I love chimichurri! The voodoo pasta and salmon were also very good dishes. I have never had a bad meal here. Sure, the wait for your food might be lengthy at times. But, to their defense, I understand because they have a small kitchen and lots of loyal customers. In any case, the food is fantastic. I love the Soup Spoon and vow to return whenever I am in town!
(5)
Christina C.
I had great expectations when I came in to try this place, but was slightly disappointed. I thought that my veggie sandwich (the Gardner with wheat bread) was mediocre. The (French onion) soup was delicious, but was surprised at how small the bowl was. Overall, I thought the food was just average.
(3)
Alex N.
Had the Jake's Pastrami - awesome! Meat was seared a bit on the flat top giving crispy edges to it and cheese. May be the best pastrami sandwich I've ever had. Great prices too.
(5)
Jennifer T.
Excellent service and atmosphere. Great beer list and fresh quality food! Gets busy at lunch so plan for a bit of a wait. Welcoming and laid back!
(4)
Emu Q.
Ate at Soup Spoon today for the first time and loved it! The naan pizza of the day was absolutely delicious and so were the sandwiches. I went with my family and was able to sample most all of the soups and some of the sandwiches. The chowder and vegan soups are both equally delicious. Our waiter, Roger, knew absolutely everything we asked and made some great recommendations. The service was fast and we really enjoyed our lunch. We'll definitely be coming back when we're in town!
(5)
Sue K.
First time here and it was a great experience! I got the Cajun Chicken Po Boy w/ a side of kettle chips and pickle. The bread they use is so soft and so yummy. The kettle chips are really crunchy and compliment the sandwich nicely. It costs $8 but you can add a cup of soup on the side for +$2. I recommend the Seafood Chowder. It's DELICIOUS. Will definitely be coming back here.
(4)
Tim M.
I'm writing an update to say: The soup spoon is hands down the best restaurant in the entire Lansing Metropolitan Area. It is miles ahead of it's fleeting competition. I have been going out to the Soup Spoon for probably the last three years now and in that period of time I have never had a bad encounter with the soup spoon. One of the really great things about the Soup Spoon is that if you want dinner for $10 then you can get an excellent sandwich (like the Kobe burger, the Kevinator, or the Cajun Chicken Po-Bo) and some pasta salad. Also, on the cheaper side of the menu, their soups (I've recently has the Clam Chowder, Lobster bisque, and French Onion) are absolutely fantastic. I also once had a smoked salmon salad for 12 dollars once and it was as a good as you could hope a salad could be. That said if you're not on a budget their entrees (which can cost between $20 and $30) are delicious. Last time I had the Beer Braised Brisket and Crispy Polenta. The brisket was super flavorful and simply melted in you mouth. I cut it comfortably with my fork. I dream of that brisket regularly (and my saying that isn't an invitation to the Texas-philes out their to send me BBQ hate mail). I've also had the goat cheese points and feta dip both of which were fantastic. Now that I've summed up how excellent the food is: Let talk about the drinks. the Soup Spoon is one of the only restaurants in town today that has an espresso machine. So the coffee quality is unrivaled as far as restaurants are concerned. Their liqueur selection is small but excellent and heavy on the scotch and absinthe. Their mixed drinks are done very proficiently and the the few times I've sat at the bar everyone has been very friendly with me. Their beer selection is good, typical craft beer selection, of 8 or so beers. Their wine selection though rivals that of the best wine bars in the area (Troppo, Tanin, Dusty's, and Zoobies). On one occasion, I had an excellent time sitting at the bar at midday with a friend drinking boozed up lattes. Soup Spoons servers are all well dressed, friendly, experienced, and knowledgeable. They can easily recommend wine/beer pairings and anytime I've ever seen an issue arise at the Soup Spoon regarding a customer the servers always have quickly rectifed the situation in the way that most benefits the customer. It used to be that the soup spoon was to small of a restaurant. It was almost pointless to try and go on a weekend night because there would be a serious wait so I used to just go on weekdays. But earlier this year they expanded into what used to be a neighboring florist, more than doubling their seating. As a result it's much easier to get a table. But don't get me wrong, they'll still be packed. And that makes sense; there is truly almost no where else worth eating out at in this entire town.
(5)
Walt S.
Gourmet food at neighborhood-diner prices. The soups are superb, the staff super friendly, and they complete the package with an amazing beer-and-wine list. The breakfast menu is the most unique in town with lots of options you won't find anywhere else. Lunch and dinner also allows for adventures in food. No burgers at this place -- great food at really reasonable prices. My favorite restaurant in the area, even when compared to much pricier competitors.
(5)
Kathy P.
I came here for dinner and thought so many things on the menu looked delicious! They really have something for everyone. I enjoyed a cup of soup (I forget which kind, but it was good). I ended up ordering the salmon, which the waitress said she loved, and so did I! It was probably one of the best salmon dishes I've ever had, and even my boyfriend, who claims not to be much of a salmon fan, agreed that it was amazing. Apparently they are known for their bread pudding, so we had that for dessert and it was yummy. Service was friendly, the restaurant was clean, food was delicious; overall a great experience. Now if only they had a patio... then it'd be a solid 5 stars for me!
It's all good but whenever you are in doubt, just get the soup flight.
(5)
Aaron M.
They have theeeee best brunch in town, plus a full bar, what's better?! On top of several soup choices, they have choices for vegetarians, vegans, and also an awesome selection of meat dishes. I love this place because it's so fresh and clean tasting, that's why I keep on returning!
(5)
Kathryn G.
I have truly never eaten anything at Souo Spoon that I didn't enjoy. Everything on their menu is full of flavor and really fresh. I like that they use a lot of local, Michigan grown ingredients and feature beers from around the state. My all-time favorite item on their menu is the seafood chowder. A friend from New England told me it's the best chowder she's ever tasted. Sample their rotating soups and order a soup flight when you go. Some of the tastiest food I've ever had has been eaten at Soup Spoon, like their vegan Ethiopian stew. This is easily Lansing's most delicious restaurant!
(5)
The E.
Do not understand the hype for this place. Food was OK, nothing out of the ordinary. Sandwiches are small and overpriced. Waitress did not smile once. Beers on tap are good.
(2)
Aaron H.
It only took my wife and I 4 years since we moved to the area to try this place. Everyone told me it was the bomb and I must agree. Ethiopian chickpea soup was spicy and right up my alley. Their steak was fantastic as well as the rustic asparagus and feta mashed potatoes. My wife had Schnittzle and that was amazing too. Wish I had tried it sooner. I'll be back soon.
(5)
Sarah J.
Overall it was okay. The bread/toast at breakfast is fantastic. However, I didn't care for the French toast with strawberry cream cheese that I ordered. The bread itself is good; the cream cheese is good but not together. Maybe I would have had a better review had I gone with basic pancakes or toast and bacon. The waitress must have had too many tables, even for a Tuesday morning. We saw her at order (which took about 15 minutes), food drop off and then for the bill. That's about it. The manager however was extremely helpful when I didn't care for my French toast, and had a new set cooked without the cream cheese. Maybe go back if I'm in the area but we only ended up here because Golden Harvest was closed for the day :(
(2)
Shawn K.
Very tasty! The Lunch Ragu was delicious as was the Salmon. Our server Heidi and the other wait staff were very friendly. Will definitely go back and try the dinner menu next time we are in Lansing.
(4)
Chris M.
Since Lansing and East Lansing are practically one city, consider it a college town. And college towns in general all should have a major breakfast spot. By that I mean a place which features home-style cooking but that also gets creative. At my alma mater the University of Oregon, the Glenwood filled that niche. Here, Soup Spoon does. I've known devotees of Golden Harvest who will take exception to that statement. For all I know, they are right. But the only times I attempted to go there, a line out the front door dissuaded me. Soup Spoon was usually crowded, but I could always get a spot. As expected, you could count on some version of eggs benedict. My version one time had trout, a first. And waffles, and omelettes, and scrambles. Soup Spoon does it all. Not once did they fail me. Hence, this review. When in Lansing, stop by. Boom.
(5)
Catherine F.
This place was excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed everything we got (French toast, biscuits and gravy, and salmon Benedict) and will definitely be coming here again!! Also, the service was excellent as well!
(5)
Bill F.
The freshest, most authentic food in the Lansing area. Salmon is devine, scallops were great, and draft beer selection is impressive. My dining partner visiting from Cali said "I haven't had food this good in Napa!"
(5)
Rilke L.
Too bad they went downhill. This was once my favorite restaurant in Lansing and I highly recommended it to whomever I could. The Soup Spoon has gotten too big for their pants. Their manager Keith doesn't seem to care about his loyal customers or staff - he also just might have a lil Napoleon complex. When the Soup Spoon first opened, they were great. Was a loyal customer for two or three years. I'm the first to support local businesses, and believe in all things local. I've arranged large parties and had my family meet there for post-funeral and post-graduation gatherings - spent much time and money with business lunches/post work dinners/imbibing with friends there. Fast forward a year: last three visits the food was dreadful. Servings shrunk, and quality and speed suffered. The last time I ordered a sandwich, the meat portion was horrible and the bread was hard. I mentioned it to my server and she tried to make it right, but the kitchen and then Keith refused. I used to visit at least once a week but sadly I won't go there anymore because of Keith's inability/refusal to make it right. Sad - they were once one of my favorite restaurants. Keith pretended to be nice to me (albeit he was condescending and disingenuine) but was rude to his staff in front of customers. Despite my appreciation for the menu and the waitstaff - I will not return. Buy local - but go somewhere else.
(1)
Cassidy S.
Had a nice time at Soup Spoon with six friends last week. We came for early dinner and had some drinks as well. My friend had come earlier in the week and recommended the soup flight, so that's what I picked for my meal. Ten minutes after ordering my server returned saying that the lamb soup was out, which was too bad, but I changed to the chowder. I also got a side of kale and swiss chard with garlic, as well as a Woxum to drink. Our seven-top was seated near the office door, which I didn't think would be an issue, but two gentlemen kept entering and leaving and my chair was right by that door. Thankfully the food was stellar! The cocktail was nice - herbal and dry. All the soups were delicious, though I got the eggplant parmesan instead of the chowder I had ordered. The lentil was a little on the spicy side. The pumpkin bisque was INCREDIBLE! I highly recommend this one for a fall selection. The side of veggies was a little heavy on the garlic for me but otherwise tasty. Overall, I was really hoping to return for Sunday lunch, but they were sadly closed that day. Next time I'm in Lansing, I"ll be back!
(4)
John B.
Food is exceptional, prices are very reasonable. Our Waitress was very pleasant and the staff were wonderful and very courteous (even with our crying baby). We waited for over an hour after ordering. Make sure you set aside a large block of time if you plan to go there. I was there another time for a lunch and the wait time was similar. Great food though, everything about it is yummy.
(4)
Wenbo X.
A simple little restaurant. I went for the breakfast, and it was amazing. A nice varied menu with everything you can expect for breakfast. The food portions are the perfect size. Large enough to fill you up, but not so large that you feel slow and tired afterwards. The service was also very good. I went right as they opened up, and there was already a good amount of people streaming in as I ate.
(5)
Cristy C.
The first thing to know about the Soup Spoon is that there is always a wait. Fortunately, the overall experience is usually worth the wait. However, if you are disinclined to wait for a table, you can call ahead for a same-day reservation before 4pm that day. They have also very graciously allowed me to push back the reservation to a later time that night when one of our party members was stuck in traffic. The decor is interesting and artsy. The staff is friendly and professional. The food is tasty and decently priced (especially at breakfast and lunch). Another review called the vibe of the Soup Spoon "bright and fun" and this description is spot on. The bar seems well stocked with a focus on Michigan products. I usually just get a Soup Flight ($10), four decently sized soup cups (of your choice) served with bread. I always choose the French onion and seafood chowder and then pick the two most interesting of their soups of the day. Among the appetizers, the Greek Island Plate ($8) and the Cafe Bread ($8) are favorites among my group of friends. For breakfast, I have found their Gourmet Breakfast Wrap ($7) very tasty. At dinner, I have had the Mediterranean Risotto ($22) and the Voodoo Pasta ($17) and both were quite good. The Soup Spoon does what they do exceptionally well. Good food. Good service. Very popular.
(5)
Stacey H.
LOVE LOVE LOVE this place! The breakfast variety is great & all of the lunch menu hits the spot. I've never tried dinner here but look forward to it! Try it if u haven't yet
(5)
Val V.
Always Delicious! Always Satisfying! Daily specials are unique and unforgettable!
(5)
Robert D.
Ok so seriously the best breakfast place I have eaten at in the area. I decided to get the Irish Scramble and it was absolutely delicious. It was so good that I ordered a lunch smoked salmon wrap and that was so impeccable as well. I had a Bloody Mary with meat which came with bacon and salami wrapped around cheese. My friends ordered the gourmet breakfast wrap, BLT with avocados and the southwest scramble. Seriously we all left this place with absolutely nothing but great things to say about the place. The prices were very reasonable and they use local products in almost everything they make! Don't be surprised if you have to wait in line but it is well worth it. Seriously EVERYONE needs to try this place out you will not be disappointed!
(5)
Nicole M.
After going to school at Michigan State University for four years, my biggest regret is not coming to the Soup Spoon in Lansing until my last year there. Whether for breakfast or lunch, this place does simple, fresh food in the best possible way. Their menu has lots of classics but then takes them up a notch by adding some unique flavors. My personal favorites are their beef stroganoff with a creamy dill sauce and their bacon and corn chowder. Oh yeah, and being the Soup Spoon they definitely have fantastic soup. Trust me ,when you see their four soups of the day you'll have to get a soup flight because it is actually impossible to choose between their amazing soups. This is truly one of Lansing's gems, so you'll probably have to wait during the school months when MSU students are there but it is worth the wait!!
(5)
Hannah S.
This place took us completely off guard. The term cafe is definitely used lightly here because this is for sure a fancy soup sandwich place. The staff were super friendly and the vibe of the place was very bright and fun. We were so close to ordering the flight of soups (sample 3 soups) but we wanted a tasty sandwich to go along side. We split a soprano sandwich, very tasty in that pesto, sun-dried, salami way. We also shared two bowls of soup (which weren't very big, but I knew they weren't cups) of french onion and the black eyed pea soup. SO GOOD. The black eyed pea soup was a sweet and savory special of the day, and a bit spicy. The french onion was super super ooey yum yum (that's the technical term, I promise). Surprisingly when our bill came it was a lot less than we expected it to be...so not sure how that happened. Maybe those really were cups, or someone miscalculated, but hey, yummy food for cheap right? Great view of the capital building if you're leaving at night :) Parking is a bit tight so heads up.
(4)
Shelby L.
I'm gonna start with the things I don't like, because they're quite small compared to the good things. First, I've been turned away from this place at least 5 times. I've come at least three times for dinner only to be told the place was booked for the night. Once it was on me, as it was V Day, but the other times were just average nights around 6:30-7. I've also tried to come here a handful of times while it wasn't open. Also on me, but COME ON! I need the goodies! It's the only actually good restaurant in town so it's a bummer when I have to just say fuggit and go to beggars. The other thing I don't like is that this place may use healthier, higher quality ingredients and put more imagination into their food and actually keep up with food trends, but this place is really fattening and less vegan friendly than I was hoping. Very vegetarian and carnivore friendly, though. They clearly use a lot of cream, oil, sugar, mayo, butter, etc in their food. BUT, if you can look past that, the food is always tasty. I really enjoy their soups. I went there once and the waitress was really pushing the pumpkin soup on us. We all agreed that it sounded delicious but ordered other things and she brought out little samples! How sweet! And, let me tell you, it was AMAZING!!!! But it was not soup. It was dessert. It was pretty much pumpkin pie filling, and it even came with whipped cream on top. Heaps of cinnamon, too, which is always good in my book. I don't like to eat bread and I never eat pasta but my dining companions always seem to order pasta or sandwiches at this place and are always very pleased. Before I was a vegan, I had a bite of my friend's lamb entree special and WOW. It was cooked so nicely and just delicious. Overall, this place is very cute and has good food and a great drink selection. It's not a perfect 5-star restaurant, but you really can't ask for much more in the greater Lansing area.
(4)
Shannon B.
We love this little eclectic cafe. The San Diego Benedict is to die for! My cappuccino was burnt but whatever. Service was really good.
(4)
Lindsy C.
I had lunch at the Soup Spoon Cafe for the first time in December with my family. I had heard good reviews so I was excited to try it, especially on a cold day! We started off with drinks (Dark & Stormy) while we waited for our table. They were pretty busy, but the wait wasnt too long. My das and I had the lobster bisque soup, which we both loved! Highly recommend. I then ordered the smoked salmon appetizer as an entree, which I wasn't impressed with and do not recommend. The salmon tasted fresh, but there was something missing, it needed a kick! Service was okay. Nothing to rave about but the soup definitely was. I would recommend this Cafe and look forward to trying it again soon.
(4)
Sarah B.
Really tasty well seasoned food. Unique to this area. The name does not do it justice. The service was good too!
This review is long overdue. This is probably one of my favorite places to eat in the Lansing area. The restaurant is cozy and has sort of a warm, comfortable vibe. It's definitely not a pretentious or overly fancy place. However, the food and service are always awesome. One of my favorite things is the Dark and Stormy, their rum and ginger cocktail. They have a housemade peppercorn and ginger syrup that is to die for. Their cocktails are more than reasonable in price as well, ranging from 5-7$. The Cherrybomb Shrimp is awesome and I always get that. So yummy! I've eaten here dozens of time and I've never had a complaint with the food. The last time my boyfriend and I came, we each got two cocktails, the Cherrybomb shrimp, a Reuben sandwich, and the Kevinator sandwich. It came to $50 which is pretty amazing and everything was delicious. Highly recommend!
(5)
Lisa W.
Food is awesome, service could be better. We entered to find a small line, which is okay. We gave the host our names and sat down to wait. My husband noticed two spots open at the bar so we went to sit down, the host yelled my husbands name very loudly saying NO, NO, don't sit there....we were both very embarrassed. I thought this was terribly rude to embarrass a guest like this. Why not just walk over to us and say, sorry these sets are not available...Very unprofessional. Our server was not any better. We waiting for coffee after asking several times. Once the waiter had the pot in his hand at the table next to us and still forgot to fill ours. I get the feeling as I do too often that places that have a following have given up on real service.....sigh...problem with that, we haven't been back.
(3)
Chelsea S.
Fantastic place to eat. Didn't have to wait long and was able to drink coffee as I did. I didn't try a Bloody Mary but they had a variety of ones that sounded great. Ordered the goat cheese points to start out with and the breakfast wrap. Both were very delicious. Very friendly service and inexpensive for the quality of food.Best brunch I've had in a while!
(5)
Tony E.
Really great food / amazing selection / choices / and the service was good. Clean and I like the ambiance a lot. I will be back with
(4)
shara A.
I feel bad for these people who are giving SSC low star reviews. 1st of all, the place is called Soup, let me say that again... SOUP Spoon Cafe. When I try a restaurant, I'm going for what their famous for first, then I'll try the rest of the menu. French onion soup... *drops mic* I mean, how can you go wrong? No, the question is: what in the world are they doing to make everybody else's wrong. (tee hee) Seriously though, I've only been here a hand full of times. I don't care about the wait for a table... their french onion soup makes it worth it. I've also had the bacon avocado sandwich, the Ava, and the Soprano...Somebody smack your momma!!! My husband all but got up to kiss the chefs for his Cubano. Then they've got this tea they do something to... you have to ask one of the waitresses because it's not on the menu... raspberry? or maybe it was peach? IDK, I think they add crack to it, because it is DEEEElicious!! I can't wait to get back. (mumbling: who gives this place a low review? Sheesh)
(5)
Synthia G.
Service was great and consistent. Food exceeded my expectations. Highly recommend the soup sampler. Crab avocado bites were delicious! Our server was really sweet and attentive. Very satisfied with this place can't wait to come back for breakfast!
(4)
Tiffany M.
This place is amazing. It's hard to find good food in michigan after living in LA for 5 years but this reminds me of it! You have to try this place it's so good! I got the chicken sandwich with chipotle mayo.
(4)
Rachel C.
I wish I could eat here every day! Seriously, their food is AMAZING. Always a good selection of beer, great apps and entrees and also great breakfast! Service can sometimes be a bit slow, hence the 4 star review but overall great experience.
(4)
Rachel D.
Soup Spoon is one of the only restaurants in Lansing where you can rely on fresh ingredients and food that didn't come from GFS. In my opinion that's why everyone raves about it, not because of the actual taste of the food. I've been here many, many times but it's rare that I leave feeling like my meal was great. The sandwiches are typically the best in my opinion- the po boy is pretty good, I've enjoyed the geek wrap and the veggie wrap, and their lamb burger is all right. I would suggest being picky on the salad- the tenderloin is chewy and on every occasion that I've gotten something with avocado it's had a very strange consistency. I'm not sure what's up but it's rubbery looking and certainly nothing I've ever seen anywhere else. Their goat cheese points are great, and I love the tomato basil soup. My husband gets the Spoonipino often and seems to love it. If he doesn't get that, he often gets the special which is usually awesome. I will say Soup Spoon's redeeming feature is their breakfast. There aren't a ton of places in Lansing where you can get breakfast food that's better than diner quality. My only qualm is that they're not open on Sunday which stinks because my husband works Saturday morning, so he's never been able to come with! Finally, the service is so-so. The entrees come with bread and olive oil, but we seem to have a 50% chance of actually getting it. Some of the servers are awesome and on other occasions we've sat for 20 minutes after finishing and our table being cleared before receiving the bill. At any rate, I'll keep going because it's one of the best in the area. But I'll still keep hoping they'll do better.
(3)
J C.
2 stars because, "meh, I've had better" is literally how I felt about this place. I will say this place has improved it's professionalism since it first opened. But I just don't think that the food is anything spectacular. I've never had their soup so I can't speak on that, but I've give this place multiple tries at different times of the day - Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner. I've tried their breakfast stuff, salads and entree style dishes. I think there's better food around, and for me, it seems like this place is living off the ambience more than the actual food. But if you want to take a work colleague to a trendy, non-threatening place- it's good for a lunch stop.
(2)
Ashley M.
This lovely, cozy place was a perfect place for me and my main squeeze to find ourselves on an extremely frigid Friday night! The staff here was fantastic. The host advised it'd be roughly a 30 minute wait as we did not have a reservation. There was room to sit and it was no more than 10 minutes until we were seated. Our server, Corey was friendly and attentive. Curry Cauliflower soup was amazing! The Chorizo Chili my handsome date had was also. The dinner menu here is diverse enough to offer a couple vegetarian and vegan options. Would love to come back and try more very soon!
(5)
Marc M.
In my travels, I find that the size of the city, nor the location within a city makes a restaurant "GREAT". While in Lansing overnight, I trusted Yelp to find that 2nd best restaurant. I say "2nd" because the more reviewed/known place has been featured on TV. Don't let the neighbor hood, exterior or even the interior fool you. Soup Spoon is a real diamond in the rough. My coworker and I came for dinner and had such a great experience that when we found out they serve breakfast, we came back the next morning! Interestingly, the two experiences were very different - both excellent, but the night crowd was more of a hipster crowd (it IS close to MSU) and the morning group was a mixed lot of old-timers and business people. At night they serve craft cocktails and draft beers. We were here on a Monday night and it was PACKED. In fact, there was a wait when we left at 8:30pm. A wait on a Monday night? In Lansing, MI?!? We sat at the bar and made conversation with the bar staff. One of the things that makes any restaurant good is happy servers. This team works together and appears to be having fun. The other thing that makes a restaurant good is the food, of course. For dinner, I had the french onion soup - to die for - and a hanger steak special. For breakfast :) I had the breakfast wrap. In the morning, we had the occasion to meet Nick, the owner. Very nice guy and I wish him much continued success
(5)
Jenna H.
We had a large party of 27 and they reserved tables for us ahead of time. The service was efficient and very friendly. And lastly the food was fantastic. From stir fry, salads and to sandwiches every person was very satisfied. Thank you so much for the wonderful experience! If we are ever back in town you will see us again :)
(5)
Michelle E.
We came here with our small kids which was our mistake. The food is very fancy for kids, (there is no kid's menu and mine aren't adventurous enough to eat a goat cheese frittata). They were kind enough to make naan with red sauce and cheese, a kind of 'pizza' for them, but my kids weren't fooled. I ordered the Kobi beef burger and potatoes dauphinoise. I ordered the burger without onions but they forgot. I was ok with picking them off but they did offer a replacement. My 3 stars come from the potatoes dauphinoise- which should have been delicious. Or at least hot. Instead they were lukewarm at best and congealed. The prices were a little high for what I ate.
(3)
Chad H.
This place is really simple. Warm staff, great diverse selection of food, and excellent service. There is a small bar which has terrific artists and beers on tap, a great wine selection, and really good liquors. The seating area is, again, simple. There is plenty of lighting and a great host to help with the flow. The food was incredible! My wife got the macaroni and cheese. It was delightfully rich, well-balanced, beautifully presented. I got the sirloin and Gorgonzola wrap. Simply put, I've never had a "wrap" this good in my entire life. As with everything else, the balance of the ingredients was spot on. Absolutely everything we encountered was of the highest quality, with from scratch items that need you didn't need much of, because of the excellent, full flavors throughout.
(5)
Kristin R.
We chose this restaurant because I'm vegan and it was listed on happycow.com . Besides a couple of salads, there was only one item on the menu which was vegan. It was a sandwich with a lentil patty. It was ok, a little bland. The waitress said they also have one soup everyday which is vegan. I tried the hot and sour vegetable soup. It was very good. The ambiance was nice - brick walls and nice paintings for sale. There is a bar on one side. Overall experience was very good and we will probably go back.
(4)
Debbie G.
Friendly atmosphere, easy parking for downtown and amazing food. I loved the variety. My breakfast was tasty and the servers were always there filling my coffee. Excellent!
(4)
Elizabeth D.
Third time's not the charm! Dinner a couple of years ago was fine but not memorable, lunch a few weeks ago was salty and greasy, and breakfast a few days ago was "meh, I've experienced better." I tried the classic Eggs Benedict. While the eggs were cooked appropriately, the Hollandaise sauce was flavorless. The side of potatoes was cold! And the side of homemade sausage was so dry... I really should have sent it back, but I soldiered on and ate the whole dry pattie anyway. One star for the coffee, which was fairly hot and good. And one star for the friendly greeter at the door. Other than that, there was no reason why breakfast on a weekday morning at 10 AM had to be that bad. They really did not have to serve cold potatoes and dry sausage. I don't know where the high rating is coming from, but my experiences here with the food have been very disappointing.
(2)
Dani B.
I hadn't been to the soup spoon since the expansion and my mom wanted to go to breakfast so I gave it a whirls and found it all kinda disappointing. I tried the johnny cakes and my mom had the salmon Benedict. Both where poorly presented on the plate and while the Benedict was okay the johnny cakes could have been so much better. They tasted like a dry flavorless pancake when they could have been buttery,or better yet cooked in bacon grease. The salmon was over cooked and grey looking. The atmosphere was fine and the restaurant appeared clean and bright but noisy and chaotic ( it was a weekend). The menu is well presented and clear and the server was friendly and very capable. she earned the stars I was willing to give because the food was a zero for me. I feel bad giving such a poor review to a place I used to enjoy.
(2)
Barbara R.
great place, delicioius and unique food
(5)
Jessy B.
Amazing butternut squash and Apple soup! French onion was very good as well. The onions were well cooked and melted in your mouth. Was a little disappointed with the pricing on the "small plates". For $8-$12 each I thought they would be a little bigger.
(4)
Mallory H.
Usually I come here for breakfast with the girls after work and the food is good/solid, nothing mind blowing, but I do really like the staff who are always friendly and fun. I've had the eggs benny, the Irish breakfast, the breakfast sandwiches and all have been good. The homemade jam is good but they're a little stingy with it. I've also come once for dinner and had cajan pasta and the salmon both were tasty and good portion sizes.
(4)
J Michael L.
A casual, eclectic artsy place with jazz music. Recently expanded (doubling space) next door, but still awaiting liquor license there. Loved the seafood chowder, but I'd rather have seafood gumbo or the Fisherman's Chowder.I'll ask for a flight of soup next time. ($10). French bread should arrive warm or freshly toasted - better for dipping in the olive oil & spices. LOVE the in-house smoked salmon. An amazing selections of wine and craft beer at its best. And someone locally roasts their coffee fresh every 7 days. Stop in on Saturday mornings for breakfast/brunch and you can meet the coffee roaster.
(5)
Linden B.
My girlfriend and I have both worked in restaurants the majority of our young adult lives and our empathetic to what goes on behind the scenes. We literally never complain, but this was the worst experience we have ever had. We spent a total of an hour and a half waiting for our food (breakfast food should only take 10-15 minutes max). We watched five other parties who arrived after we had ordered get there food before us. After an hour or so we complained,we could tell they then began to make our order because the kitchen is open and you can see what is being made. My baja scramble was more like a shit pancake and my girlfriend's yoke in her eggs benedict was the same consistency as a golf ball. We were extremely patient and polite, a manager of sorts came and gave us a half hearted apology and justified the wait by claiming they were busy. Unless they were feeding half of china out of the back of the restaurant there is no way it takes an hour and a half to get through breakfast orders when your restaurant only seats 50 people. I've seen full coursed meals for a 50 person party be cooked faster (with well done steaks). The manager then took off a whopping $10 which was a 12% discount. I just want my 90 minutes of my life back as well as the time it will take to poop out the food.
(1)
Jasmine D.
We had lunch around 2pm on a Saturday here. Took about 25 minutes to sit us. It was packed. Nothing special going on in the area either. Our server visited our table 3 times. To take our order, bring our food and fill our water once. It is a cute restaurant. The French onion soup was delicious. My bf had the firecracker shrimp pasta and enjoyed it plus he said the lobster chowder was awesome. Too bad it took an hour for our food because it was a set back to the entire day. We would eat here again but only if the wait time is significantly less.
(4)
Richard K.
For lansing, the food was good, but not great. I expected more. Atmosphere is poor and food could have been prepared better. Also, the server didn't inform us of specials and I had to request bread. Please renovate your decor soup spoon!! I can't justify paying $20 for a dish when I feel I should be ordering a BLT.
(2)
dawn v.
Thank You Yelpers! NEVER would've stopped. A place called Soup Spoon, especially looking like nothing from the outside! Who knew they made their own homemade mixers for cocktails???? (The Stormy cocktail is made with their own ginger syrup and packs quite a kick.. And only $4 during happy hour??? Steal!) I'm not really a soup girl tu the Yelpers aren't lying. Don't come here and not get soup. Other things are good too but the soup is like heaven in a cup. The pumpkin bisque is like nothing we have ever had before. A cross between soup and pie. Seafood chowder is obviously something they perfected a long time ago. Total bill for two soups with salads and a cocktail was $20. (Try the shrimp alas.. Big plump shrimp with a kick)
(5)
Amber V.
pretty good food. i would like a little more vegetarian and/or vegan options on the menu. overall, good service and very decent food. especially for the area.
(3)
Sam B.
By far one of the best restaurants in Lansing area. Great breakfast and lunch. Food comes out hot and the beer is on point.
(5)
Danielle B.
I wish I could give places 1/2 stars, I would have given this place 3.5 because it has fantastic potential to be 4 stars. Maybe it is what I ordered but when I went, I got a cup of the shrimp soup and it was salty, and I am the person that SALTS my food DAILY and it was just a tad bit salty for my palette. I also got the hangar steak, which I received cold and was slightly chewy. The hangar steak was with a chimichurri sauce which was good and the asiago mashed potatoes were just okay. I don't remember the service--which can say something all in itself. This is a good place to try though if you are in Lansing though, there aren't many places like this in Lansing/EL in comparison to Ann Arbor.
(3)
Janet C.
Good food. Some of the waitstaff are snotty.
(4)
Nick B.
I can always count on Soup Spoon for a great dining experience. Their focus on maintaining imaginative specials, local produce, quality beer selection, old style cocktails, and good service sets them apart. Portion sizes are sometimes huge, which when you add quality is dangerous. It's way too easy to overeat and miss one of Soup Spoon's best features - dessert. The bread pudding is addictive and the goat cheese cake has become a favorite. One of their largest problems has been wait time for seating, given folks tend to linger here. The recent expansion to the space next door has really helped.
(5)
Alessa T.
This place is wonderful! Farm to table style restaurant with great cocktails as well as superb food. Menu has wide range of pricing too. Great atmosphere and friendly staff. My favorite place in town.
(5)
T D.
I need 2 update my review. Accidentally I hit "very bad". Definitely not what I meant. I love this place & their food. Just food & waitress (new??) was not up 2 par (for them) last visit. I will continue 2 go there. Hopefully it was just a one time thing. Sorry 4 the confusion. Luckily someone PM me & asked. Thx Tim. :-). Newbie mistake. Sigh.
(4)
Ron K.
Three of us decided to stop and sample the soup. Two of us have gluten allergies and we asked the server to verify which (if any) soups were gluten-free. She was gone for quite some time and another server was asked by a table of six that same question, he responded with the gluten-free soups without leaving the table. Our server finally returned and informed us that two of the soups were GF and I told her that I heard the other server rattle off several soups that were GF, she furrowed her brows and told us that the soups in the kitchen are labeled if they are GF and she saw only those two. The server definitely needs a personality injection.....Brrrrrr.... Oh well. 'Nuff said 'bout that. My Chicken Tortilla soup was fully absorbed into the tortillas when it arrived leaving absolutely no "soup", it was tasty and spicy but I've always enjoyed the crunch of the tortillas when I eat this soup. Not so this time. Just a mushy, thick quagmire. I also had a small Smoked Salmon salad and it was certainly prepared with delicious greens, not a bit of cheap iceberg lettuce. The only negative was the Salmon did not have the "mud vein" removed prior to cooking. I've been a fisherman all my life and when we filet our catch (mostly Walleye), one of our tasks involves the stripping of the mud vein. I believe this omission contributes to many peopple turning their nose up at fish offerings in restaurants. My companions enjoyed the Tomato Bisque (I think it was titled that way). We were seated at the very back table in the bar area and the 'Office' door was adjacent to our table. Frequent in-and-out activity through that door is very disruptive to diners that are seated so close. The entrance to this joint requires negotiating a couple of concrete steps that are definitely not designed for safety and convenience. The "rise" is very steep and there is no landing area in front of the door. Prices were fair. Is it soup yet?
(3)
Liz A.
this place is just ok. i honestly don't get what they're doing with their atmosphere. i can't figure out if it's trying to be upscale (based on the waiters' level of formality) or not (based on the fact that it feels like you're in a middle school cafeteria). mixed drinks are like something out of a bad episode of bar rescue. the food is ok. i think they're trying to be creative but nothing really seems to go together, nor is it memorable. they are very friendly and wanting to please, i will give them that. i just never really feel like it's worth the money.
(3)
Anne-Marie H.
It's a busy Friday afternoon, right before graduation. We expected to wait for a table, even at 1:15 pm. We didn't expect to wait 37 minutes for our food - sandwiches and chips - once we had ordered. Sandwiches were all cold when they arrived. Cheese was that congealed greasy gelatinous goop that had long since been cooked and served. Honestly: I get "busy," but this was really bad planning. The tomato bisque was awesome, though. I'd think hard about coming back here on any day when it was supposed to be busy. Maybe a random weekday during the summer will be better.
(3)
A C.
Every time I've been here, the food has been amazing. It's too bad the place is getting so popular, yet it's a small place & sometimes understaffed. So there is usually a wait, either to be seated, to order, or for your food. But that's also a testament to how good this place is. Wonderful vibe & amazing food.
(5)
Huyen V.
Decided to give this place another try Went here for breakfast the other day. And thankfully was seated not facing the kitchen haha. I got the biscuits and gravy which was very flavorful and pretty good. It also came with an egg on top which was basically raw. I could not eat it due to the fact the whites were not even cooked at all still clear and jiggly like how it came out of the egg. The bf ended up getting pancakes and bacon which were good. I would probably just come back for the biscuits and gravy the bf definitely liked them a lot. Service is usually good. And prices are average $7-12.
(3)
Darren B.
We go here often on Saturday morning for breakfast. I am trying the whole menu and so far I give everything A++! I am uploading a photo of my food today and I will try to add photos as often as I remember. The service has always been acceptable especially considering how busy they are and you can call ahead for a reservation which I highly recommend unless you like waiting for a table. It's busy for a reason, the food is pretty much the best in town and most people know it. If you haven't yet been here try it for breakfast. I have had the lunch once and dinner once as well and I haven't been disappointed. I don't think you will be either. The food is different, but try it!
(5)
Chelsea S.
Soup Spoon is one of the must-hit places I stop when I come back to Lansing to visit family. Great for both breakfast and lunches it is an awesome place that has become known in the city for good eats. Prices are very reasonable, they now have their liquor license, they have several Michigan beers on tap, their soup changes daily, and their menu is extensive. Decor is charming and space has increased so the wait is not as long. However, you can sometimes end up waiting a time for your food as the kitchen is small, and open so you can see what is going on. Service is friendly and attentive. Though they have good soups some are misses. I still love trying one of their uniques flavors as they are anything but ordinary. Their sandwiches and salads are great and you can create your own combos at lunch which I love. Their breakfasts are so good, featuring several omelets, scrambles, sandwiches and benedicts. I have tried several of them but continue to come back for the Yooper Benny. I think I love it for its originality and local fish that I can't get back in Seattle. The terragon aioli is sometimes a little too thick in my opinion but pairs very nicely with the fish and eggs. Their house potatoes are really good and their side salad option is also very delicious and fresh with a very nice house balsamic dressing. Their coffee is decent but refilled often. A local favorite and a true gem in Lansing!!
(4)
Neha M.
Great brunch and breakfast place near Michigan State University. The waitress who served us was very nice and helpful. I ordered a Greek Omlet with potatoes and wheat bread. The food was amazing and very filling. :)
(4)
Christine K.
Came here for lunch. I had the seafood chowder. A little disappointed... tastes like your average lobster chowder soup. I had their specialty sandwich. Though it was kinda greasy, it was good! I ordered some kind of salad as a side and was surprised when I received a coleslaw... kinda deceiving. Their interior design is however spectacular and makes you feel good as you eat. I would give the meal I had a 3star, however our server was excellent. She did a good job in splitting our meal into separate plates and making sure our water was always full. Very friendly and always checked in on us. Will be back to try breakfast and dinner!
(4)
Esther G.
Best breakfast in town, period. None of that cheap, greasy diner stuff that's everywhere. That was nice for college and a few post-college years, but now I try to stay away from them for the most part. Quality dishes at a great price. I have visited here for lunch a while back and remembered I wasn't too impressed, but the breakfast is done to perfection. It's divided into cafe specialties, eggs/omelets and sammys. Everything sounded great (my friend vouched for the pesto scramble) but I settled for Allan's smoky scramble -- two eggs scrambled with smoked salmon, applewood smoked bacon, green onions and tomatoes drizzled with smoky ancho pepper hollandaise. I was most worried about the hollandaise, that it would be overpowering but it wasn't. It was mild. It was served with cafe potatoes (smaller sliced/seasoned potatoes) and toast with what tasted like homemade jam (not so sugary or syrupy). I was a little hesitant when my food was presented. At some places, the food is served on a giant plate, and that can sometimes be deceiving. It looks like there's a small portion of food. Here, I had the opposite problem. It was like everything was stuffed into a small plate, so I thought there wasn't enough food! But the potatoes were kind of underneath the omelet. This was fine for eating it all together (maybe it was intended that way?), but it did say the potatoes were a "side" item. Not heavy nor greasy, just really well executed. If there's another breakfast place better than Soup Spoon, I wouldn't believe you, but by all means, let me know. Another thing to love about this place: Their giant beer list is all Michigan beers. My only beef is that they should be open for Sunday brunch! I feel like they're getting a giant chunk of their business taken away by not opening at that time. Also, I know people complain about the wait, but we must've lucked out. Saturday before noon, we were seated right away.
(5)
Jill P.
They have a lamb burger that is amazing! I've been here at different times and on different days and if there is a wait it has been reasonable. The food is consistently wonderful. My husband and I try at least one new dish every time we go and have been very happy with everything. It is not the best place for young kids that are not into trying new things. My 10 year old loves the 2 kinds of naan pizza he's tried so far and keeps asking to go back. My 8 year old is more picky and won't pick anything, we just order what we want and encourage him try some of it. The best item in my opinion is the bread pudding. I've ordered bread pudding at almost every restaurant that has it in search of the perfect one and this is it. I won't bother ordering it anyplace else, Soup Spoon nailed it.
(5)
Dan N.
This is now a MUST stop every time I'm in the Lansing area. Two reasons why I always stop: 1) Seafood Chowder--maybe the best chowder you'll ever have (at least in the Midwest) 2) Moscow Mule--I've tried without any luck at all to create their magical pepper/ginger infused simple syrup--fantastic drink! Beyond that, everything that I've ever had at Soup Spoon Cafe has been not only delicious, but also unique. Great little spot in downtown Lansing!
(4)
J H.
Went last weekend, late lunch. Menu looked good, got the salmon on lunch menu, friend had beef cabbage soup and Greek salad. Salmon was just okay, too much sauce that left the rice swimming in excess sauce; also was more undercooked than I would have preferred. The soup was very excellent and so was the salad. Good Bell beer selection. I would like to come back again and try breakfast as well as the dinner menu. Interesting art work on walls, definitely a conversation starter. Ambiance was just okay.
(3)
Penandra P.
A delightful little restaurant and just perfect for a cool autumn day. The seafood chowder is delicious. The pumpkin soup could be dessert. Staff is very friendly and service is quick. Prepare for a short wait if you come at lunchtime. But you can get right in if you're here at 11:30. A treat to find this place.
(5)
Meraki G.
Had a couple really great meals here and the staff and atmosphere are nice. Can be crowded and tough to get into though.
(5)
Betsy C.
Great soups. A little pricey I think and have had sandwiches that weren't that impressive but the soup is always a safe bet.
(4)
Renee L.
Ordered the standard breakfast two days in a row. Day one was perfect! Hot and delicious! The second day was less impressive. The eggs were overcooked and the potatoes were served just warm. My toast included the heel of the bread which I found interesting.
(4)
Jessica S.
Pssst, Lansing-area Yelpers. I've got a secret for you. The best cocktails in town are at a cafe known for breakfast whose name sounds like a lunch deli. The Soup Spoon has a lovely list of classic cocktails available, including the Old Fashioned, the Pisco Sour, the Moscow Mule... pretty much everything that you'd find in a lushly illustrated cocktail book. The kind of drink you'd like to try at home, but just didn't want to clean up after. And everything from proportions to garnishes to presentation is simply done correctly. It's an art. Many of the mixers are made from scratch. The Soup Spoon's house-made ginger syrup (used in their well-known Dark & Stormy) will kick you in the mouth in a good way - spicy and satisfying! If you're not drinking alcohol but love some zip, they'll mix a ginger ale out of it too. The printed cocktail menu doesn't stray too far from the classics, but the bartenders are always experimenting with new things. There are some awesome seasonal drinks - keep your eyes open for them. And beyond the mixed drinks, the beer selection is TOPS. Other people have covered the pros and cons of the food (love the lamb sliders) and atmosphere (be prepared for a wait), but the bartenders deserve some love. If you're searching for a craft cocktail bar in Lansing, you might actually be looking for a Soup Spoon.
(5)
Gabriela G.
I almost didn't come here on my trip to Lansing-and that would have been a big mistake!!! This place is awesome! Probably one of the best meals in Lansing, possibly in Michigan. Atmosphere is diner-style. Cheap tables and wooden chairs (they probably bought from the Amish). Really ugly amateur art on the walls. The bathrooms are lime green, Amish-country-feel with copper candelabra, wicker furniture and plastic flowers. They have between 5-8 soup options. The ones on the menu and the specials on the blackboard. My waitress, as well as the young man who seated me (Keith: the manager), were just friendly smiles all around and super positive energy. I ordered the salmon salad and a cup of their Ethiopian Stew (one of their specials and it happened to be vegan): SCORE! Super tasty, full of greens and protein: chickpeas, green-peas, chunky tomatoes and carrots in a delicious broth. Salmon salad was best salad I've had since I've been on the road. I switched out the raspberry vinaigrette for balsamic and added dried cranberries for a hint of sweetness. When it arrived I was slightly concerned since the salmon was cold and brown and looked more like a chicken cooked badly but once I broke up the salmon into little pieces it was he perfect shade of orange and the taste was super smokey and flavorful. Manager checked up on me from time to one to make sure I was enjoying my meal. I came at a good time since they seem to have a bit of a wait for a table. Young kitchen and staff. Open till midnight. They serve alcohol. Really varied menu for all tastebuds from the all american PoBoy sandwich to a gourmet scallop entree. From a hearty, healthy soup and salad to a heavy creamy meat-fest. Plenty of street parking and side private parking adjacent. Prices are fair for quality and portion. My server(Jessica) was stellar!!! If they had this restaurant in LA I would be a regular customer! Even if placed outside of the limited Michigan food options it would hold its own as a great meal, great service, great ingredients for a reasonable price. I'll be in Grand Rapids for work next week again, might be worth the 1hr drive to Lansing just to eat another meal at Soup Spoon Cafe.
(5)
Cameron J.
Wow! Just in town for a few days and glad I gave this place a chance. Had the Smoked Salmon Benedict which was delicious and just the right portion. Another person in my party had the Gourmet Wrap and I was surprised of the presentation. He said it was amazing. Overall, this place is a must when in Lansing.
(5)
D D.
Driving from Niagara Falls Canada back to California. Hit Michigan and we needed to eat. Checked Yelp and found this place! Amazing great soup and a great sandwich. If you are checking Yelp this place is a must!
(4)
G G.
We love this place!! The food is always great and unique! I am so bored with all the chain restaurants. They always change up the menu so there is always something new to try.
(5)
Andy B.
I've only been here for breakfast, and was extremely underwhelmed. The food was a combination of soggy and burnt, nothing was cooked right. I've been meaning to come here for dinner, but thanks to everyone posting pics of their "yummy" mains, I think I'll pass.
(2)
Ryan D.
This was once my favorite place to get breakfast in Lansing. Lately, however, they have really been slipping. Some of their staff is great, some of them are not. How good of a dining experience you're going to have depends entirely on which group of employees is working on that particular day. One week, I would be waiting around forever to be seated, while there were open seats at the bar, because the staff was so disorganized, the next week the staff that was in was spot on and perfectly organized. One week, the food coming out of the kitchen would be sloppy, and careless, another week it would be put together with care and perfectly made. The lack of consistency, as well as some of the newer restaurants that have opened in the area has taken Soup Spoon out of my regular rotation.
(3)
Michael K.
I've never had a meal here that I thought was anything other than great. The food is always good and the service warm. That said don't expect a fast weekday lunch here; the food comes out quickly, but there is always a line. Even when showing up either before or after typical lunch times you'll be waiting for a table.
Just finished eating here. Food was excellent and beer and wine list were very complete. Soups were superb. Service was outstanding from those who seated us to smiling Jessica who made our visit so wonderful. Can't wait to make trip back for another delightful meal
(5)
Wayne P.
I had the blackened swordfish special and my wife had the Hanger steak and both were fantastic! Logan waited on our table and he was great! My wife said that she liked white zin but it wasn't on the wine list...Logan said"no problem, I'll make one" and it was outstanding! That is the type of service that you get at Soup Spoon! We'll be back!
(5)
Whitney C.
We wanted to find a new soup place and this hit the spot! All choices on our soup flight were delicious. The specialty pumpkin bisque was a sweet and delightful surprise. The crab cakes had good flavor and the sauce enhanced the dish instead of over powering them.
(5)
Joe G.
Really yummy Cafe Stroganoff with fresh mushrooms and wild rice plus the Greek Linguine pasta. Excellent comfort food, with flare. Excellent service, too. So good we're going back tomorrow!
(5)
Pacita R.
This is a great place to eat anytime, any day. I come here often and have tried their breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu. All were delicious. It's an excellent go to place when you're looking to eat something delicious and sit in a great atmosphere. You're guaranteed to eat something tasty almost every time. Their alcoholic beverages are also on point, shout out to the amazing bartender. Expect a bit of a wait on weekends but as one of the few good places to eat in Lansing it's well worth it.
(4)
Will K.
this is where i had the best steak of my LIFE!!!!!! ribeye smothered in morel mushroom sauce....its been two years and i still dream about it...heaven in every bite....hopefully they bring it back again when morels are in season
(5)
Drexel S.
Ive tried almost everything on the menu and its all delicious. Staff is always friendly. Excellent eating expirience every time
(5)
Sherry B.
A few vegan options. Ethiopian stew is awesome. vegan breakfast ok... hold the bland lentil patty. Not pleased about paying 2.99 for a cup of coffee and then .50 more cents for soy milk. Kinda tired of being "milked" for not drinking dairy milk.
(4)
Allison G.
Great craft beer selection that is always changing. Good wine selection as well. Menu is diverse and unique. I have tried many items on the menu and they are all great. The Eastside Chicken is my favorite and I usually don't get too excited about chicken. The atmosphere is cozy and the staff are the best in town! My family and I eat at Soup Spoon almost every week and have never been disappointed! There isn't a kid's menu, but my 9 year old loves the grilled cheese and always finds something she likes even though she is a picky eater.
(5)
Erik O.
We had an unbelievably delicious meal here last night. Simple as that. To start things off, the staff is amazing and very knowledgable about the beers (awesome selection), the food, and wine pairings. The cocktails available are old fashioned and are the best in Lansing. For an appetizer we ordered the house cured gravlox which was perfect. Absolutely perfect. We ordered the braised lamb shank and the hanger steak and holy lord they were both above and beyond what we were expecting. Excellent portion sizes and great greens came with both of the meals. At the end of our meal the waiter brought us a complimentary bread pudding which was an awesome finish to an awesome meal. Easily our favorite restaurant in Lansing.
(5)
David S.
Well, I finally tried the Soup Spoon and it was honestly so-so. The wife had the French onion soup which was excellent and I had the barley vegetable which tasted like progresso soup. The ceasar salad was next but had too much dressing which I couldn't finish. We then split a Cuban sandwich which compared nothing to an actual cuban so half of that was left over. The service was good when we got there but as it became busy, it took 30 minutes for the salad and cuban to actually arrive at the table. Overall it wasn't bad but I dont think I would spend another $30.00 there. Wasn't worth the effort...
(2)
Manuel F.
Have been here three times and will continue to come. Haven't been here for breakfast; only lunch and dinner. Service had always been excellent and the food outstanding. They have different soups every day and are great. Can get busy but well worth the wait.
(5)
Heather H.
This place was really hyped on Yelp, but I wasn't that impressed upon coming into Soup Spoon Cafe. The host at the entrance was pretty rude to us, and seemed insulted that we had walked in without a reservation. We were seated in 15 minutes, which honestly I've waited longer at PF Chang's, so I wasn't sure what the problem was. Our seat was right by the kitchen and the waiter checkout. Not the greatest place to sit, and a very odd layout as it was. The soups at this place were great, just great. Just the right portion size, and filling. The sandwiches were rather dry, and seemed to be just bread...not a lot to the sandwiches. I would come back here to try breakfast (I'll make a reservation first) but not sure I would come back for dinner.
(3)
Xinhao Y.
This is the best brunch place in the Lansing area! Be sure to come early or you will have to wait for half an hour to get your seat! Egg Benedict and bread pudding are the must-try entrees!
(5)
Jessica D.
This is a solid restaurant in the Lansing area. I've enjoyed every meal from this establishment.
(5)
Gus M.
I'm so glad that Yelp led me here. Thanks to my fellow yelper's I have embarked on this magical place ;) We walked in and were seated quickly. This Resturaunt is supposed to have amazing soups so naturally I had to try it. Soup- I ordered the spicy seafood chowder soup. It had large lumps of crab and the texture was perfect. It also had an amazing spice factor that was just right. Appetizer- Cherry Blossom Shrimp, about 6 shrimp with a spicy butter wine sauce. Also amazing flavor. Entree- Our waitress recommended the Smokin B sandwich. It was thin sliced of beef brisket on flat bred with tomato, lettuce, cheese and a spicy tobacco lime cream sauce. It was fantastic I really enjoyed all of the flavors. I recommend everybody in East Lansing give this place a try. And It's worth an hour drive as well ;)
(5)
R. L.
Great atmosphere and cute space. I like the dining experience here, but I wish there were better vegetarian options. I have yet to try the breakfast but hear great things!
(4)
Angela E.
I'm a little confused by this place. The food is great! The soups are definitely made with love! They have a great beer and wine list! I wish they gave you a beer and wine list at your table but maybe they have changed that since I've gone for dinner. The bar is small, 15 seats maybe. You have to see the host to be allowed to sit at the bar. This is an unspoken rule, meaning if you sit at the bar you will get shocked looks (like, "how dare you??"). The host will graciously tell you that there are people waiting for seats at the bar. So the bar seating is confusing. They have a food window into the bar which is also a service window for the wait staff on the other side. So the kitchen staff passes good into the bar and then the bartenders also pass drinks into the kitchen area. All in all the food and drinks are amazing! Solid breakfast food also! Very friendly and attentive service! Just be prepared to wait because they are always hopping!
(5)
Dan G.
I was in Lansing on business, and this nice little place was just down the road from Sparrow hospital. I waited for an associate for an hour at the bar. Love the free WiFi! They have a wide selection of local Michigan beers. If I hadn't been on the clock I definitely would have imbibed. Both my coworker and I had the kickin' pastrami sandwich, which the bartender recommended. It was definitely good although I think the pastrami could have been a bit spicier, but I know they've got to cater toward those Midwestern pallets that fear spice. It's nice that you can get chips, pasta salad or coleslaw as a side. The crowd definitely picks up for lunch. By noon, there were no table open and there appeared to be a 15-20 minute wait. Not bad for a Wednesday afternoon. I don't know if my travels will ever take me back to Lansing, but if I'm ever by that hospital again, I'll definitely go back.
(4)
Karen S.
Yes! My friends live just down the street from this place... The menu has a wide variety of options that include a soup of the day, a pizza of the day... It's just so darn inviting, the staff is lovely, and the food is delicious. I ordered the shrimp risotto cakes since I wasn't hugely hungry... they were just the right size, perfectly cooked and mouth watering. My friends each had a sandwich of some sort which they both enjoyed; no surprise as they have been coming here for several years already.
(5)
Jon M.
This place wouldn't get 4 stars in a major city, but for Lansing it's a fantastic place. An eclectic menu of sandwiches, salads, soups and other interesting items... the food itself wasn't something to write home about, but hey I would take it over almost everything else I saw in Lansing (i.e., the typical American fast food and walk in restaurant chains). They also have a great, albeit small, selection of beers on tap. all of the staff was also extremely friendly, and helpful.
(4)
Erin K.
Locally sourced meat and vegetables and craft beer. The pastas are amazing and we definitely recommend the Chicken Po Boy. They do take reservations on the weekends but I think you have to make them a day in advance. They don't accommodate large parties and don't have a kids menu but will make grilled cheese.
(5)
Drew P.
Fun place to grab a bite to eat for breakfast and their is a bar. A tiny little kitchen that you can see and tasty specials. Servers that occasionally disappear for ten minutes and no plate warmer take some of the joy out.
(3)
Rebecca G.
First time I went into this restaurant, I found it delightful and the food wonderful. The second time I went into the restaurant, the food was terrible and we were treated horribly. The food that was brought out, was not what was described in the menu but after waiting nearly an hour for it to be delivered, we were starving so we ate it anyway. When asked how the food way, we told them, however the reaction wasn't an apology. We were called us out as liars implying the food must not have been that bad if we ate it. The problem here was this: we weren't looking for a refund or new food. We ate what was provided and was planning on paying whatever was on the check. We just weren't going to go back. But when we were asked for your opinion, we gave an answer they didn't like and were treated extremely poorly by the manager. I think this restaurant and it's owners should be ashamed. I'll never go back nor will I ever recommend this restaurant to anyone.
(1)
Jesse W.
This place makes me want to move to Lansing. Great atmosphere and a unique selection of beers. I had the lamb meatballs and the marinara sauce was among the best I have ever had. The service was friendly and did a great job. I sat next to some locals who couldn't stop raving about this place. Well, I am a believer--I'll be back.
(5)
Kyle K.
The food here was great but the service was so slow it almost ruined the experience. Though we had to wait for our table, it took about 15 mins compared to the 30 mins she quoted me. Our waitress was not attentive or all that courteous really. They seemed short staffed. Regardless, we asked about our food at least twice and didnt see anything on the table for over 45 mins. Though they were busy, the place is small and we had to ask for everything multiple times (food, ketchup, drinks), so I cant justify the long wait for food. Not sure this is a place I'd frequent honestly.
(3)
Gail W.
I was very disappointed in the food. I had a sandwich with the brisket. Besides a skimpy portion of brisket, it was half fat. Also, the naan bread was burnt. My niece had a breakfast dish with poached eggs. The eggs yolks were hard. My first time there and I won't be back.
(1)
Emma K.
Favorite spot in town! Breakfast, lunch or dinner this place does it all! The only problem is it's very hard to get in during lunch so I usually try to avoid normal lunch times.
(5)
Stephanie M.
Love everything I've tried here. They are always friendly, always recognize my family even though we aren't exactly regulars and the food is beyond compare. Our finicky son loves the French Dip, my favorites are the Kobe Wagyu burger and the Cubano, and my husband enjoys just about everything (including the great beer selection). We've even enjoyed breakfast several times. Great addition to the Lansing area.
(5)
Shawna F.
I had the seafood soup and the Pastrami sandwich. It was delicious. My friends had the voodoo pasta. It is delicious but spicey. I would definitely come back if I go to lansing.
(5)
Krishnan M.
Love this place ... Good food and good people can't ask for better. The staff is always warm. Definitely try the French onion soup actually all of them are good but the FO here is one if the best I have tasted Try the daily specials too.
The environment is great. Perfect for a semi-formal lunch or dinner. Be prepared to wait during lunch hours during the week. The food is good. It isn't outstanding, but its fresh and made from scratch (mostly).
(4)
Mark B.
Short and sweet... order the breakfast wrap and prepare to be amazed!
(5)
Jennifer T.
While I've lived in Lansing for nearly 5 years, I didn't give Soup Spoon a try until a couple years ago after hearing so many good things. It's located right downtown and is fairly small, easy to drive right by. The interior is eclectic, yet welcoming like a friends' home. I have not had anything that I didn't love. Every soup is delicious and often a mix of ingredients you never would of thought of. They are not afraid of making food SPICY! So many Michigan restaurants tend to "bland" food down. Try the Voodoo pasta, my spicy fav with in one of a dozen craft beers. Staff is ultra friendly, expect a wait at lunch and a bit slower service.
(5)
Ashley N.
After reading reviews about this place and looking at the menu, my husband and I were very excited to try them. We went in knowing that the service was slow because they make everything made to order. But it got a little ridiculous. Our server didn't bring my husbands drink until she was reminded when she finally brought our soup. Which was about 30 mins after ordering. Our salad followed about 10 mins later. When we finally got our main dishes we were very hungry and happy. This is were it really went to hell for us. I had got the lamb burger, well done because I am pregnant. It was a little pink, but not terribly so. Lamb is a pink meat anyway. It was delicious! Loved the burger and the toppings and the bun. I got the side greek pasta salad. It was homemade, but the pasta wasn't cooked enough, and there was no flavor. No seasoning, no dressing My husband got the meatloaf sandwich. Not only was there no meat on half of his sandwich, which they immediately through another piece on the grill. Fine right? No! My husband bite into the other half. A huge long hair cooked right into it. This was the last draw. We asked the manager to take my husbands meal off our bill. He quickly comped our whole bill. This is the only reason that we will return to try them again. Not for a while. But, because he handle it appropriately, we will give them another chance.
(3)
Laurie D.
We're so glad we went today. The food was excellent. It's always crowded there and we have a nice pursued it. Today we went at 11 AM and ordered lunch because breakfast was over. We ordered a sandwich and linguine. Appreciated the flavors, sauces and the multiple vegetables in the food. Everything was excellent. We sat near the kitchen area and watched many things going by. Everything that went by, looked wonderful. Our service was excellent too. Even the side coleslaw was homemade. I stopped to tell the waiter, and then supervising manager, the food was excellent. Not like the front steps as they were very steep for my mother to get up. Although the desserts look absolutely wonderful, we went next-door to Fabiano's chocolate and enjoyed our sweets there.
(5)
Adrien D.
Amazing food! Service is excellent. Come and try the biscuit and gravy! But they keep having Cajun items on the menu that aren't cajun. Fail...but still come here!
(4)
Jo P.
Amazing! Delicious food, especially the chicken salad sandwich and breakfast burrito! Good service. The wait is worth it.
(5)
Jody C.
I arrived about an hour or so before Soup closed. I sat at the bar order a Two Hearted and looked it over. On the menu I found the braised lamb shank with balsamic drizzle.tasty wowowow.sick. To top that they sent out two shanks to boot!!
(5)
Sarah C.
Had a really wonderful dinner at Soup Spoon! I had the spoon-i-pino - tasty sauce, excellent chorizo, good seafood, perfectly al dente pasta. Yum. My two dining companions had the surf & turf and the special, which included some delicious quail. They both loved their meals as well. We ordered two cups of soup to share but the waitress forgot to bring them. She was super nice about it and brought us free soup (cheesy bacon potato goodness) and later brought us two free desserts. The bread pudding was phenomenal - cinnamon-y and caramel-y and covered in whipped cream. The meal was relatively expensive for Lansing but definitely worth the splurge due to excellent food and nice atmosphere. Can't wait to go back for brunch!
(5)
Kat H.
PUMPKIN BISQUE! Oh my goodness, this was so delicious. We went to Soup Spoon Cafe for lunch on a game day, wanting to get a great meal but not be surrounded by football insanity. We accomplished our goal. The place was busy and we had about a 20 minute wait, but it was totally worth it. Three of us got the pumpkin bisque, not really know what to expect. What we got was a super thick, wonderfully spiced pumpkin soup with a squirt of whipped cream on top! It tasted more like a thick, somewhat savory mousse than a soup really, but it was so delicious it didn't even matter. The whipped cream added a perfect sweet counterbalance. Add that to our great main meals (Yooper Benny, Georgia Reuben, Peacemaker and Tuna Melt) and we had a great time. I'm also so grateful for their very decent draught beer selection. What a great place to have in Lansing!
(5)
Danielle P.
It's funny, I always stay at a friend's about a block and a half from Soup Spoon while I'm in Lansing, but just went for the first time last night. I liked the atmosphere, casual and warm. It has a stellar beer and cocktail selection and a creative menu. The service was pretty good and I liked the whole experience overall. I chose the Dark and Stormy for a drink, which the waiter recommended as the house specialty. It has a strong ginger kick and ended up being a really nice choice. For an appetizer my friend and I shared the Michigan craft beer and cheddar dip, which was very good...but I didn't realize by looking at the menu that's it's rather green-onion heavy. For an entree I ordered the hanger steak which has a chimichurri and ancho jus, very good but needed a smidge of salt. It came with dauphanoise potatoes and swiss chard, also very tasty. My friend had the Ethiopian vegan stew, which smelled absolutely divine. At one point, our waiter went for a stretch without checking on us, as he seemed to be filling in for the bartender. Not the end of the world, but mildly annoying. The other thing I didn't love was how greasy the dining room floor was near the kitchen area, wear heels here with caution. Not a perfect dinner, but I would go back and recommend it as a different experience for the Lansing area.
(4)
Iman B.
i tried the seafood chowder and its really great for chowder lovers i also had the lamb rib ad it is great
(5)
Jen E.
This place is AMAZING!!!! My boyfriend and I stopped in for a bite and our socks were knocked off. We had the goat cheese points, soups, acropolis Sammie and greek wrap. Everything was delicious down to the pickles!!!
(5)
Brandon S.
Very good food. Quite a few options for everyone. The spicy feta dip is tasty. Our server was friendly and did a very good job with our large group. The decor and layout are lacking. It feels like an earth friendly hipster hangout.
(3)
Casey M.
Always great. Try one of the drinks- made fresh. No store bought mixers. I wish they would bring back the brisket but everything is good.
(5)
Britta S.
I have had 2 bad breakfasts there. I originally loved the place, but they have lost their finesse. I've been served raw eggs today for the second time and the whites were so raw they were CLEAR. I sent them back and the cook seriously said " how does she want them cooked?" After the server told him they weren't cooked. I'm not picky, just don't want to drink them down like Rocky Balboa. My bf said at the end of the meal never again. The wait is long so I expect stellar food.
(2)
Nate C.
As a new transplant to the Lansing area, Soup Spoon was the first place that helped me to feel a bit more at home. It's a bit hipster, but not overly so. The service has always been friendly and quick, and there's a vegan soup option every day. Bonus! When people visit me from out of town, I make a point to bring them to Soup Spoon, and everyone has been consistently blown away by the food. Try the peacemaker sandwich...trust me.
(5)
Laela A.
Another unbelievable meal!!! By far, this restaurant has the best food in the greater Lansing area! Our wait-person (Lisa) was very accommodating, and Keith (the general manager) came to our table and answered a handful of questions that we had about the restaurant, and about the amazing balsamic reduction on the lamb shank. I had the seafood risotto, dad had the lamb shank, and mom had the voodoo pasta - we all truly enjoyed our meal.
(5)
Rachel F.
I really would give this place 3.5 stars, but Yelp makes you choose & I'll be positive. The first two times I went to Soup Spoon. I didn't love it. The food was mediocre and I didn't really want to come back... But then I did and I'm happy I did. We had to wait for nearly 2 hours for a table for 4, which was kind of miserable, but I was catching up with my dad and the bartender was unbelievably generous with his pours. They have a great bar so that alone will make up for the 2 times of mediocre food. Also the host was super apologetic about the long wait and gave us an app on the house. When we finally ate everyone was super satisfied with their meals. I had the short ribs and they we some of the best I've ever had. So tender and delectable. If you go get the short ribs, they were easily the best thing on our table. I think their dinner menu is significantly more well crafted than their standard lunch fare. Hence why I wasn't a fan during my previous visits. Nonetheless, I think they're doing their thing well, and a welcome presence in my home county.
(4)
Ashley E.
I'll be honest - Soup Spoon just isn't as good as it used to be. On recent visits I've been disappointed. Dine-in visits have had pretty lackluster service. It's hard to want to tip a server who behaves like you're lucky she's taking your order. Another visit I found hair in my soup - YUCK! Take-out is inconsistent. It's never been ready in the amount of time promised, and I'm never sure which side I'm going to get. I'll still eat at Soup Spoon, but only because I still appreciate the freshness of the food (when SSC is on, their food is fantastic). Bottom line: I wish that SSC would stop acting like a teenager who went from being a nerd to a cool kid and forgot all his old friends.
(3)
Graham D.
This is the best restaurant in Lansing/East Lansing - which isn't saying all that much, but it's something. Better than Troppo, better than Fork in the Road, better than Beggar's Banquet. I've been here for lunch and dinner and have never been disappointed in the food. There's typically a wait for a table -- which can be quite long on a Friday or Saturday night -- but it's usually worth it, unless you really have a hankering for the bland giant portions most Lansing restaurants love to serve. Don't miss the Asian braised short ribs or the Wraptor sandwich - and as many reviews have mentioned, the bread pudding is absolutely out of its world. Best I've ever had. Soup Spoon is over looked for its great alcohol selection. They always have great beers on tap (and often feature Bell's Brewing tasting nights, complete with a firkin) and also have one of the best cocktail menus in town. No overly sweet cocktails here - just classics like a well-made Sazerac (my favorite) or a proper old fashioned. The owner has told me they plan on expanding this more in the future, so worth keeping an eye on. Service isn't always the best but it's worth the wait. Wait staff is always friendly and the food is a good value for the money. If you're in Lansing and looking for a good meal, look no further than Soup Spoon Cafe.
(4)
H B.
There is not an over abundance of fine food choices in Lansing yet having the Soup Spoon option means we always have a great and reliable place for a wonderful meal. Reserve well in advance as the place is always full. We have been there with tables from two to ten. The service is great. Also like the decor and the beers. Worth a stop - and one of the best options in Lansing.
(5)
Tom L.
I have been here 4 or 5 times now and have had great food and service every time. The only inconsistent thing has been their egg poaching prowess. Today's were rock solid yolks, last week's were slightly undercooked whites and every other time has been perfect. Maybe I need to branch out to other meals instead of eating breakfast here all the time. The coffee is fantastic and is brewed to perfection. I'm looking forward to trying other meals here, but it is still my favorite breakfast place in Lansing (and perhaps out of the 6 states that I have live in).
(5)
Karen C.
We went here on a Friday night with a wait of around 45 mins. The prices of the sandwiches w/ a side cost anywhere between $6-12. The entree menu was quite pricey from around $16-30. I ordered the seafood chowder which was good but a bit on the salty side. I would try something else next time. I also got the cuban sandwich which was tasty but I've had better. I was looking forward to the side of coleslaw but it wasn't that great. Maybe a bit healthier since it didn't have a lot of mayo. If you're looking for a great cuban sandwich, go to Vincente's in Detroit. It is amazing! I would come back here just to try other things since they had a wide selection of sandwiches and soups. Maybe since it wasn't a cuban restaurant, I shouldn't expect much by ordering a cuban sandwich!
(3)
Tessa M.
This place is one of the best places in the greater Lansing area!!! They have healthy, yummy food. as well as non healthy yummy food. I go here at least once a week!! so tastey.
(5)
Jimmy P.
Some of the best soup you can find. A very laid back and easy going place, it is small but cozy enough to the point where reservations have little use. It is connected to a flower boutique. brunch, dinner, and lunch, are all four stars.
(4)
Val K.
Excellent breakfast but longest wait I have ever waited to eat. About 45 minutes from sitting to getting served food after ordering of course.
(3)
Sheena W.
Love this place! I live fairly close and it's an affordable healthy alternative to grab a quick bite to eat. Also a great place to take visiting guests from out of town. The ability to try the soups was a hit! The only reason I rate it 4 stars is because on rare occasions you can get an employee who isn't exactly as nice as you would expect service to be.
(4)
Champika F.
The french dip here was really delicious. I will definitely go back when I'm in town again to try other tasty looking things on their menu.
(4)
Michael T.
If I was with Jesus and wanted to show him a great restaurant, Soup Spoon would be the place. I'm really sad I didn't discover the spoon until my senior year at MSU. I've graduated now and miss this place every day. I think I brought at least 10 friends here and they all have loved it, as well. The food is unbelievable and I had a lot of great times with great friends here. We usually always came for breakfast/lunch after a night of debauchery. The staff is super friendly and they're doing great things. I haven't had a single thing that I didn't like. Big fan of the Seafood Chowder and the Cubano. It's hard to find a dish that doesn't sound appealing for Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner. A big thanks to Soup Spoon. You will always be a fond college memory of mine, and I will absolutely be back every time I return to the banks of the Red Cedar.
(5)
Barb K.
Absolute best pancakes in town! Skip that loud over rated breakfast place in old town and try Soup Spoon if you haven't already. Mmmmmmmmmm
We went here because of its high reviews. We had to wait about 20min for the table but it wasn't bad. It took very long to get food though. Atmosphere was nice and the people were kind. Good food. Only wished our food came sooner than 40min! We will give it a try again.
(4)
Merv F.
Had a great lunch at the Soup Spoon Cafe in Lansing today. Very busy for a Saturday at the lunch hour. Extensive sandwich menu. I had the French Dip which was better than most you get anywhere. Good portion of beef, topped with melted cheese on a perfect french baguette. Pam had the Grilled Cheese, three cheese and tomatoes on sourdough. She said it was the best ever. Also, the breakfast menu was extensive and is served until 2:00 pm on the weekends. Service was friendly, ambiance is very casual. It's relatively small and they were very busy which might be the reason food was slow to arrive. I would definitely go back and recommend it.
(4)
Rod A.
Soups are fantastic. I've tried about five or six now, always good. They also have tapas and great sandwiches. Local craft beers on tap and the taps are rotated daily. I think on the weekends they tap special small batch beers. Favorite place in Lansing thus far.
(5)
Linda K.
Good place to go for breakfast or dinner. It's not my favorite Lansing Area restaurant but it's up there. Nice selection of wine and beer.
(4)
Sarah L.
I've gone to Soup Spoon a lot for dinner and everything I've eaten has been great. Some of my favorites are: Voodoo pasta, shellfish risotto, cherry bomb shrimp, greek island plate, pastrami sandwich, and the acropolis. Everything I've eaten here is great, but the BEST thing I've ever had here is their bread pudding, I don't even like bread pudding, but this was amazing. They also make great mixed drinks and home make some of the syrups in their drinks, can't get better than that! Don't let the kind of "old and outdated" exterior and interior keep you away...their food is great and they always keep the restaurant clean. I still haven't made it for breakfast, which I've heard their breakfast is even better than dinner...
(5)
Matt R.
In the midst of my sadness about the closing of Sawyer's Pancake House, I came across Soup Spoon Cafe, hoping it might fill the void for good local breakfast. Well, I can official say...void filled! I might even go as far as to say, I can forget about Sawyers because Soup Spoon was SO good. I had the San Diego. Amazing! Our group also had French Toast, Pancakes, Bacon, etc and all got good reviews. I want to try their Lunch menu too, cuz it looks really good. A few points that kept it from a 5 star (I hope you are listening, Soup Spoon peeps). There is not a good system at the front door. No sign saying please wait...or seat yourself, or whatever. Nobody said anything to us either, so we just stood there confused for a min, then finally had to go ask at the counter. As we ate, we watched basically everyone behind us do the same thing...come in & wander around uncertainly...trying to figure out the protocol. A sign does not cost much. Get one :) The other drawback is the price...it was def on the high side, BUT I can overlook that one cuz it was delecious! We will be back fo sho..
(4)
Mariah H.
I've gone to Soup Spoon quite a few times for dinner, and I've also ordered take away a few times as well. What I've realized is that for some reason the food that you pre order never seems as good as sitting down and ordering in the restaurant. I always order the same thing usually (crab cakes, BLTA). When I got my food home, the bread on my sandwich was so toasted I couldn't even bite it. It crumbled in my hands and everything fell out. My crab cakes were also smaller than normal and looked a little burnt. However, I ordered the same thing another day and both dishes were very good. The second time I ordered take away, they mixed up my order at the bar with someone else that had also ordered ahead and the waitress seemed a little annoyed with me when I pointed out that I had the wrong bill. When I got my new bill, they had ended up charging me for something that I didn't order, and when I showed it to the waitress, I was met with the same attitude. Overall, I would recommend going for lunch or dinner. When they're on, they're ON. Most times, service and food are very good.
(4)
Vanessa H.
I been here twice now. I went once for dinner and once for brunch. The staff was friendly and attentive. Service was good overall. The food was yummy. The only complaint I have is that it seems a bit messy and less than clean. I'm sure that if I took a peak into most of the kitchens I've eaten from I'd be surprised. But, given that you can see the kitchen here, you'd think they'd try to keep it cleaner and keep food drippings off the dining room floor. It was a little disconcerting.
(3)
DJ B.
Probably best breakfast in Lansing. Coffee could be better though let's be honest here
(5)
Michael F.
Great local beers on tap. The pub cheese was quite good, but the naan toast squares were dry and tough. All was put to rights with a PHENOMENAL slow braised lamb shank. Very attentive and friendly service in a fun atmosphere. One of the top places in Lansing.
(4)
Melissa M.
One of the best restaurants in Lansing. Worth the wait.
(5)
Kara H.
The Soup Spoon is one of my favorite restaurants in the Lansing area. They have delicious breakfasts, including some amazing pancakes (and REAL maple syrup - a necessity for me). They also have great daily soups (big surprise), sandwiches and delicious entrees. They now have a full bar and a beer club, where you can purchase a membership and get a certain percentage off of your brew every time. The staff is friendly and helpful, the owner is truly attentive to his customer's needs. I love that they try their best to have Michigan goods and make their dishes from scratch instead of using Gordon Food Service crap. My only complaint is that they aren't open on Sundays. I need my Sunday brunch!
(5)
Lindsey K.
Spoon me Baby! This place was excellent! Kind of weird but my 2 favorite spots of the week are the Spoon and the Fork.... Anyway- I decided to take my BAF (Big Ass Friend) to the Spoon to check out what I heard was excellent food. I didn't hear wrong.... The Spoon was relatively busy for a Thursday night, which was a good sign. Despite being busy, we were greeted and seated right away. I ordered a Moscow Mule- this was like a Ginger Mule kick to the kisser! Very tasty, my guess is there was a homemade ginger simple syrup involved and it was de-lish... also, strong. One was enough to last me throughout the evening. I ordered the Seafood Santorini which was shrimp and scallops on orzo, with white wine, dill, tomatoes, topped with broiled feta and breadcrumbs. The flavor was excellent, and I appreciated that they did not douse the breadcrumbs in butter. I was really able to taste the seafood. i had an excellent house salad as well. BAF ordered the Walleye special which looked excellent, topped w/ roasted red peppers and served with green beans and roasted potatoes. The only downside was we sat on the side of the restaurant with the grill area, it was hot, and the ventilation was not good. The grill smell kind of clung to the air and our clothes. Overall the Soup Spoon is an awesome, trendy, yet casual place. I'm excited to check out their breakfast!
(4)
Talmadge W.
Good food, but hard to get a seat these days. They really need to expand again. I used to come here for lunch on a regular basis, but it's much too busy for a regular 1 hour lunch. If you have a normal job that allows for an hour lunch you will want to avoid this place. I've hard the brunch on Saturday is amazing.
(3)
Roy R.
Wow! Great food! Had the Soup Flight which is a choice of a tasting of four soups with French Bread for ten bucks. Very filling and all great! Seafood Chowder, Pumpkin bisque, Sweet pepper chicken, Turkey and cauliflower. GREAT! My only complaint is that it seems reservations are a must.
(5)
Kimberly J.
I still love The Soup Spoon, but beware: It's highly popular, and they take reservations ONLY if you call in before 4pm on the same day. It's gotten so busy, and nearly impossible to get into without a long wait (30 mins-1 hr is not uncommon at dinnertime), that we don't go there as often anymore. :(
(4)
Ryan J.
Yes some of their food is above average for the area, but if you're gluten free you'll want to pass. Rude response to my gluten question and all around below average service. It's too bad because w just a little better service and options for people w diet restrictions this place could stand out in Lansing. As I'm writing this the lady at the next table asked the same GF question and got the same response. This is a problem.
(1)
James E.
Great place, but gets crowded at night. Don't miss the bread pudding.
(5)
N J.
Dear Yelp Readers, Looking for a great local soup to warm your soul or heart? Come to the Soup Spoon Cafe which offers quality soups with at least 6 choices per day! The mouth watering soup hits your taste buds and sends the delight of a mothers' cooking. We tried the mushroom soup, the jalapeno crab and rice soup, and the Tuna Melt. The soups were warm and full of flavor. The tuna melt was crispy and had the perfect balance of ingredients. In addition, we liked the atmosphere in the place. The lighting was nice and we sat at the bar where we shared laughs. With the new changes, this place has a lot to offer, so stop in and give it a try!
(5)
Christa W.
The Soup Spoon is by far my favorite restaurant in the Lansing area. I have never been disappointed with the food or service. Absolutely love any of their salmon dishes, and for dessert the bread pudding is to die for. I also love the craft beer selection. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
D. V.
One of my favorite places to eat in Lansing. Between the boyfriend and myself, we must've tried at least ten of their soups without a dud in the bunch, but my favorite has got to be their French Onion, which they have every day, and is just dripping with Gruyere cheese. Definitely worth smelling like onions and beef stock for the rest of the day. However, I think I'd say that, at least if you're on a student's budget, like I am, I'd stick to the soup and sandwich combo. It's super reasonable - like $7 for lunch, and $9 for dinner - and their entrees tend to fall on the expensive side.
(4)
Lorraine H.
I am updating because it's been a while and I've been here many times now. I learned today that you can call ahead and tell them you're coming. It's not a reservation, as far as reserving a table goes, but helps a bit during the busy lunch hour. I have not been disappointed in the food. Today I had the Gus's Greek Wrap, and it was delicious. The french onion soup is very, very good. The service was great -- Eric took our 3 orders and did not write it down. Even though I had a special request, the order was perfect. We waited less than 10 minutes for a table and the service was prompt.
(4)
Micaiah F.
Second time dining here. Love the soups. Had the creme of spinach today, it rocked. The sandwiches are tasty too! Had the tuna melt outstanding!
(5)
Ed C.
I'm surprised I haven't already reviewed the Soup Spoon. They used to be a good soup and sandwich place. Now they are the single best restaurant and bar in Lansing. They have a breakfast on par with Golden Harvest. They have the best soups and sandwiches in town. They have lots of interesting dinner entrees that have meat, so I don't eat them. However, they serve their lunch menu at dinner, so that's no problem. They have great beer on tap and great wine by the glass, but their cocktails are what really stand out. You'd have to go to Chicago to find a better craft cocktail. My personal recommendation is the Dark and Stormy, but all cocktails are made with high quality liquors, house-made syrups, and high qualities bitters, garnishes, etc. They take their time and do it right. This isn't the usual swill blended with swill that even nice places in Lansing serve out. These are *cocktails*.
(5)
Bruce R.
Dropped by the Soup Spoon on a recommendation from a local while visiting from out of town. I went for dinner and found everything on the menu to be very inviting. I went with the shrimp and goat cheese appetizers, the chowder and, the hanger steak. Each one was a hit. I was in Lansing for two weeks and, I am sorry I found out about this place too late to make a second visit. It is important to note this place has a smaller dining area served by what appears to be a smaller kitchen - reservations are necessary but, well worth any wait.
(5)
Staci S.
Good food, great local beer selection, Awesome decor.
(5)
Jonathan L.
It is nice to step into a bustling cafe mid-day. There is an air of familiarity with the staff and the patrons, who are as diverse as the menu, from artists to teachers to bankers. They are gather here for the best food the Eastside offers. The menu is peppered with tastes from many regions. The specials maintain some seasonality, but the regular menu has some great standby's, which is what I order for my tween meal today: Voodoo Pasta. Perfect portion and spice.
My wife is a new professor at Michigan State and her colleagues recommended the Soup Spoon to her. We went there with our 7-year old son and loved it. I had the seafood risotto and it was really, really good. I'm a bit of a seafood snob, but the shrimp and scallops were perfectly cooked. My son had the seafood stew, which was also great. It's not a fancy place, but I would recommend it highly. A nice beer selection, too.
(4)
Tally B.
Best restaurant in Lansing by a mile. I moved here from Austin and was depressed about the lack of good food, until a friend took me here. I'd give 5 stars, but the service isn't up to par for 5 stars. I love their tap selection, but their wine pour is short, FYI. Call for reservations early in the day if you want to get seated during prime dinner hours. This is a great place to go if you have a few hours to relax over dinner and drinks with friends or on a date. The soup is all divine and the plates are all amazing and delicious. Like them on Facebook to get a daily teaser of their specials, soups and beers.
If based entirely on the food, I'd be giving this place at least 4 stars, but unfortunately there were some experience killers. Before I discuss the bad, here's the good. Everything was delicious. I ordered the Seafood Santorini, and my wife had the Pesto Prima Vera. Both of us agreed they were top notch meals. As an appetizer, we had the cheese plate. The cheeses were fairly mundane cheeses, so we didn't agree that it merited the 12 dollar price-tag. But cheese is cheese, and therefore was delicious. But the positive aspects of the meal were offset by the negative. Here's why: First of all, there was no air conditioning. On a hot day in June, consumers expect air conditioning. Secondly, the waitstaff seemed only moderately interested in helping us. When asked what cheses were included in the chese plate, she gave us some recommendations as to what they "might" be, but didn't have a conclusive answer. Finally, there was the decor. The resturant was mostly consistent in this regard, which gave us the impression that we were eating at a mom & pop diner. The menu's were of equally shoddy construction. All in all, this was a positive experience for us, but given the 58 dollar price tag and the otherwise consistent reviews that already exist on yelp, I expected more.
(3)
Debra C.
Wonderful food. I could have had one of everything, but then I would have had to pay for it all. Reasonable prices.
(4)
Tess K.
Following the Soup Spoon Cafe on Twitter has caused me to become nothing short of obsessed. Last week they Tweeted that the special was chorizo sausage and scallops in red clam sauce over linguine. We immediately left home and it was delicious. So delicious that I inquired what they were serving the next night (New Years Eve) when I heard one of the choices was shrimp and scallop risotto we booked our reservation. Again, the dinner was incredible. I took my time eating and savored every bite. The seafood chowder leaves me speechless. The environment is cheery and the staff is smiley and kind. Chef Nick is always available to provide wine recommendations and anxious to hear how you like your meal. I like how they engage the Twitter community by answering back or thanking customers for their visit. They are using Twitter to successfully create a caring and loyal community - smart. My friend and I are now studying the menu, prioritizing and planning future trips.
(5)
Tuesday C.
Yummo! We love this place. It is great for both breakfast and lunch. Only warning, everyone loves this place so it does get a bit busy sometimes. I don't eat meat and although they don't have a ton of options what they do have is awesome and I don't mind getting the same things! They have different soups everyday too that usually rock. The Greek island plate is delicious as well as the Pesto Prima Vera. The pesto scrambler for breakfast is pretty amazing too. The staff is very friendly and the atmosphere is laid back. Try it and enjoy!
(5)
Tami S.
Just finished the Baja Scramble for breakfast and it was fantastic. Tons of chorizo and the eggs were fluffy and moist. The avocado on top balanced the spice from the sausage perfectly!
(5)
Kendra J.
Sooooo good! Omelets are amazing and so is the beer selection!
(5)
Richard P.
By far perhaps the best restaurant in Lansing. Great variety on the menu, creative, knowledgeable staff, definitely worth going to. Having been in the hospitality business most of my career, I appreciate when it is done right. They even make their own bitters for their house cocktails Speaking of the cocktails, I can't remember the last time I saw a bartender slicing the twists to order. It's the little details like this that stand out. Enjoy!!
(5)
Jeffrey C.
Amazing! Every dish I have had here meets or exceeds expectations. With the new cocktail selection and diner menu they have gotten slightly busier making a bit difficult to get a table at times but the quality has remained making this a great stop in Lansing. If it's your first time the flight of soups may be the way to go, although you may become addicted.
(5)
Caitlin T.
We really wanted to like this place after seeing it had 2 of our favorite dishes on the menu. However, we left disappointed in the quality of the food for how much you spend. First I will give you a background story to what we compared our meal to. Ever since we discovered the Brass Cafe in Mt Pleasant a few years ago, we have tried to find our favorite dishes of theirs somewhere else with the same great quality. We have tried these dishes all over the US, including Hawaii, California, Washington and Texas. No one has come close to the greatness that is the Brass Cafe. Onto our dinner from yesterday. I agree with a lot of other reviewers in saying that it is confusing when you first walk into the Soup Spoon Cafe. Do you just stand there and wait for a hostess? Do you go up to the bar? Do you go into the other dining room? This seating process and the serving in general, need to be more organized. After sitting for awhile we had to wait for someone to take our drink orders, then she didn't even take our food order with the drinks when we were obviously ready. Since the husband couldn't decide on a soup to start with, we decided to do the Soup Flight with the Tomato Basil, Russian Cabbage and Pork, Seafood Chowder and French Onion. Even though these are 3 premade soups, it still seemed to take forever to get to us. My favorite one was definitely the Tomato Basil. The chowder seemed too fishy for me, but the husband liked it a lot. The french onion was alright, but the beef base (assumption) was overpowering and it didn't have much cheese on top. The Russian soup had a way too strong tomato broth in it, we both weren't fans of it. The Seafood Risotto was lack luster. The risotto itself didn't have much flavor. The shrimp and scallops were cooked well though. I ended up taking home most of it and added spices and more parmesan. Husband got the Korean style braised Short Ribs. These didn't seem braised at all. They didn't have much flavor and they didn't fall off the bone like you would expect. I would not consider the sauce Korean at all. Then they put the meat on top of curry rice so the plate was just a mish mash of different flavors and ethnicities. Our bill for one beer (B-Nektor Evil Genius which was good and different), the soup flight, seafood risotto and the short ribs came to $59 before tip. Definitely not worth the money. If we come back we will try their sandwiches in hopes that those will be better.
(3)
George M.
Great beers. Non chain hip local feel. Amazingly good food at terrific prices. I love the Korean short ribs, the seafood chowder, and the tenderloin salad. Great friendly staff. Prolly my fav restaurant in the area.
(5)
Moani B.
This is my favorite place to order out and din-IN at!!! I am not from around here and I do not like going to Big name places like Applebees or cheddars! Lunches are the BIZ!! I reccomend the Cajun Chicken Po Boy I believe it is called or the Beef Strog!!!! Dinner would most definately be the enitre menu if I had the ability to! but if I had to narrow it down, Lamb Sliders, Chicken Pesto Prime vera! Oh My!!!, Salmon and of course the Seafood bisque!!!There are no words!! Oh and dessert Bread Pudding aaaa yes Please!! The portions are great however it is a bit spendy :( All and all amazing place to hang out, people are usually nice except at dinner, it gets a bit crazy if you are dinning in which is understandable, but there have been a few times that we have ordered out by phone and when we headed to the bar to pick up our meals, we have been ignored and have waited for up to 5-8 min before even asked anything :( Other than that, It's all Yum!!!!!!
(4)
Ellen W.
Visited a few times and usually have the same complaint. Too much salt! Every dang time! Who wants to wait for a meal when dining with friends and have to send it back and eat alone? So I don't send it back and grumble. In case your chef hasn't read the headlines lately, an abundance if salt in our food is not healthy. We can always add it, but taking it away is impossible. Until you figure out how to not dump the entire salt shaker into the pit, I'm staying away. What are you hiding, anyway?
(3)
Ken K.
The Soup Spoon Cafe is the perfect example of what happens when you take just a few good, fresh ingredients and combine them in a simple yet imaginative dish. The soup is delicious. I tried the Soup De Jour which happened to be beef vegetable. Big chunks of ingredients and perfectly flavored. I must go back for the Seafood Chowder, or for a soup flight, which I think is brilliant. My main dish featured sesame seared chicken, water chestnuts, peapods, carrots, avocado, green onion, lettuce, asian vinaigrette, and sriracha, all wrapped up. Again, big chunks of ingredients, contrasting textures and fresh veggies all contributed to an excellent dish and a very happy tummy. The only downside is the size and popularity of the place. Even though they recently expanded their dining room to next door, there's still not a ton of room in this place, and it gets quite crowded on the weekdays during lunch. But other than that, this place is top-notch.
(5)
Jennifer S.
Went back for breakfast and I thought it was quite good--pretty basic, but tasty. Would do breakfast here again.
(4)
Nicole S.
What to say that hasn't already been said... Soups: I haven't had a bad one yet. If it sounds good, give it a whirl. The expanded dinner menu: The portions are quite generous and the food delicious. I've enjoyed the Spoon-i-pino. I've had a few rare misses, mostly when there seems to be one extra flavor beyond necessary, but on the whole very good. I'll never fault a place for trying something new and making changes when needed. Breakfast: This isn't a in-and-out experience, so I tend to come for a leisurely Saturday brunch. There's really nothing like this in Lansing, and it's turned into our default "let's go out for dinner" spot. The only negative is that sometimes the service can be a bit spotty, but forgivable. Don't miss the bread pudding.
(5)
D C.
Good, friendly service with awesome food at reasonable prices. The last time I was there, one of the specials was a beef brisket Reuben - which sounded slightly unusual but was really good. I've been wanting to make it there for breakfast & for drinks but so far I've only made it for lunch. I wish they were open on Sundays.
(4)
Linda Q.
I first visited SSC a few months ago, and left feeling somewhat disappointed. I went back today, and had some of the best food I've ever eaten in Lansing. The first time, for dinner, I ordered their only vegetarian sandwich, "The Gardner." I just found this wrap to be completely bland and uninspired. The vegetables were fresh, but the balsamic vinaigrette just wasn't appetizing. It was too runny, especially in concert with water exuding vegetables like tomato and cucumber, and thus, it made the wrap very soggy. I also ordered the soup flight because soup is my favorite food, and I wanted to taste a variety. The soups were good, but it really bummed me out that they were all lukewarm, not hot. I need HOT soup! My bf had the Kobe Wagyu burger, and while I didn't taste it, he says it's the BEST burger he's ever had. So, there's that. Today, I stopped by for lunch, and the food I had was great! I ordered the pesto prima vera, which is a linguine with pesto sauce and fresh vegetables- sugar snap peas, tomatoes, carrots, mushrooms. You can add meats for an additional charge. I added a side caesar salad as well. First, I didn't know caesar salad could be so well dressed! The romaine lettuce was very fresh, and it was accompanied by a few different types of croutons, tomatoes, red onion, and parmesan. I've never had such a great caesar, and the red onion, while surprising, added such a nice flavor to the salad. I wouldn't let my dining mate try more than like 2 bites of my salad. The pesto prima vera came out in a big bowl, and the linguine and vegetables were swimming in this divine, creamy pesto broth; the sauce was definitely more like a broth, and not just because I drank it like it was. This dish was gorgeous and delicious. I can't wait to go back to try more of their entrees and to have that amazing caesar salad again! Definitely go!
(4)
Jon T.
Just ate here this weekend for breakfast and it was quite good. In fact, I think it gives Golden Harvest and Sawyers a run for their money, which in my book, are the gold standards for happiness at breakfast and lunch. The setting is pretty simple but not bare. Big picture windows overlooking Michigan Ave give it lots of bright light. I like the fact the space is broken up too...gives it a bit of character. As for the outside, pay attention if you've never been, it can be easy to miss. Food is great as is the overall style of the menu. It has all the staples plus some items to show off their flair and commitment to quality ingredients. Also appreciate they have sriracha chili sauce to compliment my eggs and potatoes...nicely done! Service was fricken stellar as well. Our server was friendly, speedy and filled my coffee cup at least half a dozen times...ok probably more since the coffee's great. Don't know her name but her smile and easy going attitude, were great ambassadors for the place. Will definitely be there again soon.
(4)
Joe D.
I'm not kidding, this is the best new restaurant (in any price range) within 25 miles of Lansing in the last decade. The food is creative, fresh, often changing and never disappointing. Service is friendly, informed and fast. My only complaint is that they've been discovered and unless you call for a reservation before 4pm, expect a wait no matter what night you come. But don't be put off - it will be worthwhile!
(5)
Charles H.
I was very impressed with this cafe. I ordered the stuffed french toast and coffee. The coffee had a wonderful taste to it; Louise is right, it's probably the best coffee in town. The french toast appeared to be made with homemade bread (I've never seen slices of bread so large or odd shaped at the store!). It's a small place, but they have a wonderful atmosphere and great friendly staff. I arrived at 8:30 and it looked like I was the first person there. The place quickly had other customers, and the staff seemed to know many of them by name. It is a little hard to find. It's right next to Bancroft Flowers. There is a door in this cafe that opens into the flower shop. Around 9am, Bancroft's opened and the cafe filled with the smell of fresh flowers. Very nice. The only complaint I have is the price: $7 for the stuffed french toast. I recommend checking out their menu online at their website.
(4)
Marion T.
This is something Lansing area really needs! This place reminds me of those restaurants in Bay Area...... The whole atmosphere was energetic and the service was welcoming and warm. We went for brunch yesterday. I ordered the salmon benedict. It was perfectly cooked. The potatoes were very yummy---not too greasy and I loved the seasonings they used. Most importantly, the ingredients were fresh and not cooked with excessive amount of salt. We will return for dinner and some other weekend brunches!
(5)
chris n.
I've moved to Michigan about a month ago from LA and the one thing I feared was the inability to find decent restaurants. Thank you SoupSpoon for proving me wrong. I've been here twice and I've gotten mixed reviews so far. If I based this review on my first visit, I would have easily given them a 5/5, but the second visit not-so-much. I ordered a BLT sandwich, a tomato soup, and bread pudding. Everything was delicious, but my god, the bread pudding is something sent down from heaven. I rarely ever get foodgasms, but that bread pudding was A-MAZING! But I digress, my second visit, I had the Cubano sandwich. It wasn't my favorite. The pork inside was a bit dry, and the bread was a bit too burnt. Every bite tasted like burnt toast which was not pleasant. (Thankfully I ordered the bread pudding again) I also noticed that the dinner entrees are quite expensive ranging from $15-20+ per entree. I'm pretty use to these prices in LA, but it's hard to justify those prices when the sandwiches are $6-10. I'm always tempted to get a dinner entree only to be foiled but my cheapness. Maybe someday after my school loans are paid :)
(4)
Dave P.
Went on a recommendation from my hotel and waited 25 minutes - each of those heightened my expectations. Soup Spoon didn't disappoint. Server Juliann was fantastic with great recommendations and personality. The chop was the best I've had. Also loved the blueberry margarita and the cheesecake. Even the salad was great. One of the most enjoyable meals I've had. Only thing keeping it from 5 stars is the wood chair was uncomfortable, the atmosphere lacked warmth and the silverware was flimsy.
(4)
Heidi D.
My husband and I have been trying different places for breakfast and were told about this place. Very pleasant atmosphere, we sat at the bar and ordered. I ordered French Toast which I thought was very average. I think if I had been able to order it the way it was suggested on the menu (with cream cheese and berries) it would have been very tasty. No cream cheese allowed for me :( my husband ordered one of their omelette's with hollandaise and he enjoyed it very much. The potatoes were delish!! We are going back for dinner. The menu looked very enticing!!
(4)
Nikki M.
The food is okay, service is okay, prices are so-so and theres plenty of parking. That all being said one thing that turned me off was there were onions cooked in with the potatos. The menu didnt mention onions, which I absolutely hate! Eating onions was not a surprise I wanted first thing in the morning! I ended up taking a big swig of coffee and washed the gross onion/potatoes down and didnt touch them again. The jam we got with our toast was semi-frozen so we couldnt use it... but it looked good. They didnt have creamer,ketchup or hot sauce on the table either, kind of annoying to have to get up and get everything ourselves when they only had two other tables of customers in there. Overall, there are better places to go for breakfast in the area but i hear they have a good lunch so that might be worth checking out.
(3)
Jen C.
Impressive tap selection with some excellent beers from the likes of Founders, Jolly Pumpkin, and Dark Horse. The Cubano and Pastrami sandwiches were great. We would definitely order those again. The cheese-beer dip was yummy, although it could have come with better bread than a few slices of airy baguette. The menu is quite extensive. Dinner entrees are $17 to $22-ish, but there are plenty of less expensive options including soups, sandwiches and dinner salads from under $10, which I really appreciate. You can go for an after work dinner without spending a lot of money, or go for a special occasion. The place was packed but had sufficient seating for everyone.
(4)
Stephanie B.
5/5 taking into consideration that this is in Michigan. It compares to other independently owned businesses in cities like Chicago, New York or DC. If I had to rate it on a national scale, I would give it 4/5. The soup selection has variety, and from what I have been told all are very tasty. I had the meatloaf sandwich with a bloody mary and a Michigan brew. I left feeling full and satisfied. I would highly recommend this place if you are in East Lansing or Lansing. My new favorite to stop by when I am in town visiting MSU or the Capitol. It's located on Michigan Avenue about .5 miles east of the hospital.
(5)
Cristian D.
Recommended by person next to me on a flight.... So while in on business I had a quick lunch - black bean soup and a chicken sandwich, both delicious. Soup could have had a bit more meat n fixins, sandwich was luxuriously flavorful. Fine local beer selection. Can't wait to get back to Lansing to try more!
(4)
Kannan R.
This is a hidden gem. If you're a hipster, you will love this place. If you're not, you'll still probably like it. Chill coffee house atmosphere and decor with a changing menu, very friendly waitstaff. Slightly pricier but nothing bad, they're going for a relaxing night out. Desserts are great, but their naan pizza is unique. My only surprise is that the broad brush I use to paint things with imagines there are more vegetarians in the demographic the restaurant targets than norm, so I'd appreciate a few more bones thrown their way. Plus the owner is an MSU alum/RCMB regular.
(5)
Evan S.
Variety of wonderful soups and sandwiches!! Rueben sandwich was AWESOME, french onion was the second best ive had. Black and Blue wrap and chili were both good. It's nice to always have a new different menu with specials.
(4)
Patrick W.
Nice little cafe with a bar. Good food and very friendly and knowledgable waitstaff. I've had the reuben sandwich, the french dip and the aisian wrapper. The sandwiches were very good and the wrap was great.
(4)
Kati B.
Absoultely fabulous breakfast especially with a morning mimosa (yes it includes bottomless OJ). Fun servers and fast, correct service. Will come here any morning for breakfast & drinks.
(4)
Alexandra K.
So inexpensive, so cozy, so delicious. I ordered a Gardener's Sandwich on sourdough and a cup of tomato soup. My bill was under ten dollars and my meal was ready in less than ten minutes. I was very satisfied and will definitely return during work afternoons like this.
(5)
Eliza M.
It seemed sacrilegious to not order soup at Soup Spoon. I followed my brother's lead and got the seafood chowder and it was tasty. The iced tea was very good--it was a little on the strong side for me but I liked that it wasn't sugary. I had the reuben (good and the horseradish-mustard on the side was a nice compliment to it) with cole slaw (just okay). I also tried my friend's wrap that had blue cheese in it and it was very good. Soup Spoon caters so I'm making a mental note that if I ever have to plan a shower/event in Lansing, this is a good option.
(4)
Jessica W.
I love this place! The staff are friendly, and the food is great. The beer list is fantastic (as an avid craft beer drinker, I am in love). The place, the people, and the food are quirky and creative. It's a unique experience that I really enjoy. I'll admit that at times the service has been a little slow, but given how good the food is and how nice everyone is there, I'm willing to overlook it.
(5)
Kate K.
I wish I could tell you this place is awful so you 'd stay home and not go there when I'm trying to get a table. But, I can't. Wow on the "real live no one makes them from scratch anymore" cocktails, wow on the french onion soup and tuna melt sandwich, wow on the coq au vin special the other night. I'm still thinking about the bread pudding we had for dessert, again, wow. Wow on the awesome breakfast menu too. Take even your snooty big-city friends there and they'll be impressed, I promise.Yeah. I wish I could tell you to stay home.
(5)
Benny V.
2014 Edit: These days the Soup Spoon is not at all a good time, or a good place to go. The waitstaff are all less than interested to see, serve, or chat with you. The food hasn't gone down in quality too much, but if you want to try it, plan to be unamused by the service. 2009: Soup Spoon was one of my favorite places, the first time I went. The food is absolutely spectacular. It's cozy, but a popular spot. Get there early, if you're looking to lunch. If you've a large group, call ahead for reservations.
(2)
Julie P.
To paraphrase Troy from "Community," if you could eat god, he would be potatoes dauphinoise from the Soup Spoon. And also Lemon Chicken soup from the Soup Spoon. That is all.
(5)
Michael A.
Great food, super unique. Tasty craft beers. Friendly staff. All the good stuff. Love everything about the place, except for the fact it gets a tad cramped at peak times. Parking lot is a mess.
(4)
Teresa K.
Awesome food can't wait to come back!
(5)
Bonnie F.
My husband and I LOVE the Soup Spoon Cafe! Their food is creative, unique, and individually prepared. Although we've had many tasty breakfasts and lunches there, the items that stand out the most are the seafood chowder and the bread pudding. The former is more like a bisque than a chowder and is world class - I honestly cannot image it being better. As to the bread pudding, it is also the best I've ever had and comes with whipped creme and a caramel sauce that is phenominal. They also have a very good eggs benedict, and for those chili-heads out there, request the ancho chili hollandaise.....yum. I relish their creativity as nothing is just garden-variety food, but instead, everything has a definite artistic twist to it. Highly recommend a visit to this little gem on Michigan Avenue. Oh, and I've heard rumors that they have recently added Michigan craft brewery beers. We haven't been there since before Christmas due to being out of town, but we are definitely looking forward to imbibing in some of their craft brews - assuming this is true! Keep up the good work, SSC.
(5)
Michael K.
Simply delicious, each and every time I go there. Perfect cocktail menu. They should be open on Sunday for brunch!!
(5)
Aaron P.
Great place! Nice people, nice atmosphere. Most of the time, the food is really good and the prices are fair for the quality of food you get. I definitely recommend this place. Good soup as you may have imagined. Don't like that they aren't open on Sundays though--the best day to go out for breakfast.
(4)
Jeff L.
This is my new favorite hangout when I'm in Lansing, I've been here twice and the food was fantastic, great sandwiches and soup, they also have a very nice beer and wine selection. Due to the students taken over golden harvest (sorry I'm not waiting an hour for breakfast) this will be my new go to place as well. It's worth mentioning the staff is very friendly and attentive, they'll make suggestions if you're unsure of something.
(5)
Bethycorn Y.
these two girls definitely need more than one cup (of soup). soup spoon has recently expanded, and despite our initial negative thoughts about taking this soup and sandwich spot to the next level, we're delighted with the dinner menu, full bar, and great michigan microbrew selections. the seafood chowder is so good we've considered buying out their stock to bathe in it. tomato basil gets high marks as well, and pretty much everything has been top notch (except maybe the chicken salad and some of their rotating, namely chorizo and mushroom, soups). and everyone's heard of beer flights...but soup flights??!?! yes please! really important to get here early--definitely expect to wait during peak lunch/dinner hours. service can be hit or miss. we definitely believe everyone to be well-intentioned, but there can be some lulls...even when it's not busy. but the owner is super nice and we generally like the people who work here. this place is really turning into a lansing institution. all kinds of interesting people drawn to delicious often-local reasonable ingredient food. they even have a killer twitter account (@SoupSpoonCafe) where they update their soup specials and upcoming menu delights. end of story, you should go to there.
(5)
Rachel L.
Mmmmm this place is good! It is such an unassuming place! i had this salami sandwich with pesto something. I crave it all the time now. It is probably one of the best sandwiches i have had in the EL/Lansing area.
(5)
Michael W.
Well tonight I went with the Veal and goat cheese sliders with a cup of lobster bisque soup. The soup started my meal and it was smooth and left me wanting more. But then the slider special came out. The sliders just melted in my mouth. Would love for everyone to give soup spoon a try and support such a great lansing resturant.
(5)
Meg H.
I have been three times, twice for dinner and once for lunch. If you plan to have dinner there, consider making a reservation. The place is small and popular. I had lunch there on a Monday recently, and because I was alone I sat at the bar. I'm not sure if it was a particularly busy Monday, or if Monday lunches are always that hopin', but the bartender was pretty busy. It appeared as though she wore many hats - waiting on bar customers, as well as a table or two (I believe), answering phones, taking to-go orders, distributing to-go orders, taking reservations. She could have used an extra hand. People were patient and understanding, as it was obvious she was busy. The food has always been great. You must ABSOLUTELY save room for the bread pudding. Amazing.
(4)
Jill M.
Always a great meal. I usually go for lunch, but dinner is just as good. During the normal lunch hour, you can expect a short wait. I have never waited more than 30min for a table. Try the Avocado BLT. It's my favorite.
(5)
Jamie R.
Hidden Gem. So many choices for such a small kitchen. Everything on the menu is worth trying at least once. Great place for breakfast. Service with a smile. Haven't been there for dinner, but menu looks amazing. Upscale food and service for reasonable prices. They have many local brews on tap. Yes, they also have a bar. The decor could improve, but the focus is surely on the food.
(5)
Elizabeth P.
Excellent food and cozy, non-assuming atmosphere. I got the french onion soup, salmon with dill sauce, and split bread pudding. I got enough for 2 meals (I took some home) for a reasonable price. All of the soups looked delicious, staff was friendly. I recommend this any day, but particularly on a cold or rainy or snowy one. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming. The bread pudding rocked my world - I shared it with 2 other people and it was so rich I felt perfectly satisfied.
(5)
Nelli T.
My favorite cafe in Lansing! Love the new bar and drinks too.
(5)
Jessica D.
Small restaurant emphasizing sustainable, locally sourced food. Nice updated menu and (I hear) good selection of beers. Service could be a bit better. We were there for a meeting, and our waitress forgot about refilling water after the bill was paid. Other than that, very nice.
(4)
David M.
Updated June 24th Last night we stopped in for a meal. We ordered the seafood chowder, the seafood risotto, a BBQ chicken pizza, and the special, a NY strip with truffle sauce. For desert we had the bread pudding. The thing is every thing was ok, not exceptional, well the seafood chowder was damn good. I was expecting and hoping for more. I would have written this off to an off night, but the last couple times we have been in for dinner we have walked out with a underwhelmed feel. So what specifically was off? I'll start with the special. The NY Strip was low on flavor, tough and the sauce was weird. Perhaps I'm not a truffle guy, but I do know that the thought I kept having was "why did I not stick to the plan and get the fillet? It is great." And pehaps my biggest irk was my medium rare was more medium done. This steak is disappointing. My wife got the risotto, she liked it and my daughter loved the shrimp (we share a lot). The taste I had was this Ok, the scallops had met the fate of my steak and were over cooked. The BBQ pizza was exactly what you expect. It was our safe order for the kids, and they nibbled on it. Finally the bread pudding. The flavor was spot on, the uncooked sugar, not so great. We wrapped up on a meh note. The service was good, the drinks too. Just doesn't seem Soup Spoon isn't able to achieve the excellence it once had. And when you are eating an underwhelming meal you think "why am I avoiding chain food again, at least I know what to expect." Original review. How have I not been here before? This place has great food. The kind you "drop money on and don't care" good. My wife and I shared * Seared Scallops Fresh sea scallops seared and finished with our Argentinean chimichurri and avocado * Maryland Blue Crab Cakes pan seared and drizzled with chipotle aioli * Filet Mignon Tenderloin of beef, seared and topped with exotic mushrooms in demi glace, finished with gorgonzola butter. Served with potatoes dauphanoise and fresh vegetable I had the Seafood Chowder - with shrimp & clams, and our daughter had the Cream of Mushroom soup and the Grilled Three Cheese & Tomato - choice of bread with sharp cheddar, gruyere, provolone and tomato. Also, I tried the French Fruitie Soda and our daughter had the Orange Cream Dream soda. Definitely worth a try! Its tough for me to say what I liked the most, the entire meal was fantastic. Things started off with the seafood chowder and they went and set the bar high. This is good chowder. It has all the right notes. Good seafood flavor, the right amount of potato, and a lovely warm down your throat that hints of spice, but doesn't leave you gulping water to soothe the burn. Our daughter's cream of mushroom arrived at the same time and was stellar. Next the scallops and crab cakes arrived were perfect. Very tasty, I ended up liking the scallops better than the crab cakes, but its like saying you like your free money in $100 bills better than $20 bills. The crab cakes were very tasty too. Just my preference. The Grilled Three Cheese (sans the tomatoes) arrived next. This thing is a healthy sandwich. It oozes cheese. If ever you had a grilled cheese with pride, this was it. Served with very crunchy, salty kettle chips and a crisp dill. Over all effect is a homemade grilled cheese with sophistication. Finally the Filet arrived. As we had agreed to split it, I agreed to medium (normally I am a med. rare kind of guy). It was perfect, exactly the right temp. I don't know which I am more impressed with. The flavor, or the tenderness. The steak left nothing to be desired. It was a tremendous way to end a meal that came out really strong. I will be trying to concoct my own gorgonzola butter very soon. So, grab the family or a friend or two and head over the the Soup Spoon Cafe. It will not disappoint. And one last tip, call ahead, a place this good is bound to be hard to get into. Menu: soupspooncafe.com/dinner…
(2)
Lizzie P.
Went here a couple weeks ago on a Saturday for an early lunch, it was delicious! We had to wait for about 15 minutes, but after smelling and seeing the food the tables around us were getting we decided to stay. I got the broccoli cheddar soup and a grilled cheese--both were great! The soup was so rich and the grilled cheese was cooked to perfection on Breadsmith bread.
(5)
Shaun L.
The food is outstanding. They have, hands down, the best soup I have EVER had in my entire life. You have got to try the chowder. Even people I know who do not like seafood love this stuff. Seriously I think they put crack in their food.
(5)
Blue B.
Love soup spoon, great during these cold Michigan days especially. Make time to go to Soup Spoon some time and keep an open mind. Some of the combinations are different that what you might otherwise encounter on bistro menus, but they really offer balanced flavor profiles, great service and attitudes, and good prices.
(5)
Russ C.
I love Soup Spoon, I try to at least once a week so I can have as many soups as I can. I always get the cafe combo when I go in, the bill is about $8 for a cup of soup and a half of any of their sandwiches. I love the turkey club, all the ingredients are so fresh and well put together on sourdough bread.
(4)
Louise W.
A big shout out to the Soup Spoon Cafe, because a) they're in my neighborhood and b) they serve locally-roasted Rudy Baggs coffee, which is easily the best in town. The place is small but warmly painted and decorated, and serves breakfast and lunch only. (I listed it as a diner because none of the other categories seemed appropriate, but it's not a diner). You can also just get a cup of coffee and a brownie, if you prefer. I haven't eaten here yet, but other local papers, such as the normally-unreliable Noise and City Pulse, have praised it for serving interesting, lighter lunch items such as grilled salmon. Please go and check it out. I want this place to survive.
(3)
Craig B.
I just moved to the Lansing area from Seattle and have begun to enjoy it alot!!! I live a couple blocks away from the cafe I now refer to as the "Poop Spoon". I have heard good things about this place and thought I would give it a try. In the past week I visited it twice and had horrible experiences both times. I normally would not wither about such things but I was left with a sour taste in my mouth, literally and whole heartedly. The first stop in was for a take home sandwich the Gardner or Farmer I can't remember, it is the sandwich with two types of carrots (misprint on the dirty paper menu from which you order from). I got the sandwich home and the bread was so dry and crumbly that it could not hold everything together to even consume, it turned into a salad with dry crumbly bread. The second time was a couple mornings later when I thought to stop in for a pastry and coffee... I walked in and the hippie guy with the 90's ponytail literally said "Good-bye" as he and his compadre sitting at the bar chuckled when I asked for soy milk with my latte. I am all for supporting local businesses and businesses in my "hood" along Michigan ave. but I like to be treated with respect and to think that my hard earned dollar is worth a little service and quality of goods. To say the least I will never be back in to enjoy any of what these other reviews experienced and will side with the reviews of distaste (at least the ones that remain and not the many that presumably have been removed at the businesses request).
(1)
Erich Z.
Still a bit pricey in my opinion, but the soups and sandwiches are very good. I prefer the spotted dog in downtown, but when I'm in the neighborhood Soup Spoon certainly isn't bad.
(3)
Gary H.
A group of six had dinner here. I had a Black and Bleu wrap with a cup of seafood chowder. Both the soup and sandwich were delicious. Three in our party had the beef stroganoff, and it looked very good. One person ordered creme brulee for dessert and shared with others. That was yummy, too. I can't wait to try this place for breakfast.
(5)
Kristin M.
The seafood chowder was fab. Has a lovely little kick of heat on the backend. Also had the Greek Tenderloin Linguini, which I enjoyed. Even the iced tea was exceptional - they add flavored honey. I definitely recommend this little gem.
(4)
Kuba B.
The Soup Spoon used to be my favorite place in Lansing but the last time I went here I noticed a significant change. For comparison, the first time I ordered a cheese plate here it came with fresh bread, fruit, and bunch of delicious cheeses. For a starter, it was pretty filling. More recently, however, I ordered the cheese plate and they served it with Club Crackers on a much smaller plate. Didn't even have enough stupid crackers to pair with the cheese. Second of all, all their nice wait staff is gone. The guy that served us smelled like cigarettes and made bad conversation with us the whole time. Not sure what spurred the change. I'll give them one more chance and that's it.
(2)
Steve F.
Have you been yet? I mean come on...you HAVE to go! The soups are fabulous...fresh AND hot! When I managed restaurants in Chocago I was trained to always serve soup hot. Soup Spoon Cafe understands many important consumer desires...fresh, delicious food, friendly service and menu variety. You must try this place. I was fortunate to be at the grand opening of their new space. Beautiful music provided by Linda Abar and Frederick Issac to entertain while we dined. Wonderful night. Thanks and I hope they continue the live music.
(5)
Mike B.
Great place to eat breakfast or have a wonderful lunch. The omelets are special in every way, staff is friendly, and reasonably priced. I always tell people about the Soup Spoon.
(4)
Kay S.
This is one of my favorite places to eat in the Lansing area. The food and drinks are excellent. While I don't get there as much as I would like, I have never had a bad experience there. The food is always fresh and hot and most importantly delicious! I have had a hankering for some crab cakes lately (theirs are some of the best I've had). I think it might be time to pay the Spoon another visit!
(5)
B K.
Although I may normally steer away from 5-star ratings, as this implies perfection...something that is very hard to attain, I really have to give this place props. The breakfasts I have been served at the Soup Spoon Cafe are simply outstanding, and easily the best I have had in town. The coffee is also excellent - served up by local roaster Rudy Baggs. The lunch fare, while it may not quite blow me away like the breakfast items - is still very, very tasty and quite excellent. The sandwiches are solid, composed of quality ingredients and emminently satisfying. I've only tried one of their entrees...the grilled salmon, and it was spot-on and excellent. Now that they are open for dinner, I may make a point of checking out some of their other entree offerings. Now the soups, as one would hope, are absolutely world class! You simply MUST order soup if you eat here. Wow! Rounded out by comfortable, relaxed and inviting interior and a friendly and sincere staff. A hidden gem of Lansing. Recommended!
We went here because of its high reviews. We had to wait about 20min for the table but it wasn't bad. It took very long to get food though. Atmosphere was nice and the people were kind. Good food. Only wished our food came sooner than 40min! We will give it a try again.
(4)
Merv F.
Had a great lunch at the Soup Spoon Cafe in Lansing today. Very busy for a Saturday at the lunch hour. Extensive sandwich menu. I had the French Dip which was better than most you get anywhere. Good portion of beef, topped with melted cheese on a perfect french baguette. Pam had the Grilled Cheese, three cheese and tomatoes on sourdough. She said it was the best ever. Also, the breakfast menu was extensive and is served until 2:00 pm on the weekends. Service was friendly, ambiance is very casual. It's relatively small and they were very busy which might be the reason food was slow to arrive. I would definitely go back and recommend it.
(4)
Rod A.
Soups are fantastic. I've tried about five or six now, always good. They also have tapas and great sandwiches. Local craft beers on tap and the taps are rotated daily. I think on the weekends they tap special small batch beers. Favorite place in Lansing thus far.
(5)
Linda K.
Good place to go for breakfast or dinner. It's not my favorite Lansing Area restaurant but it's up there. Nice selection of wine and beer.
(4)
Sarah L.
I've gone to Soup Spoon a lot for dinner and everything I've eaten has been great. Some of my favorites are: Voodoo pasta, shellfish risotto, cherry bomb shrimp, greek island plate, pastrami sandwich, and the acropolis. Everything I've eaten here is great, but the BEST thing I've ever had here is their bread pudding, I don't even like bread pudding, but this was amazing. They also make great mixed drinks and home make some of the syrups in their drinks, can't get better than that! Don't let the kind of "old and outdated" exterior and interior keep you away...their food is great and they always keep the restaurant clean. I still haven't made it for breakfast, which I've heard their breakfast is even better than dinner...
(5)
Matt R.
In the midst of my sadness about the closing of Sawyer's Pancake House, I came across Soup Spoon Cafe, hoping it might fill the void for good local breakfast. Well, I can official say...void filled! I might even go as far as to say, I can forget about Sawyers because Soup Spoon was SO good. I had the San Diego. Amazing! Our group also had French Toast, Pancakes, Bacon, etc and all got good reviews. I want to try their Lunch menu too, cuz it looks really good. A few points that kept it from a 5 star (I hope you are listening, Soup Spoon peeps). There is not a good system at the front door. No sign saying please wait...or seat yourself, or whatever. Nobody said anything to us either, so we just stood there confused for a min, then finally had to go ask at the counter. As we ate, we watched basically everyone behind us do the same thing...come in & wander around uncertainly...trying to figure out the protocol. A sign does not cost much. Get one :) The other drawback is the price...it was def on the high side, BUT I can overlook that one cuz it was delecious! We will be back fo sho..
(4)
Mariah H.
I've gone to Soup Spoon quite a few times for dinner, and I've also ordered take away a few times as well. What I've realized is that for some reason the food that you pre order never seems as good as sitting down and ordering in the restaurant. I always order the same thing usually (crab cakes, BLTA). When I got my food home, the bread on my sandwich was so toasted I couldn't even bite it. It crumbled in my hands and everything fell out. My crab cakes were also smaller than normal and looked a little burnt. However, I ordered the same thing another day and both dishes were very good. The second time I ordered take away, they mixed up my order at the bar with someone else that had also ordered ahead and the waitress seemed a little annoyed with me when I pointed out that I had the wrong bill. When I got my new bill, they had ended up charging me for something that I didn't order, and when I showed it to the waitress, I was met with the same attitude. Overall, I would recommend going for lunch or dinner. When they're on, they're ON. Most times, service and food are very good.
(4)
Vanessa H.
I been here twice now. I went once for dinner and once for brunch. The staff was friendly and attentive. Service was good overall. The food was yummy. The only complaint I have is that it seems a bit messy and less than clean. I'm sure that if I took a peak into most of the kitchens I've eaten from I'd be surprised. But, given that you can see the kitchen here, you'd think they'd try to keep it cleaner and keep food drippings off the dining room floor. It was a little disconcerting.
(3)
DJ B.
Probably best breakfast in Lansing. Coffee could be better though let's be honest here
(5)
Michael F.
Great local beers on tap. The pub cheese was quite good, but the naan toast squares were dry and tough. All was put to rights with a PHENOMENAL slow braised lamb shank. Very attentive and friendly service in a fun atmosphere. One of the top places in Lansing.
(4)
Melissa M.
One of the best restaurants in Lansing. Worth the wait.
(5)
Kara H.
The Soup Spoon is one of my favorite restaurants in the Lansing area. They have delicious breakfasts, including some amazing pancakes (and REAL maple syrup - a necessity for me). They also have great daily soups (big surprise), sandwiches and delicious entrees. They now have a full bar and a beer club, where you can purchase a membership and get a certain percentage off of your brew every time. The staff is friendly and helpful, the owner is truly attentive to his customer's needs. I love that they try their best to have Michigan goods and make their dishes from scratch instead of using Gordon Food Service crap. My only complaint is that they aren't open on Sundays. I need my Sunday brunch!
(5)
Lindsey K.
Spoon me Baby! This place was excellent! Kind of weird but my 2 favorite spots of the week are the Spoon and the Fork.... Anyway- I decided to take my BAF (Big Ass Friend) to the Spoon to check out what I heard was excellent food. I didn't hear wrong.... The Spoon was relatively busy for a Thursday night, which was a good sign. Despite being busy, we were greeted and seated right away. I ordered a Moscow Mule- this was like a Ginger Mule kick to the kisser! Very tasty, my guess is there was a homemade ginger simple syrup involved and it was de-lish... also, strong. One was enough to last me throughout the evening. I ordered the Seafood Santorini which was shrimp and scallops on orzo, with white wine, dill, tomatoes, topped with broiled feta and breadcrumbs. The flavor was excellent, and I appreciated that they did not douse the breadcrumbs in butter. I was really able to taste the seafood. i had an excellent house salad as well. BAF ordered the Walleye special which looked excellent, topped w/ roasted red peppers and served with green beans and roasted potatoes. The only downside was we sat on the side of the restaurant with the grill area, it was hot, and the ventilation was not good. The grill smell kind of clung to the air and our clothes. Overall the Soup Spoon is an awesome, trendy, yet casual place. I'm excited to check out their breakfast!
(4)
Talmadge W.
Good food, but hard to get a seat these days. They really need to expand again. I used to come here for lunch on a regular basis, but it's much too busy for a regular 1 hour lunch. If you have a normal job that allows for an hour lunch you will want to avoid this place. I've hard the brunch on Saturday is amazing.
(3)
Roy R.
Wow! Great food! Had the Soup Flight which is a choice of a tasting of four soups with French Bread for ten bucks. Very filling and all great! Seafood Chowder, Pumpkin bisque, Sweet pepper chicken, Turkey and cauliflower. GREAT! My only complaint is that it seems reservations are a must.
(5)
Kimberly J.
I still love The Soup Spoon, but beware: It's highly popular, and they take reservations ONLY if you call in before 4pm on the same day. It's gotten so busy, and nearly impossible to get into without a long wait (30 mins-1 hr is not uncommon at dinnertime), that we don't go there as often anymore. :(
(4)
Ryan J.
Yes some of their food is above average for the area, but if you're gluten free you'll want to pass. Rude response to my gluten question and all around below average service. It's too bad because w just a little better service and options for people w diet restrictions this place could stand out in Lansing. As I'm writing this the lady at the next table asked the same GF question and got the same response. This is a problem.
(1)
James E.
Great place, but gets crowded at night. Don't miss the bread pudding.
(5)
N J.
Dear Yelp Readers, Looking for a great local soup to warm your soul or heart? Come to the Soup Spoon Cafe which offers quality soups with at least 6 choices per day! The mouth watering soup hits your taste buds and sends the delight of a mothers' cooking. We tried the mushroom soup, the jalapeno crab and rice soup, and the Tuna Melt. The soups were warm and full of flavor. The tuna melt was crispy and had the perfect balance of ingredients. In addition, we liked the atmosphere in the place. The lighting was nice and we sat at the bar where we shared laughs. With the new changes, this place has a lot to offer, so stop in and give it a try!
(5)
Christa W.
The Soup Spoon is by far my favorite restaurant in the Lansing area. I have never been disappointed with the food or service. Absolutely love any of their salmon dishes, and for dessert the bread pudding is to die for. I also love the craft beer selection. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
D. V.
One of my favorite places to eat in Lansing. Between the boyfriend and myself, we must've tried at least ten of their soups without a dud in the bunch, but my favorite has got to be their French Onion, which they have every day, and is just dripping with Gruyere cheese. Definitely worth smelling like onions and beef stock for the rest of the day. However, I think I'd say that, at least if you're on a student's budget, like I am, I'd stick to the soup and sandwich combo. It's super reasonable - like $7 for lunch, and $9 for dinner - and their entrees tend to fall on the expensive side.
(4)
Lorraine H.
I am updating because it's been a while and I've been here many times now. I learned today that you can call ahead and tell them you're coming. It's not a reservation, as far as reserving a table goes, but helps a bit during the busy lunch hour. I have not been disappointed in the food. Today I had the Gus's Greek Wrap, and it was delicious. The french onion soup is very, very good. The service was great -- Eric took our 3 orders and did not write it down. Even though I had a special request, the order was perfect. We waited less than 10 minutes for a table and the service was prompt.
(4)
Micaiah F.
Second time dining here. Love the soups. Had the creme of spinach today, it rocked. The sandwiches are tasty too! Had the tuna melt outstanding!
(5)
Ellen W.
Visited a few times and usually have the same complaint. Too much salt! Every dang time! Who wants to wait for a meal when dining with friends and have to send it back and eat alone? So I don't send it back and grumble. In case your chef hasn't read the headlines lately, an abundance if salt in our food is not healthy. We can always add it, but taking it away is impossible. Until you figure out how to not dump the entire salt shaker into the pit, I'm staying away. What are you hiding, anyway?
(3)
Ken K.
The Soup Spoon Cafe is the perfect example of what happens when you take just a few good, fresh ingredients and combine them in a simple yet imaginative dish. The soup is delicious. I tried the Soup De Jour which happened to be beef vegetable. Big chunks of ingredients and perfectly flavored. I must go back for the Seafood Chowder, or for a soup flight, which I think is brilliant. My main dish featured sesame seared chicken, water chestnuts, peapods, carrots, avocado, green onion, lettuce, asian vinaigrette, and sriracha, all wrapped up. Again, big chunks of ingredients, contrasting textures and fresh veggies all contributed to an excellent dish and a very happy tummy. The only downside is the size and popularity of the place. Even though they recently expanded their dining room to next door, there's still not a ton of room in this place, and it gets quite crowded on the weekdays during lunch. But other than that, this place is top-notch.
(5)
Jennifer S.
Went back for breakfast and I thought it was quite good--pretty basic, but tasty. Would do breakfast here again.
(4)
Nicole S.
What to say that hasn't already been said... Soups: I haven't had a bad one yet. If it sounds good, give it a whirl. The expanded dinner menu: The portions are quite generous and the food delicious. I've enjoyed the Spoon-i-pino. I've had a few rare misses, mostly when there seems to be one extra flavor beyond necessary, but on the whole very good. I'll never fault a place for trying something new and making changes when needed. Breakfast: This isn't a in-and-out experience, so I tend to come for a leisurely Saturday brunch. There's really nothing like this in Lansing, and it's turned into our default "let's go out for dinner" spot. The only negative is that sometimes the service can be a bit spotty, but forgivable. Don't miss the bread pudding.
(5)
D C.
Good, friendly service with awesome food at reasonable prices. The last time I was there, one of the specials was a beef brisket Reuben - which sounded slightly unusual but was really good. I've been wanting to make it there for breakfast & for drinks but so far I've only made it for lunch. I wish they were open on Sundays.
(4)
Linda Q.
I first visited SSC a few months ago, and left feeling somewhat disappointed. I went back today, and had some of the best food I've ever eaten in Lansing. The first time, for dinner, I ordered their only vegetarian sandwich, "The Gardner." I just found this wrap to be completely bland and uninspired. The vegetables were fresh, but the balsamic vinaigrette just wasn't appetizing. It was too runny, especially in concert with water exuding vegetables like tomato and cucumber, and thus, it made the wrap very soggy. I also ordered the soup flight because soup is my favorite food, and I wanted to taste a variety. The soups were good, but it really bummed me out that they were all lukewarm, not hot. I need HOT soup! My bf had the Kobe Wagyu burger, and while I didn't taste it, he says it's the BEST burger he's ever had. So, there's that. Today, I stopped by for lunch, and the food I had was great! I ordered the pesto prima vera, which is a linguine with pesto sauce and fresh vegetables- sugar snap peas, tomatoes, carrots, mushrooms. You can add meats for an additional charge. I added a side caesar salad as well. First, I didn't know caesar salad could be so well dressed! The romaine lettuce was very fresh, and it was accompanied by a few different types of croutons, tomatoes, red onion, and parmesan. I've never had such a great caesar, and the red onion, while surprising, added such a nice flavor to the salad. I wouldn't let my dining mate try more than like 2 bites of my salad. The pesto prima vera came out in a big bowl, and the linguine and vegetables were swimming in this divine, creamy pesto broth; the sauce was definitely more like a broth, and not just because I drank it like it was. This dish was gorgeous and delicious. I can't wait to go back to try more of their entrees and to have that amazing caesar salad again! Definitely go!
(4)
Jon T.
Just ate here this weekend for breakfast and it was quite good. In fact, I think it gives Golden Harvest and Sawyers a run for their money, which in my book, are the gold standards for happiness at breakfast and lunch. The setting is pretty simple but not bare. Big picture windows overlooking Michigan Ave give it lots of bright light. I like the fact the space is broken up too...gives it a bit of character. As for the outside, pay attention if you've never been, it can be easy to miss. Food is great as is the overall style of the menu. It has all the staples plus some items to show off their flair and commitment to quality ingredients. Also appreciate they have sriracha chili sauce to compliment my eggs and potatoes...nicely done! Service was fricken stellar as well. Our server was friendly, speedy and filled my coffee cup at least half a dozen times...ok probably more since the coffee's great. Don't know her name but her smile and easy going attitude, were great ambassadors for the place. Will definitely be there again soon.
(4)
Joe D.
I'm not kidding, this is the best new restaurant (in any price range) within 25 miles of Lansing in the last decade. The food is creative, fresh, often changing and never disappointing. Service is friendly, informed and fast. My only complaint is that they've been discovered and unless you call for a reservation before 4pm, expect a wait no matter what night you come. But don't be put off - it will be worthwhile!
(5)
Charles H.
I was very impressed with this cafe. I ordered the stuffed french toast and coffee. The coffee had a wonderful taste to it; Louise is right, it's probably the best coffee in town. The french toast appeared to be made with homemade bread (I've never seen slices of bread so large or odd shaped at the store!). It's a small place, but they have a wonderful atmosphere and great friendly staff. I arrived at 8:30 and it looked like I was the first person there. The place quickly had other customers, and the staff seemed to know many of them by name. It is a little hard to find. It's right next to Bancroft Flowers. There is a door in this cafe that opens into the flower shop. Around 9am, Bancroft's opened and the cafe filled with the smell of fresh flowers. Very nice. The only complaint I have is the price: $7 for the stuffed french toast. I recommend checking out their menu online at their website.
(4)
Marion T.
This is something Lansing area really needs! This place reminds me of those restaurants in Bay Area...... The whole atmosphere was energetic and the service was welcoming and warm. We went for brunch yesterday. I ordered the salmon benedict. It was perfectly cooked. The potatoes were very yummy---not too greasy and I loved the seasonings they used. Most importantly, the ingredients were fresh and not cooked with excessive amount of salt. We will return for dinner and some other weekend brunches!
(5)
chris n.
I've moved to Michigan about a month ago from LA and the one thing I feared was the inability to find decent restaurants. Thank you SoupSpoon for proving me wrong. I've been here twice and I've gotten mixed reviews so far. If I based this review on my first visit, I would have easily given them a 5/5, but the second visit not-so-much. I ordered a BLT sandwich, a tomato soup, and bread pudding. Everything was delicious, but my god, the bread pudding is something sent down from heaven. I rarely ever get foodgasms, but that bread pudding was A-MAZING! But I digress, my second visit, I had the Cubano sandwich. It wasn't my favorite. The pork inside was a bit dry, and the bread was a bit too burnt. Every bite tasted like burnt toast which was not pleasant. (Thankfully I ordered the bread pudding again) I also noticed that the dinner entrees are quite expensive ranging from $15-20+ per entree. I'm pretty use to these prices in LA, but it's hard to justify those prices when the sandwiches are $6-10. I'm always tempted to get a dinner entree only to be foiled but my cheapness. Maybe someday after my school loans are paid :)
(4)
Dave P.
Went on a recommendation from my hotel and waited 25 minutes - each of those heightened my expectations. Soup Spoon didn't disappoint. Server Juliann was fantastic with great recommendations and personality. The chop was the best I've had. Also loved the blueberry margarita and the cheesecake. Even the salad was great. One of the most enjoyable meals I've had. Only thing keeping it from 5 stars is the wood chair was uncomfortable, the atmosphere lacked warmth and the silverware was flimsy.
(4)
Heidi D.
My husband and I have been trying different places for breakfast and were told about this place. Very pleasant atmosphere, we sat at the bar and ordered. I ordered French Toast which I thought was very average. I think if I had been able to order it the way it was suggested on the menu (with cream cheese and berries) it would have been very tasty. No cream cheese allowed for me :( my husband ordered one of their omelette's with hollandaise and he enjoyed it very much. The potatoes were delish!! We are going back for dinner. The menu looked very enticing!!
(4)
Nikki M.
The food is okay, service is okay, prices are so-so and theres plenty of parking. That all being said one thing that turned me off was there were onions cooked in with the potatos. The menu didnt mention onions, which I absolutely hate! Eating onions was not a surprise I wanted first thing in the morning! I ended up taking a big swig of coffee and washed the gross onion/potatoes down and didnt touch them again. The jam we got with our toast was semi-frozen so we couldnt use it... but it looked good. They didnt have creamer,ketchup or hot sauce on the table either, kind of annoying to have to get up and get everything ourselves when they only had two other tables of customers in there. Overall, there are better places to go for breakfast in the area but i hear they have a good lunch so that might be worth checking out.
(3)
Jen C.
Impressive tap selection with some excellent beers from the likes of Founders, Jolly Pumpkin, and Dark Horse. The Cubano and Pastrami sandwiches were great. We would definitely order those again. The cheese-beer dip was yummy, although it could have come with better bread than a few slices of airy baguette. The menu is quite extensive. Dinner entrees are $17 to $22-ish, but there are plenty of less expensive options including soups, sandwiches and dinner salads from under $10, which I really appreciate. You can go for an after work dinner without spending a lot of money, or go for a special occasion. The place was packed but had sufficient seating for everyone.
(4)
Stephanie B.
5/5 taking into consideration that this is in Michigan. It compares to other independently owned businesses in cities like Chicago, New York or DC. If I had to rate it on a national scale, I would give it 4/5. The soup selection has variety, and from what I have been told all are very tasty. I had the meatloaf sandwich with a bloody mary and a Michigan brew. I left feeling full and satisfied. I would highly recommend this place if you are in East Lansing or Lansing. My new favorite to stop by when I am in town visiting MSU or the Capitol. It's located on Michigan Avenue about .5 miles east of the hospital.
(5)
Cristian D.
Recommended by person next to me on a flight.... So while in on business I had a quick lunch - black bean soup and a chicken sandwich, both delicious. Soup could have had a bit more meat n fixins, sandwich was luxuriously flavorful. Fine local beer selection. Can't wait to get back to Lansing to try more!
(4)
Kannan R.
This is a hidden gem. If you're a hipster, you will love this place. If you're not, you'll still probably like it. Chill coffee house atmosphere and decor with a changing menu, very friendly waitstaff. Slightly pricier but nothing bad, they're going for a relaxing night out. Desserts are great, but their naan pizza is unique. My only surprise is that the broad brush I use to paint things with imagines there are more vegetarians in the demographic the restaurant targets than norm, so I'd appreciate a few more bones thrown their way. Plus the owner is an MSU alum/RCMB regular.
(5)
Evan S.
Variety of wonderful soups and sandwiches!! Rueben sandwich was AWESOME, french onion was the second best ive had. Black and Blue wrap and chili were both good. It's nice to always have a new different menu with specials.
(4)
Patrick W.
Nice little cafe with a bar. Good food and very friendly and knowledgable waitstaff. I've had the reuben sandwich, the french dip and the aisian wrapper. The sandwiches were very good and the wrap was great.
(4)
Kati B.
Absoultely fabulous breakfast especially with a morning mimosa (yes it includes bottomless OJ). Fun servers and fast, correct service. Will come here any morning for breakfast & drinks.
(4)
Alexandra K.
So inexpensive, so cozy, so delicious. I ordered a Gardener's Sandwich on sourdough and a cup of tomato soup. My bill was under ten dollars and my meal was ready in less than ten minutes. I was very satisfied and will definitely return during work afternoons like this.
(5)
Rosanna V.
I found a gem in Michigan. The waiting staff is genuinely polite and friendly. I am impressed in Hirams ability to interact, serve and pack "to go" orders, with grace. The onion soup was tasteful. The service, even better.
(5)
Stefanie D.
I was surprised by the large portions and the quality of the food at Soup Spoon Cafe, especially for the price! Service was a little slow but friendly. The wait was worth it. The shrimp voodoo pasta had a mild kick. If you're doing carry out, order ahead of time. My order took nearly 40 minutes and the place wasn't busy on a weekday.
(4)
Paige H.
This is probably my favorite place in the entire world. From the days that I just turned 21 and would be so hungover on a Saturday or Sunday morning, I would head into soup spoon and guess what! FULL BAR! so that means I can get something with my breakfast or brunch to knock the hangover! WOO! Now, I have grown to just loveeee the food. Quality is wonderful and so many healthy alternatives. always, always, always, have to go back when I head back into Lansing from the Ann Arbor area, and thats saying a lot, with how great Ann Arbor's food is!
(5)
Nellie T.
One of my favorite places to eat while I'm in Lansing. They have a great selection of soups, sandwiches, salads, and fancy entrees. The only problem I have there is deciding what to eat - there's too many choices! Ugh. Good thing they have a great selection of beer and wine that you can sip on as you mull over your menu choices.
(4)
Lauren A.
If you fancy delicious food, friendly servers, and a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, you'll probably like the Soup Spoon. If you don't.... Who are you? But seriously, their soups are (obviously) fantastic, but I also highly recommend just about any sandwich on their menu. Oh, and try the bread pudding. It's like swimming in a hot bowl of butter and angel lullabies. Lights out. Also, order anything that involves their homemade spicy feta spread/dip. Do yourself a solid and order some to-go while you're at it. Almost forgot to mention: BISCUITS AND GRAVY. Asiago and rosemary biscuits and gravy, no less. Simply.... yes. So. Much. Yes. Last tip: go for lunch! Their menu at that time is pretty much the same as the dinner menu, just a lot cheaper.
The soup is a must obviously. Tried three types and all were so delicious and warm. Truly home made. I don't think you can go wrong with any flavor. Get the soup flight! And the seafood chowder is my favorite. The small plates are actually filling. The lamb sliders are so good, reminded me of the lamb cooked home. The sandwiches are good for most part. But didn't like the burger. I felt heavy and not lean.
(4)
Lea C.
Hidden gem near sparrow hospital. I had the chicken PO boy for lunch and then came back to pick up the Kobe burger for dinner
(5)
Mandana Y.
With out any other place to compare, I'll comfortably declare Soup Spoon Cafe as the best restaurant in Lansing. Well, first, it was the one locals recommended to a group of us from out of town. Second, we walked in, fortunately with a reservation, on a Thursday night, into the most crowded atmosphere. Folks were waiting by the door, by the bar and scattered all over waiting for their tables. The decor, hipster/industrial/antique, is right up my alley. They have an open kitchen concept and extremely friendly staff. Their menu is creative and their drink menu is extensive. I want to say it's a plain and simple great dining experience, but designed with Lansing in mind. It didn't feel like a non-NYC town trying to pull off a NYC experience. This was Lansing, pulling off a great Lansing experience for its locals and out of towners. I just loved it and look forward to coming back next time I'm there.
(5)
Randy A.
Wow!! Just had a splendid chorizo hot sandwhich at this place....everything was perfect....they make it all fresh..it takes some time,,but its worth it..props to the chefs.
(4)
Alyona Z.
I came upon this establishment upon finding it on the yelp reviews. I was pleasantly surprised with how delicious and quick everything was. I ordered the smoked salmon eggs benefit and coffee and it was divine. The coffee is Rudy baggs which is a local coffee shop in Lansing. I appreciate the fact that they use local shops and local ingredients from farmers markets. Id highly recommend checking this place out.
(4)
Tyra N.
Im surprised. Good Surprise! After a reality check, I wanted to sulk but reality bites so hard that sulking does nothing so I went for a bite. Yes I'm always this corny. My shock of this gem kitchen was not only because it's in my new hometown but because my friends had not invited me here. The service, decor and ambiance is on par with many midway eateries. It's not hype here though. They have the kitchen to backup the gourmet feel. I ordered the cuban (pork loin) with chips and the infamous bread pudding. My mouth was not ready. I have not eaten pork loin since 2001 and oh had I missed out. This was juicy and lean but very soulful tasting. The cuts were well proportioned. It was cooked just before well. I'm not sure what seasoning or marinade was used. The bread toasted and crisply, gruyere cheese melted and blended with my bread, onions and pork loin. This was a sandwich. I must learn to make this for my man, he won't ever leave me. lol syke he will I'm a bi... The bread pudding was worth writing home to Momma about. Not too dense or doughy, not too sweet, not too anything. Just Right. Magnificent. I shall return.
(5)
Jordan L.
I didnt love the food. The wait time was long, not much seating available. It was ok
(3)
Sasha P.
I LOVE the Soup Spoon. It is my favorite restaurant in Lansing and I have many fond memories of it. You can go to the Soup Spoon for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and never be disappointed. Or at least, I was never disappointed! :-) For breakfast, I love the Baja Scramble. It's scrambled eggs with chorizo chunks, peppers, onions, cheese, sour cream and avocado. Anything with chorizo and avocado is a true winner for me. I can't get away from ordering this dish! I've also had the Stacked French Toast and Gourmet Breakfast Wrap. Both were really good but like I said, I'm a sucker for egg scrambles! For lunch, I've had the BLT & Avocado sandwich, the French Dip and the Lamb Burger, listed in order of preference. All of these dishes were simply amazing. The BLTA is fresh and always filling. I love the addition of avocado on what I consider to be a traditional sandwich. The French Dip au jus is absolutely delicious and flavorful. The lamb burger is full of flavor and nicely paired with the yogurt mint sauce. For dinner, I've had the Braised Lamb Shank, Hangar Steak, Voodoo Pasta and Fresh Salmon. I truly feel like you can't go wrong here. The braised lamb shank is a popular dish. It's so tender and juicy, definitely fall-off-the-bone good! The hangar steak chimichurri is an absolute winner in my heart because I love chimichurri! The voodoo pasta and salmon were also very good dishes. I have never had a bad meal here. Sure, the wait for your food might be lengthy at times. But, to their defense, I understand because they have a small kitchen and lots of loyal customers. In any case, the food is fantastic. I love the Soup Spoon and vow to return whenever I am in town!
(5)
Christina C.
I had great expectations when I came in to try this place, but was slightly disappointed. I thought that my veggie sandwich (the Gardner with wheat bread) was mediocre. The (French onion) soup was delicious, but was surprised at how small the bowl was. Overall, I thought the food was just average.
(3)
Alex N.
Had the Jake's Pastrami - awesome! Meat was seared a bit on the flat top giving crispy edges to it and cheese. May be the best pastrami sandwich I've ever had. Great prices too.
(5)
Jennifer T.
Excellent service and atmosphere. Great beer list and fresh quality food! Gets busy at lunch so plan for a bit of a wait. Welcoming and laid back!
(4)
Emu Q.
Ate at Soup Spoon today for the first time and loved it! The naan pizza of the day was absolutely delicious and so were the sandwiches. I went with my family and was able to sample most all of the soups and some of the sandwiches. The chowder and vegan soups are both equally delicious. Our waiter, Roger, knew absolutely everything we asked and made some great recommendations. The service was fast and we really enjoyed our lunch. We'll definitely be coming back when we're in town!
(5)
Sue K.
First time here and it was a great experience! I got the Cajun Chicken Po Boy w/ a side of kettle chips and pickle. The bread they use is so soft and so yummy. The kettle chips are really crunchy and compliment the sandwich nicely. It costs $8 but you can add a cup of soup on the side for +$2. I recommend the Seafood Chowder. It's DELICIOUS. Will definitely be coming back here.
(4)
Tim M.
I'm writing an update to say: The soup spoon is hands down the best restaurant in the entire Lansing Metropolitan Area. It is miles ahead of it's fleeting competition. I have been going out to the Soup Spoon for probably the last three years now and in that period of time I have never had a bad encounter with the soup spoon. One of the really great things about the Soup Spoon is that if you want dinner for $10 then you can get an excellent sandwich (like the Kobe burger, the Kevinator, or the Cajun Chicken Po-Bo) and some pasta salad. Also, on the cheaper side of the menu, their soups (I've recently has the Clam Chowder, Lobster bisque, and French Onion) are absolutely fantastic. I also once had a smoked salmon salad for 12 dollars once and it was as a good as you could hope a salad could be. That said if you're not on a budget their entrees (which can cost between $20 and $30) are delicious. Last time I had the Beer Braised Brisket and Crispy Polenta. The brisket was super flavorful and simply melted in you mouth. I cut it comfortably with my fork. I dream of that brisket regularly (and my saying that isn't an invitation to the Texas-philes out their to send me BBQ hate mail). I've also had the goat cheese points and feta dip both of which were fantastic. Now that I've summed up how excellent the food is: Let talk about the drinks. the Soup Spoon is one of the only restaurants in town today that has an espresso machine. So the coffee quality is unrivaled as far as restaurants are concerned. Their liqueur selection is small but excellent and heavy on the scotch and absinthe. Their mixed drinks are done very proficiently and the the few times I've sat at the bar everyone has been very friendly with me. Their beer selection is good, typical craft beer selection, of 8 or so beers. Their wine selection though rivals that of the best wine bars in the area (Troppo, Tanin, Dusty's, and Zoobies). On one occasion, I had an excellent time sitting at the bar at midday with a friend drinking boozed up lattes. Soup Spoons servers are all well dressed, friendly, experienced, and knowledgeable. They can easily recommend wine/beer pairings and anytime I've ever seen an issue arise at the Soup Spoon regarding a customer the servers always have quickly rectifed the situation in the way that most benefits the customer. It used to be that the soup spoon was to small of a restaurant. It was almost pointless to try and go on a weekend night because there would be a serious wait so I used to just go on weekdays. But earlier this year they expanded into what used to be a neighboring florist, more than doubling their seating. As a result it's much easier to get a table. But don't get me wrong, they'll still be packed. And that makes sense; there is truly almost no where else worth eating out at in this entire town.
(5)
Walt S.
Gourmet food at neighborhood-diner prices. The soups are superb, the staff super friendly, and they complete the package with an amazing beer-and-wine list. The breakfast menu is the most unique in town with lots of options you won't find anywhere else. Lunch and dinner also allows for adventures in food. No burgers at this place -- great food at really reasonable prices. My favorite restaurant in the area, even when compared to much pricier competitors.
(5)
Kathy P.
I came here for dinner and thought so many things on the menu looked delicious! They really have something for everyone. I enjoyed a cup of soup (I forget which kind, but it was good). I ended up ordering the salmon, which the waitress said she loved, and so did I! It was probably one of the best salmon dishes I've ever had, and even my boyfriend, who claims not to be much of a salmon fan, agreed that it was amazing. Apparently they are known for their bread pudding, so we had that for dessert and it was yummy. Service was friendly, the restaurant was clean, food was delicious; overall a great experience. Now if only they had a patio... then it'd be a solid 5 stars for me!
It's all good but whenever you are in doubt, just get the soup flight.
(5)
Aaron M.
They have theeeee best brunch in town, plus a full bar, what's better?! On top of several soup choices, they have choices for vegetarians, vegans, and also an awesome selection of meat dishes. I love this place because it's so fresh and clean tasting, that's why I keep on returning!
(5)
Kathryn G.
I have truly never eaten anything at Souo Spoon that I didn't enjoy. Everything on their menu is full of flavor and really fresh. I like that they use a lot of local, Michigan grown ingredients and feature beers from around the state. My all-time favorite item on their menu is the seafood chowder. A friend from New England told me it's the best chowder she's ever tasted. Sample their rotating soups and order a soup flight when you go. Some of the tastiest food I've ever had has been eaten at Soup Spoon, like their vegan Ethiopian stew. This is easily Lansing's most delicious restaurant!
(5)
Kaitlyn C.
I came here several months ago with a friend. I ordered the salmon wrap and he got some kind of sandwich. I am 99% sure I ended up with a mild case of food poisoning. I will not be going back.
(1)
Denise G.
We were just delighted with our experience at Soup Spoon Cafe. My husband had the pastrami sandwich and I had the turkey. The recommended pasta salad was delightful. When in Lansing, we know you will enjoy eating here, it has that "neighborhood" feel!
(4)
David H.
Came here while on business in Lansing based on user reviews and glad we did. Restaurant was very unassuming and close to the MSU campus. Menu was much broader than anticipated with a number of nightly specials. Full bar with many local brews as well as both local and varietal wines. There are a number of vegetarian and vegan options, we had the homemade lentil patty that was really great. The soup of the day and other soups on the menu were very good as well. What really set this restaurant apart was the service, from when you walk in the door to your food being delivered to the table was spectacular, I believe our server's name was Roger and he did a phenomenal job. Definitely worth a stop if you are in the area.
(4)
Jordan P.
Great food and a nice atmosphere. Solid selection of lunch items.
(4)
The E.
Do not understand the hype for this place. Food was OK, nothing out of the ordinary. Sandwiches are small and overpriced. Waitress did not smile once. Beers on tap are good.
(2)
Aaron H.
It only took my wife and I 4 years since we moved to the area to try this place. Everyone told me it was the bomb and I must agree. Ethiopian chickpea soup was spicy and right up my alley. Their steak was fantastic as well as the rustic asparagus and feta mashed potatoes. My wife had Schnittzle and that was amazing too. Wish I had tried it sooner. I'll be back soon.
(5)
Sarah J.
Overall it was okay. The bread/toast at breakfast is fantastic. However, I didn't care for the French toast with strawberry cream cheese that I ordered. The bread itself is good; the cream cheese is good but not together. Maybe I would have had a better review had I gone with basic pancakes or toast and bacon. The waitress must have had too many tables, even for a Tuesday morning. We saw her at order (which took about 15 minutes), food drop off and then for the bill. That's about it. The manager however was extremely helpful when I didn't care for my French toast, and had a new set cooked without the cream cheese. Maybe go back if I'm in the area but we only ended up here because Golden Harvest was closed for the day :(
(2)
Shawn K.
Very tasty! The Lunch Ragu was delicious as was the Salmon. Our server Heidi and the other wait staff were very friendly. Will definitely go back and try the dinner menu next time we are in Lansing.
(4)
Chris M.
Since Lansing and East Lansing are practically one city, consider it a college town. And college towns in general all should have a major breakfast spot. By that I mean a place which features home-style cooking but that also gets creative. At my alma mater the University of Oregon, the Glenwood filled that niche. Here, Soup Spoon does. I've known devotees of Golden Harvest who will take exception to that statement. For all I know, they are right. But the only times I attempted to go there, a line out the front door dissuaded me. Soup Spoon was usually crowded, but I could always get a spot. As expected, you could count on some version of eggs benedict. My version one time had trout, a first. And waffles, and omelettes, and scrambles. Soup Spoon does it all. Not once did they fail me. Hence, this review. When in Lansing, stop by. Boom.
(5)
Rilke L.
Too bad they went downhill. This was once my favorite restaurant in Lansing and I highly recommended it to whomever I could. The Soup Spoon has gotten too big for their pants. Their manager Keith doesn't seem to care about his loyal customers or staff - he also just might have a lil Napoleon complex. When the Soup Spoon first opened, they were great. Was a loyal customer for two or three years. I'm the first to support local businesses, and believe in all things local. I've arranged large parties and had my family meet there for post-funeral and post-graduation gatherings - spent much time and money with business lunches/post work dinners/imbibing with friends there. Fast forward a year: last three visits the food was dreadful. Servings shrunk, and quality and speed suffered. The last time I ordered a sandwich, the meat portion was horrible and the bread was hard. I mentioned it to my server and she tried to make it right, but the kitchen and then Keith refused. I used to visit at least once a week but sadly I won't go there anymore because of Keith's inability/refusal to make it right. Sad - they were once one of my favorite restaurants. Keith pretended to be nice to me (albeit he was condescending and disingenuine) but was rude to his staff in front of customers. Despite my appreciation for the menu and the waitstaff - I will not return. Buy local - but go somewhere else.
(1)
Cassidy S.
Had a nice time at Soup Spoon with six friends last week. We came for early dinner and had some drinks as well. My friend had come earlier in the week and recommended the soup flight, so that's what I picked for my meal. Ten minutes after ordering my server returned saying that the lamb soup was out, which was too bad, but I changed to the chowder. I also got a side of kale and swiss chard with garlic, as well as a Woxum to drink. Our seven-top was seated near the office door, which I didn't think would be an issue, but two gentlemen kept entering and leaving and my chair was right by that door. Thankfully the food was stellar! The cocktail was nice - herbal and dry. All the soups were delicious, though I got the eggplant parmesan instead of the chowder I had ordered. The lentil was a little on the spicy side. The pumpkin bisque was INCREDIBLE! I highly recommend this one for a fall selection. The side of veggies was a little heavy on the garlic for me but otherwise tasty. Overall, I was really hoping to return for Sunday lunch, but they were sadly closed that day. Next time I'm in Lansing, I"ll be back!
(4)
Cristy C.
The first thing to know about the Soup Spoon is that there is always a wait. Fortunately, the overall experience is usually worth the wait. However, if you are disinclined to wait for a table, you can call ahead for a same-day reservation before 4pm that day. They have also very graciously allowed me to push back the reservation to a later time that night when one of our party members was stuck in traffic. The decor is interesting and artsy. The staff is friendly and professional. The food is tasty and decently priced (especially at breakfast and lunch). Another review called the vibe of the Soup Spoon "bright and fun" and this description is spot on. The bar seems well stocked with a focus on Michigan products. I usually just get a Soup Flight ($10), four decently sized soup cups (of your choice) served with bread. I always choose the French onion and seafood chowder and then pick the two most interesting of their soups of the day. Among the appetizers, the Greek Island Plate ($8) and the Cafe Bread ($8) are favorites among my group of friends. For breakfast, I have found their Gourmet Breakfast Wrap ($7) very tasty. At dinner, I have had the Mediterranean Risotto ($22) and the Voodoo Pasta ($17) and both were quite good. The Soup Spoon does what they do exceptionally well. Good food. Good service. Very popular.
(5)
Stacey H.
LOVE LOVE LOVE this place! The breakfast variety is great & all of the lunch menu hits the spot. I've never tried dinner here but look forward to it! Try it if u haven't yet
(5)
Val V.
Always Delicious! Always Satisfying! Daily specials are unique and unforgettable!
(5)
Robert D.
Ok so seriously the best breakfast place I have eaten at in the area. I decided to get the Irish Scramble and it was absolutely delicious. It was so good that I ordered a lunch smoked salmon wrap and that was so impeccable as well. I had a Bloody Mary with meat which came with bacon and salami wrapped around cheese. My friends ordered the gourmet breakfast wrap, BLT with avocados and the southwest scramble. Seriously we all left this place with absolutely nothing but great things to say about the place. The prices were very reasonable and they use local products in almost everything they make! Don't be surprised if you have to wait in line but it is well worth it. Seriously EVERYONE needs to try this place out you will not be disappointed!
(5)
Nicole M.
After going to school at Michigan State University for four years, my biggest regret is not coming to the Soup Spoon in Lansing until my last year there. Whether for breakfast or lunch, this place does simple, fresh food in the best possible way. Their menu has lots of classics but then takes them up a notch by adding some unique flavors. My personal favorites are their beef stroganoff with a creamy dill sauce and their bacon and corn chowder. Oh yeah, and being the Soup Spoon they definitely have fantastic soup. Trust me ,when you see their four soups of the day you'll have to get a soup flight because it is actually impossible to choose between their amazing soups. This is truly one of Lansing's gems, so you'll probably have to wait during the school months when MSU students are there but it is worth the wait!!
(5)
Catherine F.
This place was excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed everything we got (French toast, biscuits and gravy, and salmon Benedict) and will definitely be coming here again!! Also, the service was excellent as well!
(5)
Bill F.
The freshest, most authentic food in the Lansing area. Salmon is devine, scallops were great, and draft beer selection is impressive. My dining partner visiting from Cali said "I haven't had food this good in Napa!"
(5)
Hannah S.
This place took us completely off guard. The term cafe is definitely used lightly here because this is for sure a fancy soup sandwich place. The staff were super friendly and the vibe of the place was very bright and fun. We were so close to ordering the flight of soups (sample 3 soups) but we wanted a tasty sandwich to go along side. We split a soprano sandwich, very tasty in that pesto, sun-dried, salami way. We also shared two bowls of soup (which weren't very big, but I knew they weren't cups) of french onion and the black eyed pea soup. SO GOOD. The black eyed pea soup was a sweet and savory special of the day, and a bit spicy. The french onion was super super ooey yum yum (that's the technical term, I promise). Surprisingly when our bill came it was a lot less than we expected it to be...so not sure how that happened. Maybe those really were cups, or someone miscalculated, but hey, yummy food for cheap right? Great view of the capital building if you're leaving at night :) Parking is a bit tight so heads up.
(4)
Shelby L.
I'm gonna start with the things I don't like, because they're quite small compared to the good things. First, I've been turned away from this place at least 5 times. I've come at least three times for dinner only to be told the place was booked for the night. Once it was on me, as it was V Day, but the other times were just average nights around 6:30-7. I've also tried to come here a handful of times while it wasn't open. Also on me, but COME ON! I need the goodies! It's the only actually good restaurant in town so it's a bummer when I have to just say fuggit and go to beggars. The other thing I don't like is that this place may use healthier, higher quality ingredients and put more imagination into their food and actually keep up with food trends, but this place is really fattening and less vegan friendly than I was hoping. Very vegetarian and carnivore friendly, though. They clearly use a lot of cream, oil, sugar, mayo, butter, etc in their food. BUT, if you can look past that, the food is always tasty. I really enjoy their soups. I went there once and the waitress was really pushing the pumpkin soup on us. We all agreed that it sounded delicious but ordered other things and she brought out little samples! How sweet! And, let me tell you, it was AMAZING!!!! But it was not soup. It was dessert. It was pretty much pumpkin pie filling, and it even came with whipped cream on top. Heaps of cinnamon, too, which is always good in my book. I don't like to eat bread and I never eat pasta but my dining companions always seem to order pasta or sandwiches at this place and are always very pleased. Before I was a vegan, I had a bite of my friend's lamb entree special and WOW. It was cooked so nicely and just delicious. Overall, this place is very cute and has good food and a great drink selection. It's not a perfect 5-star restaurant, but you really can't ask for much more in the greater Lansing area.
(4)
Shannon B.
We love this little eclectic cafe. The San Diego Benedict is to die for! My cappuccino was burnt but whatever. Service was really good.
(4)
Lindsy C.
I had lunch at the Soup Spoon Cafe for the first time in December with my family. I had heard good reviews so I was excited to try it, especially on a cold day! We started off with drinks (Dark & Stormy) while we waited for our table. They were pretty busy, but the wait wasnt too long. My das and I had the lobster bisque soup, which we both loved! Highly recommend. I then ordered the smoked salmon appetizer as an entree, which I wasn't impressed with and do not recommend. The salmon tasted fresh, but there was something missing, it needed a kick! Service was okay. Nothing to rave about but the soup definitely was. I would recommend this Cafe and look forward to trying it again soon.
(4)
Sarah B.
Really tasty well seasoned food. Unique to this area. The name does not do it justice. The service was good too!
This review is long overdue. This is probably one of my favorite places to eat in the Lansing area. The restaurant is cozy and has sort of a warm, comfortable vibe. It's definitely not a pretentious or overly fancy place. However, the food and service are always awesome. One of my favorite things is the Dark and Stormy, their rum and ginger cocktail. They have a housemade peppercorn and ginger syrup that is to die for. Their cocktails are more than reasonable in price as well, ranging from 5-7$. The Cherrybomb Shrimp is awesome and I always get that. So yummy! I've eaten here dozens of time and I've never had a complaint with the food. The last time my boyfriend and I came, we each got two cocktails, the Cherrybomb shrimp, a Reuben sandwich, and the Kevinator sandwich. It came to $50 which is pretty amazing and everything was delicious. Highly recommend!
(5)
Lisa W.
Food is awesome, service could be better. We entered to find a small line, which is okay. We gave the host our names and sat down to wait. My husband noticed two spots open at the bar so we went to sit down, the host yelled my husbands name very loudly saying NO, NO, don't sit there....we were both very embarrassed. I thought this was terribly rude to embarrass a guest like this. Why not just walk over to us and say, sorry these sets are not available...Very unprofessional. Our server was not any better. We waiting for coffee after asking several times. Once the waiter had the pot in his hand at the table next to us and still forgot to fill ours. I get the feeling as I do too often that places that have a following have given up on real service.....sigh...problem with that, we haven't been back.
(3)
Chelsea S.
Fantastic place to eat. Didn't have to wait long and was able to drink coffee as I did. I didn't try a Bloody Mary but they had a variety of ones that sounded great. Ordered the goat cheese points to start out with and the breakfast wrap. Both were very delicious. Very friendly service and inexpensive for the quality of food.Best brunch I've had in a while!
(5)
Tony E.
Really great food / amazing selection / choices / and the service was good. Clean and I like the ambiance a lot. I will be back with
(4)
shara A.
I feel bad for these people who are giving SSC low star reviews. 1st of all, the place is called Soup, let me say that again... SOUP Spoon Cafe. When I try a restaurant, I'm going for what their famous for first, then I'll try the rest of the menu. French onion soup... *drops mic* I mean, how can you go wrong? No, the question is: what in the world are they doing to make everybody else's wrong. (tee hee) Seriously though, I've only been here a hand full of times. I don't care about the wait for a table... their french onion soup makes it worth it. I've also had the bacon avocado sandwich, the Ava, and the Soprano...Somebody smack your momma!!! My husband all but got up to kiss the chefs for his Cubano. Then they've got this tea they do something to... you have to ask one of the waitresses because it's not on the menu... raspberry? or maybe it was peach? IDK, I think they add crack to it, because it is DEEEElicious!! I can't wait to get back. (mumbling: who gives this place a low review? Sheesh)
(5)
Synthia G.
Service was great and consistent. Food exceeded my expectations. Highly recommend the soup sampler. Crab avocado bites were delicious! Our server was really sweet and attentive. Very satisfied with this place can't wait to come back for breakfast!
(4)
John B.
Food is exceptional, prices are very reasonable. Our Waitress was very pleasant and the staff were wonderful and very courteous (even with our crying baby). We waited for over an hour after ordering. Make sure you set aside a large block of time if you plan to go there. I was there another time for a lunch and the wait time was similar. Great food though, everything about it is yummy.
(4)
Rachel D.
Soup Spoon is one of the only restaurants in Lansing where you can rely on fresh ingredients and food that didn't come from GFS. In my opinion that's why everyone raves about it, not because of the actual taste of the food. I've been here many, many times but it's rare that I leave feeling like my meal was great. The sandwiches are typically the best in my opinion- the po boy is pretty good, I've enjoyed the geek wrap and the veggie wrap, and their lamb burger is all right. I would suggest being picky on the salad- the tenderloin is chewy and on every occasion that I've gotten something with avocado it's had a very strange consistency. I'm not sure what's up but it's rubbery looking and certainly nothing I've ever seen anywhere else. Their goat cheese points are great, and I love the tomato basil soup. My husband gets the Spoonipino often and seems to love it. If he doesn't get that, he often gets the special which is usually awesome. I will say Soup Spoon's redeeming feature is their breakfast. There aren't a ton of places in Lansing where you can get breakfast food that's better than diner quality. My only qualm is that they're not open on Sunday which stinks because my husband works Saturday morning, so he's never been able to come with! Finally, the service is so-so. The entrees come with bread and olive oil, but we seem to have a 50% chance of actually getting it. Some of the servers are awesome and on other occasions we've sat for 20 minutes after finishing and our table being cleared before receiving the bill. At any rate, I'll keep going because it's one of the best in the area. But I'll still keep hoping they'll do better.
(3)
J C.
2 stars because, "meh, I've had better" is literally how I felt about this place. I will say this place has improved it's professionalism since it first opened. But I just don't think that the food is anything spectacular. I've never had their soup so I can't speak on that, but I've give this place multiple tries at different times of the day - Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner. I've tried their breakfast stuff, salads and entree style dishes. I think there's better food around, and for me, it seems like this place is living off the ambience more than the actual food. But if you want to take a work colleague to a trendy, non-threatening place- it's good for a lunch stop.
(2)
Ashley M.
This lovely, cozy place was a perfect place for me and my main squeeze to find ourselves on an extremely frigid Friday night! The staff here was fantastic. The host advised it'd be roughly a 30 minute wait as we did not have a reservation. There was room to sit and it was no more than 10 minutes until we were seated. Our server, Corey was friendly and attentive. Curry Cauliflower soup was amazing! The Chorizo Chili my handsome date had was also. The dinner menu here is diverse enough to offer a couple vegetarian and vegan options. Would love to come back and try more very soon!
(5)
Marc M.
In my travels, I find that the size of the city, nor the location within a city makes a restaurant "GREAT". While in Lansing overnight, I trusted Yelp to find that 2nd best restaurant. I say "2nd" because the more reviewed/known place has been featured on TV. Don't let the neighbor hood, exterior or even the interior fool you. Soup Spoon is a real diamond in the rough. My coworker and I came for dinner and had such a great experience that when we found out they serve breakfast, we came back the next morning! Interestingly, the two experiences were very different - both excellent, but the night crowd was more of a hipster crowd (it IS close to MSU) and the morning group was a mixed lot of old-timers and business people. At night they serve craft cocktails and draft beers. We were here on a Monday night and it was PACKED. In fact, there was a wait when we left at 8:30pm. A wait on a Monday night? In Lansing, MI?!? We sat at the bar and made conversation with the bar staff. One of the things that makes any restaurant good is happy servers. This team works together and appears to be having fun. The other thing that makes a restaurant good is the food, of course. For dinner, I had the french onion soup - to die for - and a hanger steak special. For breakfast :) I had the breakfast wrap. In the morning, we had the occasion to meet Nick, the owner. Very nice guy and I wish him much continued success
(5)
Jenna H.
We had a large party of 27 and they reserved tables for us ahead of time. The service was efficient and very friendly. And lastly the food was fantastic. From stir fry, salads and to sandwiches every person was very satisfied. Thank you so much for the wonderful experience! If we are ever back in town you will see us again :)
(5)
Michelle E.
We came here with our small kids which was our mistake. The food is very fancy for kids, (there is no kid's menu and mine aren't adventurous enough to eat a goat cheese frittata). They were kind enough to make naan with red sauce and cheese, a kind of 'pizza' for them, but my kids weren't fooled. I ordered the Kobi beef burger and potatoes dauphinoise. I ordered the burger without onions but they forgot. I was ok with picking them off but they did offer a replacement. My 3 stars come from the potatoes dauphinoise- which should have been delicious. Or at least hot. Instead they were lukewarm at best and congealed. The prices were a little high for what I ate.
(3)
Chad H.
This place is really simple. Warm staff, great diverse selection of food, and excellent service. There is a small bar which has terrific artists and beers on tap, a great wine selection, and really good liquors. The seating area is, again, simple. There is plenty of lighting and a great host to help with the flow. The food was incredible! My wife got the macaroni and cheese. It was delightfully rich, well-balanced, beautifully presented. I got the sirloin and Gorgonzola wrap. Simply put, I've never had a "wrap" this good in my entire life. As with everything else, the balance of the ingredients was spot on. Absolutely everything we encountered was of the highest quality, with from scratch items that need you didn't need much of, because of the excellent, full flavors throughout.
(5)
Wenbo X.
A simple little restaurant. I went for the breakfast, and it was amazing. A nice varied menu with everything you can expect for breakfast. The food portions are the perfect size. Large enough to fill you up, but not so large that you feel slow and tired afterwards. The service was also very good. I went right as they opened up, and there was already a good amount of people streaming in as I ate.
(5)
Tiffany M.
This place is amazing. It's hard to find good food in michigan after living in LA for 5 years but this reminds me of it! You have to try this place it's so good! I got the chicken sandwich with chipotle mayo.
(4)
Rachel C.
I wish I could eat here every day! Seriously, their food is AMAZING. Always a good selection of beer, great apps and entrees and also great breakfast! Service can sometimes be a bit slow, hence the 4 star review but overall great experience.
(4)
Kristin R.
We chose this restaurant because I'm vegan and it was listed on happycow.com . Besides a couple of salads, there was only one item on the menu which was vegan. It was a sandwich with a lentil patty. It was ok, a little bland. The waitress said they also have one soup everyday which is vegan. I tried the hot and sour vegetable soup. It was very good. The ambiance was nice - brick walls and nice paintings for sale. There is a bar on one side. Overall experience was very good and we will probably go back.
(4)
Debbie G.
Friendly atmosphere, easy parking for downtown and amazing food. I loved the variety. My breakfast was tasty and the servers were always there filling my coffee. Excellent!
(4)
Elizabeth D.
Third time's not the charm! Dinner a couple of years ago was fine but not memorable, lunch a few weeks ago was salty and greasy, and breakfast a few days ago was "meh, I've experienced better." I tried the classic Eggs Benedict. While the eggs were cooked appropriately, the Hollandaise sauce was flavorless. The side of potatoes was cold! And the side of homemade sausage was so dry... I really should have sent it back, but I soldiered on and ate the whole dry pattie anyway. One star for the coffee, which was fairly hot and good. And one star for the friendly greeter at the door. Other than that, there was no reason why breakfast on a weekday morning at 10 AM had to be that bad. They really did not have to serve cold potatoes and dry sausage. I don't know where the high rating is coming from, but my experiences here with the food have been very disappointing.
(2)
Liz A.
this place is just ok. i honestly don't get what they're doing with their atmosphere. i can't figure out if it's trying to be upscale (based on the waiters' level of formality) or not (based on the fact that it feels like you're in a middle school cafeteria). mixed drinks are like something out of a bad episode of bar rescue. the food is ok. i think they're trying to be creative but nothing really seems to go together, nor is it memorable. they are very friendly and wanting to please, i will give them that. i just never really feel like it's worth the money.
(3)
Dani B.
I hadn't been to the soup spoon since the expansion and my mom wanted to go to breakfast so I gave it a whirls and found it all kinda disappointing. I tried the johnny cakes and my mom had the salmon Benedict. Both where poorly presented on the plate and while the Benedict was okay the johnny cakes could have been so much better. They tasted like a dry flavorless pancake when they could have been buttery,or better yet cooked in bacon grease. The salmon was over cooked and grey looking. The atmosphere was fine and the restaurant appeared clean and bright but noisy and chaotic ( it was a weekend). The menu is well presented and clear and the server was friendly and very capable. she earned the stars I was willing to give because the food was a zero for me. I feel bad giving such a poor review to a place I used to enjoy.
(2)
Barbara R.
great place, delicioius and unique food
(5)
Jessy B.
Amazing butternut squash and Apple soup! French onion was very good as well. The onions were well cooked and melted in your mouth. Was a little disappointed with the pricing on the "small plates". For $8-$12 each I thought they would be a little bigger.
(4)
Mallory H.
Usually I come here for breakfast with the girls after work and the food is good/solid, nothing mind blowing, but I do really like the staff who are always friendly and fun. I've had the eggs benny, the Irish breakfast, the breakfast sandwiches and all have been good. The homemade jam is good but they're a little stingy with it. I've also come once for dinner and had cajan pasta and the salmon both were tasty and good portion sizes.
(4)
J Michael L.
A casual, eclectic artsy place with jazz music. Recently expanded (doubling space) next door, but still awaiting liquor license there. Loved the seafood chowder, but I'd rather have seafood gumbo or the Fisherman's Chowder.I'll ask for a flight of soup next time. ($10). French bread should arrive warm or freshly toasted - better for dipping in the olive oil & spices. LOVE the in-house smoked salmon. An amazing selections of wine and craft beer at its best. And someone locally roasts their coffee fresh every 7 days. Stop in on Saturday mornings for breakfast/brunch and you can meet the coffee roaster.
(5)
Anne-Marie H.
It's a busy Friday afternoon, right before graduation. We expected to wait for a table, even at 1:15 pm. We didn't expect to wait 37 minutes for our food - sandwiches and chips - once we had ordered. Sandwiches were all cold when they arrived. Cheese was that congealed greasy gelatinous goop that had long since been cooked and served. Honestly: I get "busy," but this was really bad planning. The tomato bisque was awesome, though. I'd think hard about coming back here on any day when it was supposed to be busy. Maybe a random weekday during the summer will be better.
(3)
A C.
Every time I've been here, the food has been amazing. It's too bad the place is getting so popular, yet it's a small place & sometimes understaffed. So there is usually a wait, either to be seated, to order, or for your food. But that's also a testament to how good this place is. Wonderful vibe & amazing food.
(5)
Linden B.
My girlfriend and I have both worked in restaurants the majority of our young adult lives and our empathetic to what goes on behind the scenes. We literally never complain, but this was the worst experience we have ever had. We spent a total of an hour and a half waiting for our food (breakfast food should only take 10-15 minutes max). We watched five other parties who arrived after we had ordered get there food before us. After an hour or so we complained,we could tell they then began to make our order because the kitchen is open and you can see what is being made. My baja scramble was more like a shit pancake and my girlfriend's yoke in her eggs benedict was the same consistency as a golf ball. We were extremely patient and polite, a manager of sorts came and gave us a half hearted apology and justified the wait by claiming they were busy. Unless they were feeding half of china out of the back of the restaurant there is no way it takes an hour and a half to get through breakfast orders when your restaurant only seats 50 people. I've seen full coursed meals for a 50 person party be cooked faster (with well done steaks). The manager then took off a whopping $10 which was a 12% discount. I just want my 90 minutes of my life back as well as the time it will take to poop out the food.
(1)
Jasmine D.
We had lunch around 2pm on a Saturday here. Took about 25 minutes to sit us. It was packed. Nothing special going on in the area either. Our server visited our table 3 times. To take our order, bring our food and fill our water once. It is a cute restaurant. The French onion soup was delicious. My bf had the firecracker shrimp pasta and enjoyed it plus he said the lobster chowder was awesome. Too bad it took an hour for our food because it was a set back to the entire day. We would eat here again but only if the wait time is significantly less.
(4)
Richard K.
For lansing, the food was good, but not great. I expected more. Atmosphere is poor and food could have been prepared better. Also, the server didn't inform us of specials and I had to request bread. Please renovate your decor soup spoon!! I can't justify paying $20 for a dish when I feel I should be ordering a BLT.
(2)
dawn v.
Thank You Yelpers! NEVER would've stopped. A place called Soup Spoon, especially looking like nothing from the outside! Who knew they made their own homemade mixers for cocktails???? (The Stormy cocktail is made with their own ginger syrup and packs quite a kick.. And only $4 during happy hour??? Steal!) I'm not really a soup girl tu the Yelpers aren't lying. Don't come here and not get soup. Other things are good too but the soup is like heaven in a cup. The pumpkin bisque is like nothing we have ever had before. A cross between soup and pie. Seafood chowder is obviously something they perfected a long time ago. Total bill for two soups with salads and a cocktail was $20. (Try the shrimp alas.. Big plump shrimp with a kick)
(5)
Amber V.
pretty good food. i would like a little more vegetarian and/or vegan options on the menu. overall, good service and very decent food. especially for the area.
(3)
Sam B.
By far one of the best restaurants in Lansing area. Great breakfast and lunch. Food comes out hot and the beer is on point.
(5)
Danielle B.
I wish I could give places 1/2 stars, I would have given this place 3.5 because it has fantastic potential to be 4 stars. Maybe it is what I ordered but when I went, I got a cup of the shrimp soup and it was salty, and I am the person that SALTS my food DAILY and it was just a tad bit salty for my palette. I also got the hangar steak, which I received cold and was slightly chewy. The hangar steak was with a chimichurri sauce which was good and the asiago mashed potatoes were just okay. I don't remember the service--which can say something all in itself. This is a good place to try though if you are in Lansing though, there aren't many places like this in Lansing/EL in comparison to Ann Arbor.
(3)
Janet C.
Good food. Some of the waitstaff are snotty.
(4)
Nick B.
I can always count on Soup Spoon for a great dining experience. Their focus on maintaining imaginative specials, local produce, quality beer selection, old style cocktails, and good service sets them apart. Portion sizes are sometimes huge, which when you add quality is dangerous. It's way too easy to overeat and miss one of Soup Spoon's best features - dessert. The bread pudding is addictive and the goat cheese cake has become a favorite. One of their largest problems has been wait time for seating, given folks tend to linger here. The recent expansion to the space next door has really helped.
(5)
Ron K.
Three of us decided to stop and sample the soup. Two of us have gluten allergies and we asked the server to verify which (if any) soups were gluten-free. She was gone for quite some time and another server was asked by a table of six that same question, he responded with the gluten-free soups without leaving the table. Our server finally returned and informed us that two of the soups were GF and I told her that I heard the other server rattle off several soups that were GF, she furrowed her brows and told us that the soups in the kitchen are labeled if they are GF and she saw only those two. The server definitely needs a personality injection.....Brrrrrr.... Oh well. 'Nuff said 'bout that. My Chicken Tortilla soup was fully absorbed into the tortillas when it arrived leaving absolutely no "soup", it was tasty and spicy but I've always enjoyed the crunch of the tortillas when I eat this soup. Not so this time. Just a mushy, thick quagmire. I also had a small Smoked Salmon salad and it was certainly prepared with delicious greens, not a bit of cheap iceberg lettuce. The only negative was the Salmon did not have the "mud vein" removed prior to cooking. I've been a fisherman all my life and when we filet our catch (mostly Walleye), one of our tasks involves the stripping of the mud vein. I believe this omission contributes to many peopple turning their nose up at fish offerings in restaurants. My companions enjoyed the Tomato Bisque (I think it was titled that way). We were seated at the very back table in the bar area and the 'Office' door was adjacent to our table. Frequent in-and-out activity through that door is very disruptive to diners that are seated so close. The entrance to this joint requires negotiating a couple of concrete steps that are definitely not designed for safety and convenience. The "rise" is very steep and there is no landing area in front of the door. Prices were fair. Is it soup yet?
(3)
Alessa T.
This place is wonderful! Farm to table style restaurant with great cocktails as well as superb food. Menu has wide range of pricing too. Great atmosphere and friendly staff. My favorite place in town.
(5)
T D.
I need 2 update my review. Accidentally I hit "very bad". Definitely not what I meant. I love this place & their food. Just food & waitress (new??) was not up 2 par (for them) last visit. I will continue 2 go there. Hopefully it was just a one time thing. Sorry 4 the confusion. Luckily someone PM me & asked. Thx Tim. :-). Newbie mistake. Sigh.
(4)
Huyen V.
Decided to give this place another try Went here for breakfast the other day. And thankfully was seated not facing the kitchen haha. I got the biscuits and gravy which was very flavorful and pretty good. It also came with an egg on top which was basically raw. I could not eat it due to the fact the whites were not even cooked at all still clear and jiggly like how it came out of the egg. The bf ended up getting pancakes and bacon which were good. I would probably just come back for the biscuits and gravy the bf definitely liked them a lot. Service is usually good. And prices are average $7-12.
(3)
Darren B.
We go here often on Saturday morning for breakfast. I am trying the whole menu and so far I give everything A++! I am uploading a photo of my food today and I will try to add photos as often as I remember. The service has always been acceptable especially considering how busy they are and you can call ahead for a reservation which I highly recommend unless you like waiting for a table. It's busy for a reason, the food is pretty much the best in town and most people know it. If you haven't yet been here try it for breakfast. I have had the lunch once and dinner once as well and I haven't been disappointed. I don't think you will be either. The food is different, but try it!
(5)
Chelsea S.
Soup Spoon is one of the must-hit places I stop when I come back to Lansing to visit family. Great for both breakfast and lunches it is an awesome place that has become known in the city for good eats. Prices are very reasonable, they now have their liquor license, they have several Michigan beers on tap, their soup changes daily, and their menu is extensive. Decor is charming and space has increased so the wait is not as long. However, you can sometimes end up waiting a time for your food as the kitchen is small, and open so you can see what is going on. Service is friendly and attentive. Though they have good soups some are misses. I still love trying one of their uniques flavors as they are anything but ordinary. Their sandwiches and salads are great and you can create your own combos at lunch which I love. Their breakfasts are so good, featuring several omelets, scrambles, sandwiches and benedicts. I have tried several of them but continue to come back for the Yooper Benny. I think I love it for its originality and local fish that I can't get back in Seattle. The terragon aioli is sometimes a little too thick in my opinion but pairs very nicely with the fish and eggs. Their house potatoes are really good and their side salad option is also very delicious and fresh with a very nice house balsamic dressing. Their coffee is decent but refilled often. A local favorite and a true gem in Lansing!!
(4)
Neha M.
Great brunch and breakfast place near Michigan State University. The waitress who served us was very nice and helpful. I ordered a Greek Omlet with potatoes and wheat bread. The food was amazing and very filling. :)
(4)
Christine K.
Came here for lunch. I had the seafood chowder. A little disappointed... tastes like your average lobster chowder soup. I had their specialty sandwich. Though it was kinda greasy, it was good! I ordered some kind of salad as a side and was surprised when I received a coleslaw... kinda deceiving. Their interior design is however spectacular and makes you feel good as you eat. I would give the meal I had a 3star, however our server was excellent. She did a good job in splitting our meal into separate plates and making sure our water was always full. Very friendly and always checked in on us. Will be back to try breakfast and dinner!
(4)
Esther G.
Best breakfast in town, period. None of that cheap, greasy diner stuff that's everywhere. That was nice for college and a few post-college years, but now I try to stay away from them for the most part. Quality dishes at a great price. I have visited here for lunch a while back and remembered I wasn't too impressed, but the breakfast is done to perfection. It's divided into cafe specialties, eggs/omelets and sammys. Everything sounded great (my friend vouched for the pesto scramble) but I settled for Allan's smoky scramble -- two eggs scrambled with smoked salmon, applewood smoked bacon, green onions and tomatoes drizzled with smoky ancho pepper hollandaise. I was most worried about the hollandaise, that it would be overpowering but it wasn't. It was mild. It was served with cafe potatoes (smaller sliced/seasoned potatoes) and toast with what tasted like homemade jam (not so sugary or syrupy). I was a little hesitant when my food was presented. At some places, the food is served on a giant plate, and that can sometimes be deceiving. It looks like there's a small portion of food. Here, I had the opposite problem. It was like everything was stuffed into a small plate, so I thought there wasn't enough food! But the potatoes were kind of underneath the omelet. This was fine for eating it all together (maybe it was intended that way?), but it did say the potatoes were a "side" item. Not heavy nor greasy, just really well executed. If there's another breakfast place better than Soup Spoon, I wouldn't believe you, but by all means, let me know. Another thing to love about this place: Their giant beer list is all Michigan beers. My only beef is that they should be open for Sunday brunch! I feel like they're getting a giant chunk of their business taken away by not opening at that time. Also, I know people complain about the wait, but we must've lucked out. Saturday before noon, we were seated right away.
(5)
Renee L.
Ordered the standard breakfast two days in a row. Day one was perfect! Hot and delicious! The second day was less impressive. The eggs were overcooked and the potatoes were served just warm. My toast included the heel of the bread which I found interesting.
(4)
Jill P.
They have a lamb burger that is amazing! I've been here at different times and on different days and if there is a wait it has been reasonable. The food is consistently wonderful. My husband and I try at least one new dish every time we go and have been very happy with everything. It is not the best place for young kids that are not into trying new things. My 10 year old loves the 2 kinds of naan pizza he's tried so far and keeps asking to go back. My 8 year old is more picky and won't pick anything, we just order what we want and encourage him try some of it. The best item in my opinion is the bread pudding. I've ordered bread pudding at almost every restaurant that has it in search of the perfect one and this is it. I won't bother ordering it anyplace else, Soup Spoon nailed it.
(5)
Dan N.
This is now a MUST stop every time I'm in the Lansing area. Two reasons why I always stop: 1) Seafood Chowder--maybe the best chowder you'll ever have (at least in the Midwest) 2) Moscow Mule--I've tried without any luck at all to create their magical pepper/ginger infused simple syrup--fantastic drink! Beyond that, everything that I've ever had at Soup Spoon Cafe has been not only delicious, but also unique. Great little spot in downtown Lansing!
(4)
J H.
Went last weekend, late lunch. Menu looked good, got the salmon on lunch menu, friend had beef cabbage soup and Greek salad. Salmon was just okay, too much sauce that left the rice swimming in excess sauce; also was more undercooked than I would have preferred. The soup was very excellent and so was the salad. Good Bell beer selection. I would like to come back again and try breakfast as well as the dinner menu. Interesting art work on walls, definitely a conversation starter. Ambiance was just okay.
(3)
Penandra P.
A delightful little restaurant and just perfect for a cool autumn day. The seafood chowder is delicious. The pumpkin soup could be dessert. Staff is very friendly and service is quick. Prepare for a short wait if you come at lunchtime. But you can get right in if you're here at 11:30. A treat to find this place.
(5)
Meraki G.
Had a couple really great meals here and the staff and atmosphere are nice. Can be crowded and tough to get into though.
(5)
Betsy C.
Great soups. A little pricey I think and have had sandwiches that weren't that impressive but the soup is always a safe bet.
(4)
Drexel S.
Ive tried almost everything on the menu and its all delicious. Staff is always friendly. Excellent eating expirience every time
(5)
Sherry B.
A few vegan options. Ethiopian stew is awesome. vegan breakfast ok... hold the bland lentil patty. Not pleased about paying 2.99 for a cup of coffee and then .50 more cents for soy milk. Kinda tired of being "milked" for not drinking dairy milk.
(4)
Gabriela G.
I almost didn't come here on my trip to Lansing-and that would have been a big mistake!!! This place is awesome! Probably one of the best meals in Lansing, possibly in Michigan. Atmosphere is diner-style. Cheap tables and wooden chairs (they probably bought from the Amish). Really ugly amateur art on the walls. The bathrooms are lime green, Amish-country-feel with copper candelabra, wicker furniture and plastic flowers. They have between 5-8 soup options. The ones on the menu and the specials on the blackboard. My waitress, as well as the young man who seated me (Keith: the manager), were just friendly smiles all around and super positive energy. I ordered the salmon salad and a cup of their Ethiopian Stew (one of their specials and it happened to be vegan): SCORE! Super tasty, full of greens and protein: chickpeas, green-peas, chunky tomatoes and carrots in a delicious broth. Salmon salad was best salad I've had since I've been on the road. I switched out the raspberry vinaigrette for balsamic and added dried cranberries for a hint of sweetness. When it arrived I was slightly concerned since the salmon was cold and brown and looked more like a chicken cooked badly but once I broke up the salmon into little pieces it was he perfect shade of orange and the taste was super smokey and flavorful. Manager checked up on me from time to one to make sure I was enjoying my meal. I came at a good time since they seem to have a bit of a wait for a table. Young kitchen and staff. Open till midnight. They serve alcohol. Really varied menu for all tastebuds from the all american PoBoy sandwich to a gourmet scallop entree. From a hearty, healthy soup and salad to a heavy creamy meat-fest. Plenty of street parking and side private parking adjacent. Prices are fair for quality and portion. My server(Jessica) was stellar!!! If they had this restaurant in LA I would be a regular customer! Even if placed outside of the limited Michigan food options it would hold its own as a great meal, great service, great ingredients for a reasonable price. I'll be in Grand Rapids for work next week again, might be worth the 1hr drive to Lansing just to eat another meal at Soup Spoon Cafe.
(5)
Cameron J.
Wow! Just in town for a few days and glad I gave this place a chance. Had the Smoked Salmon Benedict which was delicious and just the right portion. Another person in my party had the Gourmet Wrap and I was surprised of the presentation. He said it was amazing. Overall, this place is a must when in Lansing.
(5)
D D.
Driving from Niagara Falls Canada back to California. Hit Michigan and we needed to eat. Checked Yelp and found this place! Amazing great soup and a great sandwich. If you are checking Yelp this place is a must!
(4)
G G.
We love this place!! The food is always great and unique! I am so bored with all the chain restaurants. They always change up the menu so there is always something new to try.
(5)
Andy B.
I've only been here for breakfast, and was extremely underwhelmed. The food was a combination of soggy and burnt, nothing was cooked right. I've been meaning to come here for dinner, but thanks to everyone posting pics of their "yummy" mains, I think I'll pass.
(2)
Ryan D.
This was once my favorite place to get breakfast in Lansing. Lately, however, they have really been slipping. Some of their staff is great, some of them are not. How good of a dining experience you're going to have depends entirely on which group of employees is working on that particular day. One week, I would be waiting around forever to be seated, while there were open seats at the bar, because the staff was so disorganized, the next week the staff that was in was spot on and perfectly organized. One week, the food coming out of the kitchen would be sloppy, and careless, another week it would be put together with care and perfectly made. The lack of consistency, as well as some of the newer restaurants that have opened in the area has taken Soup Spoon out of my regular rotation.
(3)
Michael K.
I've never had a meal here that I thought was anything other than great. The food is always good and the service warm. That said don't expect a fast weekday lunch here; the food comes out quickly, but there is always a line. Even when showing up either before or after typical lunch times you'll be waiting for a table.
Pssst, Lansing-area Yelpers. I've got a secret for you. The best cocktails in town are at a cafe known for breakfast whose name sounds like a lunch deli. The Soup Spoon has a lovely list of classic cocktails available, including the Old Fashioned, the Pisco Sour, the Moscow Mule... pretty much everything that you'd find in a lushly illustrated cocktail book. The kind of drink you'd like to try at home, but just didn't want to clean up after. And everything from proportions to garnishes to presentation is simply done correctly. It's an art. Many of the mixers are made from scratch. The Soup Spoon's house-made ginger syrup (used in their well-known Dark & Stormy) will kick you in the mouth in a good way - spicy and satisfying! If you're not drinking alcohol but love some zip, they'll mix a ginger ale out of it too. The printed cocktail menu doesn't stray too far from the classics, but the bartenders are always experimenting with new things. There are some awesome seasonal drinks - keep your eyes open for them. And beyond the mixed drinks, the beer selection is TOPS. Other people have covered the pros and cons of the food (love the lamb sliders) and atmosphere (be prepared for a wait), but the bartenders deserve some love. If you're searching for a craft cocktail bar in Lansing, you might actually be looking for a Soup Spoon.
(5)
Cathy B.
Just finished eating here. Food was excellent and beer and wine list were very complete. Soups were superb. Service was outstanding from those who seated us to smiling Jessica who made our visit so wonderful. Can't wait to make trip back for another delightful meal
(5)
Wayne P.
I had the blackened swordfish special and my wife had the Hanger steak and both were fantastic! Logan waited on our table and he was great! My wife said that she liked white zin but it wasn't on the wine list...Logan said"no problem, I'll make one" and it was outstanding! That is the type of service that you get at Soup Spoon! We'll be back!
(5)
Whitney C.
We wanted to find a new soup place and this hit the spot! All choices on our soup flight were delicious. The specialty pumpkin bisque was a sweet and delightful surprise. The crab cakes had good flavor and the sauce enhanced the dish instead of over powering them.
(5)
Joe G.
Really yummy Cafe Stroganoff with fresh mushrooms and wild rice plus the Greek Linguine pasta. Excellent comfort food, with flare. Excellent service, too. So good we're going back tomorrow!
(5)
Pacita R.
This is a great place to eat anytime, any day. I come here often and have tried their breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu. All were delicious. It's an excellent go to place when you're looking to eat something delicious and sit in a great atmosphere. You're guaranteed to eat something tasty almost every time. Their alcoholic beverages are also on point, shout out to the amazing bartender. Expect a bit of a wait on weekends but as one of the few good places to eat in Lansing it's well worth it.
(4)
Will K.
this is where i had the best steak of my LIFE!!!!!! ribeye smothered in morel mushroom sauce....its been two years and i still dream about it...heaven in every bite....hopefully they bring it back again when morels are in season
(5)
Erik O.
We had an unbelievably delicious meal here last night. Simple as that. To start things off, the staff is amazing and very knowledgable about the beers (awesome selection), the food, and wine pairings. The cocktails available are old fashioned and are the best in Lansing. For an appetizer we ordered the house cured gravlox which was perfect. Absolutely perfect. We ordered the braised lamb shank and the hanger steak and holy lord they were both above and beyond what we were expecting. Excellent portion sizes and great greens came with both of the meals. At the end of our meal the waiter brought us a complimentary bread pudding which was an awesome finish to an awesome meal. Easily our favorite restaurant in Lansing.
(5)
David S.
Well, I finally tried the Soup Spoon and it was honestly so-so. The wife had the French onion soup which was excellent and I had the barley vegetable which tasted like progresso soup. The ceasar salad was next but had too much dressing which I couldn't finish. We then split a Cuban sandwich which compared nothing to an actual cuban so half of that was left over. The service was good when we got there but as it became busy, it took 30 minutes for the salad and cuban to actually arrive at the table. Overall it wasn't bad but I dont think I would spend another $30.00 there. Wasn't worth the effort...
(2)
Manuel F.
Have been here three times and will continue to come. Haven't been here for breakfast; only lunch and dinner. Service had always been excellent and the food outstanding. They have different soups every day and are great. Can get busy but well worth the wait.
(5)
Heather H.
This place was really hyped on Yelp, but I wasn't that impressed upon coming into Soup Spoon Cafe. The host at the entrance was pretty rude to us, and seemed insulted that we had walked in without a reservation. We were seated in 15 minutes, which honestly I've waited longer at PF Chang's, so I wasn't sure what the problem was. Our seat was right by the kitchen and the waiter checkout. Not the greatest place to sit, and a very odd layout as it was. The soups at this place were great, just great. Just the right portion size, and filling. The sandwiches were rather dry, and seemed to be just bread...not a lot to the sandwiches. I would come back here to try breakfast (I'll make a reservation first) but not sure I would come back for dinner.
(3)
Xinhao Y.
This is the best brunch place in the Lansing area! Be sure to come early or you will have to wait for half an hour to get your seat! Egg Benedict and bread pudding are the must-try entrees!
(5)
Jessica D.
This is a solid restaurant in the Lansing area. I've enjoyed every meal from this establishment.
(5)
Allison G.
Great craft beer selection that is always changing. Good wine selection as well. Menu is diverse and unique. I have tried many items on the menu and they are all great. The Eastside Chicken is my favorite and I usually don't get too excited about chicken. The atmosphere is cozy and the staff are the best in town! My family and I eat at Soup Spoon almost every week and have never been disappointed! There isn't a kid's menu, but my 9 year old loves the grilled cheese and always finds something she likes even though she is a picky eater.
(5)
Gus M.
I'm so glad that Yelp led me here. Thanks to my fellow yelper's I have embarked on this magical place ;) We walked in and were seated quickly. This Resturaunt is supposed to have amazing soups so naturally I had to try it. Soup- I ordered the spicy seafood chowder soup. It had large lumps of crab and the texture was perfect. It also had an amazing spice factor that was just right. Appetizer- Cherry Blossom Shrimp, about 6 shrimp with a spicy butter wine sauce. Also amazing flavor. Entree- Our waitress recommended the Smokin B sandwich. It was thin sliced of beef brisket on flat bred with tomato, lettuce, cheese and a spicy tobacco lime cream sauce. It was fantastic I really enjoyed all of the flavors. I recommend everybody in East Lansing give this place a try. And It's worth an hour drive as well ;)
(5)
R. L.
Great atmosphere and cute space. I like the dining experience here, but I wish there were better vegetarian options. I have yet to try the breakfast but hear great things!
(4)
Angela E.
I'm a little confused by this place. The food is great! The soups are definitely made with love! They have a great beer and wine list! I wish they gave you a beer and wine list at your table but maybe they have changed that since I've gone for dinner. The bar is small, 15 seats maybe. You have to see the host to be allowed to sit at the bar. This is an unspoken rule, meaning if you sit at the bar you will get shocked looks (like, "how dare you??"). The host will graciously tell you that there are people waiting for seats at the bar. So the bar seating is confusing. They have a food window into the bar which is also a service window for the wait staff on the other side. So the kitchen staff passes good into the bar and then the bartenders also pass drinks into the kitchen area. All in all the food and drinks are amazing! Solid breakfast food also! Very friendly and attentive service! Just be prepared to wait because they are always hopping!
(5)
Dan G.
I was in Lansing on business, and this nice little place was just down the road from Sparrow hospital. I waited for an associate for an hour at the bar. Love the free WiFi! They have a wide selection of local Michigan beers. If I hadn't been on the clock I definitely would have imbibed. Both my coworker and I had the kickin' pastrami sandwich, which the bartender recommended. It was definitely good although I think the pastrami could have been a bit spicier, but I know they've got to cater toward those Midwestern pallets that fear spice. It's nice that you can get chips, pasta salad or coleslaw as a side. The crowd definitely picks up for lunch. By noon, there were no table open and there appeared to be a 15-20 minute wait. Not bad for a Wednesday afternoon. I don't know if my travels will ever take me back to Lansing, but if I'm ever by that hospital again, I'll definitely go back.
(4)
Karen S.
Yes! My friends live just down the street from this place... The menu has a wide variety of options that include a soup of the day, a pizza of the day... It's just so darn inviting, the staff is lovely, and the food is delicious. I ordered the shrimp risotto cakes since I wasn't hugely hungry... they were just the right size, perfectly cooked and mouth watering. My friends each had a sandwich of some sort which they both enjoyed; no surprise as they have been coming here for several years already.
(5)
Jon M.
This place wouldn't get 4 stars in a major city, but for Lansing it's a fantastic place. An eclectic menu of sandwiches, salads, soups and other interesting items... the food itself wasn't something to write home about, but hey I would take it over almost everything else I saw in Lansing (i.e., the typical American fast food and walk in restaurant chains). They also have a great, albeit small, selection of beers on tap. all of the staff was also extremely friendly, and helpful.
(4)
Erin K.
Locally sourced meat and vegetables and craft beer. The pastas are amazing and we definitely recommend the Chicken Po Boy. They do take reservations on the weekends but I think you have to make them a day in advance. They don't accommodate large parties and don't have a kids menu but will make grilled cheese.
(5)
Drew P.
Fun place to grab a bite to eat for breakfast and their is a bar. A tiny little kitchen that you can see and tasty specials. Servers that occasionally disappear for ten minutes and no plate warmer take some of the joy out.
(3)
Rebecca G.
First time I went into this restaurant, I found it delightful and the food wonderful. The second time I went into the restaurant, the food was terrible and we were treated horribly. The food that was brought out, was not what was described in the menu but after waiting nearly an hour for it to be delivered, we were starving so we ate it anyway. When asked how the food way, we told them, however the reaction wasn't an apology. We were called us out as liars implying the food must not have been that bad if we ate it. The problem here was this: we weren't looking for a refund or new food. We ate what was provided and was planning on paying whatever was on the check. We just weren't going to go back. But when we were asked for your opinion, we gave an answer they didn't like and were treated extremely poorly by the manager. I think this restaurant and it's owners should be ashamed. I'll never go back nor will I ever recommend this restaurant to anyone.
(1)
Jesse W.
This place makes me want to move to Lansing. Great atmosphere and a unique selection of beers. I had the lamb meatballs and the marinara sauce was among the best I have ever had. The service was friendly and did a great job. I sat next to some locals who couldn't stop raving about this place. Well, I am a believer--I'll be back.
(5)
Kyle K.
The food here was great but the service was so slow it almost ruined the experience. Though we had to wait for our table, it took about 15 mins compared to the 30 mins she quoted me. Our waitress was not attentive or all that courteous really. They seemed short staffed. Regardless, we asked about our food at least twice and didnt see anything on the table for over 45 mins. Though they were busy, the place is small and we had to ask for everything multiple times (food, ketchup, drinks), so I cant justify the long wait for food. Not sure this is a place I'd frequent honestly.
(3)
Gail W.
I was very disappointed in the food. I had a sandwich with the brisket. Besides a skimpy portion of brisket, it was half fat. Also, the naan bread was burnt. My niece had a breakfast dish with poached eggs. The eggs yolks were hard. My first time there and I won't be back.
(1)
Emma K.
Favorite spot in town! Breakfast, lunch or dinner this place does it all! The only problem is it's very hard to get in during lunch so I usually try to avoid normal lunch times.
(5)
Stephanie M.
Love everything I've tried here. They are always friendly, always recognize my family even though we aren't exactly regulars and the food is beyond compare. Our finicky son loves the French Dip, my favorites are the Kobe Wagyu burger and the Cubano, and my husband enjoys just about everything (including the great beer selection). We've even enjoyed breakfast several times. Great addition to the Lansing area.
(5)
Shawna F.
I had the seafood soup and the Pastrami sandwich. It was delicious. My friends had the voodoo pasta. It is delicious but spicey. I would definitely come back if I go to lansing.
(5)
Krishnan M.
Love this place ... Good food and good people can't ask for better. The staff is always warm. Definitely try the French onion soup actually all of them are good but the FO here is one if the best I have tasted Try the daily specials too.
The environment is great. Perfect for a semi-formal lunch or dinner. Be prepared to wait during lunch hours during the week. The food is good. It isn't outstanding, but its fresh and made from scratch (mostly).
(4)
Mark B.
Short and sweet... order the breakfast wrap and prepare to be amazed!
(5)
Jennifer T.
While I've lived in Lansing for nearly 5 years, I didn't give Soup Spoon a try until a couple years ago after hearing so many good things. It's located right downtown and is fairly small, easy to drive right by. The interior is eclectic, yet welcoming like a friends' home. I have not had anything that I didn't love. Every soup is delicious and often a mix of ingredients you never would of thought of. They are not afraid of making food SPICY! So many Michigan restaurants tend to "bland" food down. Try the Voodoo pasta, my spicy fav with in one of a dozen craft beers. Staff is ultra friendly, expect a wait at lunch and a bit slower service.
(5)
Ashley N.
After reading reviews about this place and looking at the menu, my husband and I were very excited to try them. We went in knowing that the service was slow because they make everything made to order. But it got a little ridiculous. Our server didn't bring my husbands drink until she was reminded when she finally brought our soup. Which was about 30 mins after ordering. Our salad followed about 10 mins later. When we finally got our main dishes we were very hungry and happy. This is were it really went to hell for us. I had got the lamb burger, well done because I am pregnant. It was a little pink, but not terribly so. Lamb is a pink meat anyway. It was delicious! Loved the burger and the toppings and the bun. I got the side greek pasta salad. It was homemade, but the pasta wasn't cooked enough, and there was no flavor. No seasoning, no dressing My husband got the meatloaf sandwich. Not only was there no meat on half of his sandwich, which they immediately through another piece on the grill. Fine right? No! My husband bite into the other half. A huge long hair cooked right into it. This was the last draw. We asked the manager to take my husbands meal off our bill. He quickly comped our whole bill. This is the only reason that we will return to try them again. Not for a while. But, because he handle it appropriately, we will give them another chance.
(3)
Laurie D.
We're so glad we went today. The food was excellent. It's always crowded there and we have a nice pursued it. Today we went at 11 AM and ordered lunch because breakfast was over. We ordered a sandwich and linguine. Appreciated the flavors, sauces and the multiple vegetables in the food. Everything was excellent. We sat near the kitchen area and watched many things going by. Everything that went by, looked wonderful. Our service was excellent too. Even the side coleslaw was homemade. I stopped to tell the waiter, and then supervising manager, the food was excellent. Not like the front steps as they were very steep for my mother to get up. Although the desserts look absolutely wonderful, we went next-door to Fabiano's chocolate and enjoyed our sweets there.
(5)
Adrien D.
Amazing food! Service is excellent. Come and try the biscuit and gravy! But they keep having Cajun items on the menu that aren't cajun. Fail...but still come here!
(4)
Jo P.
Amazing! Delicious food, especially the chicken salad sandwich and breakfast burrito! Good service. The wait is worth it.
(5)
Jody C.
I arrived about an hour or so before Soup closed. I sat at the bar order a Two Hearted and looked it over. On the menu I found the braised lamb shank with balsamic drizzle.tasty wowowow.sick. To top that they sent out two shanks to boot!!
(5)
Sarah C.
Had a really wonderful dinner at Soup Spoon! I had the spoon-i-pino - tasty sauce, excellent chorizo, good seafood, perfectly al dente pasta. Yum. My two dining companions had the surf & turf and the special, which included some delicious quail. They both loved their meals as well. We ordered two cups of soup to share but the waitress forgot to bring them. She was super nice about it and brought us free soup (cheesy bacon potato goodness) and later brought us two free desserts. The bread pudding was phenomenal - cinnamon-y and caramel-y and covered in whipped cream. The meal was relatively expensive for Lansing but definitely worth the splurge due to excellent food and nice atmosphere. Can't wait to go back for brunch!
(5)
Kat H.
PUMPKIN BISQUE! Oh my goodness, this was so delicious. We went to Soup Spoon Cafe for lunch on a game day, wanting to get a great meal but not be surrounded by football insanity. We accomplished our goal. The place was busy and we had about a 20 minute wait, but it was totally worth it. Three of us got the pumpkin bisque, not really know what to expect. What we got was a super thick, wonderfully spiced pumpkin soup with a squirt of whipped cream on top! It tasted more like a thick, somewhat savory mousse than a soup really, but it was so delicious it didn't even matter. The whipped cream added a perfect sweet counterbalance. Add that to our great main meals (Yooper Benny, Georgia Reuben, Peacemaker and Tuna Melt) and we had a great time. I'm also so grateful for their very decent draught beer selection. What a great place to have in Lansing!
(5)
Danielle P.
It's funny, I always stay at a friend's about a block and a half from Soup Spoon while I'm in Lansing, but just went for the first time last night. I liked the atmosphere, casual and warm. It has a stellar beer and cocktail selection and a creative menu. The service was pretty good and I liked the whole experience overall. I chose the Dark and Stormy for a drink, which the waiter recommended as the house specialty. It has a strong ginger kick and ended up being a really nice choice. For an appetizer my friend and I shared the Michigan craft beer and cheddar dip, which was very good...but I didn't realize by looking at the menu that's it's rather green-onion heavy. For an entree I ordered the hanger steak which has a chimichurri and ancho jus, very good but needed a smidge of salt. It came with dauphanoise potatoes and swiss chard, also very tasty. My friend had the Ethiopian vegan stew, which smelled absolutely divine. At one point, our waiter went for a stretch without checking on us, as he seemed to be filling in for the bartender. Not the end of the world, but mildly annoying. The other thing I didn't love was how greasy the dining room floor was near the kitchen area, wear heels here with caution. Not a perfect dinner, but I would go back and recommend it as a different experience for the Lansing area.
(4)
Iman B.
i tried the seafood chowder and its really great for chowder lovers i also had the lamb rib ad it is great
(5)
Jen E.
This place is AMAZING!!!! My boyfriend and I stopped in for a bite and our socks were knocked off. We had the goat cheese points, soups, acropolis Sammie and greek wrap. Everything was delicious down to the pickles!!!
(5)
Brandon S.
Very good food. Quite a few options for everyone. The spicy feta dip is tasty. Our server was friendly and did a very good job with our large group. The decor and layout are lacking. It feels like an earth friendly hipster hangout.
(3)
Casey M.
Always great. Try one of the drinks- made fresh. No store bought mixers. I wish they would bring back the brisket but everything is good.
(5)
Britta S.
I have had 2 bad breakfasts there. I originally loved the place, but they have lost their finesse. I've been served raw eggs today for the second time and the whites were so raw they were CLEAR. I sent them back and the cook seriously said " how does she want them cooked?" After the server told him they weren't cooked. I'm not picky, just don't want to drink them down like Rocky Balboa. My bf said at the end of the meal never again. The wait is long so I expect stellar food.
(2)
Nate C.
As a new transplant to the Lansing area, Soup Spoon was the first place that helped me to feel a bit more at home. It's a bit hipster, but not overly so. The service has always been friendly and quick, and there's a vegan soup option every day. Bonus! When people visit me from out of town, I make a point to bring them to Soup Spoon, and everyone has been consistently blown away by the food. Try the peacemaker sandwich...trust me.
(5)
Laela A.
Another unbelievable meal!!! By far, this restaurant has the best food in the greater Lansing area! Our wait-person (Lisa) was very accommodating, and Keith (the general manager) came to our table and answered a handful of questions that we had about the restaurant, and about the amazing balsamic reduction on the lamb shank. I had the seafood risotto, dad had the lamb shank, and mom had the voodoo pasta - we all truly enjoyed our meal.
(5)
Rachel F.
I really would give this place 3.5 stars, but Yelp makes you choose & I'll be positive. The first two times I went to Soup Spoon. I didn't love it. The food was mediocre and I didn't really want to come back... But then I did and I'm happy I did. We had to wait for nearly 2 hours for a table for 4, which was kind of miserable, but I was catching up with my dad and the bartender was unbelievably generous with his pours. They have a great bar so that alone will make up for the 2 times of mediocre food. Also the host was super apologetic about the long wait and gave us an app on the house. When we finally ate everyone was super satisfied with their meals. I had the short ribs and they we some of the best I've ever had. So tender and delectable. If you go get the short ribs, they were easily the best thing on our table. I think their dinner menu is significantly more well crafted than their standard lunch fare. Hence why I wasn't a fan during my previous visits. Nonetheless, I think they're doing their thing well, and a welcome presence in my home county.
(4)
Ashley E.
I'll be honest - Soup Spoon just isn't as good as it used to be. On recent visits I've been disappointed. Dine-in visits have had pretty lackluster service. It's hard to want to tip a server who behaves like you're lucky she's taking your order. Another visit I found hair in my soup - YUCK! Take-out is inconsistent. It's never been ready in the amount of time promised, and I'm never sure which side I'm going to get. I'll still eat at Soup Spoon, but only because I still appreciate the freshness of the food (when SSC is on, their food is fantastic). Bottom line: I wish that SSC would stop acting like a teenager who went from being a nerd to a cool kid and forgot all his old friends.
(3)
Graham D.
This is the best restaurant in Lansing/East Lansing - which isn't saying all that much, but it's something. Better than Troppo, better than Fork in the Road, better than Beggar's Banquet. I've been here for lunch and dinner and have never been disappointed in the food. There's typically a wait for a table -- which can be quite long on a Friday or Saturday night -- but it's usually worth it, unless you really have a hankering for the bland giant portions most Lansing restaurants love to serve. Don't miss the Asian braised short ribs or the Wraptor sandwich - and as many reviews have mentioned, the bread pudding is absolutely out of its world. Best I've ever had. Soup Spoon is over looked for its great alcohol selection. They always have great beers on tap (and often feature Bell's Brewing tasting nights, complete with a firkin) and also have one of the best cocktail menus in town. No overly sweet cocktails here - just classics like a well-made Sazerac (my favorite) or a proper old fashioned. The owner has told me they plan on expanding this more in the future, so worth keeping an eye on. Service isn't always the best but it's worth the wait. Wait staff is always friendly and the food is a good value for the money. If you're in Lansing and looking for a good meal, look no further than Soup Spoon Cafe.
(4)
H B.
There is not an over abundance of fine food choices in Lansing yet having the Soup Spoon option means we always have a great and reliable place for a wonderful meal. Reserve well in advance as the place is always full. We have been there with tables from two to ten. The service is great. Also like the decor and the beers. Worth a stop - and one of the best options in Lansing.
(5)
Tom L.
I have been here 4 or 5 times now and have had great food and service every time. The only inconsistent thing has been their egg poaching prowess. Today's were rock solid yolks, last week's were slightly undercooked whites and every other time has been perfect. Maybe I need to branch out to other meals instead of eating breakfast here all the time. The coffee is fantastic and is brewed to perfection. I'm looking forward to trying other meals here, but it is still my favorite breakfast place in Lansing (and perhaps out of the 6 states that I have live in).
(5)
Karen C.
We went here on a Friday night with a wait of around 45 mins. The prices of the sandwiches w/ a side cost anywhere between $6-12. The entree menu was quite pricey from around $16-30. I ordered the seafood chowder which was good but a bit on the salty side. I would try something else next time. I also got the cuban sandwich which was tasty but I've had better. I was looking forward to the side of coleslaw but it wasn't that great. Maybe a bit healthier since it didn't have a lot of mayo. If you're looking for a great cuban sandwich, go to Vincente's in Detroit. It is amazing! I would come back here just to try other things since they had a wide selection of sandwiches and soups. Maybe since it wasn't a cuban restaurant, I shouldn't expect much by ordering a cuban sandwich!
(3)
Tessa M.
This place is one of the best places in the greater Lansing area!!! They have healthy, yummy food. as well as non healthy yummy food. I go here at least once a week!! so tastey.
(5)
Jimmy P.
Some of the best soup you can find. A very laid back and easy going place, it is small but cozy enough to the point where reservations have little use. It is connected to a flower boutique. brunch, dinner, and lunch, are all four stars.
(4)
Val K.
Excellent breakfast but longest wait I have ever waited to eat. About 45 minutes from sitting to getting served food after ordering of course.
(3)
Sheena W.
Love this place! I live fairly close and it's an affordable healthy alternative to grab a quick bite to eat. Also a great place to take visiting guests from out of town. The ability to try the soups was a hit! The only reason I rate it 4 stars is because on rare occasions you can get an employee who isn't exactly as nice as you would expect service to be.
(4)
Champika F.
The french dip here was really delicious. I will definitely go back when I'm in town again to try other tasty looking things on their menu.
(4)
Michael T.
If I was with Jesus and wanted to show him a great restaurant, Soup Spoon would be the place. I'm really sad I didn't discover the spoon until my senior year at MSU. I've graduated now and miss this place every day. I think I brought at least 10 friends here and they all have loved it, as well. The food is unbelievable and I had a lot of great times with great friends here. We usually always came for breakfast/lunch after a night of debauchery. The staff is super friendly and they're doing great things. I haven't had a single thing that I didn't like. Big fan of the Seafood Chowder and the Cubano. It's hard to find a dish that doesn't sound appealing for Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner. A big thanks to Soup Spoon. You will always be a fond college memory of mine, and I will absolutely be back every time I return to the banks of the Red Cedar.
(5)
Barb K.
Absolute best pancakes in town! Skip that loud over rated breakfast place in old town and try Soup Spoon if you haven't already. Mmmmmmmmmm
(5)
Eliza M.
It seemed sacrilegious to not order soup at Soup Spoon. I followed my brother's lead and got the seafood chowder and it was tasty. The iced tea was very good--it was a little on the strong side for me but I liked that it wasn't sugary. I had the reuben (good and the horseradish-mustard on the side was a nice compliment to it) with cole slaw (just okay). I also tried my friend's wrap that had blue cheese in it and it was very good. Soup Spoon caters so I'm making a mental note that if I ever have to plan a shower/event in Lansing, this is a good option.
(4)
Jessica W.
I love this place! The staff are friendly, and the food is great. The beer list is fantastic (as an avid craft beer drinker, I am in love). The place, the people, and the food are quirky and creative. It's a unique experience that I really enjoy. I'll admit that at times the service has been a little slow, but given how good the food is and how nice everyone is there, I'm willing to overlook it.
(5)
Kate K.
I wish I could tell you this place is awful so you 'd stay home and not go there when I'm trying to get a table. But, I can't. Wow on the "real live no one makes them from scratch anymore" cocktails, wow on the french onion soup and tuna melt sandwich, wow on the coq au vin special the other night. I'm still thinking about the bread pudding we had for dessert, again, wow. Wow on the awesome breakfast menu too. Take even your snooty big-city friends there and they'll be impressed, I promise.Yeah. I wish I could tell you to stay home.
(5)
Benny V.
2014 Edit: These days the Soup Spoon is not at all a good time, or a good place to go. The waitstaff are all less than interested to see, serve, or chat with you. The food hasn't gone down in quality too much, but if you want to try it, plan to be unamused by the service. 2009: Soup Spoon was one of my favorite places, the first time I went. The food is absolutely spectacular. It's cozy, but a popular spot. Get there early, if you're looking to lunch. If you've a large group, call ahead for reservations.
(2)
Julie P.
To paraphrase Troy from "Community," if you could eat god, he would be potatoes dauphinoise from the Soup Spoon. And also Lemon Chicken soup from the Soup Spoon. That is all.
(5)
Michael A.
Great food, super unique. Tasty craft beers. Friendly staff. All the good stuff. Love everything about the place, except for the fact it gets a tad cramped at peak times. Parking lot is a mess.
(4)
Teresa K.
Awesome food can't wait to come back!
(5)
Bonnie F.
My husband and I LOVE the Soup Spoon Cafe! Their food is creative, unique, and individually prepared. Although we've had many tasty breakfasts and lunches there, the items that stand out the most are the seafood chowder and the bread pudding. The former is more like a bisque than a chowder and is world class - I honestly cannot image it being better. As to the bread pudding, it is also the best I've ever had and comes with whipped creme and a caramel sauce that is phenominal. They also have a very good eggs benedict, and for those chili-heads out there, request the ancho chili hollandaise.....yum. I relish their creativity as nothing is just garden-variety food, but instead, everything has a definite artistic twist to it. Highly recommend a visit to this little gem on Michigan Avenue. Oh, and I've heard rumors that they have recently added Michigan craft brewery beers. We haven't been there since before Christmas due to being out of town, but we are definitely looking forward to imbibing in some of their craft brews - assuming this is true! Keep up the good work, SSC.
(5)
Michael K.
Simply delicious, each and every time I go there. Perfect cocktail menu. They should be open on Sunday for brunch!!
(5)
Aaron P.
Great place! Nice people, nice atmosphere. Most of the time, the food is really good and the prices are fair for the quality of food you get. I definitely recommend this place. Good soup as you may have imagined. Don't like that they aren't open on Sundays though--the best day to go out for breakfast.
(4)
Jeff L.
This is my new favorite hangout when I'm in Lansing, I've been here twice and the food was fantastic, great sandwiches and soup, they also have a very nice beer and wine selection. Due to the students taken over golden harvest (sorry I'm not waiting an hour for breakfast) this will be my new go to place as well. It's worth mentioning the staff is very friendly and attentive, they'll make suggestions if you're unsure of something.
(5)
Bethycorn Y.
these two girls definitely need more than one cup (of soup). soup spoon has recently expanded, and despite our initial negative thoughts about taking this soup and sandwich spot to the next level, we're delighted with the dinner menu, full bar, and great michigan microbrew selections. the seafood chowder is so good we've considered buying out their stock to bathe in it. tomato basil gets high marks as well, and pretty much everything has been top notch (except maybe the chicken salad and some of their rotating, namely chorizo and mushroom, soups). and everyone's heard of beer flights...but soup flights??!?! yes please! really important to get here early--definitely expect to wait during peak lunch/dinner hours. service can be hit or miss. we definitely believe everyone to be well-intentioned, but there can be some lulls...even when it's not busy. but the owner is super nice and we generally like the people who work here. this place is really turning into a lansing institution. all kinds of interesting people drawn to delicious often-local reasonable ingredient food. they even have a killer twitter account (@SoupSpoonCafe) where they update their soup specials and upcoming menu delights. end of story, you should go to there.
(5)
Rachel L.
Mmmmm this place is good! It is such an unassuming place! i had this salami sandwich with pesto something. I crave it all the time now. It is probably one of the best sandwiches i have had in the EL/Lansing area.
(5)
Michael W.
Well tonight I went with the Veal and goat cheese sliders with a cup of lobster bisque soup. The soup started my meal and it was smooth and left me wanting more. But then the slider special came out. The sliders just melted in my mouth. Would love for everyone to give soup spoon a try and support such a great lansing resturant.
(5)
Meg H.
I have been three times, twice for dinner and once for lunch. If you plan to have dinner there, consider making a reservation. The place is small and popular. I had lunch there on a Monday recently, and because I was alone I sat at the bar. I'm not sure if it was a particularly busy Monday, or if Monday lunches are always that hopin', but the bartender was pretty busy. It appeared as though she wore many hats - waiting on bar customers, as well as a table or two (I believe), answering phones, taking to-go orders, distributing to-go orders, taking reservations. She could have used an extra hand. People were patient and understanding, as it was obvious she was busy. The food has always been great. You must ABSOLUTELY save room for the bread pudding. Amazing.
(4)
Jill M.
Always a great meal. I usually go for lunch, but dinner is just as good. During the normal lunch hour, you can expect a short wait. I have never waited more than 30min for a table. Try the Avocado BLT. It's my favorite.
(5)
Jamie R.
Hidden Gem. So many choices for such a small kitchen. Everything on the menu is worth trying at least once. Great place for breakfast. Service with a smile. Haven't been there for dinner, but menu looks amazing. Upscale food and service for reasonable prices. They have many local brews on tap. Yes, they also have a bar. The decor could improve, but the focus is surely on the food.
(5)
Elizabeth P.
Excellent food and cozy, non-assuming atmosphere. I got the french onion soup, salmon with dill sauce, and split bread pudding. I got enough for 2 meals (I took some home) for a reasonable price. All of the soups looked delicious, staff was friendly. I recommend this any day, but particularly on a cold or rainy or snowy one. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming. The bread pudding rocked my world - I shared it with 2 other people and it was so rich I felt perfectly satisfied.
(5)
Nelli T.
My favorite cafe in Lansing! Love the new bar and drinks too.
(5)
Jessica D.
Small restaurant emphasizing sustainable, locally sourced food. Nice updated menu and (I hear) good selection of beers. Service could be a bit better. We were there for a meeting, and our waitress forgot about refilling water after the bill was paid. Other than that, very nice.
(4)
David M.
Updated June 24th Last night we stopped in for a meal. We ordered the seafood chowder, the seafood risotto, a BBQ chicken pizza, and the special, a NY strip with truffle sauce. For desert we had the bread pudding. The thing is every thing was ok, not exceptional, well the seafood chowder was damn good. I was expecting and hoping for more. I would have written this off to an off night, but the last couple times we have been in for dinner we have walked out with a underwhelmed feel. So what specifically was off? I'll start with the special. The NY Strip was low on flavor, tough and the sauce was weird. Perhaps I'm not a truffle guy, but I do know that the thought I kept having was "why did I not stick to the plan and get the fillet? It is great." And pehaps my biggest irk was my medium rare was more medium done. This steak is disappointing. My wife got the risotto, she liked it and my daughter loved the shrimp (we share a lot). The taste I had was this Ok, the scallops had met the fate of my steak and were over cooked. The BBQ pizza was exactly what you expect. It was our safe order for the kids, and they nibbled on it. Finally the bread pudding. The flavor was spot on, the uncooked sugar, not so great. We wrapped up on a meh note. The service was good, the drinks too. Just doesn't seem Soup Spoon isn't able to achieve the excellence it once had. And when you are eating an underwhelming meal you think "why am I avoiding chain food again, at least I know what to expect." Original review. How have I not been here before? This place has great food. The kind you "drop money on and don't care" good. My wife and I shared * Seared Scallops Fresh sea scallops seared and finished with our Argentinean chimichurri and avocado * Maryland Blue Crab Cakes pan seared and drizzled with chipotle aioli * Filet Mignon Tenderloin of beef, seared and topped with exotic mushrooms in demi glace, finished with gorgonzola butter. Served with potatoes dauphanoise and fresh vegetable I had the Seafood Chowder - with shrimp & clams, and our daughter had the Cream of Mushroom soup and the Grilled Three Cheese & Tomato - choice of bread with sharp cheddar, gruyere, provolone and tomato. Also, I tried the French Fruitie Soda and our daughter had the Orange Cream Dream soda. Definitely worth a try! Its tough for me to say what I liked the most, the entire meal was fantastic. Things started off with the seafood chowder and they went and set the bar high. This is good chowder. It has all the right notes. Good seafood flavor, the right amount of potato, and a lovely warm down your throat that hints of spice, but doesn't leave you gulping water to soothe the burn. Our daughter's cream of mushroom arrived at the same time and was stellar. Next the scallops and crab cakes arrived were perfect. Very tasty, I ended up liking the scallops better than the crab cakes, but its like saying you like your free money in $100 bills better than $20 bills. The crab cakes were very tasty too. Just my preference. The Grilled Three Cheese (sans the tomatoes) arrived next. This thing is a healthy sandwich. It oozes cheese. If ever you had a grilled cheese with pride, this was it. Served with very crunchy, salty kettle chips and a crisp dill. Over all effect is a homemade grilled cheese with sophistication. Finally the Filet arrived. As we had agreed to split it, I agreed to medium (normally I am a med. rare kind of guy). It was perfect, exactly the right temp. I don't know which I am more impressed with. The flavor, or the tenderness. The steak left nothing to be desired. It was a tremendous way to end a meal that came out really strong. I will be trying to concoct my own gorgonzola butter very soon. So, grab the family or a friend or two and head over the the Soup Spoon Cafe. It will not disappoint. And one last tip, call ahead, a place this good is bound to be hard to get into. Menu: soupspooncafe.com/dinner…
(2)
Lizzie P.
Went here a couple weeks ago on a Saturday for an early lunch, it was delicious! We had to wait for about 15 minutes, but after smelling and seeing the food the tables around us were getting we decided to stay. I got the broccoli cheddar soup and a grilled cheese--both were great! The soup was so rich and the grilled cheese was cooked to perfection on Breadsmith bread.
(5)
Shaun L.
The food is outstanding. They have, hands down, the best soup I have EVER had in my entire life. You have got to try the chowder. Even people I know who do not like seafood love this stuff. Seriously I think they put crack in their food.
(5)
Blue B.
Love soup spoon, great during these cold Michigan days especially. Make time to go to Soup Spoon some time and keep an open mind. Some of the combinations are different that what you might otherwise encounter on bistro menus, but they really offer balanced flavor profiles, great service and attitudes, and good prices.
(5)
Russ C.
I love Soup Spoon, I try to at least once a week so I can have as many soups as I can. I always get the cafe combo when I go in, the bill is about $8 for a cup of soup and a half of any of their sandwiches. I love the turkey club, all the ingredients are so fresh and well put together on sourdough bread.
(4)
Louise W.
A big shout out to the Soup Spoon Cafe, because a) they're in my neighborhood and b) they serve locally-roasted Rudy Baggs coffee, which is easily the best in town. The place is small but warmly painted and decorated, and serves breakfast and lunch only. (I listed it as a diner because none of the other categories seemed appropriate, but it's not a diner). You can also just get a cup of coffee and a brownie, if you prefer. I haven't eaten here yet, but other local papers, such as the normally-unreliable Noise and City Pulse, have praised it for serving interesting, lighter lunch items such as grilled salmon. Please go and check it out. I want this place to survive.
(3)
Craig B.
I just moved to the Lansing area from Seattle and have begun to enjoy it alot!!! I live a couple blocks away from the cafe I now refer to as the "Poop Spoon". I have heard good things about this place and thought I would give it a try. In the past week I visited it twice and had horrible experiences both times. I normally would not wither about such things but I was left with a sour taste in my mouth, literally and whole heartedly. The first stop in was for a take home sandwich the Gardner or Farmer I can't remember, it is the sandwich with two types of carrots (misprint on the dirty paper menu from which you order from). I got the sandwich home and the bread was so dry and crumbly that it could not hold everything together to even consume, it turned into a salad with dry crumbly bread. The second time was a couple mornings later when I thought to stop in for a pastry and coffee... I walked in and the hippie guy with the 90's ponytail literally said "Good-bye" as he and his compadre sitting at the bar chuckled when I asked for soy milk with my latte. I am all for supporting local businesses and businesses in my "hood" along Michigan ave. but I like to be treated with respect and to think that my hard earned dollar is worth a little service and quality of goods. To say the least I will never be back in to enjoy any of what these other reviews experienced and will side with the reviews of distaste (at least the ones that remain and not the many that presumably have been removed at the businesses request).
(1)
Erich Z.
Still a bit pricey in my opinion, but the soups and sandwiches are very good. I prefer the spotted dog in downtown, but when I'm in the neighborhood Soup Spoon certainly isn't bad.
(3)
Gary H.
A group of six had dinner here. I had a Black and Bleu wrap with a cup of seafood chowder. Both the soup and sandwich were delicious. Three in our party had the beef stroganoff, and it looked very good. One person ordered creme brulee for dessert and shared with others. That was yummy, too. I can't wait to try this place for breakfast.
(5)
Kristin M.
The seafood chowder was fab. Has a lovely little kick of heat on the backend. Also had the Greek Tenderloin Linguini, which I enjoyed. Even the iced tea was exceptional - they add flavored honey. I definitely recommend this little gem.
(4)
Kuba B.
The Soup Spoon used to be my favorite place in Lansing but the last time I went here I noticed a significant change. For comparison, the first time I ordered a cheese plate here it came with fresh bread, fruit, and bunch of delicious cheeses. For a starter, it was pretty filling. More recently, however, I ordered the cheese plate and they served it with Club Crackers on a much smaller plate. Didn't even have enough stupid crackers to pair with the cheese. Second of all, all their nice wait staff is gone. The guy that served us smelled like cigarettes and made bad conversation with us the whole time. Not sure what spurred the change. I'll give them one more chance and that's it.
(2)
Steve F.
Have you been yet? I mean come on...you HAVE to go! The soups are fabulous...fresh AND hot! When I managed restaurants in Chocago I was trained to always serve soup hot. Soup Spoon Cafe understands many important consumer desires...fresh, delicious food, friendly service and menu variety. You must try this place. I was fortunate to be at the grand opening of their new space. Beautiful music provided by Linda Abar and Frederick Issac to entertain while we dined. Wonderful night. Thanks and I hope they continue the live music.
(5)
Mike B.
Great place to eat breakfast or have a wonderful lunch. The omelets are special in every way, staff is friendly, and reasonably priced. I always tell people about the Soup Spoon.
(4)
Kay S.
This is one of my favorite places to eat in the Lansing area. The food and drinks are excellent. While I don't get there as much as I would like, I have never had a bad experience there. The food is always fresh and hot and most importantly delicious! I have had a hankering for some crab cakes lately (theirs are some of the best I've had). I think it might be time to pay the Spoon another visit!
(5)
B K.
Although I may normally steer away from 5-star ratings, as this implies perfection...something that is very hard to attain, I really have to give this place props. The breakfasts I have been served at the Soup Spoon Cafe are simply outstanding, and easily the best I have had in town. The coffee is also excellent - served up by local roaster Rudy Baggs. The lunch fare, while it may not quite blow me away like the breakfast items - is still very, very tasty and quite excellent. The sandwiches are solid, composed of quality ingredients and emminently satisfying. I've only tried one of their entrees...the grilled salmon, and it was spot-on and excellent. Now that they are open for dinner, I may make a point of checking out some of their other entree offerings. Now the soups, as one would hope, are absolutely world class! You simply MUST order soup if you eat here. Wow! Rounded out by comfortable, relaxed and inviting interior and a friendly and sincere staff. A hidden gem of Lansing. Recommended!
(5)
Ed C.
I'm surprised I haven't already reviewed the Soup Spoon. They used to be a good soup and sandwich place. Now they are the single best restaurant and bar in Lansing. They have a breakfast on par with Golden Harvest. They have the best soups and sandwiches in town. They have lots of interesting dinner entrees that have meat, so I don't eat them. However, they serve their lunch menu at dinner, so that's no problem. They have great beer on tap and great wine by the glass, but their cocktails are what really stand out. You'd have to go to Chicago to find a better craft cocktail. My personal recommendation is the Dark and Stormy, but all cocktails are made with high quality liquors, house-made syrups, and high qualities bitters, garnishes, etc. They take their time and do it right. This isn't the usual swill blended with swill that even nice places in Lansing serve out. These are *cocktails*.
(5)
Bruce R.
Dropped by the Soup Spoon on a recommendation from a local while visiting from out of town. I went for dinner and found everything on the menu to be very inviting. I went with the shrimp and goat cheese appetizers, the chowder and, the hanger steak. Each one was a hit. I was in Lansing for two weeks and, I am sorry I found out about this place too late to make a second visit. It is important to note this place has a smaller dining area served by what appears to be a smaller kitchen - reservations are necessary but, well worth any wait.
(5)
Staci S.
Good food, great local beer selection, Awesome decor.
(5)
Jonathan L.
It is nice to step into a bustling cafe mid-day. There is an air of familiarity with the staff and the patrons, who are as diverse as the menu, from artists to teachers to bankers. They are gather here for the best food the Eastside offers. The menu is peppered with tastes from many regions. The specials maintain some seasonality, but the regular menu has some great standby's, which is what I order for my tween meal today: Voodoo Pasta. Perfect portion and spice.
My wife is a new professor at Michigan State and her colleagues recommended the Soup Spoon to her. We went there with our 7-year old son and loved it. I had the seafood risotto and it was really, really good. I'm a bit of a seafood snob, but the shrimp and scallops were perfectly cooked. My son had the seafood stew, which was also great. It's not a fancy place, but I would recommend it highly. A nice beer selection, too.
(4)
Tally B.
Best restaurant in Lansing by a mile. I moved here from Austin and was depressed about the lack of good food, until a friend took me here. I'd give 5 stars, but the service isn't up to par for 5 stars. I love their tap selection, but their wine pour is short, FYI. Call for reservations early in the day if you want to get seated during prime dinner hours. This is a great place to go if you have a few hours to relax over dinner and drinks with friends or on a date. The soup is all divine and the plates are all amazing and delicious. Like them on Facebook to get a daily teaser of their specials, soups and beers.
If based entirely on the food, I'd be giving this place at least 4 stars, but unfortunately there were some experience killers. Before I discuss the bad, here's the good. Everything was delicious. I ordered the Seafood Santorini, and my wife had the Pesto Prima Vera. Both of us agreed they were top notch meals. As an appetizer, we had the cheese plate. The cheeses were fairly mundane cheeses, so we didn't agree that it merited the 12 dollar price-tag. But cheese is cheese, and therefore was delicious. But the positive aspects of the meal were offset by the negative. Here's why: First of all, there was no air conditioning. On a hot day in June, consumers expect air conditioning. Secondly, the waitstaff seemed only moderately interested in helping us. When asked what cheses were included in the chese plate, she gave us some recommendations as to what they "might" be, but didn't have a conclusive answer. Finally, there was the decor. The resturant was mostly consistent in this regard, which gave us the impression that we were eating at a mom & pop diner. The menu's were of equally shoddy construction. All in all, this was a positive experience for us, but given the 58 dollar price tag and the otherwise consistent reviews that already exist on yelp, I expected more.
(3)
Debra C.
Wonderful food. I could have had one of everything, but then I would have had to pay for it all. Reasonable prices.
(4)
Tess K.
Following the Soup Spoon Cafe on Twitter has caused me to become nothing short of obsessed. Last week they Tweeted that the special was chorizo sausage and scallops in red clam sauce over linguine. We immediately left home and it was delicious. So delicious that I inquired what they were serving the next night (New Years Eve) when I heard one of the choices was shrimp and scallop risotto we booked our reservation. Again, the dinner was incredible. I took my time eating and savored every bite. The seafood chowder leaves me speechless. The environment is cheery and the staff is smiley and kind. Chef Nick is always available to provide wine recommendations and anxious to hear how you like your meal. I like how they engage the Twitter community by answering back or thanking customers for their visit. They are using Twitter to successfully create a caring and loyal community - smart. My friend and I are now studying the menu, prioritizing and planning future trips.
(5)
Tuesday C.
Yummo! We love this place. It is great for both breakfast and lunch. Only warning, everyone loves this place so it does get a bit busy sometimes. I don't eat meat and although they don't have a ton of options what they do have is awesome and I don't mind getting the same things! They have different soups everyday too that usually rock. The Greek island plate is delicious as well as the Pesto Prima Vera. The pesto scrambler for breakfast is pretty amazing too. The staff is very friendly and the atmosphere is laid back. Try it and enjoy!
(5)
Tami S.
Just finished the Baja Scramble for breakfast and it was fantastic. Tons of chorizo and the eggs were fluffy and moist. The avocado on top balanced the spice from the sausage perfectly!
(5)
Kendra J.
Sooooo good! Omelets are amazing and so is the beer selection!
(5)
Richard P.
By far perhaps the best restaurant in Lansing. Great variety on the menu, creative, knowledgeable staff, definitely worth going to. Having been in the hospitality business most of my career, I appreciate when it is done right. They even make their own bitters for their house cocktails Speaking of the cocktails, I can't remember the last time I saw a bartender slicing the twists to order. It's the little details like this that stand out. Enjoy!!
(5)
Jeffrey C.
Amazing! Every dish I have had here meets or exceeds expectations. With the new cocktail selection and diner menu they have gotten slightly busier making a bit difficult to get a table at times but the quality has remained making this a great stop in Lansing. If it's your first time the flight of soups may be the way to go, although you may become addicted.
(5)
Caitlin T.
We really wanted to like this place after seeing it had 2 of our favorite dishes on the menu. However, we left disappointed in the quality of the food for how much you spend. First I will give you a background story to what we compared our meal to. Ever since we discovered the Brass Cafe in Mt Pleasant a few years ago, we have tried to find our favorite dishes of theirs somewhere else with the same great quality. We have tried these dishes all over the US, including Hawaii, California, Washington and Texas. No one has come close to the greatness that is the Brass Cafe. Onto our dinner from yesterday. I agree with a lot of other reviewers in saying that it is confusing when you first walk into the Soup Spoon Cafe. Do you just stand there and wait for a hostess? Do you go up to the bar? Do you go into the other dining room? This seating process and the serving in general, need to be more organized. After sitting for awhile we had to wait for someone to take our drink orders, then she didn't even take our food order with the drinks when we were obviously ready. Since the husband couldn't decide on a soup to start with, we decided to do the Soup Flight with the Tomato Basil, Russian Cabbage and Pork, Seafood Chowder and French Onion. Even though these are 3 premade soups, it still seemed to take forever to get to us. My favorite one was definitely the Tomato Basil. The chowder seemed too fishy for me, but the husband liked it a lot. The french onion was alright, but the beef base (assumption) was overpowering and it didn't have much cheese on top. The Russian soup had a way too strong tomato broth in it, we both weren't fans of it. The Seafood Risotto was lack luster. The risotto itself didn't have much flavor. The shrimp and scallops were cooked well though. I ended up taking home most of it and added spices and more parmesan. Husband got the Korean style braised Short Ribs. These didn't seem braised at all. They didn't have much flavor and they didn't fall off the bone like you would expect. I would not consider the sauce Korean at all. Then they put the meat on top of curry rice so the plate was just a mish mash of different flavors and ethnicities. Our bill for one beer (B-Nektor Evil Genius which was good and different), the soup flight, seafood risotto and the short ribs came to $59 before tip. Definitely not worth the money. If we come back we will try their sandwiches in hopes that those will be better.
(3)
George M.
Great beers. Non chain hip local feel. Amazingly good food at terrific prices. I love the Korean short ribs, the seafood chowder, and the tenderloin salad. Great friendly staff. Prolly my fav restaurant in the area.
(5)
Moani B.
This is my favorite place to order out and din-IN at!!! I am not from around here and I do not like going to Big name places like Applebees or cheddars! Lunches are the BIZ!! I reccomend the Cajun Chicken Po Boy I believe it is called or the Beef Strog!!!! Dinner would most definately be the enitre menu if I had the ability to! but if I had to narrow it down, Lamb Sliders, Chicken Pesto Prime vera! Oh My!!!, Salmon and of course the Seafood bisque!!!There are no words!! Oh and dessert Bread Pudding aaaa yes Please!! The portions are great however it is a bit spendy :( All and all amazing place to hang out, people are usually nice except at dinner, it gets a bit crazy if you are dinning in which is understandable, but there have been a few times that we have ordered out by phone and when we headed to the bar to pick up our meals, we have been ignored and have waited for up to 5-8 min before even asked anything :( Other than that, It's all Yum!!!!!!
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Street, Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : No Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Rosanna V.
I found a gem in Michigan. The waiting staff is genuinely polite and friendly. I am impressed in Hirams ability to interact, serve and pack "to go" orders, with grace. The onion soup was tasteful. The service, even better.
(5)Stefanie D.
I was surprised by the large portions and the quality of the food at Soup Spoon Cafe, especially for the price! Service was a little slow but friendly. The wait was worth it. The shrimp voodoo pasta had a mild kick. If you're doing carry out, order ahead of time. My order took nearly 40 minutes and the place wasn't busy on a weekday.
(4)Paige H.
This is probably my favorite place in the entire world. From the days that I just turned 21 and would be so hungover on a Saturday or Sunday morning, I would head into soup spoon and guess what! FULL BAR! so that means I can get something with my breakfast or brunch to knock the hangover! WOO! Now, I have grown to just loveeee the food. Quality is wonderful and so many healthy alternatives. always, always, always, have to go back when I head back into Lansing from the Ann Arbor area, and thats saying a lot, with how great Ann Arbor's food is!
(5)Jordan P.
Great food and a nice atmosphere. Solid selection of lunch items.
(4)Nellie T.
One of my favorite places to eat while I'm in Lansing. They have a great selection of soups, sandwiches, salads, and fancy entrees. The only problem I have there is deciding what to eat - there's too many choices! Ugh. Good thing they have a great selection of beer and wine that you can sip on as you mull over your menu choices.
(4)Lauren A.
If you fancy delicious food, friendly servers, and a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, you'll probably like the Soup Spoon. If you don't.... Who are you? But seriously, their soups are (obviously) fantastic, but I also highly recommend just about any sandwich on their menu. Oh, and try the bread pudding. It's like swimming in a hot bowl of butter and angel lullabies. Lights out. Also, order anything that involves their homemade spicy feta spread/dip. Do yourself a solid and order some to-go while you're at it. Almost forgot to mention: BISCUITS AND GRAVY. Asiago and rosemary biscuits and gravy, no less. Simply.... yes. So. Much. Yes. Last tip: go for lunch! Their menu at that time is pretty much the same as the dinner menu, just a lot cheaper.
(5)Justin P.
Looking for a place to eat? Look no further because this place is AMAZING! Hands down best restaurant in Lansing/East Lansing. Many people told us to go here and after exhausting all of the other options, we said we would give it a try. The menu was huge for such a small place. One side full of entrées and appetizers the other filled with sandwiches and salads. We started with Goat Cheese Points, then my girlfriend had Seafood Santorini for her dish which was scallops, shrimp on a bed of orzo in a tomato sauce baked then finished with feta on top. Delicious! Mine was a BBQ beef brisket which speaks for itself. The waitstaff was attentive and timed everything perfectly. I cannot wait to go back to try breakfast and lunch!
(5)Omar A.
The soup is a must obviously. Tried three types and all were so delicious and warm. Truly home made. I don't think you can go wrong with any flavor. Get the soup flight! And the seafood chowder is my favorite. The small plates are actually filling. The lamb sliders are so good, reminded me of the lamb cooked home. The sandwiches are good for most part. But didn't like the burger. I felt heavy and not lean.
(4)Lea C.
Hidden gem near sparrow hospital. I had the chicken PO boy for lunch and then came back to pick up the Kobe burger for dinner
(5)Mandana Y.
With out any other place to compare, I'll comfortably declare Soup Spoon Cafe as the best restaurant in Lansing. Well, first, it was the one locals recommended to a group of us from out of town. Second, we walked in, fortunately with a reservation, on a Thursday night, into the most crowded atmosphere. Folks were waiting by the door, by the bar and scattered all over waiting for their tables. The decor, hipster/industrial/antique, is right up my alley. They have an open kitchen concept and extremely friendly staff. Their menu is creative and their drink menu is extensive. I want to say it's a plain and simple great dining experience, but designed with Lansing in mind. It didn't feel like a non-NYC town trying to pull off a NYC experience. This was Lansing, pulling off a great Lansing experience for its locals and out of towners. I just loved it and look forward to coming back next time I'm there.
(5)Randy A.
Wow!! Just had a splendid chorizo hot sandwhich at this place....everything was perfect....they make it all fresh..it takes some time,,but its worth it..props to the chefs.
(4)Alyona Z.
I came upon this establishment upon finding it on the yelp reviews. I was pleasantly surprised with how delicious and quick everything was. I ordered the smoked salmon eggs benefit and coffee and it was divine. The coffee is Rudy baggs which is a local coffee shop in Lansing. I appreciate the fact that they use local shops and local ingredients from farmers markets. Id highly recommend checking this place out.
(4)Tyra N.
Im surprised. Good Surprise! After a reality check, I wanted to sulk but reality bites so hard that sulking does nothing so I went for a bite. Yes I'm always this corny. My shock of this gem kitchen was not only because it's in my new hometown but because my friends had not invited me here. The service, decor and ambiance is on par with many midway eateries. It's not hype here though. They have the kitchen to backup the gourmet feel. I ordered the cuban (pork loin) with chips and the infamous bread pudding. My mouth was not ready. I have not eaten pork loin since 2001 and oh had I missed out. This was juicy and lean but very soulful tasting. The cuts were well proportioned. It was cooked just before well. I'm not sure what seasoning or marinade was used. The bread toasted and crisply, gruyere cheese melted and blended with my bread, onions and pork loin. This was a sandwich. I must learn to make this for my man, he won't ever leave me. lol syke he will I'm a bi... The bread pudding was worth writing home to Momma about. Not too dense or doughy, not too sweet, not too anything. Just Right. Magnificent. I shall return.
(5)Jordan L.
I didnt love the food. The wait time was long, not much seating available. It was ok
(3)Kaitlyn C.
I came here several months ago with a friend. I ordered the salmon wrap and he got some kind of sandwich. I am 99% sure I ended up with a mild case of food poisoning. I will not be going back.
(1)Denise G.
We were just delighted with our experience at Soup Spoon Cafe. My husband had the pastrami sandwich and I had the turkey. The recommended pasta salad was delightful. When in Lansing, we know you will enjoy eating here, it has that "neighborhood" feel!
(4)David H.
Came here while on business in Lansing based on user reviews and glad we did. Restaurant was very unassuming and close to the MSU campus. Menu was much broader than anticipated with a number of nightly specials. Full bar with many local brews as well as both local and varietal wines. There are a number of vegetarian and vegan options, we had the homemade lentil patty that was really great. The soup of the day and other soups on the menu were very good as well. What really set this restaurant apart was the service, from when you walk in the door to your food being delivered to the table was spectacular, I believe our server's name was Roger and he did a phenomenal job. Definitely worth a stop if you are in the area.
(4)Sasha P.
I LOVE the Soup Spoon. It is my favorite restaurant in Lansing and I have many fond memories of it. You can go to the Soup Spoon for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and never be disappointed. Or at least, I was never disappointed! :-) For breakfast, I love the Baja Scramble. It's scrambled eggs with chorizo chunks, peppers, onions, cheese, sour cream and avocado. Anything with chorizo and avocado is a true winner for me. I can't get away from ordering this dish! I've also had the Stacked French Toast and Gourmet Breakfast Wrap. Both were really good but like I said, I'm a sucker for egg scrambles! For lunch, I've had the BLT & Avocado sandwich, the French Dip and the Lamb Burger, listed in order of preference. All of these dishes were simply amazing. The BLTA is fresh and always filling. I love the addition of avocado on what I consider to be a traditional sandwich. The French Dip au jus is absolutely delicious and flavorful. The lamb burger is full of flavor and nicely paired with the yogurt mint sauce. For dinner, I've had the Braised Lamb Shank, Hangar Steak, Voodoo Pasta and Fresh Salmon. I truly feel like you can't go wrong here. The braised lamb shank is a popular dish. It's so tender and juicy, definitely fall-off-the-bone good! The hangar steak chimichurri is an absolute winner in my heart because I love chimichurri! The voodoo pasta and salmon were also very good dishes. I have never had a bad meal here. Sure, the wait for your food might be lengthy at times. But, to their defense, I understand because they have a small kitchen and lots of loyal customers. In any case, the food is fantastic. I love the Soup Spoon and vow to return whenever I am in town!
(5)Christina C.
I had great expectations when I came in to try this place, but was slightly disappointed. I thought that my veggie sandwich (the Gardner with wheat bread) was mediocre. The (French onion) soup was delicious, but was surprised at how small the bowl was. Overall, I thought the food was just average.
(3)Alex N.
Had the Jake's Pastrami - awesome! Meat was seared a bit on the flat top giving crispy edges to it and cheese. May be the best pastrami sandwich I've ever had. Great prices too.
(5)Jennifer T.
Excellent service and atmosphere. Great beer list and fresh quality food! Gets busy at lunch so plan for a bit of a wait. Welcoming and laid back!
(4)Emu Q.
Ate at Soup Spoon today for the first time and loved it! The naan pizza of the day was absolutely delicious and so were the sandwiches. I went with my family and was able to sample most all of the soups and some of the sandwiches. The chowder and vegan soups are both equally delicious. Our waiter, Roger, knew absolutely everything we asked and made some great recommendations. The service was fast and we really enjoyed our lunch. We'll definitely be coming back when we're in town!
(5)Sue K.
First time here and it was a great experience! I got the Cajun Chicken Po Boy w/ a side of kettle chips and pickle. The bread they use is so soft and so yummy. The kettle chips are really crunchy and compliment the sandwich nicely. It costs $8 but you can add a cup of soup on the side for +$2. I recommend the Seafood Chowder. It's DELICIOUS. Will definitely be coming back here.
(4)Tim M.
I'm writing an update to say: The soup spoon is hands down the best restaurant in the entire Lansing Metropolitan Area. It is miles ahead of it's fleeting competition. I have been going out to the Soup Spoon for probably the last three years now and in that period of time I have never had a bad encounter with the soup spoon. One of the really great things about the Soup Spoon is that if you want dinner for $10 then you can get an excellent sandwich (like the Kobe burger, the Kevinator, or the Cajun Chicken Po-Bo) and some pasta salad. Also, on the cheaper side of the menu, their soups (I've recently has the Clam Chowder, Lobster bisque, and French Onion) are absolutely fantastic. I also once had a smoked salmon salad for 12 dollars once and it was as a good as you could hope a salad could be. That said if you're not on a budget their entrees (which can cost between $20 and $30) are delicious. Last time I had the Beer Braised Brisket and Crispy Polenta. The brisket was super flavorful and simply melted in you mouth. I cut it comfortably with my fork. I dream of that brisket regularly (and my saying that isn't an invitation to the Texas-philes out their to send me BBQ hate mail). I've also had the goat cheese points and feta dip both of which were fantastic. Now that I've summed up how excellent the food is: Let talk about the drinks. the Soup Spoon is one of the only restaurants in town today that has an espresso machine. So the coffee quality is unrivaled as far as restaurants are concerned. Their liqueur selection is small but excellent and heavy on the scotch and absinthe. Their mixed drinks are done very proficiently and the the few times I've sat at the bar everyone has been very friendly with me. Their beer selection is good, typical craft beer selection, of 8 or so beers. Their wine selection though rivals that of the best wine bars in the area (Troppo, Tanin, Dusty's, and Zoobies). On one occasion, I had an excellent time sitting at the bar at midday with a friend drinking boozed up lattes. Soup Spoons servers are all well dressed, friendly, experienced, and knowledgeable. They can easily recommend wine/beer pairings and anytime I've ever seen an issue arise at the Soup Spoon regarding a customer the servers always have quickly rectifed the situation in the way that most benefits the customer. It used to be that the soup spoon was to small of a restaurant. It was almost pointless to try and go on a weekend night because there would be a serious wait so I used to just go on weekdays. But earlier this year they expanded into what used to be a neighboring florist, more than doubling their seating. As a result it's much easier to get a table. But don't get me wrong, they'll still be packed. And that makes sense; there is truly almost no where else worth eating out at in this entire town.
(5)Walt S.
Gourmet food at neighborhood-diner prices. The soups are superb, the staff super friendly, and they complete the package with an amazing beer-and-wine list. The breakfast menu is the most unique in town with lots of options you won't find anywhere else. Lunch and dinner also allows for adventures in food. No burgers at this place -- great food at really reasonable prices. My favorite restaurant in the area, even when compared to much pricier competitors.
(5)Kathy P.
I came here for dinner and thought so many things on the menu looked delicious! They really have something for everyone. I enjoyed a cup of soup (I forget which kind, but it was good). I ended up ordering the salmon, which the waitress said she loved, and so did I! It was probably one of the best salmon dishes I've ever had, and even my boyfriend, who claims not to be much of a salmon fan, agreed that it was amazing. Apparently they are known for their bread pudding, so we had that for dessert and it was yummy. Service was friendly, the restaurant was clean, food was delicious; overall a great experience. Now if only they had a patio... then it'd be a solid 5 stars for me!
(4)Eowyn K.
I wanted to like soup spoon café more than I did. The café itself is lovely and quirky. Large windows in the front allow plenty of nature light in. The café is divided into different sections. We sat in the first, decorated with shelves of mugs and windows hanging from the ceiling. Another section displays art work available for purchase. The service was friendly and all of the food arrived in a reasonable amount of time. The menu had several interesting items, but the name has soup in it, so I had to go with that. My friend and I each ordered the soup flight and shared the crab and avocado points. I had the (regular menu item) seafood chowder, Thai ginger, oxtail stew and pumpkin. The seafood chowder was good, very creamy, but not amazing, it was one of the two I did not finish. I did not like the Thai ginger soup. These are flavors I love so I was surprised that I did not enjoy it. I'm not sure how to describe it, the flavor just did not seem fresh. The oxtail was rich and good, I enjoyed it but I would not want a larger portion. The pumpkin was the star. It was finally the wonderful soup I wanted. It had a bit of sweetness, but not too much. We both scrapped the cup. The crab and avocado came on toast points with a marmalade. I did not like the marmalade at all. The overall dish was disappointing (part was due to the red pepper in the mix, which I hate, and may have been part of my issue). Based on the photos and other reviews I would go back and give it another chance.
(3)Karen B.
It's all good but whenever you are in doubt, just get the soup flight.
(5)Aaron M.
They have theeeee best brunch in town, plus a full bar, what's better?! On top of several soup choices, they have choices for vegetarians, vegans, and also an awesome selection of meat dishes. I love this place because it's so fresh and clean tasting, that's why I keep on returning!
(5)Kathryn G.
I have truly never eaten anything at Souo Spoon that I didn't enjoy. Everything on their menu is full of flavor and really fresh. I like that they use a lot of local, Michigan grown ingredients and feature beers from around the state. My all-time favorite item on their menu is the seafood chowder. A friend from New England told me it's the best chowder she's ever tasted. Sample their rotating soups and order a soup flight when you go. Some of the tastiest food I've ever had has been eaten at Soup Spoon, like their vegan Ethiopian stew. This is easily Lansing's most delicious restaurant!
(5)The E.
Do not understand the hype for this place. Food was OK, nothing out of the ordinary. Sandwiches are small and overpriced. Waitress did not smile once. Beers on tap are good.
(2)Aaron H.
It only took my wife and I 4 years since we moved to the area to try this place. Everyone told me it was the bomb and I must agree. Ethiopian chickpea soup was spicy and right up my alley. Their steak was fantastic as well as the rustic asparagus and feta mashed potatoes. My wife had Schnittzle and that was amazing too. Wish I had tried it sooner. I'll be back soon.
(5)Sarah J.
Overall it was okay. The bread/toast at breakfast is fantastic. However, I didn't care for the French toast with strawberry cream cheese that I ordered. The bread itself is good; the cream cheese is good but not together. Maybe I would have had a better review had I gone with basic pancakes or toast and bacon. The waitress must have had too many tables, even for a Tuesday morning. We saw her at order (which took about 15 minutes), food drop off and then for the bill. That's about it. The manager however was extremely helpful when I didn't care for my French toast, and had a new set cooked without the cream cheese. Maybe go back if I'm in the area but we only ended up here because Golden Harvest was closed for the day :(
(2)Shawn K.
Very tasty! The Lunch Ragu was delicious as was the Salmon. Our server Heidi and the other wait staff were very friendly. Will definitely go back and try the dinner menu next time we are in Lansing.
(4)Chris M.
Since Lansing and East Lansing are practically one city, consider it a college town. And college towns in general all should have a major breakfast spot. By that I mean a place which features home-style cooking but that also gets creative. At my alma mater the University of Oregon, the Glenwood filled that niche. Here, Soup Spoon does. I've known devotees of Golden Harvest who will take exception to that statement. For all I know, they are right. But the only times I attempted to go there, a line out the front door dissuaded me. Soup Spoon was usually crowded, but I could always get a spot. As expected, you could count on some version of eggs benedict. My version one time had trout, a first. And waffles, and omelettes, and scrambles. Soup Spoon does it all. Not once did they fail me. Hence, this review. When in Lansing, stop by. Boom.
(5)Catherine F.
This place was excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed everything we got (French toast, biscuits and gravy, and salmon Benedict) and will definitely be coming here again!! Also, the service was excellent as well!
(5)Bill F.
The freshest, most authentic food in the Lansing area. Salmon is devine, scallops were great, and draft beer selection is impressive. My dining partner visiting from Cali said "I haven't had food this good in Napa!"
(5)Rilke L.
Too bad they went downhill. This was once my favorite restaurant in Lansing and I highly recommended it to whomever I could. The Soup Spoon has gotten too big for their pants. Their manager Keith doesn't seem to care about his loyal customers or staff - he also just might have a lil Napoleon complex. When the Soup Spoon first opened, they were great. Was a loyal customer for two or three years. I'm the first to support local businesses, and believe in all things local. I've arranged large parties and had my family meet there for post-funeral and post-graduation gatherings - spent much time and money with business lunches/post work dinners/imbibing with friends there. Fast forward a year: last three visits the food was dreadful. Servings shrunk, and quality and speed suffered. The last time I ordered a sandwich, the meat portion was horrible and the bread was hard. I mentioned it to my server and she tried to make it right, but the kitchen and then Keith refused. I used to visit at least once a week but sadly I won't go there anymore because of Keith's inability/refusal to make it right. Sad - they were once one of my favorite restaurants. Keith pretended to be nice to me (albeit he was condescending and disingenuine) but was rude to his staff in front of customers. Despite my appreciation for the menu and the waitstaff - I will not return. Buy local - but go somewhere else.
(1)Cassidy S.
Had a nice time at Soup Spoon with six friends last week. We came for early dinner and had some drinks as well. My friend had come earlier in the week and recommended the soup flight, so that's what I picked for my meal. Ten minutes after ordering my server returned saying that the lamb soup was out, which was too bad, but I changed to the chowder. I also got a side of kale and swiss chard with garlic, as well as a Woxum to drink. Our seven-top was seated near the office door, which I didn't think would be an issue, but two gentlemen kept entering and leaving and my chair was right by that door. Thankfully the food was stellar! The cocktail was nice - herbal and dry. All the soups were delicious, though I got the eggplant parmesan instead of the chowder I had ordered. The lentil was a little on the spicy side. The pumpkin bisque was INCREDIBLE! I highly recommend this one for a fall selection. The side of veggies was a little heavy on the garlic for me but otherwise tasty. Overall, I was really hoping to return for Sunday lunch, but they were sadly closed that day. Next time I'm in Lansing, I"ll be back!
(4)John B.
Food is exceptional, prices are very reasonable. Our Waitress was very pleasant and the staff were wonderful and very courteous (even with our crying baby). We waited for over an hour after ordering. Make sure you set aside a large block of time if you plan to go there. I was there another time for a lunch and the wait time was similar. Great food though, everything about it is yummy.
(4)Wenbo X.
A simple little restaurant. I went for the breakfast, and it was amazing. A nice varied menu with everything you can expect for breakfast. The food portions are the perfect size. Large enough to fill you up, but not so large that you feel slow and tired afterwards. The service was also very good. I went right as they opened up, and there was already a good amount of people streaming in as I ate.
(5)Cristy C.
The first thing to know about the Soup Spoon is that there is always a wait. Fortunately, the overall experience is usually worth the wait. However, if you are disinclined to wait for a table, you can call ahead for a same-day reservation before 4pm that day. They have also very graciously allowed me to push back the reservation to a later time that night when one of our party members was stuck in traffic. The decor is interesting and artsy. The staff is friendly and professional. The food is tasty and decently priced (especially at breakfast and lunch). Another review called the vibe of the Soup Spoon "bright and fun" and this description is spot on. The bar seems well stocked with a focus on Michigan products. I usually just get a Soup Flight ($10), four decently sized soup cups (of your choice) served with bread. I always choose the French onion and seafood chowder and then pick the two most interesting of their soups of the day. Among the appetizers, the Greek Island Plate ($8) and the Cafe Bread ($8) are favorites among my group of friends. For breakfast, I have found their Gourmet Breakfast Wrap ($7) very tasty. At dinner, I have had the Mediterranean Risotto ($22) and the Voodoo Pasta ($17) and both were quite good. The Soup Spoon does what they do exceptionally well. Good food. Good service. Very popular.
(5)Stacey H.
LOVE LOVE LOVE this place! The breakfast variety is great & all of the lunch menu hits the spot. I've never tried dinner here but look forward to it! Try it if u haven't yet
(5)Val V.
Always Delicious! Always Satisfying! Daily specials are unique and unforgettable!
(5)Robert D.
Ok so seriously the best breakfast place I have eaten at in the area. I decided to get the Irish Scramble and it was absolutely delicious. It was so good that I ordered a lunch smoked salmon wrap and that was so impeccable as well. I had a Bloody Mary with meat which came with bacon and salami wrapped around cheese. My friends ordered the gourmet breakfast wrap, BLT with avocados and the southwest scramble. Seriously we all left this place with absolutely nothing but great things to say about the place. The prices were very reasonable and they use local products in almost everything they make! Don't be surprised if you have to wait in line but it is well worth it. Seriously EVERYONE needs to try this place out you will not be disappointed!
(5)Nicole M.
After going to school at Michigan State University for four years, my biggest regret is not coming to the Soup Spoon in Lansing until my last year there. Whether for breakfast or lunch, this place does simple, fresh food in the best possible way. Their menu has lots of classics but then takes them up a notch by adding some unique flavors. My personal favorites are their beef stroganoff with a creamy dill sauce and their bacon and corn chowder. Oh yeah, and being the Soup Spoon they definitely have fantastic soup. Trust me ,when you see their four soups of the day you'll have to get a soup flight because it is actually impossible to choose between their amazing soups. This is truly one of Lansing's gems, so you'll probably have to wait during the school months when MSU students are there but it is worth the wait!!
(5)Hannah S.
This place took us completely off guard. The term cafe is definitely used lightly here because this is for sure a fancy soup sandwich place. The staff were super friendly and the vibe of the place was very bright and fun. We were so close to ordering the flight of soups (sample 3 soups) but we wanted a tasty sandwich to go along side. We split a soprano sandwich, very tasty in that pesto, sun-dried, salami way. We also shared two bowls of soup (which weren't very big, but I knew they weren't cups) of french onion and the black eyed pea soup. SO GOOD. The black eyed pea soup was a sweet and savory special of the day, and a bit spicy. The french onion was super super ooey yum yum (that's the technical term, I promise). Surprisingly when our bill came it was a lot less than we expected it to be...so not sure how that happened. Maybe those really were cups, or someone miscalculated, but hey, yummy food for cheap right? Great view of the capital building if you're leaving at night :) Parking is a bit tight so heads up.
(4)Shelby L.
I'm gonna start with the things I don't like, because they're quite small compared to the good things. First, I've been turned away from this place at least 5 times. I've come at least three times for dinner only to be told the place was booked for the night. Once it was on me, as it was V Day, but the other times were just average nights around 6:30-7. I've also tried to come here a handful of times while it wasn't open. Also on me, but COME ON! I need the goodies! It's the only actually good restaurant in town so it's a bummer when I have to just say fuggit and go to beggars. The other thing I don't like is that this place may use healthier, higher quality ingredients and put more imagination into their food and actually keep up with food trends, but this place is really fattening and less vegan friendly than I was hoping. Very vegetarian and carnivore friendly, though. They clearly use a lot of cream, oil, sugar, mayo, butter, etc in their food. BUT, if you can look past that, the food is always tasty. I really enjoy their soups. I went there once and the waitress was really pushing the pumpkin soup on us. We all agreed that it sounded delicious but ordered other things and she brought out little samples! How sweet! And, let me tell you, it was AMAZING!!!! But it was not soup. It was dessert. It was pretty much pumpkin pie filling, and it even came with whipped cream on top. Heaps of cinnamon, too, which is always good in my book. I don't like to eat bread and I never eat pasta but my dining companions always seem to order pasta or sandwiches at this place and are always very pleased. Before I was a vegan, I had a bite of my friend's lamb entree special and WOW. It was cooked so nicely and just delicious. Overall, this place is very cute and has good food and a great drink selection. It's not a perfect 5-star restaurant, but you really can't ask for much more in the greater Lansing area.
(4)Shannon B.
We love this little eclectic cafe. The San Diego Benedict is to die for! My cappuccino was burnt but whatever. Service was really good.
(4)Lindsy C.
I had lunch at the Soup Spoon Cafe for the first time in December with my family. I had heard good reviews so I was excited to try it, especially on a cold day! We started off with drinks (Dark & Stormy) while we waited for our table. They were pretty busy, but the wait wasnt too long. My das and I had the lobster bisque soup, which we both loved! Highly recommend. I then ordered the smoked salmon appetizer as an entree, which I wasn't impressed with and do not recommend. The salmon tasted fresh, but there was something missing, it needed a kick! Service was okay. Nothing to rave about but the soup definitely was. I would recommend this Cafe and look forward to trying it again soon.
(4)Sarah B.
Really tasty well seasoned food. Unique to this area. The name does not do it justice. The service was good too!
(5)Janet F.
Visited Soup Spoon Café for a Friday lunch with several family members. Even though we weren't in any rush, the server left our table a couple of times telling us she would give us more time to order. It would have been nice to have her ask us if we'd like more time to order, as we were ready. I split lamb sliders and an Asian salad. Both were fresh and plentiful. The lamb sliders had a great sauce and were served on fresh, grilled buns. Better than I imagined. Several others ordered the soups. One family member ordered the soup flight which included 4 cups of soup and a side of bread. This is a fun way to try their amazing choice of 6 homemade soups. The seafood chowder has a slight kick to it, but not enough to keep those that don't like spicy food away from eating! It's my absolute favorite. The Reuben soup was fabulous! A tomato based soup with sauerkraut and corned beef. The Reuben sandwich was served with a side of au gratin potatoes. A nice change of pace from the usual chips or fries. Everyone was happy and we will definitely go back again soon!
(4)Megan K.
This review is long overdue. This is probably one of my favorite places to eat in the Lansing area. The restaurant is cozy and has sort of a warm, comfortable vibe. It's definitely not a pretentious or overly fancy place. However, the food and service are always awesome. One of my favorite things is the Dark and Stormy, their rum and ginger cocktail. They have a housemade peppercorn and ginger syrup that is to die for. Their cocktails are more than reasonable in price as well, ranging from 5-7$. The Cherrybomb Shrimp is awesome and I always get that. So yummy! I've eaten here dozens of time and I've never had a complaint with the food. The last time my boyfriend and I came, we each got two cocktails, the Cherrybomb shrimp, a Reuben sandwich, and the Kevinator sandwich. It came to $50 which is pretty amazing and everything was delicious. Highly recommend!
(5)Lisa W.
Food is awesome, service could be better. We entered to find a small line, which is okay. We gave the host our names and sat down to wait. My husband noticed two spots open at the bar so we went to sit down, the host yelled my husbands name very loudly saying NO, NO, don't sit there....we were both very embarrassed. I thought this was terribly rude to embarrass a guest like this. Why not just walk over to us and say, sorry these sets are not available...Very unprofessional. Our server was not any better. We waiting for coffee after asking several times. Once the waiter had the pot in his hand at the table next to us and still forgot to fill ours. I get the feeling as I do too often that places that have a following have given up on real service.....sigh...problem with that, we haven't been back.
(3)Chelsea S.
Fantastic place to eat. Didn't have to wait long and was able to drink coffee as I did. I didn't try a Bloody Mary but they had a variety of ones that sounded great. Ordered the goat cheese points to start out with and the breakfast wrap. Both were very delicious. Very friendly service and inexpensive for the quality of food.Best brunch I've had in a while!
(5)Tony E.
Really great food / amazing selection / choices / and the service was good. Clean and I like the ambiance a lot. I will be back with
(4)shara A.
I feel bad for these people who are giving SSC low star reviews. 1st of all, the place is called Soup, let me say that again... SOUP Spoon Cafe. When I try a restaurant, I'm going for what their famous for first, then I'll try the rest of the menu. French onion soup... *drops mic* I mean, how can you go wrong? No, the question is: what in the world are they doing to make everybody else's wrong. (tee hee) Seriously though, I've only been here a hand full of times. I don't care about the wait for a table... their french onion soup makes it worth it. I've also had the bacon avocado sandwich, the Ava, and the Soprano...Somebody smack your momma!!! My husband all but got up to kiss the chefs for his Cubano. Then they've got this tea they do something to... you have to ask one of the waitresses because it's not on the menu... raspberry? or maybe it was peach? IDK, I think they add crack to it, because it is DEEEElicious!! I can't wait to get back. (mumbling: who gives this place a low review? Sheesh)
(5)Synthia G.
Service was great and consistent. Food exceeded my expectations. Highly recommend the soup sampler. Crab avocado bites were delicious! Our server was really sweet and attentive. Very satisfied with this place can't wait to come back for breakfast!
(4)Tiffany M.
This place is amazing. It's hard to find good food in michigan after living in LA for 5 years but this reminds me of it! You have to try this place it's so good! I got the chicken sandwich with chipotle mayo.
(4)Rachel C.
I wish I could eat here every day! Seriously, their food is AMAZING. Always a good selection of beer, great apps and entrees and also great breakfast! Service can sometimes be a bit slow, hence the 4 star review but overall great experience.
(4)Rachel D.
Soup Spoon is one of the only restaurants in Lansing where you can rely on fresh ingredients and food that didn't come from GFS. In my opinion that's why everyone raves about it, not because of the actual taste of the food. I've been here many, many times but it's rare that I leave feeling like my meal was great. The sandwiches are typically the best in my opinion- the po boy is pretty good, I've enjoyed the geek wrap and the veggie wrap, and their lamb burger is all right. I would suggest being picky on the salad- the tenderloin is chewy and on every occasion that I've gotten something with avocado it's had a very strange consistency. I'm not sure what's up but it's rubbery looking and certainly nothing I've ever seen anywhere else. Their goat cheese points are great, and I love the tomato basil soup. My husband gets the Spoonipino often and seems to love it. If he doesn't get that, he often gets the special which is usually awesome. I will say Soup Spoon's redeeming feature is their breakfast. There aren't a ton of places in Lansing where you can get breakfast food that's better than diner quality. My only qualm is that they're not open on Sunday which stinks because my husband works Saturday morning, so he's never been able to come with! Finally, the service is so-so. The entrees come with bread and olive oil, but we seem to have a 50% chance of actually getting it. Some of the servers are awesome and on other occasions we've sat for 20 minutes after finishing and our table being cleared before receiving the bill. At any rate, I'll keep going because it's one of the best in the area. But I'll still keep hoping they'll do better.
(3)J C.
2 stars because, "meh, I've had better" is literally how I felt about this place. I will say this place has improved it's professionalism since it first opened. But I just don't think that the food is anything spectacular. I've never had their soup so I can't speak on that, but I've give this place multiple tries at different times of the day - Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner. I've tried their breakfast stuff, salads and entree style dishes. I think there's better food around, and for me, it seems like this place is living off the ambience more than the actual food. But if you want to take a work colleague to a trendy, non-threatening place- it's good for a lunch stop.
(2)Ashley M.
This lovely, cozy place was a perfect place for me and my main squeeze to find ourselves on an extremely frigid Friday night! The staff here was fantastic. The host advised it'd be roughly a 30 minute wait as we did not have a reservation. There was room to sit and it was no more than 10 minutes until we were seated. Our server, Corey was friendly and attentive. Curry Cauliflower soup was amazing! The Chorizo Chili my handsome date had was also. The dinner menu here is diverse enough to offer a couple vegetarian and vegan options. Would love to come back and try more very soon!
(5)Marc M.
In my travels, I find that the size of the city, nor the location within a city makes a restaurant "GREAT". While in Lansing overnight, I trusted Yelp to find that 2nd best restaurant. I say "2nd" because the more reviewed/known place has been featured on TV. Don't let the neighbor hood, exterior or even the interior fool you. Soup Spoon is a real diamond in the rough. My coworker and I came for dinner and had such a great experience that when we found out they serve breakfast, we came back the next morning! Interestingly, the two experiences were very different - both excellent, but the night crowd was more of a hipster crowd (it IS close to MSU) and the morning group was a mixed lot of old-timers and business people. At night they serve craft cocktails and draft beers. We were here on a Monday night and it was PACKED. In fact, there was a wait when we left at 8:30pm. A wait on a Monday night? In Lansing, MI?!? We sat at the bar and made conversation with the bar staff. One of the things that makes any restaurant good is happy servers. This team works together and appears to be having fun. The other thing that makes a restaurant good is the food, of course. For dinner, I had the french onion soup - to die for - and a hanger steak special. For breakfast :) I had the breakfast wrap. In the morning, we had the occasion to meet Nick, the owner. Very nice guy and I wish him much continued success
(5)Jenna H.
We had a large party of 27 and they reserved tables for us ahead of time. The service was efficient and very friendly. And lastly the food was fantastic. From stir fry, salads and to sandwiches every person was very satisfied. Thank you so much for the wonderful experience! If we are ever back in town you will see us again :)
(5)Michelle E.
We came here with our small kids which was our mistake. The food is very fancy for kids, (there is no kid's menu and mine aren't adventurous enough to eat a goat cheese frittata). They were kind enough to make naan with red sauce and cheese, a kind of 'pizza' for them, but my kids weren't fooled. I ordered the Kobi beef burger and potatoes dauphinoise. I ordered the burger without onions but they forgot. I was ok with picking them off but they did offer a replacement. My 3 stars come from the potatoes dauphinoise- which should have been delicious. Or at least hot. Instead they were lukewarm at best and congealed. The prices were a little high for what I ate.
(3)Chad H.
This place is really simple. Warm staff, great diverse selection of food, and excellent service. There is a small bar which has terrific artists and beers on tap, a great wine selection, and really good liquors. The seating area is, again, simple. There is plenty of lighting and a great host to help with the flow. The food was incredible! My wife got the macaroni and cheese. It was delightfully rich, well-balanced, beautifully presented. I got the sirloin and Gorgonzola wrap. Simply put, I've never had a "wrap" this good in my entire life. As with everything else, the balance of the ingredients was spot on. Absolutely everything we encountered was of the highest quality, with from scratch items that need you didn't need much of, because of the excellent, full flavors throughout.
(5)Kristin R.
We chose this restaurant because I'm vegan and it was listed on happycow.com . Besides a couple of salads, there was only one item on the menu which was vegan. It was a sandwich with a lentil patty. It was ok, a little bland. The waitress said they also have one soup everyday which is vegan. I tried the hot and sour vegetable soup. It was very good. The ambiance was nice - brick walls and nice paintings for sale. There is a bar on one side. Overall experience was very good and we will probably go back.
(4)Debbie G.
Friendly atmosphere, easy parking for downtown and amazing food. I loved the variety. My breakfast was tasty and the servers were always there filling my coffee. Excellent!
(4)Elizabeth D.
Third time's not the charm! Dinner a couple of years ago was fine but not memorable, lunch a few weeks ago was salty and greasy, and breakfast a few days ago was "meh, I've experienced better." I tried the classic Eggs Benedict. While the eggs were cooked appropriately, the Hollandaise sauce was flavorless. The side of potatoes was cold! And the side of homemade sausage was so dry... I really should have sent it back, but I soldiered on and ate the whole dry pattie anyway. One star for the coffee, which was fairly hot and good. And one star for the friendly greeter at the door. Other than that, there was no reason why breakfast on a weekday morning at 10 AM had to be that bad. They really did not have to serve cold potatoes and dry sausage. I don't know where the high rating is coming from, but my experiences here with the food have been very disappointing.
(2)Dani B.
I hadn't been to the soup spoon since the expansion and my mom wanted to go to breakfast so I gave it a whirls and found it all kinda disappointing. I tried the johnny cakes and my mom had the salmon Benedict. Both where poorly presented on the plate and while the Benedict was okay the johnny cakes could have been so much better. They tasted like a dry flavorless pancake when they could have been buttery,or better yet cooked in bacon grease. The salmon was over cooked and grey looking. The atmosphere was fine and the restaurant appeared clean and bright but noisy and chaotic ( it was a weekend). The menu is well presented and clear and the server was friendly and very capable. she earned the stars I was willing to give because the food was a zero for me. I feel bad giving such a poor review to a place I used to enjoy.
(2)Barbara R.
great place, delicioius and unique food
(5)Jessy B.
Amazing butternut squash and Apple soup! French onion was very good as well. The onions were well cooked and melted in your mouth. Was a little disappointed with the pricing on the "small plates". For $8-$12 each I thought they would be a little bigger.
(4)Mallory H.
Usually I come here for breakfast with the girls after work and the food is good/solid, nothing mind blowing, but I do really like the staff who are always friendly and fun. I've had the eggs benny, the Irish breakfast, the breakfast sandwiches and all have been good. The homemade jam is good but they're a little stingy with it. I've also come once for dinner and had cajan pasta and the salmon both were tasty and good portion sizes.
(4)J Michael L.
A casual, eclectic artsy place with jazz music. Recently expanded (doubling space) next door, but still awaiting liquor license there. Loved the seafood chowder, but I'd rather have seafood gumbo or the Fisherman's Chowder.I'll ask for a flight of soup next time. ($10). French bread should arrive warm or freshly toasted - better for dipping in the olive oil & spices. LOVE the in-house smoked salmon. An amazing selections of wine and craft beer at its best. And someone locally roasts their coffee fresh every 7 days. Stop in on Saturday mornings for breakfast/brunch and you can meet the coffee roaster.
(5)Linden B.
My girlfriend and I have both worked in restaurants the majority of our young adult lives and our empathetic to what goes on behind the scenes. We literally never complain, but this was the worst experience we have ever had. We spent a total of an hour and a half waiting for our food (breakfast food should only take 10-15 minutes max). We watched five other parties who arrived after we had ordered get there food before us. After an hour or so we complained,we could tell they then began to make our order because the kitchen is open and you can see what is being made. My baja scramble was more like a shit pancake and my girlfriend's yoke in her eggs benedict was the same consistency as a golf ball. We were extremely patient and polite, a manager of sorts came and gave us a half hearted apology and justified the wait by claiming they were busy. Unless they were feeding half of china out of the back of the restaurant there is no way it takes an hour and a half to get through breakfast orders when your restaurant only seats 50 people. I've seen full coursed meals for a 50 person party be cooked faster (with well done steaks). The manager then took off a whopping $10 which was a 12% discount. I just want my 90 minutes of my life back as well as the time it will take to poop out the food.
(1)Jasmine D.
We had lunch around 2pm on a Saturday here. Took about 25 minutes to sit us. It was packed. Nothing special going on in the area either. Our server visited our table 3 times. To take our order, bring our food and fill our water once. It is a cute restaurant. The French onion soup was delicious. My bf had the firecracker shrimp pasta and enjoyed it plus he said the lobster chowder was awesome. Too bad it took an hour for our food because it was a set back to the entire day. We would eat here again but only if the wait time is significantly less.
(4)Richard K.
For lansing, the food was good, but not great. I expected more. Atmosphere is poor and food could have been prepared better. Also, the server didn't inform us of specials and I had to request bread. Please renovate your decor soup spoon!! I can't justify paying $20 for a dish when I feel I should be ordering a BLT.
(2)dawn v.
Thank You Yelpers! NEVER would've stopped. A place called Soup Spoon, especially looking like nothing from the outside! Who knew they made their own homemade mixers for cocktails???? (The Stormy cocktail is made with their own ginger syrup and packs quite a kick.. And only $4 during happy hour??? Steal!) I'm not really a soup girl tu the Yelpers aren't lying. Don't come here and not get soup. Other things are good too but the soup is like heaven in a cup. The pumpkin bisque is like nothing we have ever had before. A cross between soup and pie. Seafood chowder is obviously something they perfected a long time ago. Total bill for two soups with salads and a cocktail was $20. (Try the shrimp alas.. Big plump shrimp with a kick)
(5)Amber V.
pretty good food. i would like a little more vegetarian and/or vegan options on the menu. overall, good service and very decent food. especially for the area.
(3)Sam B.
By far one of the best restaurants in Lansing area. Great breakfast and lunch. Food comes out hot and the beer is on point.
(5)Danielle B.
I wish I could give places 1/2 stars, I would have given this place 3.5 because it has fantastic potential to be 4 stars. Maybe it is what I ordered but when I went, I got a cup of the shrimp soup and it was salty, and I am the person that SALTS my food DAILY and it was just a tad bit salty for my palette. I also got the hangar steak, which I received cold and was slightly chewy. The hangar steak was with a chimichurri sauce which was good and the asiago mashed potatoes were just okay. I don't remember the service--which can say something all in itself. This is a good place to try though if you are in Lansing though, there aren't many places like this in Lansing/EL in comparison to Ann Arbor.
(3)Janet C.
Good food. Some of the waitstaff are snotty.
(4)Nick B.
I can always count on Soup Spoon for a great dining experience. Their focus on maintaining imaginative specials, local produce, quality beer selection, old style cocktails, and good service sets them apart. Portion sizes are sometimes huge, which when you add quality is dangerous. It's way too easy to overeat and miss one of Soup Spoon's best features - dessert. The bread pudding is addictive and the goat cheese cake has become a favorite. One of their largest problems has been wait time for seating, given folks tend to linger here. The recent expansion to the space next door has really helped.
(5)Alessa T.
This place is wonderful! Farm to table style restaurant with great cocktails as well as superb food. Menu has wide range of pricing too. Great atmosphere and friendly staff. My favorite place in town.
(5)T D.
I need 2 update my review. Accidentally I hit "very bad". Definitely not what I meant. I love this place & their food. Just food & waitress (new??) was not up 2 par (for them) last visit. I will continue 2 go there. Hopefully it was just a one time thing. Sorry 4 the confusion. Luckily someone PM me & asked. Thx Tim. :-). Newbie mistake. Sigh.
(4)Ron K.
Three of us decided to stop and sample the soup. Two of us have gluten allergies and we asked the server to verify which (if any) soups were gluten-free. She was gone for quite some time and another server was asked by a table of six that same question, he responded with the gluten-free soups without leaving the table. Our server finally returned and informed us that two of the soups were GF and I told her that I heard the other server rattle off several soups that were GF, she furrowed her brows and told us that the soups in the kitchen are labeled if they are GF and she saw only those two. The server definitely needs a personality injection.....Brrrrrr.... Oh well. 'Nuff said 'bout that. My Chicken Tortilla soup was fully absorbed into the tortillas when it arrived leaving absolutely no "soup", it was tasty and spicy but I've always enjoyed the crunch of the tortillas when I eat this soup. Not so this time. Just a mushy, thick quagmire. I also had a small Smoked Salmon salad and it was certainly prepared with delicious greens, not a bit of cheap iceberg lettuce. The only negative was the Salmon did not have the "mud vein" removed prior to cooking. I've been a fisherman all my life and when we filet our catch (mostly Walleye), one of our tasks involves the stripping of the mud vein. I believe this omission contributes to many peopple turning their nose up at fish offerings in restaurants. My companions enjoyed the Tomato Bisque (I think it was titled that way). We were seated at the very back table in the bar area and the 'Office' door was adjacent to our table. Frequent in-and-out activity through that door is very disruptive to diners that are seated so close. The entrance to this joint requires negotiating a couple of concrete steps that are definitely not designed for safety and convenience. The "rise" is very steep and there is no landing area in front of the door. Prices were fair. Is it soup yet?
(3)Liz A.
this place is just ok. i honestly don't get what they're doing with their atmosphere. i can't figure out if it's trying to be upscale (based on the waiters' level of formality) or not (based on the fact that it feels like you're in a middle school cafeteria). mixed drinks are like something out of a bad episode of bar rescue. the food is ok. i think they're trying to be creative but nothing really seems to go together, nor is it memorable. they are very friendly and wanting to please, i will give them that. i just never really feel like it's worth the money.
(3)Anne-Marie H.
It's a busy Friday afternoon, right before graduation. We expected to wait for a table, even at 1:15 pm. We didn't expect to wait 37 minutes for our food - sandwiches and chips - once we had ordered. Sandwiches were all cold when they arrived. Cheese was that congealed greasy gelatinous goop that had long since been cooked and served. Honestly: I get "busy," but this was really bad planning. The tomato bisque was awesome, though. I'd think hard about coming back here on any day when it was supposed to be busy. Maybe a random weekday during the summer will be better.
(3)A C.
Every time I've been here, the food has been amazing. It's too bad the place is getting so popular, yet it's a small place & sometimes understaffed. So there is usually a wait, either to be seated, to order, or for your food. But that's also a testament to how good this place is. Wonderful vibe & amazing food.
(5)Huyen V.
Decided to give this place another try Went here for breakfast the other day. And thankfully was seated not facing the kitchen haha. I got the biscuits and gravy which was very flavorful and pretty good. It also came with an egg on top which was basically raw. I could not eat it due to the fact the whites were not even cooked at all still clear and jiggly like how it came out of the egg. The bf ended up getting pancakes and bacon which were good. I would probably just come back for the biscuits and gravy the bf definitely liked them a lot. Service is usually good. And prices are average $7-12.
(3)Darren B.
We go here often on Saturday morning for breakfast. I am trying the whole menu and so far I give everything A++! I am uploading a photo of my food today and I will try to add photos as often as I remember. The service has always been acceptable especially considering how busy they are and you can call ahead for a reservation which I highly recommend unless you like waiting for a table. It's busy for a reason, the food is pretty much the best in town and most people know it. If you haven't yet been here try it for breakfast. I have had the lunch once and dinner once as well and I haven't been disappointed. I don't think you will be either. The food is different, but try it!
(5)Chelsea S.
Soup Spoon is one of the must-hit places I stop when I come back to Lansing to visit family. Great for both breakfast and lunches it is an awesome place that has become known in the city for good eats. Prices are very reasonable, they now have their liquor license, they have several Michigan beers on tap, their soup changes daily, and their menu is extensive. Decor is charming and space has increased so the wait is not as long. However, you can sometimes end up waiting a time for your food as the kitchen is small, and open so you can see what is going on. Service is friendly and attentive. Though they have good soups some are misses. I still love trying one of their uniques flavors as they are anything but ordinary. Their sandwiches and salads are great and you can create your own combos at lunch which I love. Their breakfasts are so good, featuring several omelets, scrambles, sandwiches and benedicts. I have tried several of them but continue to come back for the Yooper Benny. I think I love it for its originality and local fish that I can't get back in Seattle. The terragon aioli is sometimes a little too thick in my opinion but pairs very nicely with the fish and eggs. Their house potatoes are really good and their side salad option is also very delicious and fresh with a very nice house balsamic dressing. Their coffee is decent but refilled often. A local favorite and a true gem in Lansing!!
(4)Neha M.
Great brunch and breakfast place near Michigan State University. The waitress who served us was very nice and helpful. I ordered a Greek Omlet with potatoes and wheat bread. The food was amazing and very filling. :)
(4)Christine K.
Came here for lunch. I had the seafood chowder. A little disappointed... tastes like your average lobster chowder soup. I had their specialty sandwich. Though it was kinda greasy, it was good! I ordered some kind of salad as a side and was surprised when I received a coleslaw... kinda deceiving. Their interior design is however spectacular and makes you feel good as you eat. I would give the meal I had a 3star, however our server was excellent. She did a good job in splitting our meal into separate plates and making sure our water was always full. Very friendly and always checked in on us. Will be back to try breakfast and dinner!
(4)Esther G.
Best breakfast in town, period. None of that cheap, greasy diner stuff that's everywhere. That was nice for college and a few post-college years, but now I try to stay away from them for the most part. Quality dishes at a great price. I have visited here for lunch a while back and remembered I wasn't too impressed, but the breakfast is done to perfection. It's divided into cafe specialties, eggs/omelets and sammys. Everything sounded great (my friend vouched for the pesto scramble) but I settled for Allan's smoky scramble -- two eggs scrambled with smoked salmon, applewood smoked bacon, green onions and tomatoes drizzled with smoky ancho pepper hollandaise. I was most worried about the hollandaise, that it would be overpowering but it wasn't. It was mild. It was served with cafe potatoes (smaller sliced/seasoned potatoes) and toast with what tasted like homemade jam (not so sugary or syrupy). I was a little hesitant when my food was presented. At some places, the food is served on a giant plate, and that can sometimes be deceiving. It looks like there's a small portion of food. Here, I had the opposite problem. It was like everything was stuffed into a small plate, so I thought there wasn't enough food! But the potatoes were kind of underneath the omelet. This was fine for eating it all together (maybe it was intended that way?), but it did say the potatoes were a "side" item. Not heavy nor greasy, just really well executed. If there's another breakfast place better than Soup Spoon, I wouldn't believe you, but by all means, let me know. Another thing to love about this place: Their giant beer list is all Michigan beers. My only beef is that they should be open for Sunday brunch! I feel like they're getting a giant chunk of their business taken away by not opening at that time. Also, I know people complain about the wait, but we must've lucked out. Saturday before noon, we were seated right away.
(5)Jill P.
They have a lamb burger that is amazing! I've been here at different times and on different days and if there is a wait it has been reasonable. The food is consistently wonderful. My husband and I try at least one new dish every time we go and have been very happy with everything. It is not the best place for young kids that are not into trying new things. My 10 year old loves the 2 kinds of naan pizza he's tried so far and keeps asking to go back. My 8 year old is more picky and won't pick anything, we just order what we want and encourage him try some of it. The best item in my opinion is the bread pudding. I've ordered bread pudding at almost every restaurant that has it in search of the perfect one and this is it. I won't bother ordering it anyplace else, Soup Spoon nailed it.
(5)Dan N.
This is now a MUST stop every time I'm in the Lansing area. Two reasons why I always stop: 1) Seafood Chowder--maybe the best chowder you'll ever have (at least in the Midwest) 2) Moscow Mule--I've tried without any luck at all to create their magical pepper/ginger infused simple syrup--fantastic drink! Beyond that, everything that I've ever had at Soup Spoon Cafe has been not only delicious, but also unique. Great little spot in downtown Lansing!
(4)J H.
Went last weekend, late lunch. Menu looked good, got the salmon on lunch menu, friend had beef cabbage soup and Greek salad. Salmon was just okay, too much sauce that left the rice swimming in excess sauce; also was more undercooked than I would have preferred. The soup was very excellent and so was the salad. Good Bell beer selection. I would like to come back again and try breakfast as well as the dinner menu. Interesting art work on walls, definitely a conversation starter. Ambiance was just okay.
(3)Penandra P.
A delightful little restaurant and just perfect for a cool autumn day. The seafood chowder is delicious. The pumpkin soup could be dessert. Staff is very friendly and service is quick. Prepare for a short wait if you come at lunchtime. But you can get right in if you're here at 11:30. A treat to find this place.
(5)Meraki G.
Had a couple really great meals here and the staff and atmosphere are nice. Can be crowded and tough to get into though.
(5)Betsy C.
Great soups. A little pricey I think and have had sandwiches that weren't that impressive but the soup is always a safe bet.
(4)Renee L.
Ordered the standard breakfast two days in a row. Day one was perfect! Hot and delicious! The second day was less impressive. The eggs were overcooked and the potatoes were served just warm. My toast included the heel of the bread which I found interesting.
(4)Jessica S.
Pssst, Lansing-area Yelpers. I've got a secret for you. The best cocktails in town are at a cafe known for breakfast whose name sounds like a lunch deli. The Soup Spoon has a lovely list of classic cocktails available, including the Old Fashioned, the Pisco Sour, the Moscow Mule... pretty much everything that you'd find in a lushly illustrated cocktail book. The kind of drink you'd like to try at home, but just didn't want to clean up after. And everything from proportions to garnishes to presentation is simply done correctly. It's an art. Many of the mixers are made from scratch. The Soup Spoon's house-made ginger syrup (used in their well-known Dark & Stormy) will kick you in the mouth in a good way - spicy and satisfying! If you're not drinking alcohol but love some zip, they'll mix a ginger ale out of it too. The printed cocktail menu doesn't stray too far from the classics, but the bartenders are always experimenting with new things. There are some awesome seasonal drinks - keep your eyes open for them. And beyond the mixed drinks, the beer selection is TOPS. Other people have covered the pros and cons of the food (love the lamb sliders) and atmosphere (be prepared for a wait), but the bartenders deserve some love. If you're searching for a craft cocktail bar in Lansing, you might actually be looking for a Soup Spoon.
(5)Gabriela G.
I almost didn't come here on my trip to Lansing-and that would have been a big mistake!!! This place is awesome! Probably one of the best meals in Lansing, possibly in Michigan. Atmosphere is diner-style. Cheap tables and wooden chairs (they probably bought from the Amish). Really ugly amateur art on the walls. The bathrooms are lime green, Amish-country-feel with copper candelabra, wicker furniture and plastic flowers. They have between 5-8 soup options. The ones on the menu and the specials on the blackboard. My waitress, as well as the young man who seated me (Keith: the manager), were just friendly smiles all around and super positive energy. I ordered the salmon salad and a cup of their Ethiopian Stew (one of their specials and it happened to be vegan): SCORE! Super tasty, full of greens and protein: chickpeas, green-peas, chunky tomatoes and carrots in a delicious broth. Salmon salad was best salad I've had since I've been on the road. I switched out the raspberry vinaigrette for balsamic and added dried cranberries for a hint of sweetness. When it arrived I was slightly concerned since the salmon was cold and brown and looked more like a chicken cooked badly but once I broke up the salmon into little pieces it was he perfect shade of orange and the taste was super smokey and flavorful. Manager checked up on me from time to one to make sure I was enjoying my meal. I came at a good time since they seem to have a bit of a wait for a table. Young kitchen and staff. Open till midnight. They serve alcohol. Really varied menu for all tastebuds from the all american PoBoy sandwich to a gourmet scallop entree. From a hearty, healthy soup and salad to a heavy creamy meat-fest. Plenty of street parking and side private parking adjacent. Prices are fair for quality and portion. My server(Jessica) was stellar!!! If they had this restaurant in LA I would be a regular customer! Even if placed outside of the limited Michigan food options it would hold its own as a great meal, great service, great ingredients for a reasonable price. I'll be in Grand Rapids for work next week again, might be worth the 1hr drive to Lansing just to eat another meal at Soup Spoon Cafe.
(5)Cameron J.
Wow! Just in town for a few days and glad I gave this place a chance. Had the Smoked Salmon Benedict which was delicious and just the right portion. Another person in my party had the Gourmet Wrap and I was surprised of the presentation. He said it was amazing. Overall, this place is a must when in Lansing.
(5)D D.
Driving from Niagara Falls Canada back to California. Hit Michigan and we needed to eat. Checked Yelp and found this place! Amazing great soup and a great sandwich. If you are checking Yelp this place is a must!
(4)G G.
We love this place!! The food is always great and unique! I am so bored with all the chain restaurants. They always change up the menu so there is always something new to try.
(5)Andy B.
I've only been here for breakfast, and was extremely underwhelmed. The food was a combination of soggy and burnt, nothing was cooked right. I've been meaning to come here for dinner, but thanks to everyone posting pics of their "yummy" mains, I think I'll pass.
(2)Ryan D.
This was once my favorite place to get breakfast in Lansing. Lately, however, they have really been slipping. Some of their staff is great, some of them are not. How good of a dining experience you're going to have depends entirely on which group of employees is working on that particular day. One week, I would be waiting around forever to be seated, while there were open seats at the bar, because the staff was so disorganized, the next week the staff that was in was spot on and perfectly organized. One week, the food coming out of the kitchen would be sloppy, and careless, another week it would be put together with care and perfectly made. The lack of consistency, as well as some of the newer restaurants that have opened in the area has taken Soup Spoon out of my regular rotation.
(3)Michael K.
I've never had a meal here that I thought was anything other than great. The food is always good and the service warm. That said don't expect a fast weekday lunch here; the food comes out quickly, but there is always a line. Even when showing up either before or after typical lunch times you'll be waiting for a table.
(5)Meredith B.
Lansing's food scene is generally crap, and is in desperate need of more places like Soup Spoon Cafe. Being an urban snob, I was skeptical at first, but I see what they're trying to do here and I respect it and I hope they get even better and more popular as the months pass. You would never expect to see this menu here. I assumed it was a breakfast and lunch place based on the name, but they serve a surprisingly smart dinner menu and a nice beer/wine list. The owner and servers are pleasantly hipster, they are also friendly and knowledgeable about the food and drinks, which is a good sign. We had a nice bottle of wine at our server's recommendation, and struggled to pick entrees from all the great sounding options. I went for the Seafood Santorini, which is described as follows: "Shrimp and scallops sautéed with garlic, dill, white wine and tomato, finished under the broiler with breadcrumbs and feta cheese. Served with Mediterranean orzo." That is everything I love in the world right there. I also asked for a side of veg, which I'm not sure was on the menu, but they were kind enough to give it to me anyway. It hurts me to say I didn't love the my entree. The seafood was nicely cooked, particularly the scallops. I don't know what the deal was but texturally, it did not work. Breadcrumbs got soggy in no time, and the whole dish developed a mealy consistency as a result. The subtleties of the flavors listed in the menu like garlic and dill were not apparent. My parents and grandmother loved their food. They were happy and raving about all the wonderful components. Was my dish just not a great one? Or has living in Chicago turned me into some kind of snob-beast incapable of satisfaction? I can't say. However - I do think they are on to something here. All the dishes sound excellent and no doubt can be prepared deliciously. Perhaps some need a little work (including mine) but others are perfect. I'd say it was absolutely worth a stop and is one of the most unique places that Lansing has to offer. I would love nothing more than to see a whole street of restaurants like Soup Spoon, casual, friendly establishments with fresh ingredients and creative menu items. Maybe I just got unlucky. But I have a good feeling about them and I guarantee I will give them another shot.
(3)Cathy B.
Just finished eating here. Food was excellent and beer and wine list were very complete. Soups were superb. Service was outstanding from those who seated us to smiling Jessica who made our visit so wonderful. Can't wait to make trip back for another delightful meal
(5)Wayne P.
I had the blackened swordfish special and my wife had the Hanger steak and both were fantastic! Logan waited on our table and he was great! My wife said that she liked white zin but it wasn't on the wine list...Logan said"no problem, I'll make one" and it was outstanding! That is the type of service that you get at Soup Spoon! We'll be back!
(5)Whitney C.
We wanted to find a new soup place and this hit the spot! All choices on our soup flight were delicious. The specialty pumpkin bisque was a sweet and delightful surprise. The crab cakes had good flavor and the sauce enhanced the dish instead of over powering them.
(5)Joe G.
Really yummy Cafe Stroganoff with fresh mushrooms and wild rice plus the Greek Linguine pasta. Excellent comfort food, with flare. Excellent service, too. So good we're going back tomorrow!
(5)Pacita R.
This is a great place to eat anytime, any day. I come here often and have tried their breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu. All were delicious. It's an excellent go to place when you're looking to eat something delicious and sit in a great atmosphere. You're guaranteed to eat something tasty almost every time. Their alcoholic beverages are also on point, shout out to the amazing bartender. Expect a bit of a wait on weekends but as one of the few good places to eat in Lansing it's well worth it.
(4)Will K.
this is where i had the best steak of my LIFE!!!!!! ribeye smothered in morel mushroom sauce....its been two years and i still dream about it...heaven in every bite....hopefully they bring it back again when morels are in season
(5)Drexel S.
Ive tried almost everything on the menu and its all delicious. Staff is always friendly. Excellent eating expirience every time
(5)Sherry B.
A few vegan options. Ethiopian stew is awesome. vegan breakfast ok... hold the bland lentil patty. Not pleased about paying 2.99 for a cup of coffee and then .50 more cents for soy milk. Kinda tired of being "milked" for not drinking dairy milk.
(4)Allison G.
Great craft beer selection that is always changing. Good wine selection as well. Menu is diverse and unique. I have tried many items on the menu and they are all great. The Eastside Chicken is my favorite and I usually don't get too excited about chicken. The atmosphere is cozy and the staff are the best in town! My family and I eat at Soup Spoon almost every week and have never been disappointed! There isn't a kid's menu, but my 9 year old loves the grilled cheese and always finds something she likes even though she is a picky eater.
(5)Erik O.
We had an unbelievably delicious meal here last night. Simple as that. To start things off, the staff is amazing and very knowledgable about the beers (awesome selection), the food, and wine pairings. The cocktails available are old fashioned and are the best in Lansing. For an appetizer we ordered the house cured gravlox which was perfect. Absolutely perfect. We ordered the braised lamb shank and the hanger steak and holy lord they were both above and beyond what we were expecting. Excellent portion sizes and great greens came with both of the meals. At the end of our meal the waiter brought us a complimentary bread pudding which was an awesome finish to an awesome meal. Easily our favorite restaurant in Lansing.
(5)David S.
Well, I finally tried the Soup Spoon and it was honestly so-so. The wife had the French onion soup which was excellent and I had the barley vegetable which tasted like progresso soup. The ceasar salad was next but had too much dressing which I couldn't finish. We then split a Cuban sandwich which compared nothing to an actual cuban so half of that was left over. The service was good when we got there but as it became busy, it took 30 minutes for the salad and cuban to actually arrive at the table. Overall it wasn't bad but I dont think I would spend another $30.00 there. Wasn't worth the effort...
(2)Manuel F.
Have been here three times and will continue to come. Haven't been here for breakfast; only lunch and dinner. Service had always been excellent and the food outstanding. They have different soups every day and are great. Can get busy but well worth the wait.
(5)Heather H.
This place was really hyped on Yelp, but I wasn't that impressed upon coming into Soup Spoon Cafe. The host at the entrance was pretty rude to us, and seemed insulted that we had walked in without a reservation. We were seated in 15 minutes, which honestly I've waited longer at PF Chang's, so I wasn't sure what the problem was. Our seat was right by the kitchen and the waiter checkout. Not the greatest place to sit, and a very odd layout as it was. The soups at this place were great, just great. Just the right portion size, and filling. The sandwiches were rather dry, and seemed to be just bread...not a lot to the sandwiches. I would come back here to try breakfast (I'll make a reservation first) but not sure I would come back for dinner.
(3)Xinhao Y.
This is the best brunch place in the Lansing area! Be sure to come early or you will have to wait for half an hour to get your seat! Egg Benedict and bread pudding are the must-try entrees!
(5)Jessica D.
This is a solid restaurant in the Lansing area. I've enjoyed every meal from this establishment.
(5)Gus M.
I'm so glad that Yelp led me here. Thanks to my fellow yelper's I have embarked on this magical place ;) We walked in and were seated quickly. This Resturaunt is supposed to have amazing soups so naturally I had to try it. Soup- I ordered the spicy seafood chowder soup. It had large lumps of crab and the texture was perfect. It also had an amazing spice factor that was just right. Appetizer- Cherry Blossom Shrimp, about 6 shrimp with a spicy butter wine sauce. Also amazing flavor. Entree- Our waitress recommended the Smokin B sandwich. It was thin sliced of beef brisket on flat bred with tomato, lettuce, cheese and a spicy tobacco lime cream sauce. It was fantastic I really enjoyed all of the flavors. I recommend everybody in East Lansing give this place a try. And It's worth an hour drive as well ;)
(5)R. L.
Great atmosphere and cute space. I like the dining experience here, but I wish there were better vegetarian options. I have yet to try the breakfast but hear great things!
(4)Angela E.
I'm a little confused by this place. The food is great! The soups are definitely made with love! They have a great beer and wine list! I wish they gave you a beer and wine list at your table but maybe they have changed that since I've gone for dinner. The bar is small, 15 seats maybe. You have to see the host to be allowed to sit at the bar. This is an unspoken rule, meaning if you sit at the bar you will get shocked looks (like, "how dare you??"). The host will graciously tell you that there are people waiting for seats at the bar. So the bar seating is confusing. They have a food window into the bar which is also a service window for the wait staff on the other side. So the kitchen staff passes good into the bar and then the bartenders also pass drinks into the kitchen area. All in all the food and drinks are amazing! Solid breakfast food also! Very friendly and attentive service! Just be prepared to wait because they are always hopping!
(5)Dan G.
I was in Lansing on business, and this nice little place was just down the road from Sparrow hospital. I waited for an associate for an hour at the bar. Love the free WiFi! They have a wide selection of local Michigan beers. If I hadn't been on the clock I definitely would have imbibed. Both my coworker and I had the kickin' pastrami sandwich, which the bartender recommended. It was definitely good although I think the pastrami could have been a bit spicier, but I know they've got to cater toward those Midwestern pallets that fear spice. It's nice that you can get chips, pasta salad or coleslaw as a side. The crowd definitely picks up for lunch. By noon, there were no table open and there appeared to be a 15-20 minute wait. Not bad for a Wednesday afternoon. I don't know if my travels will ever take me back to Lansing, but if I'm ever by that hospital again, I'll definitely go back.
(4)Karen S.
Yes! My friends live just down the street from this place... The menu has a wide variety of options that include a soup of the day, a pizza of the day... It's just so darn inviting, the staff is lovely, and the food is delicious. I ordered the shrimp risotto cakes since I wasn't hugely hungry... they were just the right size, perfectly cooked and mouth watering. My friends each had a sandwich of some sort which they both enjoyed; no surprise as they have been coming here for several years already.
(5)Jon M.
This place wouldn't get 4 stars in a major city, but for Lansing it's a fantastic place. An eclectic menu of sandwiches, salads, soups and other interesting items... the food itself wasn't something to write home about, but hey I would take it over almost everything else I saw in Lansing (i.e., the typical American fast food and walk in restaurant chains). They also have a great, albeit small, selection of beers on tap. all of the staff was also extremely friendly, and helpful.
(4)Erin K.
Locally sourced meat and vegetables and craft beer. The pastas are amazing and we definitely recommend the Chicken Po Boy. They do take reservations on the weekends but I think you have to make them a day in advance. They don't accommodate large parties and don't have a kids menu but will make grilled cheese.
(5)Drew P.
Fun place to grab a bite to eat for breakfast and their is a bar. A tiny little kitchen that you can see and tasty specials. Servers that occasionally disappear for ten minutes and no plate warmer take some of the joy out.
(3)Rebecca G.
First time I went into this restaurant, I found it delightful and the food wonderful. The second time I went into the restaurant, the food was terrible and we were treated horribly. The food that was brought out, was not what was described in the menu but after waiting nearly an hour for it to be delivered, we were starving so we ate it anyway. When asked how the food way, we told them, however the reaction wasn't an apology. We were called us out as liars implying the food must not have been that bad if we ate it. The problem here was this: we weren't looking for a refund or new food. We ate what was provided and was planning on paying whatever was on the check. We just weren't going to go back. But when we were asked for your opinion, we gave an answer they didn't like and were treated extremely poorly by the manager. I think this restaurant and it's owners should be ashamed. I'll never go back nor will I ever recommend this restaurant to anyone.
(1)Jesse W.
This place makes me want to move to Lansing. Great atmosphere and a unique selection of beers. I had the lamb meatballs and the marinara sauce was among the best I have ever had. The service was friendly and did a great job. I sat next to some locals who couldn't stop raving about this place. Well, I am a believer--I'll be back.
(5)Kyle K.
The food here was great but the service was so slow it almost ruined the experience. Though we had to wait for our table, it took about 15 mins compared to the 30 mins she quoted me. Our waitress was not attentive or all that courteous really. They seemed short staffed. Regardless, we asked about our food at least twice and didnt see anything on the table for over 45 mins. Though they were busy, the place is small and we had to ask for everything multiple times (food, ketchup, drinks), so I cant justify the long wait for food. Not sure this is a place I'd frequent honestly.
(3)Gail W.
I was very disappointed in the food. I had a sandwich with the brisket. Besides a skimpy portion of brisket, it was half fat. Also, the naan bread was burnt. My niece had a breakfast dish with poached eggs. The eggs yolks were hard. My first time there and I won't be back.
(1)Emma K.
Favorite spot in town! Breakfast, lunch or dinner this place does it all! The only problem is it's very hard to get in during lunch so I usually try to avoid normal lunch times.
(5)Stephanie M.
Love everything I've tried here. They are always friendly, always recognize my family even though we aren't exactly regulars and the food is beyond compare. Our finicky son loves the French Dip, my favorites are the Kobe Wagyu burger and the Cubano, and my husband enjoys just about everything (including the great beer selection). We've even enjoyed breakfast several times. Great addition to the Lansing area.
(5)Shawna F.
I had the seafood soup and the Pastrami sandwich. It was delicious. My friends had the voodoo pasta. It is delicious but spicey. I would definitely come back if I go to lansing.
(5)Krishnan M.
Love this place ... Good food and good people can't ask for better. The staff is always warm. Definitely try the French onion soup actually all of them are good but the FO here is one if the best I have tasted Try the daily specials too.
(4)heather t.
So, I am giving this place a 3 based on poor service. It took them 2 hours to serve us drinks, apps and our entrees. We started with the cafe bread, amazing for being so simple! A lot of flavor. I had the French onion which was probably the best French onion I've had to date. Then for an entree I had the chicken PO boy, good sandwich. The bread was awesome and the sandwich was flavorful and filled with sautéed veggies.
(3)Joshua R.
The environment is great. Perfect for a semi-formal lunch or dinner. Be prepared to wait during lunch hours during the week. The food is good. It isn't outstanding, but its fresh and made from scratch (mostly).
(4)Mark B.
Short and sweet... order the breakfast wrap and prepare to be amazed!
(5)Jennifer T.
While I've lived in Lansing for nearly 5 years, I didn't give Soup Spoon a try until a couple years ago after hearing so many good things. It's located right downtown and is fairly small, easy to drive right by. The interior is eclectic, yet welcoming like a friends' home. I have not had anything that I didn't love. Every soup is delicious and often a mix of ingredients you never would of thought of. They are not afraid of making food SPICY! So many Michigan restaurants tend to "bland" food down. Try the Voodoo pasta, my spicy fav with in one of a dozen craft beers. Staff is ultra friendly, expect a wait at lunch and a bit slower service.
(5)Ashley N.
After reading reviews about this place and looking at the menu, my husband and I were very excited to try them. We went in knowing that the service was slow because they make everything made to order. But it got a little ridiculous. Our server didn't bring my husbands drink until she was reminded when she finally brought our soup. Which was about 30 mins after ordering. Our salad followed about 10 mins later. When we finally got our main dishes we were very hungry and happy. This is were it really went to hell for us. I had got the lamb burger, well done because I am pregnant. It was a little pink, but not terribly so. Lamb is a pink meat anyway. It was delicious! Loved the burger and the toppings and the bun. I got the side greek pasta salad. It was homemade, but the pasta wasn't cooked enough, and there was no flavor. No seasoning, no dressing My husband got the meatloaf sandwich. Not only was there no meat on half of his sandwich, which they immediately through another piece on the grill. Fine right? No! My husband bite into the other half. A huge long hair cooked right into it. This was the last draw. We asked the manager to take my husbands meal off our bill. He quickly comped our whole bill. This is the only reason that we will return to try them again. Not for a while. But, because he handle it appropriately, we will give them another chance.
(3)Laurie D.
We're so glad we went today. The food was excellent. It's always crowded there and we have a nice pursued it. Today we went at 11 AM and ordered lunch because breakfast was over. We ordered a sandwich and linguine. Appreciated the flavors, sauces and the multiple vegetables in the food. Everything was excellent. We sat near the kitchen area and watched many things going by. Everything that went by, looked wonderful. Our service was excellent too. Even the side coleslaw was homemade. I stopped to tell the waiter, and then supervising manager, the food was excellent. Not like the front steps as they were very steep for my mother to get up. Although the desserts look absolutely wonderful, we went next-door to Fabiano's chocolate and enjoyed our sweets there.
(5)Adrien D.
Amazing food! Service is excellent. Come and try the biscuit and gravy! But they keep having Cajun items on the menu that aren't cajun. Fail...but still come here!
(4)Jo P.
Amazing! Delicious food, especially the chicken salad sandwich and breakfast burrito! Good service. The wait is worth it.
(5)Jody C.
I arrived about an hour or so before Soup closed. I sat at the bar order a Two Hearted and looked it over. On the menu I found the braised lamb shank with balsamic drizzle.tasty wowowow.sick. To top that they sent out two shanks to boot!!
(5)Sarah C.
Had a really wonderful dinner at Soup Spoon! I had the spoon-i-pino - tasty sauce, excellent chorizo, good seafood, perfectly al dente pasta. Yum. My two dining companions had the surf & turf and the special, which included some delicious quail. They both loved their meals as well. We ordered two cups of soup to share but the waitress forgot to bring them. She was super nice about it and brought us free soup (cheesy bacon potato goodness) and later brought us two free desserts. The bread pudding was phenomenal - cinnamon-y and caramel-y and covered in whipped cream. The meal was relatively expensive for Lansing but definitely worth the splurge due to excellent food and nice atmosphere. Can't wait to go back for brunch!
(5)Kat H.
PUMPKIN BISQUE! Oh my goodness, this was so delicious. We went to Soup Spoon Cafe for lunch on a game day, wanting to get a great meal but not be surrounded by football insanity. We accomplished our goal. The place was busy and we had about a 20 minute wait, but it was totally worth it. Three of us got the pumpkin bisque, not really know what to expect. What we got was a super thick, wonderfully spiced pumpkin soup with a squirt of whipped cream on top! It tasted more like a thick, somewhat savory mousse than a soup really, but it was so delicious it didn't even matter. The whipped cream added a perfect sweet counterbalance. Add that to our great main meals (Yooper Benny, Georgia Reuben, Peacemaker and Tuna Melt) and we had a great time. I'm also so grateful for their very decent draught beer selection. What a great place to have in Lansing!
(5)Danielle P.
It's funny, I always stay at a friend's about a block and a half from Soup Spoon while I'm in Lansing, but just went for the first time last night. I liked the atmosphere, casual and warm. It has a stellar beer and cocktail selection and a creative menu. The service was pretty good and I liked the whole experience overall. I chose the Dark and Stormy for a drink, which the waiter recommended as the house specialty. It has a strong ginger kick and ended up being a really nice choice. For an appetizer my friend and I shared the Michigan craft beer and cheddar dip, which was very good...but I didn't realize by looking at the menu that's it's rather green-onion heavy. For an entree I ordered the hanger steak which has a chimichurri and ancho jus, very good but needed a smidge of salt. It came with dauphanoise potatoes and swiss chard, also very tasty. My friend had the Ethiopian vegan stew, which smelled absolutely divine. At one point, our waiter went for a stretch without checking on us, as he seemed to be filling in for the bartender. Not the end of the world, but mildly annoying. The other thing I didn't love was how greasy the dining room floor was near the kitchen area, wear heels here with caution. Not a perfect dinner, but I would go back and recommend it as a different experience for the Lansing area.
(4)Iman B.
i tried the seafood chowder and its really great for chowder lovers i also had the lamb rib ad it is great
(5)Jen E.
This place is AMAZING!!!! My boyfriend and I stopped in for a bite and our socks were knocked off. We had the goat cheese points, soups, acropolis Sammie and greek wrap. Everything was delicious down to the pickles!!!
(5)Brandon S.
Very good food. Quite a few options for everyone. The spicy feta dip is tasty. Our server was friendly and did a very good job with our large group. The decor and layout are lacking. It feels like an earth friendly hipster hangout.
(3)Casey M.
Always great. Try one of the drinks- made fresh. No store bought mixers. I wish they would bring back the brisket but everything is good.
(5)Britta S.
I have had 2 bad breakfasts there. I originally loved the place, but they have lost their finesse. I've been served raw eggs today for the second time and the whites were so raw they were CLEAR. I sent them back and the cook seriously said " how does she want them cooked?" After the server told him they weren't cooked. I'm not picky, just don't want to drink them down like Rocky Balboa. My bf said at the end of the meal never again. The wait is long so I expect stellar food.
(2)Nate C.
As a new transplant to the Lansing area, Soup Spoon was the first place that helped me to feel a bit more at home. It's a bit hipster, but not overly so. The service has always been friendly and quick, and there's a vegan soup option every day. Bonus! When people visit me from out of town, I make a point to bring them to Soup Spoon, and everyone has been consistently blown away by the food. Try the peacemaker sandwich...trust me.
(5)Laela A.
Another unbelievable meal!!! By far, this restaurant has the best food in the greater Lansing area! Our wait-person (Lisa) was very accommodating, and Keith (the general manager) came to our table and answered a handful of questions that we had about the restaurant, and about the amazing balsamic reduction on the lamb shank. I had the seafood risotto, dad had the lamb shank, and mom had the voodoo pasta - we all truly enjoyed our meal.
(5)Rachel F.
I really would give this place 3.5 stars, but Yelp makes you choose & I'll be positive. The first two times I went to Soup Spoon. I didn't love it. The food was mediocre and I didn't really want to come back... But then I did and I'm happy I did. We had to wait for nearly 2 hours for a table for 4, which was kind of miserable, but I was catching up with my dad and the bartender was unbelievably generous with his pours. They have a great bar so that alone will make up for the 2 times of mediocre food. Also the host was super apologetic about the long wait and gave us an app on the house. When we finally ate everyone was super satisfied with their meals. I had the short ribs and they we some of the best I've ever had. So tender and delectable. If you go get the short ribs, they were easily the best thing on our table. I think their dinner menu is significantly more well crafted than their standard lunch fare. Hence why I wasn't a fan during my previous visits. Nonetheless, I think they're doing their thing well, and a welcome presence in my home county.
(4)Ashley E.
I'll be honest - Soup Spoon just isn't as good as it used to be. On recent visits I've been disappointed. Dine-in visits have had pretty lackluster service. It's hard to want to tip a server who behaves like you're lucky she's taking your order. Another visit I found hair in my soup - YUCK! Take-out is inconsistent. It's never been ready in the amount of time promised, and I'm never sure which side I'm going to get. I'll still eat at Soup Spoon, but only because I still appreciate the freshness of the food (when SSC is on, their food is fantastic). Bottom line: I wish that SSC would stop acting like a teenager who went from being a nerd to a cool kid and forgot all his old friends.
(3)Graham D.
This is the best restaurant in Lansing/East Lansing - which isn't saying all that much, but it's something. Better than Troppo, better than Fork in the Road, better than Beggar's Banquet. I've been here for lunch and dinner and have never been disappointed in the food. There's typically a wait for a table -- which can be quite long on a Friday or Saturday night -- but it's usually worth it, unless you really have a hankering for the bland giant portions most Lansing restaurants love to serve. Don't miss the Asian braised short ribs or the Wraptor sandwich - and as many reviews have mentioned, the bread pudding is absolutely out of its world. Best I've ever had. Soup Spoon is over looked for its great alcohol selection. They always have great beers on tap (and often feature Bell's Brewing tasting nights, complete with a firkin) and also have one of the best cocktail menus in town. No overly sweet cocktails here - just classics like a well-made Sazerac (my favorite) or a proper old fashioned. The owner has told me they plan on expanding this more in the future, so worth keeping an eye on. Service isn't always the best but it's worth the wait. Wait staff is always friendly and the food is a good value for the money. If you're in Lansing and looking for a good meal, look no further than Soup Spoon Cafe.
(4)H B.
There is not an over abundance of fine food choices in Lansing yet having the Soup Spoon option means we always have a great and reliable place for a wonderful meal. Reserve well in advance as the place is always full. We have been there with tables from two to ten. The service is great. Also like the decor and the beers. Worth a stop - and one of the best options in Lansing.
(5)Tom L.
I have been here 4 or 5 times now and have had great food and service every time. The only inconsistent thing has been their egg poaching prowess. Today's were rock solid yolks, last week's were slightly undercooked whites and every other time has been perfect. Maybe I need to branch out to other meals instead of eating breakfast here all the time. The coffee is fantastic and is brewed to perfection. I'm looking forward to trying other meals here, but it is still my favorite breakfast place in Lansing (and perhaps out of the 6 states that I have live in).
(5)Karen C.
We went here on a Friday night with a wait of around 45 mins. The prices of the sandwiches w/ a side cost anywhere between $6-12. The entree menu was quite pricey from around $16-30. I ordered the seafood chowder which was good but a bit on the salty side. I would try something else next time. I also got the cuban sandwich which was tasty but I've had better. I was looking forward to the side of coleslaw but it wasn't that great. Maybe a bit healthier since it didn't have a lot of mayo. If you're looking for a great cuban sandwich, go to Vincente's in Detroit. It is amazing! I would come back here just to try other things since they had a wide selection of sandwiches and soups. Maybe since it wasn't a cuban restaurant, I shouldn't expect much by ordering a cuban sandwich!
(3)Tessa M.
This place is one of the best places in the greater Lansing area!!! They have healthy, yummy food. as well as non healthy yummy food. I go here at least once a week!! so tastey.
(5)Jimmy P.
Some of the best soup you can find. A very laid back and easy going place, it is small but cozy enough to the point where reservations have little use. It is connected to a flower boutique. brunch, dinner, and lunch, are all four stars.
(4)Val K.
Excellent breakfast but longest wait I have ever waited to eat. About 45 minutes from sitting to getting served food after ordering of course.
(3)Sheena W.
Love this place! I live fairly close and it's an affordable healthy alternative to grab a quick bite to eat. Also a great place to take visiting guests from out of town. The ability to try the soups was a hit! The only reason I rate it 4 stars is because on rare occasions you can get an employee who isn't exactly as nice as you would expect service to be.
(4)Champika F.
The french dip here was really delicious. I will definitely go back when I'm in town again to try other tasty looking things on their menu.
(4)Michael T.
If I was with Jesus and wanted to show him a great restaurant, Soup Spoon would be the place. I'm really sad I didn't discover the spoon until my senior year at MSU. I've graduated now and miss this place every day. I think I brought at least 10 friends here and they all have loved it, as well. The food is unbelievable and I had a lot of great times with great friends here. We usually always came for breakfast/lunch after a night of debauchery. The staff is super friendly and they're doing great things. I haven't had a single thing that I didn't like. Big fan of the Seafood Chowder and the Cubano. It's hard to find a dish that doesn't sound appealing for Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner. A big thanks to Soup Spoon. You will always be a fond college memory of mine, and I will absolutely be back every time I return to the banks of the Red Cedar.
(5)Barb K.
Absolute best pancakes in town! Skip that loud over rated breakfast place in old town and try Soup Spoon if you haven't already. Mmmmmmmmmm
(5)Chelsea M.
I've been to the Soup Spoon café a few times over the past 6 months or so. Food is alright (breakfast is by far the highlight) and they do have a decent Michigan draft beer selection. One thing I have found is that many of their food options contain the same ingredients just prepared differently. That's fine, but if you don't care for say the flavor of basil pesto you would love or more of the options on the menu. The service at Soup Spoon can border on slow but they can accommodate larger groups that want spate checks etc. I suggest trying S.S.C. for lunch or an after work beer.
(3)Alex K.
We went here because of its high reviews. We had to wait about 20min for the table but it wasn't bad. It took very long to get food though. Atmosphere was nice and the people were kind. Good food. Only wished our food came sooner than 40min! We will give it a try again.
(4)Merv F.
Had a great lunch at the Soup Spoon Cafe in Lansing today. Very busy for a Saturday at the lunch hour. Extensive sandwich menu. I had the French Dip which was better than most you get anywhere. Good portion of beef, topped with melted cheese on a perfect french baguette. Pam had the Grilled Cheese, three cheese and tomatoes on sourdough. She said it was the best ever. Also, the breakfast menu was extensive and is served until 2:00 pm on the weekends. Service was friendly, ambiance is very casual. It's relatively small and they were very busy which might be the reason food was slow to arrive. I would definitely go back and recommend it.
(4)Rod A.
Soups are fantastic. I've tried about five or six now, always good. They also have tapas and great sandwiches. Local craft beers on tap and the taps are rotated daily. I think on the weekends they tap special small batch beers. Favorite place in Lansing thus far.
(5)Linda K.
Good place to go for breakfast or dinner. It's not my favorite Lansing Area restaurant but it's up there. Nice selection of wine and beer.
(4)Sarah L.
I've gone to Soup Spoon a lot for dinner and everything I've eaten has been great. Some of my favorites are: Voodoo pasta, shellfish risotto, cherry bomb shrimp, greek island plate, pastrami sandwich, and the acropolis. Everything I've eaten here is great, but the BEST thing I've ever had here is their bread pudding, I don't even like bread pudding, but this was amazing. They also make great mixed drinks and home make some of the syrups in their drinks, can't get better than that! Don't let the kind of "old and outdated" exterior and interior keep you away...their food is great and they always keep the restaurant clean. I still haven't made it for breakfast, which I've heard their breakfast is even better than dinner...
(5)Matt R.
In the midst of my sadness about the closing of Sawyer's Pancake House, I came across Soup Spoon Cafe, hoping it might fill the void for good local breakfast. Well, I can official say...void filled! I might even go as far as to say, I can forget about Sawyers because Soup Spoon was SO good. I had the San Diego. Amazing! Our group also had French Toast, Pancakes, Bacon, etc and all got good reviews. I want to try their Lunch menu too, cuz it looks really good. A few points that kept it from a 5 star (I hope you are listening, Soup Spoon peeps). There is not a good system at the front door. No sign saying please wait...or seat yourself, or whatever. Nobody said anything to us either, so we just stood there confused for a min, then finally had to go ask at the counter. As we ate, we watched basically everyone behind us do the same thing...come in & wander around uncertainly...trying to figure out the protocol. A sign does not cost much. Get one :) The other drawback is the price...it was def on the high side, BUT I can overlook that one cuz it was delecious! We will be back fo sho..
(4)Mariah H.
I've gone to Soup Spoon quite a few times for dinner, and I've also ordered take away a few times as well. What I've realized is that for some reason the food that you pre order never seems as good as sitting down and ordering in the restaurant. I always order the same thing usually (crab cakes, BLTA). When I got my food home, the bread on my sandwich was so toasted I couldn't even bite it. It crumbled in my hands and everything fell out. My crab cakes were also smaller than normal and looked a little burnt. However, I ordered the same thing another day and both dishes were very good. The second time I ordered take away, they mixed up my order at the bar with someone else that had also ordered ahead and the waitress seemed a little annoyed with me when I pointed out that I had the wrong bill. When I got my new bill, they had ended up charging me for something that I didn't order, and when I showed it to the waitress, I was met with the same attitude. Overall, I would recommend going for lunch or dinner. When they're on, they're ON. Most times, service and food are very good.
(4)Vanessa H.
I been here twice now. I went once for dinner and once for brunch. The staff was friendly and attentive. Service was good overall. The food was yummy. The only complaint I have is that it seems a bit messy and less than clean. I'm sure that if I took a peak into most of the kitchens I've eaten from I'd be surprised. But, given that you can see the kitchen here, you'd think they'd try to keep it cleaner and keep food drippings off the dining room floor. It was a little disconcerting.
(3)DJ B.
Probably best breakfast in Lansing. Coffee could be better though let's be honest here
(5)Michael F.
Great local beers on tap. The pub cheese was quite good, but the naan toast squares were dry and tough. All was put to rights with a PHENOMENAL slow braised lamb shank. Very attentive and friendly service in a fun atmosphere. One of the top places in Lansing.
(4)Melissa M.
One of the best restaurants in Lansing. Worth the wait.
(5)Kara H.
The Soup Spoon is one of my favorite restaurants in the Lansing area. They have delicious breakfasts, including some amazing pancakes (and REAL maple syrup - a necessity for me). They also have great daily soups (big surprise), sandwiches and delicious entrees. They now have a full bar and a beer club, where you can purchase a membership and get a certain percentage off of your brew every time. The staff is friendly and helpful, the owner is truly attentive to his customer's needs. I love that they try their best to have Michigan goods and make their dishes from scratch instead of using Gordon Food Service crap. My only complaint is that they aren't open on Sundays. I need my Sunday brunch!
(5)Lindsey K.
Spoon me Baby! This place was excellent! Kind of weird but my 2 favorite spots of the week are the Spoon and the Fork.... Anyway- I decided to take my BAF (Big Ass Friend) to the Spoon to check out what I heard was excellent food. I didn't hear wrong.... The Spoon was relatively busy for a Thursday night, which was a good sign. Despite being busy, we were greeted and seated right away. I ordered a Moscow Mule- this was like a Ginger Mule kick to the kisser! Very tasty, my guess is there was a homemade ginger simple syrup involved and it was de-lish... also, strong. One was enough to last me throughout the evening. I ordered the Seafood Santorini which was shrimp and scallops on orzo, with white wine, dill, tomatoes, topped with broiled feta and breadcrumbs. The flavor was excellent, and I appreciated that they did not douse the breadcrumbs in butter. I was really able to taste the seafood. i had an excellent house salad as well. BAF ordered the Walleye special which looked excellent, topped w/ roasted red peppers and served with green beans and roasted potatoes. The only downside was we sat on the side of the restaurant with the grill area, it was hot, and the ventilation was not good. The grill smell kind of clung to the air and our clothes. Overall the Soup Spoon is an awesome, trendy, yet casual place. I'm excited to check out their breakfast!
(4)Talmadge W.
Good food, but hard to get a seat these days. They really need to expand again. I used to come here for lunch on a regular basis, but it's much too busy for a regular 1 hour lunch. If you have a normal job that allows for an hour lunch you will want to avoid this place. I've hard the brunch on Saturday is amazing.
(3)Roy R.
Wow! Great food! Had the Soup Flight which is a choice of a tasting of four soups with French Bread for ten bucks. Very filling and all great! Seafood Chowder, Pumpkin bisque, Sweet pepper chicken, Turkey and cauliflower. GREAT! My only complaint is that it seems reservations are a must.
(5)Kimberly J.
I still love The Soup Spoon, but beware: It's highly popular, and they take reservations ONLY if you call in before 4pm on the same day. It's gotten so busy, and nearly impossible to get into without a long wait (30 mins-1 hr is not uncommon at dinnertime), that we don't go there as often anymore. :(
(4)Ryan J.
Yes some of their food is above average for the area, but if you're gluten free you'll want to pass. Rude response to my gluten question and all around below average service. It's too bad because w just a little better service and options for people w diet restrictions this place could stand out in Lansing. As I'm writing this the lady at the next table asked the same GF question and got the same response. This is a problem.
(1)James E.
Great place, but gets crowded at night. Don't miss the bread pudding.
(5)N J.
Dear Yelp Readers, Looking for a great local soup to warm your soul or heart? Come to the Soup Spoon Cafe which offers quality soups with at least 6 choices per day! The mouth watering soup hits your taste buds and sends the delight of a mothers' cooking. We tried the mushroom soup, the jalapeno crab and rice soup, and the Tuna Melt. The soups were warm and full of flavor. The tuna melt was crispy and had the perfect balance of ingredients. In addition, we liked the atmosphere in the place. The lighting was nice and we sat at the bar where we shared laughs. With the new changes, this place has a lot to offer, so stop in and give it a try!
(5)Christa W.
The Soup Spoon is by far my favorite restaurant in the Lansing area. I have never been disappointed with the food or service. Absolutely love any of their salmon dishes, and for dessert the bread pudding is to die for. I also love the craft beer selection. Can't wait to go back!
(5)D. V.
One of my favorite places to eat in Lansing. Between the boyfriend and myself, we must've tried at least ten of their soups without a dud in the bunch, but my favorite has got to be their French Onion, which they have every day, and is just dripping with Gruyere cheese. Definitely worth smelling like onions and beef stock for the rest of the day. However, I think I'd say that, at least if you're on a student's budget, like I am, I'd stick to the soup and sandwich combo. It's super reasonable - like $7 for lunch, and $9 for dinner - and their entrees tend to fall on the expensive side.
(4)Lorraine H.
I am updating because it's been a while and I've been here many times now. I learned today that you can call ahead and tell them you're coming. It's not a reservation, as far as reserving a table goes, but helps a bit during the busy lunch hour. I have not been disappointed in the food. Today I had the Gus's Greek Wrap, and it was delicious. The french onion soup is very, very good. The service was great -- Eric took our 3 orders and did not write it down. Even though I had a special request, the order was perfect. We waited less than 10 minutes for a table and the service was prompt.
(4)Micaiah F.
Second time dining here. Love the soups. Had the creme of spinach today, it rocked. The sandwiches are tasty too! Had the tuna melt outstanding!
(5)Ed C.
I'm surprised I haven't already reviewed the Soup Spoon. They used to be a good soup and sandwich place. Now they are the single best restaurant and bar in Lansing. They have a breakfast on par with Golden Harvest. They have the best soups and sandwiches in town. They have lots of interesting dinner entrees that have meat, so I don't eat them. However, they serve their lunch menu at dinner, so that's no problem. They have great beer on tap and great wine by the glass, but their cocktails are what really stand out. You'd have to go to Chicago to find a better craft cocktail. My personal recommendation is the Dark and Stormy, but all cocktails are made with high quality liquors, house-made syrups, and high qualities bitters, garnishes, etc. They take their time and do it right. This isn't the usual swill blended with swill that even nice places in Lansing serve out. These are *cocktails*.
(5)Bruce R.
Dropped by the Soup Spoon on a recommendation from a local while visiting from out of town. I went for dinner and found everything on the menu to be very inviting. I went with the shrimp and goat cheese appetizers, the chowder and, the hanger steak. Each one was a hit. I was in Lansing for two weeks and, I am sorry I found out about this place too late to make a second visit. It is important to note this place has a smaller dining area served by what appears to be a smaller kitchen - reservations are necessary but, well worth any wait.
(5)Staci S.
Good food, great local beer selection, Awesome decor.
(5)Jonathan L.
It is nice to step into a bustling cafe mid-day. There is an air of familiarity with the staff and the patrons, who are as diverse as the menu, from artists to teachers to bankers. They are gather here for the best food the Eastside offers. The menu is peppered with tastes from many regions. The specials maintain some seasonality, but the regular menu has some great standby's, which is what I order for my tween meal today: Voodoo Pasta. Perfect portion and spice.
(4)Mike G.
Kind of a long wait to sit but the food and service were spectacular. I had the braised short ribs and Creme Brûlée and they were both amazing. I also tried the bread pudding and it was probably the best I've ever had.
(5)Jim M.
My wife is a new professor at Michigan State and her colleagues recommended the Soup Spoon to her. We went there with our 7-year old son and loved it. I had the seafood risotto and it was really, really good. I'm a bit of a seafood snob, but the shrimp and scallops were perfectly cooked. My son had the seafood stew, which was also great. It's not a fancy place, but I would recommend it highly. A nice beer selection, too.
(4)Tally B.
Best restaurant in Lansing by a mile. I moved here from Austin and was depressed about the lack of good food, until a friend took me here. I'd give 5 stars, but the service isn't up to par for 5 stars. I love their tap selection, but their wine pour is short, FYI. Call for reservations early in the day if you want to get seated during prime dinner hours. This is a great place to go if you have a few hours to relax over dinner and drinks with friends or on a date. The soup is all divine and the plates are all amazing and delicious. Like them on Facebook to get a daily teaser of their specials, soups and beers.
(4)Holly N.
I loved the Soup Spoon!! What a diamond in the rough! We showed up for a late lunch mid-week. The place was packed and everyone working was friendly and accommodating. Pulling up an extra seat to the only available table, we were ready to go. All of us partook in a soup of our liking and a sandwich - they do have a cup of soup and 1/2 sandwich deal, which was very satisfactory. I went with the seafood chowder - holy cow! It was creamy and loaded with various sea things and potato. The tomato soup was also fantastic, but not as what you'd expect. It was fairly light and well seasoned. The vegetable soup was also loaded with veggies and was quite herby. For sandwiches, I went for the Georgia Rubin and all I can say is YUM! We enjoyed our meals and sat and talked for over an hour afterward, since the crowd had thinned considerably we knew we weren't holding up a table. The staff had no issue with us just sitting and chatting, even when we realized that they were past closing time (which is 3pm on Mondays & Tuesdays). I'd call the décor rustic chic. Though things may appear a bit mismatched, it all flows together intentionally and creates a welcoming atmosphere. There's even a bar in the restaurant where you can sample some decent Michigan brews. The only downfall was that the bartender wasn't very good at describing the beers and was going to charge me to sample the one I thought I might like - bars always get bonus points for allowing patrons to try a sip before purchasing, they should at least have written descriptions. The restaurant is also connected to Bancroft Flowers and the guy working in there seemed to be friendly as well. I can't wait to get back to MI and go back to Soup Spoon Café! Definitely 5 stars!
(5)Jason F.
If based entirely on the food, I'd be giving this place at least 4 stars, but unfortunately there were some experience killers. Before I discuss the bad, here's the good. Everything was delicious. I ordered the Seafood Santorini, and my wife had the Pesto Prima Vera. Both of us agreed they were top notch meals. As an appetizer, we had the cheese plate. The cheeses were fairly mundane cheeses, so we didn't agree that it merited the 12 dollar price-tag. But cheese is cheese, and therefore was delicious. But the positive aspects of the meal were offset by the negative. Here's why: First of all, there was no air conditioning. On a hot day in June, consumers expect air conditioning. Secondly, the waitstaff seemed only moderately interested in helping us. When asked what cheses were included in the chese plate, she gave us some recommendations as to what they "might" be, but didn't have a conclusive answer. Finally, there was the decor. The resturant was mostly consistent in this regard, which gave us the impression that we were eating at a mom & pop diner. The menu's were of equally shoddy construction. All in all, this was a positive experience for us, but given the 58 dollar price tag and the otherwise consistent reviews that already exist on yelp, I expected more.
(3)Debra C.
Wonderful food. I could have had one of everything, but then I would have had to pay for it all. Reasonable prices.
(4)Tess K.
Following the Soup Spoon Cafe on Twitter has caused me to become nothing short of obsessed. Last week they Tweeted that the special was chorizo sausage and scallops in red clam sauce over linguine. We immediately left home and it was delicious. So delicious that I inquired what they were serving the next night (New Years Eve) when I heard one of the choices was shrimp and scallop risotto we booked our reservation. Again, the dinner was incredible. I took my time eating and savored every bite. The seafood chowder leaves me speechless. The environment is cheery and the staff is smiley and kind. Chef Nick is always available to provide wine recommendations and anxious to hear how you like your meal. I like how they engage the Twitter community by answering back or thanking customers for their visit. They are using Twitter to successfully create a caring and loyal community - smart. My friend and I are now studying the menu, prioritizing and planning future trips.
(5)Tuesday C.
Yummo! We love this place. It is great for both breakfast and lunch. Only warning, everyone loves this place so it does get a bit busy sometimes. I don't eat meat and although they don't have a ton of options what they do have is awesome and I don't mind getting the same things! They have different soups everyday too that usually rock. The Greek island plate is delicious as well as the Pesto Prima Vera. The pesto scrambler for breakfast is pretty amazing too. The staff is very friendly and the atmosphere is laid back. Try it and enjoy!
(5)Tami S.
Just finished the Baja Scramble for breakfast and it was fantastic. Tons of chorizo and the eggs were fluffy and moist. The avocado on top balanced the spice from the sausage perfectly!
(5)Kendra J.
Sooooo good! Omelets are amazing and so is the beer selection!
(5)Richard P.
By far perhaps the best restaurant in Lansing. Great variety on the menu, creative, knowledgeable staff, definitely worth going to. Having been in the hospitality business most of my career, I appreciate when it is done right. They even make their own bitters for their house cocktails Speaking of the cocktails, I can't remember the last time I saw a bartender slicing the twists to order. It's the little details like this that stand out. Enjoy!!
(5)Jeffrey C.
Amazing! Every dish I have had here meets or exceeds expectations. With the new cocktail selection and diner menu they have gotten slightly busier making a bit difficult to get a table at times but the quality has remained making this a great stop in Lansing. If it's your first time the flight of soups may be the way to go, although you may become addicted.
(5)Caitlin T.
We really wanted to like this place after seeing it had 2 of our favorite dishes on the menu. However, we left disappointed in the quality of the food for how much you spend. First I will give you a background story to what we compared our meal to. Ever since we discovered the Brass Cafe in Mt Pleasant a few years ago, we have tried to find our favorite dishes of theirs somewhere else with the same great quality. We have tried these dishes all over the US, including Hawaii, California, Washington and Texas. No one has come close to the greatness that is the Brass Cafe. Onto our dinner from yesterday. I agree with a lot of other reviewers in saying that it is confusing when you first walk into the Soup Spoon Cafe. Do you just stand there and wait for a hostess? Do you go up to the bar? Do you go into the other dining room? This seating process and the serving in general, need to be more organized. After sitting for awhile we had to wait for someone to take our drink orders, then she didn't even take our food order with the drinks when we were obviously ready. Since the husband couldn't decide on a soup to start with, we decided to do the Soup Flight with the Tomato Basil, Russian Cabbage and Pork, Seafood Chowder and French Onion. Even though these are 3 premade soups, it still seemed to take forever to get to us. My favorite one was definitely the Tomato Basil. The chowder seemed too fishy for me, but the husband liked it a lot. The french onion was alright, but the beef base (assumption) was overpowering and it didn't have much cheese on top. The Russian soup had a way too strong tomato broth in it, we both weren't fans of it. The Seafood Risotto was lack luster. The risotto itself didn't have much flavor. The shrimp and scallops were cooked well though. I ended up taking home most of it and added spices and more parmesan. Husband got the Korean style braised Short Ribs. These didn't seem braised at all. They didn't have much flavor and they didn't fall off the bone like you would expect. I would not consider the sauce Korean at all. Then they put the meat on top of curry rice so the plate was just a mish mash of different flavors and ethnicities. Our bill for one beer (B-Nektor Evil Genius which was good and different), the soup flight, seafood risotto and the short ribs came to $59 before tip. Definitely not worth the money. If we come back we will try their sandwiches in hopes that those will be better.
(3)George M.
Great beers. Non chain hip local feel. Amazingly good food at terrific prices. I love the Korean short ribs, the seafood chowder, and the tenderloin salad. Great friendly staff. Prolly my fav restaurant in the area.
(5)Moani B.
This is my favorite place to order out and din-IN at!!! I am not from around here and I do not like going to Big name places like Applebees or cheddars! Lunches are the BIZ!! I reccomend the Cajun Chicken Po Boy I believe it is called or the Beef Strog!!!! Dinner would most definately be the enitre menu if I had the ability to! but if I had to narrow it down, Lamb Sliders, Chicken Pesto Prime vera! Oh My!!!, Salmon and of course the Seafood bisque!!!There are no words!! Oh and dessert Bread Pudding aaaa yes Please!! The portions are great however it is a bit spendy :( All and all amazing place to hang out, people are usually nice except at dinner, it gets a bit crazy if you are dinning in which is understandable, but there have been a few times that we have ordered out by phone and when we headed to the bar to pick up our meals, we have been ignored and have waited for up to 5-8 min before even asked anything :( Other than that, It's all Yum!!!!!!
(4)Ellen W.
Visited a few times and usually have the same complaint. Too much salt! Every dang time! Who wants to wait for a meal when dining with friends and have to send it back and eat alone? So I don't send it back and grumble. In case your chef hasn't read the headlines lately, an abundance if salt in our food is not healthy. We can always add it, but taking it away is impossible. Until you figure out how to not dump the entire salt shaker into the pit, I'm staying away. What are you hiding, anyway?
(3)Ken K.
The Soup Spoon Cafe is the perfect example of what happens when you take just a few good, fresh ingredients and combine them in a simple yet imaginative dish. The soup is delicious. I tried the Soup De Jour which happened to be beef vegetable. Big chunks of ingredients and perfectly flavored. I must go back for the Seafood Chowder, or for a soup flight, which I think is brilliant. My main dish featured sesame seared chicken, water chestnuts, peapods, carrots, avocado, green onion, lettuce, asian vinaigrette, and sriracha, all wrapped up. Again, big chunks of ingredients, contrasting textures and fresh veggies all contributed to an excellent dish and a very happy tummy. The only downside is the size and popularity of the place. Even though they recently expanded their dining room to next door, there's still not a ton of room in this place, and it gets quite crowded on the weekdays during lunch. But other than that, this place is top-notch.
(5)Jennifer S.
Went back for breakfast and I thought it was quite good--pretty basic, but tasty. Would do breakfast here again.
(4)Nicole S.
What to say that hasn't already been said... Soups: I haven't had a bad one yet. If it sounds good, give it a whirl. The expanded dinner menu: The portions are quite generous and the food delicious. I've enjoyed the Spoon-i-pino. I've had a few rare misses, mostly when there seems to be one extra flavor beyond necessary, but on the whole very good. I'll never fault a place for trying something new and making changes when needed. Breakfast: This isn't a in-and-out experience, so I tend to come for a leisurely Saturday brunch. There's really nothing like this in Lansing, and it's turned into our default "let's go out for dinner" spot. The only negative is that sometimes the service can be a bit spotty, but forgivable. Don't miss the bread pudding.
(5)D C.
Good, friendly service with awesome food at reasonable prices. The last time I was there, one of the specials was a beef brisket Reuben - which sounded slightly unusual but was really good. I've been wanting to make it there for breakfast & for drinks but so far I've only made it for lunch. I wish they were open on Sundays.
(4)Linda Q.
I first visited SSC a few months ago, and left feeling somewhat disappointed. I went back today, and had some of the best food I've ever eaten in Lansing. The first time, for dinner, I ordered their only vegetarian sandwich, "The Gardner." I just found this wrap to be completely bland and uninspired. The vegetables were fresh, but the balsamic vinaigrette just wasn't appetizing. It was too runny, especially in concert with water exuding vegetables like tomato and cucumber, and thus, it made the wrap very soggy. I also ordered the soup flight because soup is my favorite food, and I wanted to taste a variety. The soups were good, but it really bummed me out that they were all lukewarm, not hot. I need HOT soup! My bf had the Kobe Wagyu burger, and while I didn't taste it, he says it's the BEST burger he's ever had. So, there's that. Today, I stopped by for lunch, and the food I had was great! I ordered the pesto prima vera, which is a linguine with pesto sauce and fresh vegetables- sugar snap peas, tomatoes, carrots, mushrooms. You can add meats for an additional charge. I added a side caesar salad as well. First, I didn't know caesar salad could be so well dressed! The romaine lettuce was very fresh, and it was accompanied by a few different types of croutons, tomatoes, red onion, and parmesan. I've never had such a great caesar, and the red onion, while surprising, added such a nice flavor to the salad. I wouldn't let my dining mate try more than like 2 bites of my salad. The pesto prima vera came out in a big bowl, and the linguine and vegetables were swimming in this divine, creamy pesto broth; the sauce was definitely more like a broth, and not just because I drank it like it was. This dish was gorgeous and delicious. I can't wait to go back to try more of their entrees and to have that amazing caesar salad again! Definitely go!
(4)Jon T.
Just ate here this weekend for breakfast and it was quite good. In fact, I think it gives Golden Harvest and Sawyers a run for their money, which in my book, are the gold standards for happiness at breakfast and lunch. The setting is pretty simple but not bare. Big picture windows overlooking Michigan Ave give it lots of bright light. I like the fact the space is broken up too...gives it a bit of character. As for the outside, pay attention if you've never been, it can be easy to miss. Food is great as is the overall style of the menu. It has all the staples plus some items to show off their flair and commitment to quality ingredients. Also appreciate they have sriracha chili sauce to compliment my eggs and potatoes...nicely done! Service was fricken stellar as well. Our server was friendly, speedy and filled my coffee cup at least half a dozen times...ok probably more since the coffee's great. Don't know her name but her smile and easy going attitude, were great ambassadors for the place. Will definitely be there again soon.
(4)Joe D.
I'm not kidding, this is the best new restaurant (in any price range) within 25 miles of Lansing in the last decade. The food is creative, fresh, often changing and never disappointing. Service is friendly, informed and fast. My only complaint is that they've been discovered and unless you call for a reservation before 4pm, expect a wait no matter what night you come. But don't be put off - it will be worthwhile!
(5)Charles H.
I was very impressed with this cafe. I ordered the stuffed french toast and coffee. The coffee had a wonderful taste to it; Louise is right, it's probably the best coffee in town. The french toast appeared to be made with homemade bread (I've never seen slices of bread so large or odd shaped at the store!). It's a small place, but they have a wonderful atmosphere and great friendly staff. I arrived at 8:30 and it looked like I was the first person there. The place quickly had other customers, and the staff seemed to know many of them by name. It is a little hard to find. It's right next to Bancroft Flowers. There is a door in this cafe that opens into the flower shop. Around 9am, Bancroft's opened and the cafe filled with the smell of fresh flowers. Very nice. The only complaint I have is the price: $7 for the stuffed french toast. I recommend checking out their menu online at their website.
(4)Marion T.
This is something Lansing area really needs! This place reminds me of those restaurants in Bay Area...... The whole atmosphere was energetic and the service was welcoming and warm. We went for brunch yesterday. I ordered the salmon benedict. It was perfectly cooked. The potatoes were very yummy---not too greasy and I loved the seasonings they used. Most importantly, the ingredients were fresh and not cooked with excessive amount of salt. We will return for dinner and some other weekend brunches!
(5)chris n.
I've moved to Michigan about a month ago from LA and the one thing I feared was the inability to find decent restaurants. Thank you SoupSpoon for proving me wrong. I've been here twice and I've gotten mixed reviews so far. If I based this review on my first visit, I would have easily given them a 5/5, but the second visit not-so-much. I ordered a BLT sandwich, a tomato soup, and bread pudding. Everything was delicious, but my god, the bread pudding is something sent down from heaven. I rarely ever get foodgasms, but that bread pudding was A-MAZING! But I digress, my second visit, I had the Cubano sandwich. It wasn't my favorite. The pork inside was a bit dry, and the bread was a bit too burnt. Every bite tasted like burnt toast which was not pleasant. (Thankfully I ordered the bread pudding again) I also noticed that the dinner entrees are quite expensive ranging from $15-20+ per entree. I'm pretty use to these prices in LA, but it's hard to justify those prices when the sandwiches are $6-10. I'm always tempted to get a dinner entree only to be foiled but my cheapness. Maybe someday after my school loans are paid :)
(4)Dave P.
Went on a recommendation from my hotel and waited 25 minutes - each of those heightened my expectations. Soup Spoon didn't disappoint. Server Juliann was fantastic with great recommendations and personality. The chop was the best I've had. Also loved the blueberry margarita and the cheesecake. Even the salad was great. One of the most enjoyable meals I've had. Only thing keeping it from 5 stars is the wood chair was uncomfortable, the atmosphere lacked warmth and the silverware was flimsy.
(4)Heidi D.
My husband and I have been trying different places for breakfast and were told about this place. Very pleasant atmosphere, we sat at the bar and ordered. I ordered French Toast which I thought was very average. I think if I had been able to order it the way it was suggested on the menu (with cream cheese and berries) it would have been very tasty. No cream cheese allowed for me :( my husband ordered one of their omelette's with hollandaise and he enjoyed it very much. The potatoes were delish!! We are going back for dinner. The menu looked very enticing!!
(4)Nikki M.
The food is okay, service is okay, prices are so-so and theres plenty of parking. That all being said one thing that turned me off was there were onions cooked in with the potatos. The menu didnt mention onions, which I absolutely hate! Eating onions was not a surprise I wanted first thing in the morning! I ended up taking a big swig of coffee and washed the gross onion/potatoes down and didnt touch them again. The jam we got with our toast was semi-frozen so we couldnt use it... but it looked good. They didnt have creamer,ketchup or hot sauce on the table either, kind of annoying to have to get up and get everything ourselves when they only had two other tables of customers in there. Overall, there are better places to go for breakfast in the area but i hear they have a good lunch so that might be worth checking out.
(3)Jen C.
Impressive tap selection with some excellent beers from the likes of Founders, Jolly Pumpkin, and Dark Horse. The Cubano and Pastrami sandwiches were great. We would definitely order those again. The cheese-beer dip was yummy, although it could have come with better bread than a few slices of airy baguette. The menu is quite extensive. Dinner entrees are $17 to $22-ish, but there are plenty of less expensive options including soups, sandwiches and dinner salads from under $10, which I really appreciate. You can go for an after work dinner without spending a lot of money, or go for a special occasion. The place was packed but had sufficient seating for everyone.
(4)Stephanie B.
5/5 taking into consideration that this is in Michigan. It compares to other independently owned businesses in cities like Chicago, New York or DC. If I had to rate it on a national scale, I would give it 4/5. The soup selection has variety, and from what I have been told all are very tasty. I had the meatloaf sandwich with a bloody mary and a Michigan brew. I left feeling full and satisfied. I would highly recommend this place if you are in East Lansing or Lansing. My new favorite to stop by when I am in town visiting MSU or the Capitol. It's located on Michigan Avenue about .5 miles east of the hospital.
(5)Cristian D.
Recommended by person next to me on a flight.... So while in on business I had a quick lunch - black bean soup and a chicken sandwich, both delicious. Soup could have had a bit more meat n fixins, sandwich was luxuriously flavorful. Fine local beer selection. Can't wait to get back to Lansing to try more!
(4)Kannan R.
This is a hidden gem. If you're a hipster, you will love this place. If you're not, you'll still probably like it. Chill coffee house atmosphere and decor with a changing menu, very friendly waitstaff. Slightly pricier but nothing bad, they're going for a relaxing night out. Desserts are great, but their naan pizza is unique. My only surprise is that the broad brush I use to paint things with imagines there are more vegetarians in the demographic the restaurant targets than norm, so I'd appreciate a few more bones thrown their way. Plus the owner is an MSU alum/RCMB regular.
(5)Evan S.
Variety of wonderful soups and sandwiches!! Rueben sandwich was AWESOME, french onion was the second best ive had. Black and Blue wrap and chili were both good. It's nice to always have a new different menu with specials.
(4)Patrick W.
Nice little cafe with a bar. Good food and very friendly and knowledgable waitstaff. I've had the reuben sandwich, the french dip and the aisian wrapper. The sandwiches were very good and the wrap was great.
(4)Kati B.
Absoultely fabulous breakfast especially with a morning mimosa (yes it includes bottomless OJ). Fun servers and fast, correct service. Will come here any morning for breakfast & drinks.
(4)Alexandra K.
So inexpensive, so cozy, so delicious. I ordered a Gardener's Sandwich on sourdough and a cup of tomato soup. My bill was under ten dollars and my meal was ready in less than ten minutes. I was very satisfied and will definitely return during work afternoons like this.
(5)Eliza M.
It seemed sacrilegious to not order soup at Soup Spoon. I followed my brother's lead and got the seafood chowder and it was tasty. The iced tea was very good--it was a little on the strong side for me but I liked that it wasn't sugary. I had the reuben (good and the horseradish-mustard on the side was a nice compliment to it) with cole slaw (just okay). I also tried my friend's wrap that had blue cheese in it and it was very good. Soup Spoon caters so I'm making a mental note that if I ever have to plan a shower/event in Lansing, this is a good option.
(4)Jessica W.
I love this place! The staff are friendly, and the food is great. The beer list is fantastic (as an avid craft beer drinker, I am in love). The place, the people, and the food are quirky and creative. It's a unique experience that I really enjoy. I'll admit that at times the service has been a little slow, but given how good the food is and how nice everyone is there, I'm willing to overlook it.
(5)Kate K.
I wish I could tell you this place is awful so you 'd stay home and not go there when I'm trying to get a table. But, I can't. Wow on the "real live no one makes them from scratch anymore" cocktails, wow on the french onion soup and tuna melt sandwich, wow on the coq au vin special the other night. I'm still thinking about the bread pudding we had for dessert, again, wow. Wow on the awesome breakfast menu too. Take even your snooty big-city friends there and they'll be impressed, I promise.Yeah. I wish I could tell you to stay home.
(5)Benny V.
2014 Edit: These days the Soup Spoon is not at all a good time, or a good place to go. The waitstaff are all less than interested to see, serve, or chat with you. The food hasn't gone down in quality too much, but if you want to try it, plan to be unamused by the service. 2009: Soup Spoon was one of my favorite places, the first time I went. The food is absolutely spectacular. It's cozy, but a popular spot. Get there early, if you're looking to lunch. If you've a large group, call ahead for reservations.
(2)Julie P.
To paraphrase Troy from "Community," if you could eat god, he would be potatoes dauphinoise from the Soup Spoon. And also Lemon Chicken soup from the Soup Spoon. That is all.
(5)Michael A.
Great food, super unique. Tasty craft beers. Friendly staff. All the good stuff. Love everything about the place, except for the fact it gets a tad cramped at peak times. Parking lot is a mess.
(4)Teresa K.
Awesome food can't wait to come back!
(5)Bonnie F.
My husband and I LOVE the Soup Spoon Cafe! Their food is creative, unique, and individually prepared. Although we've had many tasty breakfasts and lunches there, the items that stand out the most are the seafood chowder and the bread pudding. The former is more like a bisque than a chowder and is world class - I honestly cannot image it being better. As to the bread pudding, it is also the best I've ever had and comes with whipped creme and a caramel sauce that is phenominal. They also have a very good eggs benedict, and for those chili-heads out there, request the ancho chili hollandaise.....yum. I relish their creativity as nothing is just garden-variety food, but instead, everything has a definite artistic twist to it. Highly recommend a visit to this little gem on Michigan Avenue. Oh, and I've heard rumors that they have recently added Michigan craft brewery beers. We haven't been there since before Christmas due to being out of town, but we are definitely looking forward to imbibing in some of their craft brews - assuming this is true! Keep up the good work, SSC.
(5)Michael K.
Simply delicious, each and every time I go there. Perfect cocktail menu. They should be open on Sunday for brunch!!
(5)Aaron P.
Great place! Nice people, nice atmosphere. Most of the time, the food is really good and the prices are fair for the quality of food you get. I definitely recommend this place. Good soup as you may have imagined. Don't like that they aren't open on Sundays though--the best day to go out for breakfast.
(4)Jeff L.
This is my new favorite hangout when I'm in Lansing, I've been here twice and the food was fantastic, great sandwiches and soup, they also have a very nice beer and wine selection. Due to the students taken over golden harvest (sorry I'm not waiting an hour for breakfast) this will be my new go to place as well. It's worth mentioning the staff is very friendly and attentive, they'll make suggestions if you're unsure of something.
(5)Bethycorn Y.
these two girls definitely need more than one cup (of soup). soup spoon has recently expanded, and despite our initial negative thoughts about taking this soup and sandwich spot to the next level, we're delighted with the dinner menu, full bar, and great michigan microbrew selections. the seafood chowder is so good we've considered buying out their stock to bathe in it. tomato basil gets high marks as well, and pretty much everything has been top notch (except maybe the chicken salad and some of their rotating, namely chorizo and mushroom, soups). and everyone's heard of beer flights...but soup flights??!?! yes please! really important to get here early--definitely expect to wait during peak lunch/dinner hours. service can be hit or miss. we definitely believe everyone to be well-intentioned, but there can be some lulls...even when it's not busy. but the owner is super nice and we generally like the people who work here. this place is really turning into a lansing institution. all kinds of interesting people drawn to delicious often-local reasonable ingredient food. they even have a killer twitter account (@SoupSpoonCafe) where they update their soup specials and upcoming menu delights. end of story, you should go to there.
(5)Rachel L.
Mmmmm this place is good! It is such an unassuming place! i had this salami sandwich with pesto something. I crave it all the time now. It is probably one of the best sandwiches i have had in the EL/Lansing area.
(5)Michael W.
Well tonight I went with the Veal and goat cheese sliders with a cup of lobster bisque soup. The soup started my meal and it was smooth and left me wanting more. But then the slider special came out. The sliders just melted in my mouth. Would love for everyone to give soup spoon a try and support such a great lansing resturant.
(5)Meg H.
I have been three times, twice for dinner and once for lunch. If you plan to have dinner there, consider making a reservation. The place is small and popular. I had lunch there on a Monday recently, and because I was alone I sat at the bar. I'm not sure if it was a particularly busy Monday, or if Monday lunches are always that hopin', but the bartender was pretty busy. It appeared as though she wore many hats - waiting on bar customers, as well as a table or two (I believe), answering phones, taking to-go orders, distributing to-go orders, taking reservations. She could have used an extra hand. People were patient and understanding, as it was obvious she was busy. The food has always been great. You must ABSOLUTELY save room for the bread pudding. Amazing.
(4)Jill M.
Always a great meal. I usually go for lunch, but dinner is just as good. During the normal lunch hour, you can expect a short wait. I have never waited more than 30min for a table. Try the Avocado BLT. It's my favorite.
(5)Jamie R.
Hidden Gem. So many choices for such a small kitchen. Everything on the menu is worth trying at least once. Great place for breakfast. Service with a smile. Haven't been there for dinner, but menu looks amazing. Upscale food and service for reasonable prices. They have many local brews on tap. Yes, they also have a bar. The decor could improve, but the focus is surely on the food.
(5)Elizabeth P.
Excellent food and cozy, non-assuming atmosphere. I got the french onion soup, salmon with dill sauce, and split bread pudding. I got enough for 2 meals (I took some home) for a reasonable price. All of the soups looked delicious, staff was friendly. I recommend this any day, but particularly on a cold or rainy or snowy one. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming. The bread pudding rocked my world - I shared it with 2 other people and it was so rich I felt perfectly satisfied.
(5)Nelli T.
My favorite cafe in Lansing! Love the new bar and drinks too.
(5)Jessica D.
Small restaurant emphasizing sustainable, locally sourced food. Nice updated menu and (I hear) good selection of beers. Service could be a bit better. We were there for a meeting, and our waitress forgot about refilling water after the bill was paid. Other than that, very nice.
(4)David M.
Updated June 24th Last night we stopped in for a meal. We ordered the seafood chowder, the seafood risotto, a BBQ chicken pizza, and the special, a NY strip with truffle sauce. For desert we had the bread pudding. The thing is every thing was ok, not exceptional, well the seafood chowder was damn good. I was expecting and hoping for more. I would have written this off to an off night, but the last couple times we have been in for dinner we have walked out with a underwhelmed feel. So what specifically was off? I'll start with the special. The NY Strip was low on flavor, tough and the sauce was weird. Perhaps I'm not a truffle guy, but I do know that the thought I kept having was "why did I not stick to the plan and get the fillet? It is great." And pehaps my biggest irk was my medium rare was more medium done. This steak is disappointing. My wife got the risotto, she liked it and my daughter loved the shrimp (we share a lot). The taste I had was this Ok, the scallops had met the fate of my steak and were over cooked. The BBQ pizza was exactly what you expect. It was our safe order for the kids, and they nibbled on it. Finally the bread pudding. The flavor was spot on, the uncooked sugar, not so great. We wrapped up on a meh note. The service was good, the drinks too. Just doesn't seem Soup Spoon isn't able to achieve the excellence it once had. And when you are eating an underwhelming meal you think "why am I avoiding chain food again, at least I know what to expect." Original review. How have I not been here before? This place has great food. The kind you "drop money on and don't care" good. My wife and I shared * Seared Scallops Fresh sea scallops seared and finished with our Argentinean chimichurri and avocado * Maryland Blue Crab Cakes pan seared and drizzled with chipotle aioli * Filet Mignon Tenderloin of beef, seared and topped with exotic mushrooms in demi glace, finished with gorgonzola butter. Served with potatoes dauphanoise and fresh vegetable I had the Seafood Chowder - with shrimp & clams, and our daughter had the Cream of Mushroom soup and the Grilled Three Cheese & Tomato - choice of bread with sharp cheddar, gruyere, provolone and tomato. Also, I tried the French Fruitie Soda and our daughter had the Orange Cream Dream soda. Definitely worth a try! Its tough for me to say what I liked the most, the entire meal was fantastic. Things started off with the seafood chowder and they went and set the bar high. This is good chowder. It has all the right notes. Good seafood flavor, the right amount of potato, and a lovely warm down your throat that hints of spice, but doesn't leave you gulping water to soothe the burn. Our daughter's cream of mushroom arrived at the same time and was stellar. Next the scallops and crab cakes arrived were perfect. Very tasty, I ended up liking the scallops better than the crab cakes, but its like saying you like your free money in $100 bills better than $20 bills. The crab cakes were very tasty too. Just my preference. The Grilled Three Cheese (sans the tomatoes) arrived next. This thing is a healthy sandwich. It oozes cheese. If ever you had a grilled cheese with pride, this was it. Served with very crunchy, salty kettle chips and a crisp dill. Over all effect is a homemade grilled cheese with sophistication. Finally the Filet arrived. As we had agreed to split it, I agreed to medium (normally I am a med. rare kind of guy). It was perfect, exactly the right temp. I don't know which I am more impressed with. The flavor, or the tenderness. The steak left nothing to be desired. It was a tremendous way to end a meal that came out really strong. I will be trying to concoct my own gorgonzola butter very soon. So, grab the family or a friend or two and head over the the Soup Spoon Cafe. It will not disappoint. And one last tip, call ahead, a place this good is bound to be hard to get into. Menu: soupspooncafe.com/dinner…
(2)Lizzie P.
Went here a couple weeks ago on a Saturday for an early lunch, it was delicious! We had to wait for about 15 minutes, but after smelling and seeing the food the tables around us were getting we decided to stay. I got the broccoli cheddar soup and a grilled cheese--both were great! The soup was so rich and the grilled cheese was cooked to perfection on Breadsmith bread.
(5)Shaun L.
The food is outstanding. They have, hands down, the best soup I have EVER had in my entire life. You have got to try the chowder. Even people I know who do not like seafood love this stuff. Seriously I think they put crack in their food.
(5)Blue B.
Love soup spoon, great during these cold Michigan days especially. Make time to go to Soup Spoon some time and keep an open mind. Some of the combinations are different that what you might otherwise encounter on bistro menus, but they really offer balanced flavor profiles, great service and attitudes, and good prices.
(5)Russ C.
I love Soup Spoon, I try to at least once a week so I can have as many soups as I can. I always get the cafe combo when I go in, the bill is about $8 for a cup of soup and a half of any of their sandwiches. I love the turkey club, all the ingredients are so fresh and well put together on sourdough bread.
(4)Louise W.
A big shout out to the Soup Spoon Cafe, because a) they're in my neighborhood and b) they serve locally-roasted Rudy Baggs coffee, which is easily the best in town. The place is small but warmly painted and decorated, and serves breakfast and lunch only. (I listed it as a diner because none of the other categories seemed appropriate, but it's not a diner). You can also just get a cup of coffee and a brownie, if you prefer. I haven't eaten here yet, but other local papers, such as the normally-unreliable Noise and City Pulse, have praised it for serving interesting, lighter lunch items such as grilled salmon. Please go and check it out. I want this place to survive.
(3)Craig B.
I just moved to the Lansing area from Seattle and have begun to enjoy it alot!!! I live a couple blocks away from the cafe I now refer to as the "Poop Spoon". I have heard good things about this place and thought I would give it a try. In the past week I visited it twice and had horrible experiences both times. I normally would not wither about such things but I was left with a sour taste in my mouth, literally and whole heartedly. The first stop in was for a take home sandwich the Gardner or Farmer I can't remember, it is the sandwich with two types of carrots (misprint on the dirty paper menu from which you order from). I got the sandwich home and the bread was so dry and crumbly that it could not hold everything together to even consume, it turned into a salad with dry crumbly bread. The second time was a couple mornings later when I thought to stop in for a pastry and coffee... I walked in and the hippie guy with the 90's ponytail literally said "Good-bye" as he and his compadre sitting at the bar chuckled when I asked for soy milk with my latte. I am all for supporting local businesses and businesses in my "hood" along Michigan ave. but I like to be treated with respect and to think that my hard earned dollar is worth a little service and quality of goods. To say the least I will never be back in to enjoy any of what these other reviews experienced and will side with the reviews of distaste (at least the ones that remain and not the many that presumably have been removed at the businesses request).
(1)Erich Z.
Still a bit pricey in my opinion, but the soups and sandwiches are very good. I prefer the spotted dog in downtown, but when I'm in the neighborhood Soup Spoon certainly isn't bad.
(3)Gary H.
A group of six had dinner here. I had a Black and Bleu wrap with a cup of seafood chowder. Both the soup and sandwich were delicious. Three in our party had the beef stroganoff, and it looked very good. One person ordered creme brulee for dessert and shared with others. That was yummy, too. I can't wait to try this place for breakfast.
(5)Kristin M.
The seafood chowder was fab. Has a lovely little kick of heat on the backend. Also had the Greek Tenderloin Linguini, which I enjoyed. Even the iced tea was exceptional - they add flavored honey. I definitely recommend this little gem.
(4)Kuba B.
The Soup Spoon used to be my favorite place in Lansing but the last time I went here I noticed a significant change. For comparison, the first time I ordered a cheese plate here it came with fresh bread, fruit, and bunch of delicious cheeses. For a starter, it was pretty filling. More recently, however, I ordered the cheese plate and they served it with Club Crackers on a much smaller plate. Didn't even have enough stupid crackers to pair with the cheese. Second of all, all their nice wait staff is gone. The guy that served us smelled like cigarettes and made bad conversation with us the whole time. Not sure what spurred the change. I'll give them one more chance and that's it.
(2)Steve F.
Have you been yet? I mean come on...you HAVE to go! The soups are fabulous...fresh AND hot! When I managed restaurants in Chocago I was trained to always serve soup hot. Soup Spoon Cafe understands many important consumer desires...fresh, delicious food, friendly service and menu variety. You must try this place. I was fortunate to be at the grand opening of their new space. Beautiful music provided by Linda Abar and Frederick Issac to entertain while we dined. Wonderful night. Thanks and I hope they continue the live music.
(5)Mike B.
Great place to eat breakfast or have a wonderful lunch. The omelets are special in every way, staff is friendly, and reasonably priced. I always tell people about the Soup Spoon.
(4)Kay S.
This is one of my favorite places to eat in the Lansing area. The food and drinks are excellent. While I don't get there as much as I would like, I have never had a bad experience there. The food is always fresh and hot and most importantly delicious! I have had a hankering for some crab cakes lately (theirs are some of the best I've had). I think it might be time to pay the Spoon another visit!
(5)B K.
Although I may normally steer away from 5-star ratings, as this implies perfection...something that is very hard to attain, I really have to give this place props. The breakfasts I have been served at the Soup Spoon Cafe are simply outstanding, and easily the best I have had in town. The coffee is also excellent - served up by local roaster Rudy Baggs. The lunch fare, while it may not quite blow me away like the breakfast items - is still very, very tasty and quite excellent. The sandwiches are solid, composed of quality ingredients and emminently satisfying. I've only tried one of their entrees...the grilled salmon, and it was spot-on and excellent. Now that they are open for dinner, I may make a point of checking out some of their other entree offerings. Now the soups, as one would hope, are absolutely world class! You simply MUST order soup if you eat here. Wow! Rounded out by comfortable, relaxed and inviting interior and a friendly and sincere staff. A hidden gem of Lansing. Recommended!
(5)Chelsea M.
I've been to the Soup Spoon café a few times over the past 6 months or so. Food is alright (breakfast is by far the highlight) and they do have a decent Michigan draft beer selection. One thing I have found is that many of their food options contain the same ingredients just prepared differently. That's fine, but if you don't care for say the flavor of basil pesto you would love or more of the options on the menu. The service at Soup Spoon can border on slow but they can accommodate larger groups that want spate checks etc. I suggest trying S.S.C. for lunch or an after work beer.
(3)Alex K.
We went here because of its high reviews. We had to wait about 20min for the table but it wasn't bad. It took very long to get food though. Atmosphere was nice and the people were kind. Good food. Only wished our food came sooner than 40min! We will give it a try again.
(4)Merv F.
Had a great lunch at the Soup Spoon Cafe in Lansing today. Very busy for a Saturday at the lunch hour. Extensive sandwich menu. I had the French Dip which was better than most you get anywhere. Good portion of beef, topped with melted cheese on a perfect french baguette. Pam had the Grilled Cheese, three cheese and tomatoes on sourdough. She said it was the best ever. Also, the breakfast menu was extensive and is served until 2:00 pm on the weekends. Service was friendly, ambiance is very casual. It's relatively small and they were very busy which might be the reason food was slow to arrive. I would definitely go back and recommend it.
(4)Rod A.
Soups are fantastic. I've tried about five or six now, always good. They also have tapas and great sandwiches. Local craft beers on tap and the taps are rotated daily. I think on the weekends they tap special small batch beers. Favorite place in Lansing thus far.
(5)Linda K.
Good place to go for breakfast or dinner. It's not my favorite Lansing Area restaurant but it's up there. Nice selection of wine and beer.
(4)Sarah L.
I've gone to Soup Spoon a lot for dinner and everything I've eaten has been great. Some of my favorites are: Voodoo pasta, shellfish risotto, cherry bomb shrimp, greek island plate, pastrami sandwich, and the acropolis. Everything I've eaten here is great, but the BEST thing I've ever had here is their bread pudding, I don't even like bread pudding, but this was amazing. They also make great mixed drinks and home make some of the syrups in their drinks, can't get better than that! Don't let the kind of "old and outdated" exterior and interior keep you away...their food is great and they always keep the restaurant clean. I still haven't made it for breakfast, which I've heard their breakfast is even better than dinner...
(5)Matt R.
In the midst of my sadness about the closing of Sawyer's Pancake House, I came across Soup Spoon Cafe, hoping it might fill the void for good local breakfast. Well, I can official say...void filled! I might even go as far as to say, I can forget about Sawyers because Soup Spoon was SO good. I had the San Diego. Amazing! Our group also had French Toast, Pancakes, Bacon, etc and all got good reviews. I want to try their Lunch menu too, cuz it looks really good. A few points that kept it from a 5 star (I hope you are listening, Soup Spoon peeps). There is not a good system at the front door. No sign saying please wait...or seat yourself, or whatever. Nobody said anything to us either, so we just stood there confused for a min, then finally had to go ask at the counter. As we ate, we watched basically everyone behind us do the same thing...come in & wander around uncertainly...trying to figure out the protocol. A sign does not cost much. Get one :) The other drawback is the price...it was def on the high side, BUT I can overlook that one cuz it was delecious! We will be back fo sho..
(4)Mariah H.
I've gone to Soup Spoon quite a few times for dinner, and I've also ordered take away a few times as well. What I've realized is that for some reason the food that you pre order never seems as good as sitting down and ordering in the restaurant. I always order the same thing usually (crab cakes, BLTA). When I got my food home, the bread on my sandwich was so toasted I couldn't even bite it. It crumbled in my hands and everything fell out. My crab cakes were also smaller than normal and looked a little burnt. However, I ordered the same thing another day and both dishes were very good. The second time I ordered take away, they mixed up my order at the bar with someone else that had also ordered ahead and the waitress seemed a little annoyed with me when I pointed out that I had the wrong bill. When I got my new bill, they had ended up charging me for something that I didn't order, and when I showed it to the waitress, I was met with the same attitude. Overall, I would recommend going for lunch or dinner. When they're on, they're ON. Most times, service and food are very good.
(4)Vanessa H.
I been here twice now. I went once for dinner and once for brunch. The staff was friendly and attentive. Service was good overall. The food was yummy. The only complaint I have is that it seems a bit messy and less than clean. I'm sure that if I took a peak into most of the kitchens I've eaten from I'd be surprised. But, given that you can see the kitchen here, you'd think they'd try to keep it cleaner and keep food drippings off the dining room floor. It was a little disconcerting.
(3)DJ B.
Probably best breakfast in Lansing. Coffee could be better though let's be honest here
(5)Michael F.
Great local beers on tap. The pub cheese was quite good, but the naan toast squares were dry and tough. All was put to rights with a PHENOMENAL slow braised lamb shank. Very attentive and friendly service in a fun atmosphere. One of the top places in Lansing.
(4)Melissa M.
One of the best restaurants in Lansing. Worth the wait.
(5)Kara H.
The Soup Spoon is one of my favorite restaurants in the Lansing area. They have delicious breakfasts, including some amazing pancakes (and REAL maple syrup - a necessity for me). They also have great daily soups (big surprise), sandwiches and delicious entrees. They now have a full bar and a beer club, where you can purchase a membership and get a certain percentage off of your brew every time. The staff is friendly and helpful, the owner is truly attentive to his customer's needs. I love that they try their best to have Michigan goods and make their dishes from scratch instead of using Gordon Food Service crap. My only complaint is that they aren't open on Sundays. I need my Sunday brunch!
(5)Lindsey K.
Spoon me Baby! This place was excellent! Kind of weird but my 2 favorite spots of the week are the Spoon and the Fork.... Anyway- I decided to take my BAF (Big Ass Friend) to the Spoon to check out what I heard was excellent food. I didn't hear wrong.... The Spoon was relatively busy for a Thursday night, which was a good sign. Despite being busy, we were greeted and seated right away. I ordered a Moscow Mule- this was like a Ginger Mule kick to the kisser! Very tasty, my guess is there was a homemade ginger simple syrup involved and it was de-lish... also, strong. One was enough to last me throughout the evening. I ordered the Seafood Santorini which was shrimp and scallops on orzo, with white wine, dill, tomatoes, topped with broiled feta and breadcrumbs. The flavor was excellent, and I appreciated that they did not douse the breadcrumbs in butter. I was really able to taste the seafood. i had an excellent house salad as well. BAF ordered the Walleye special which looked excellent, topped w/ roasted red peppers and served with green beans and roasted potatoes. The only downside was we sat on the side of the restaurant with the grill area, it was hot, and the ventilation was not good. The grill smell kind of clung to the air and our clothes. Overall the Soup Spoon is an awesome, trendy, yet casual place. I'm excited to check out their breakfast!
(4)Talmadge W.
Good food, but hard to get a seat these days. They really need to expand again. I used to come here for lunch on a regular basis, but it's much too busy for a regular 1 hour lunch. If you have a normal job that allows for an hour lunch you will want to avoid this place. I've hard the brunch on Saturday is amazing.
(3)Roy R.
Wow! Great food! Had the Soup Flight which is a choice of a tasting of four soups with French Bread for ten bucks. Very filling and all great! Seafood Chowder, Pumpkin bisque, Sweet pepper chicken, Turkey and cauliflower. GREAT! My only complaint is that it seems reservations are a must.
(5)Kimberly J.
I still love The Soup Spoon, but beware: It's highly popular, and they take reservations ONLY if you call in before 4pm on the same day. It's gotten so busy, and nearly impossible to get into without a long wait (30 mins-1 hr is not uncommon at dinnertime), that we don't go there as often anymore. :(
(4)Ryan J.
Yes some of their food is above average for the area, but if you're gluten free you'll want to pass. Rude response to my gluten question and all around below average service. It's too bad because w just a little better service and options for people w diet restrictions this place could stand out in Lansing. As I'm writing this the lady at the next table asked the same GF question and got the same response. This is a problem.
(1)James E.
Great place, but gets crowded at night. Don't miss the bread pudding.
(5)N J.
Dear Yelp Readers, Looking for a great local soup to warm your soul or heart? Come to the Soup Spoon Cafe which offers quality soups with at least 6 choices per day! The mouth watering soup hits your taste buds and sends the delight of a mothers' cooking. We tried the mushroom soup, the jalapeno crab and rice soup, and the Tuna Melt. The soups were warm and full of flavor. The tuna melt was crispy and had the perfect balance of ingredients. In addition, we liked the atmosphere in the place. The lighting was nice and we sat at the bar where we shared laughs. With the new changes, this place has a lot to offer, so stop in and give it a try!
(5)Christa W.
The Soup Spoon is by far my favorite restaurant in the Lansing area. I have never been disappointed with the food or service. Absolutely love any of their salmon dishes, and for dessert the bread pudding is to die for. I also love the craft beer selection. Can't wait to go back!
(5)D. V.
One of my favorite places to eat in Lansing. Between the boyfriend and myself, we must've tried at least ten of their soups without a dud in the bunch, but my favorite has got to be their French Onion, which they have every day, and is just dripping with Gruyere cheese. Definitely worth smelling like onions and beef stock for the rest of the day. However, I think I'd say that, at least if you're on a student's budget, like I am, I'd stick to the soup and sandwich combo. It's super reasonable - like $7 for lunch, and $9 for dinner - and their entrees tend to fall on the expensive side.
(4)Lorraine H.
I am updating because it's been a while and I've been here many times now. I learned today that you can call ahead and tell them you're coming. It's not a reservation, as far as reserving a table goes, but helps a bit during the busy lunch hour. I have not been disappointed in the food. Today I had the Gus's Greek Wrap, and it was delicious. The french onion soup is very, very good. The service was great -- Eric took our 3 orders and did not write it down. Even though I had a special request, the order was perfect. We waited less than 10 minutes for a table and the service was prompt.
(4)Micaiah F.
Second time dining here. Love the soups. Had the creme of spinach today, it rocked. The sandwiches are tasty too! Had the tuna melt outstanding!
(5)Ellen W.
Visited a few times and usually have the same complaint. Too much salt! Every dang time! Who wants to wait for a meal when dining with friends and have to send it back and eat alone? So I don't send it back and grumble. In case your chef hasn't read the headlines lately, an abundance if salt in our food is not healthy. We can always add it, but taking it away is impossible. Until you figure out how to not dump the entire salt shaker into the pit, I'm staying away. What are you hiding, anyway?
(3)Ken K.
The Soup Spoon Cafe is the perfect example of what happens when you take just a few good, fresh ingredients and combine them in a simple yet imaginative dish. The soup is delicious. I tried the Soup De Jour which happened to be beef vegetable. Big chunks of ingredients and perfectly flavored. I must go back for the Seafood Chowder, or for a soup flight, which I think is brilliant. My main dish featured sesame seared chicken, water chestnuts, peapods, carrots, avocado, green onion, lettuce, asian vinaigrette, and sriracha, all wrapped up. Again, big chunks of ingredients, contrasting textures and fresh veggies all contributed to an excellent dish and a very happy tummy. The only downside is the size and popularity of the place. Even though they recently expanded their dining room to next door, there's still not a ton of room in this place, and it gets quite crowded on the weekdays during lunch. But other than that, this place is top-notch.
(5)Jennifer S.
Went back for breakfast and I thought it was quite good--pretty basic, but tasty. Would do breakfast here again.
(4)Nicole S.
What to say that hasn't already been said... Soups: I haven't had a bad one yet. If it sounds good, give it a whirl. The expanded dinner menu: The portions are quite generous and the food delicious. I've enjoyed the Spoon-i-pino. I've had a few rare misses, mostly when there seems to be one extra flavor beyond necessary, but on the whole very good. I'll never fault a place for trying something new and making changes when needed. Breakfast: This isn't a in-and-out experience, so I tend to come for a leisurely Saturday brunch. There's really nothing like this in Lansing, and it's turned into our default "let's go out for dinner" spot. The only negative is that sometimes the service can be a bit spotty, but forgivable. Don't miss the bread pudding.
(5)D C.
Good, friendly service with awesome food at reasonable prices. The last time I was there, one of the specials was a beef brisket Reuben - which sounded slightly unusual but was really good. I've been wanting to make it there for breakfast & for drinks but so far I've only made it for lunch. I wish they were open on Sundays.
(4)Linda Q.
I first visited SSC a few months ago, and left feeling somewhat disappointed. I went back today, and had some of the best food I've ever eaten in Lansing. The first time, for dinner, I ordered their only vegetarian sandwich, "The Gardner." I just found this wrap to be completely bland and uninspired. The vegetables were fresh, but the balsamic vinaigrette just wasn't appetizing. It was too runny, especially in concert with water exuding vegetables like tomato and cucumber, and thus, it made the wrap very soggy. I also ordered the soup flight because soup is my favorite food, and I wanted to taste a variety. The soups were good, but it really bummed me out that they were all lukewarm, not hot. I need HOT soup! My bf had the Kobe Wagyu burger, and while I didn't taste it, he says it's the BEST burger he's ever had. So, there's that. Today, I stopped by for lunch, and the food I had was great! I ordered the pesto prima vera, which is a linguine with pesto sauce and fresh vegetables- sugar snap peas, tomatoes, carrots, mushrooms. You can add meats for an additional charge. I added a side caesar salad as well. First, I didn't know caesar salad could be so well dressed! The romaine lettuce was very fresh, and it was accompanied by a few different types of croutons, tomatoes, red onion, and parmesan. I've never had such a great caesar, and the red onion, while surprising, added such a nice flavor to the salad. I wouldn't let my dining mate try more than like 2 bites of my salad. The pesto prima vera came out in a big bowl, and the linguine and vegetables were swimming in this divine, creamy pesto broth; the sauce was definitely more like a broth, and not just because I drank it like it was. This dish was gorgeous and delicious. I can't wait to go back to try more of their entrees and to have that amazing caesar salad again! Definitely go!
(4)Jon T.
Just ate here this weekend for breakfast and it was quite good. In fact, I think it gives Golden Harvest and Sawyers a run for their money, which in my book, are the gold standards for happiness at breakfast and lunch. The setting is pretty simple but not bare. Big picture windows overlooking Michigan Ave give it lots of bright light. I like the fact the space is broken up too...gives it a bit of character. As for the outside, pay attention if you've never been, it can be easy to miss. Food is great as is the overall style of the menu. It has all the staples plus some items to show off their flair and commitment to quality ingredients. Also appreciate they have sriracha chili sauce to compliment my eggs and potatoes...nicely done! Service was fricken stellar as well. Our server was friendly, speedy and filled my coffee cup at least half a dozen times...ok probably more since the coffee's great. Don't know her name but her smile and easy going attitude, were great ambassadors for the place. Will definitely be there again soon.
(4)Joe D.
I'm not kidding, this is the best new restaurant (in any price range) within 25 miles of Lansing in the last decade. The food is creative, fresh, often changing and never disappointing. Service is friendly, informed and fast. My only complaint is that they've been discovered and unless you call for a reservation before 4pm, expect a wait no matter what night you come. But don't be put off - it will be worthwhile!
(5)Charles H.
I was very impressed with this cafe. I ordered the stuffed french toast and coffee. The coffee had a wonderful taste to it; Louise is right, it's probably the best coffee in town. The french toast appeared to be made with homemade bread (I've never seen slices of bread so large or odd shaped at the store!). It's a small place, but they have a wonderful atmosphere and great friendly staff. I arrived at 8:30 and it looked like I was the first person there. The place quickly had other customers, and the staff seemed to know many of them by name. It is a little hard to find. It's right next to Bancroft Flowers. There is a door in this cafe that opens into the flower shop. Around 9am, Bancroft's opened and the cafe filled with the smell of fresh flowers. Very nice. The only complaint I have is the price: $7 for the stuffed french toast. I recommend checking out their menu online at their website.
(4)Marion T.
This is something Lansing area really needs! This place reminds me of those restaurants in Bay Area...... The whole atmosphere was energetic and the service was welcoming and warm. We went for brunch yesterday. I ordered the salmon benedict. It was perfectly cooked. The potatoes were very yummy---not too greasy and I loved the seasonings they used. Most importantly, the ingredients were fresh and not cooked with excessive amount of salt. We will return for dinner and some other weekend brunches!
(5)chris n.
I've moved to Michigan about a month ago from LA and the one thing I feared was the inability to find decent restaurants. Thank you SoupSpoon for proving me wrong. I've been here twice and I've gotten mixed reviews so far. If I based this review on my first visit, I would have easily given them a 5/5, but the second visit not-so-much. I ordered a BLT sandwich, a tomato soup, and bread pudding. Everything was delicious, but my god, the bread pudding is something sent down from heaven. I rarely ever get foodgasms, but that bread pudding was A-MAZING! But I digress, my second visit, I had the Cubano sandwich. It wasn't my favorite. The pork inside was a bit dry, and the bread was a bit too burnt. Every bite tasted like burnt toast which was not pleasant. (Thankfully I ordered the bread pudding again) I also noticed that the dinner entrees are quite expensive ranging from $15-20+ per entree. I'm pretty use to these prices in LA, but it's hard to justify those prices when the sandwiches are $6-10. I'm always tempted to get a dinner entree only to be foiled but my cheapness. Maybe someday after my school loans are paid :)
(4)Dave P.
Went on a recommendation from my hotel and waited 25 minutes - each of those heightened my expectations. Soup Spoon didn't disappoint. Server Juliann was fantastic with great recommendations and personality. The chop was the best I've had. Also loved the blueberry margarita and the cheesecake. Even the salad was great. One of the most enjoyable meals I've had. Only thing keeping it from 5 stars is the wood chair was uncomfortable, the atmosphere lacked warmth and the silverware was flimsy.
(4)Heidi D.
My husband and I have been trying different places for breakfast and were told about this place. Very pleasant atmosphere, we sat at the bar and ordered. I ordered French Toast which I thought was very average. I think if I had been able to order it the way it was suggested on the menu (with cream cheese and berries) it would have been very tasty. No cream cheese allowed for me :( my husband ordered one of their omelette's with hollandaise and he enjoyed it very much. The potatoes were delish!! We are going back for dinner. The menu looked very enticing!!
(4)Nikki M.
The food is okay, service is okay, prices are so-so and theres plenty of parking. That all being said one thing that turned me off was there were onions cooked in with the potatos. The menu didnt mention onions, which I absolutely hate! Eating onions was not a surprise I wanted first thing in the morning! I ended up taking a big swig of coffee and washed the gross onion/potatoes down and didnt touch them again. The jam we got with our toast was semi-frozen so we couldnt use it... but it looked good. They didnt have creamer,ketchup or hot sauce on the table either, kind of annoying to have to get up and get everything ourselves when they only had two other tables of customers in there. Overall, there are better places to go for breakfast in the area but i hear they have a good lunch so that might be worth checking out.
(3)Jen C.
Impressive tap selection with some excellent beers from the likes of Founders, Jolly Pumpkin, and Dark Horse. The Cubano and Pastrami sandwiches were great. We would definitely order those again. The cheese-beer dip was yummy, although it could have come with better bread than a few slices of airy baguette. The menu is quite extensive. Dinner entrees are $17 to $22-ish, but there are plenty of less expensive options including soups, sandwiches and dinner salads from under $10, which I really appreciate. You can go for an after work dinner without spending a lot of money, or go for a special occasion. The place was packed but had sufficient seating for everyone.
(4)Stephanie B.
5/5 taking into consideration that this is in Michigan. It compares to other independently owned businesses in cities like Chicago, New York or DC. If I had to rate it on a national scale, I would give it 4/5. The soup selection has variety, and from what I have been told all are very tasty. I had the meatloaf sandwich with a bloody mary and a Michigan brew. I left feeling full and satisfied. I would highly recommend this place if you are in East Lansing or Lansing. My new favorite to stop by when I am in town visiting MSU or the Capitol. It's located on Michigan Avenue about .5 miles east of the hospital.
(5)Cristian D.
Recommended by person next to me on a flight.... So while in on business I had a quick lunch - black bean soup and a chicken sandwich, both delicious. Soup could have had a bit more meat n fixins, sandwich was luxuriously flavorful. Fine local beer selection. Can't wait to get back to Lansing to try more!
(4)Kannan R.
This is a hidden gem. If you're a hipster, you will love this place. If you're not, you'll still probably like it. Chill coffee house atmosphere and decor with a changing menu, very friendly waitstaff. Slightly pricier but nothing bad, they're going for a relaxing night out. Desserts are great, but their naan pizza is unique. My only surprise is that the broad brush I use to paint things with imagines there are more vegetarians in the demographic the restaurant targets than norm, so I'd appreciate a few more bones thrown their way. Plus the owner is an MSU alum/RCMB regular.
(5)Evan S.
Variety of wonderful soups and sandwiches!! Rueben sandwich was AWESOME, french onion was the second best ive had. Black and Blue wrap and chili were both good. It's nice to always have a new different menu with specials.
(4)Patrick W.
Nice little cafe with a bar. Good food and very friendly and knowledgable waitstaff. I've had the reuben sandwich, the french dip and the aisian wrapper. The sandwiches were very good and the wrap was great.
(4)Kati B.
Absoultely fabulous breakfast especially with a morning mimosa (yes it includes bottomless OJ). Fun servers and fast, correct service. Will come here any morning for breakfast & drinks.
(4)Alexandra K.
So inexpensive, so cozy, so delicious. I ordered a Gardener's Sandwich on sourdough and a cup of tomato soup. My bill was under ten dollars and my meal was ready in less than ten minutes. I was very satisfied and will definitely return during work afternoons like this.
(5)Rosanna V.
I found a gem in Michigan. The waiting staff is genuinely polite and friendly. I am impressed in Hirams ability to interact, serve and pack "to go" orders, with grace. The onion soup was tasteful. The service, even better.
(5)Stefanie D.
I was surprised by the large portions and the quality of the food at Soup Spoon Cafe, especially for the price! Service was a little slow but friendly. The wait was worth it. The shrimp voodoo pasta had a mild kick. If you're doing carry out, order ahead of time. My order took nearly 40 minutes and the place wasn't busy on a weekday.
(4)Paige H.
This is probably my favorite place in the entire world. From the days that I just turned 21 and would be so hungover on a Saturday or Sunday morning, I would head into soup spoon and guess what! FULL BAR! so that means I can get something with my breakfast or brunch to knock the hangover! WOO! Now, I have grown to just loveeee the food. Quality is wonderful and so many healthy alternatives. always, always, always, have to go back when I head back into Lansing from the Ann Arbor area, and thats saying a lot, with how great Ann Arbor's food is!
(5)Nellie T.
One of my favorite places to eat while I'm in Lansing. They have a great selection of soups, sandwiches, salads, and fancy entrees. The only problem I have there is deciding what to eat - there's too many choices! Ugh. Good thing they have a great selection of beer and wine that you can sip on as you mull over your menu choices.
(4)Lauren A.
If you fancy delicious food, friendly servers, and a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, you'll probably like the Soup Spoon. If you don't.... Who are you? But seriously, their soups are (obviously) fantastic, but I also highly recommend just about any sandwich on their menu. Oh, and try the bread pudding. It's like swimming in a hot bowl of butter and angel lullabies. Lights out. Also, order anything that involves their homemade spicy feta spread/dip. Do yourself a solid and order some to-go while you're at it. Almost forgot to mention: BISCUITS AND GRAVY. Asiago and rosemary biscuits and gravy, no less. Simply.... yes. So. Much. Yes. Last tip: go for lunch! Their menu at that time is pretty much the same as the dinner menu, just a lot cheaper.
(5)Justin P.
Looking for a place to eat? Look no further because this place is AMAZING! Hands down best restaurant in Lansing/East Lansing. Many people told us to go here and after exhausting all of the other options, we said we would give it a try. The menu was huge for such a small place. One side full of entrées and appetizers the other filled with sandwiches and salads. We started with Goat Cheese Points, then my girlfriend had Seafood Santorini for her dish which was scallops, shrimp on a bed of orzo in a tomato sauce baked then finished with feta on top. Delicious! Mine was a BBQ beef brisket which speaks for itself. The waitstaff was attentive and timed everything perfectly. I cannot wait to go back to try breakfast and lunch!
(5)Omar A.
The soup is a must obviously. Tried three types and all were so delicious and warm. Truly home made. I don't think you can go wrong with any flavor. Get the soup flight! And the seafood chowder is my favorite. The small plates are actually filling. The lamb sliders are so good, reminded me of the lamb cooked home. The sandwiches are good for most part. But didn't like the burger. I felt heavy and not lean.
(4)Lea C.
Hidden gem near sparrow hospital. I had the chicken PO boy for lunch and then came back to pick up the Kobe burger for dinner
(5)Mandana Y.
With out any other place to compare, I'll comfortably declare Soup Spoon Cafe as the best restaurant in Lansing. Well, first, it was the one locals recommended to a group of us from out of town. Second, we walked in, fortunately with a reservation, on a Thursday night, into the most crowded atmosphere. Folks were waiting by the door, by the bar and scattered all over waiting for their tables. The decor, hipster/industrial/antique, is right up my alley. They have an open kitchen concept and extremely friendly staff. Their menu is creative and their drink menu is extensive. I want to say it's a plain and simple great dining experience, but designed with Lansing in mind. It didn't feel like a non-NYC town trying to pull off a NYC experience. This was Lansing, pulling off a great Lansing experience for its locals and out of towners. I just loved it and look forward to coming back next time I'm there.
(5)Randy A.
Wow!! Just had a splendid chorizo hot sandwhich at this place....everything was perfect....they make it all fresh..it takes some time,,but its worth it..props to the chefs.
(4)Alyona Z.
I came upon this establishment upon finding it on the yelp reviews. I was pleasantly surprised with how delicious and quick everything was. I ordered the smoked salmon eggs benefit and coffee and it was divine. The coffee is Rudy baggs which is a local coffee shop in Lansing. I appreciate the fact that they use local shops and local ingredients from farmers markets. Id highly recommend checking this place out.
(4)Tyra N.
Im surprised. Good Surprise! After a reality check, I wanted to sulk but reality bites so hard that sulking does nothing so I went for a bite. Yes I'm always this corny. My shock of this gem kitchen was not only because it's in my new hometown but because my friends had not invited me here. The service, decor and ambiance is on par with many midway eateries. It's not hype here though. They have the kitchen to backup the gourmet feel. I ordered the cuban (pork loin) with chips and the infamous bread pudding. My mouth was not ready. I have not eaten pork loin since 2001 and oh had I missed out. This was juicy and lean but very soulful tasting. The cuts were well proportioned. It was cooked just before well. I'm not sure what seasoning or marinade was used. The bread toasted and crisply, gruyere cheese melted and blended with my bread, onions and pork loin. This was a sandwich. I must learn to make this for my man, he won't ever leave me. lol syke he will I'm a bi... The bread pudding was worth writing home to Momma about. Not too dense or doughy, not too sweet, not too anything. Just Right. Magnificent. I shall return.
(5)Jordan L.
I didnt love the food. The wait time was long, not much seating available. It was ok
(3)Sasha P.
I LOVE the Soup Spoon. It is my favorite restaurant in Lansing and I have many fond memories of it. You can go to the Soup Spoon for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and never be disappointed. Or at least, I was never disappointed! :-) For breakfast, I love the Baja Scramble. It's scrambled eggs with chorizo chunks, peppers, onions, cheese, sour cream and avocado. Anything with chorizo and avocado is a true winner for me. I can't get away from ordering this dish! I've also had the Stacked French Toast and Gourmet Breakfast Wrap. Both were really good but like I said, I'm a sucker for egg scrambles! For lunch, I've had the BLT & Avocado sandwich, the French Dip and the Lamb Burger, listed in order of preference. All of these dishes were simply amazing. The BLTA is fresh and always filling. I love the addition of avocado on what I consider to be a traditional sandwich. The French Dip au jus is absolutely delicious and flavorful. The lamb burger is full of flavor and nicely paired with the yogurt mint sauce. For dinner, I've had the Braised Lamb Shank, Hangar Steak, Voodoo Pasta and Fresh Salmon. I truly feel like you can't go wrong here. The braised lamb shank is a popular dish. It's so tender and juicy, definitely fall-off-the-bone good! The hangar steak chimichurri is an absolute winner in my heart because I love chimichurri! The voodoo pasta and salmon were also very good dishes. I have never had a bad meal here. Sure, the wait for your food might be lengthy at times. But, to their defense, I understand because they have a small kitchen and lots of loyal customers. In any case, the food is fantastic. I love the Soup Spoon and vow to return whenever I am in town!
(5)Christina C.
I had great expectations when I came in to try this place, but was slightly disappointed. I thought that my veggie sandwich (the Gardner with wheat bread) was mediocre. The (French onion) soup was delicious, but was surprised at how small the bowl was. Overall, I thought the food was just average.
(3)Alex N.
Had the Jake's Pastrami - awesome! Meat was seared a bit on the flat top giving crispy edges to it and cheese. May be the best pastrami sandwich I've ever had. Great prices too.
(5)Jennifer T.
Excellent service and atmosphere. Great beer list and fresh quality food! Gets busy at lunch so plan for a bit of a wait. Welcoming and laid back!
(4)Emu Q.
Ate at Soup Spoon today for the first time and loved it! The naan pizza of the day was absolutely delicious and so were the sandwiches. I went with my family and was able to sample most all of the soups and some of the sandwiches. The chowder and vegan soups are both equally delicious. Our waiter, Roger, knew absolutely everything we asked and made some great recommendations. The service was fast and we really enjoyed our lunch. We'll definitely be coming back when we're in town!
(5)Sue K.
First time here and it was a great experience! I got the Cajun Chicken Po Boy w/ a side of kettle chips and pickle. The bread they use is so soft and so yummy. The kettle chips are really crunchy and compliment the sandwich nicely. It costs $8 but you can add a cup of soup on the side for +$2. I recommend the Seafood Chowder. It's DELICIOUS. Will definitely be coming back here.
(4)Tim M.
I'm writing an update to say: The soup spoon is hands down the best restaurant in the entire Lansing Metropolitan Area. It is miles ahead of it's fleeting competition. I have been going out to the Soup Spoon for probably the last three years now and in that period of time I have never had a bad encounter with the soup spoon. One of the really great things about the Soup Spoon is that if you want dinner for $10 then you can get an excellent sandwich (like the Kobe burger, the Kevinator, or the Cajun Chicken Po-Bo) and some pasta salad. Also, on the cheaper side of the menu, their soups (I've recently has the Clam Chowder, Lobster bisque, and French Onion) are absolutely fantastic. I also once had a smoked salmon salad for 12 dollars once and it was as a good as you could hope a salad could be. That said if you're not on a budget their entrees (which can cost between $20 and $30) are delicious. Last time I had the Beer Braised Brisket and Crispy Polenta. The brisket was super flavorful and simply melted in you mouth. I cut it comfortably with my fork. I dream of that brisket regularly (and my saying that isn't an invitation to the Texas-philes out their to send me BBQ hate mail). I've also had the goat cheese points and feta dip both of which were fantastic. Now that I've summed up how excellent the food is: Let talk about the drinks. the Soup Spoon is one of the only restaurants in town today that has an espresso machine. So the coffee quality is unrivaled as far as restaurants are concerned. Their liqueur selection is small but excellent and heavy on the scotch and absinthe. Their mixed drinks are done very proficiently and the the few times I've sat at the bar everyone has been very friendly with me. Their beer selection is good, typical craft beer selection, of 8 or so beers. Their wine selection though rivals that of the best wine bars in the area (Troppo, Tanin, Dusty's, and Zoobies). On one occasion, I had an excellent time sitting at the bar at midday with a friend drinking boozed up lattes. Soup Spoons servers are all well dressed, friendly, experienced, and knowledgeable. They can easily recommend wine/beer pairings and anytime I've ever seen an issue arise at the Soup Spoon regarding a customer the servers always have quickly rectifed the situation in the way that most benefits the customer. It used to be that the soup spoon was to small of a restaurant. It was almost pointless to try and go on a weekend night because there would be a serious wait so I used to just go on weekdays. But earlier this year they expanded into what used to be a neighboring florist, more than doubling their seating. As a result it's much easier to get a table. But don't get me wrong, they'll still be packed. And that makes sense; there is truly almost no where else worth eating out at in this entire town.
(5)Walt S.
Gourmet food at neighborhood-diner prices. The soups are superb, the staff super friendly, and they complete the package with an amazing beer-and-wine list. The breakfast menu is the most unique in town with lots of options you won't find anywhere else. Lunch and dinner also allows for adventures in food. No burgers at this place -- great food at really reasonable prices. My favorite restaurant in the area, even when compared to much pricier competitors.
(5)Kathy P.
I came here for dinner and thought so many things on the menu looked delicious! They really have something for everyone. I enjoyed a cup of soup (I forget which kind, but it was good). I ended up ordering the salmon, which the waitress said she loved, and so did I! It was probably one of the best salmon dishes I've ever had, and even my boyfriend, who claims not to be much of a salmon fan, agreed that it was amazing. Apparently they are known for their bread pudding, so we had that for dessert and it was yummy. Service was friendly, the restaurant was clean, food was delicious; overall a great experience. Now if only they had a patio... then it'd be a solid 5 stars for me!
(4)Eowyn K.
I wanted to like soup spoon café more than I did. The café itself is lovely and quirky. Large windows in the front allow plenty of nature light in. The café is divided into different sections. We sat in the first, decorated with shelves of mugs and windows hanging from the ceiling. Another section displays art work available for purchase. The service was friendly and all of the food arrived in a reasonable amount of time. The menu had several interesting items, but the name has soup in it, so I had to go with that. My friend and I each ordered the soup flight and shared the crab and avocado points. I had the (regular menu item) seafood chowder, Thai ginger, oxtail stew and pumpkin. The seafood chowder was good, very creamy, but not amazing, it was one of the two I did not finish. I did not like the Thai ginger soup. These are flavors I love so I was surprised that I did not enjoy it. I'm not sure how to describe it, the flavor just did not seem fresh. The oxtail was rich and good, I enjoyed it but I would not want a larger portion. The pumpkin was the star. It was finally the wonderful soup I wanted. It had a bit of sweetness, but not too much. We both scrapped the cup. The crab and avocado came on toast points with a marmalade. I did not like the marmalade at all. The overall dish was disappointing (part was due to the red pepper in the mix, which I hate, and may have been part of my issue). Based on the photos and other reviews I would go back and give it another chance.
(3)Karen B.
It's all good but whenever you are in doubt, just get the soup flight.
(5)Aaron M.
They have theeeee best brunch in town, plus a full bar, what's better?! On top of several soup choices, they have choices for vegetarians, vegans, and also an awesome selection of meat dishes. I love this place because it's so fresh and clean tasting, that's why I keep on returning!
(5)Kathryn G.
I have truly never eaten anything at Souo Spoon that I didn't enjoy. Everything on their menu is full of flavor and really fresh. I like that they use a lot of local, Michigan grown ingredients and feature beers from around the state. My all-time favorite item on their menu is the seafood chowder. A friend from New England told me it's the best chowder she's ever tasted. Sample their rotating soups and order a soup flight when you go. Some of the tastiest food I've ever had has been eaten at Soup Spoon, like their vegan Ethiopian stew. This is easily Lansing's most delicious restaurant!
(5)Kaitlyn C.
I came here several months ago with a friend. I ordered the salmon wrap and he got some kind of sandwich. I am 99% sure I ended up with a mild case of food poisoning. I will not be going back.
(1)Denise G.
We were just delighted with our experience at Soup Spoon Cafe. My husband had the pastrami sandwich and I had the turkey. The recommended pasta salad was delightful. When in Lansing, we know you will enjoy eating here, it has that "neighborhood" feel!
(4)David H.
Came here while on business in Lansing based on user reviews and glad we did. Restaurant was very unassuming and close to the MSU campus. Menu was much broader than anticipated with a number of nightly specials. Full bar with many local brews as well as both local and varietal wines. There are a number of vegetarian and vegan options, we had the homemade lentil patty that was really great. The soup of the day and other soups on the menu were very good as well. What really set this restaurant apart was the service, from when you walk in the door to your food being delivered to the table was spectacular, I believe our server's name was Roger and he did a phenomenal job. Definitely worth a stop if you are in the area.
(4)Jordan P.
Great food and a nice atmosphere. Solid selection of lunch items.
(4)The E.
Do not understand the hype for this place. Food was OK, nothing out of the ordinary. Sandwiches are small and overpriced. Waitress did not smile once. Beers on tap are good.
(2)Aaron H.
It only took my wife and I 4 years since we moved to the area to try this place. Everyone told me it was the bomb and I must agree. Ethiopian chickpea soup was spicy and right up my alley. Their steak was fantastic as well as the rustic asparagus and feta mashed potatoes. My wife had Schnittzle and that was amazing too. Wish I had tried it sooner. I'll be back soon.
(5)Sarah J.
Overall it was okay. The bread/toast at breakfast is fantastic. However, I didn't care for the French toast with strawberry cream cheese that I ordered. The bread itself is good; the cream cheese is good but not together. Maybe I would have had a better review had I gone with basic pancakes or toast and bacon. The waitress must have had too many tables, even for a Tuesday morning. We saw her at order (which took about 15 minutes), food drop off and then for the bill. That's about it. The manager however was extremely helpful when I didn't care for my French toast, and had a new set cooked without the cream cheese. Maybe go back if I'm in the area but we only ended up here because Golden Harvest was closed for the day :(
(2)Shawn K.
Very tasty! The Lunch Ragu was delicious as was the Salmon. Our server Heidi and the other wait staff were very friendly. Will definitely go back and try the dinner menu next time we are in Lansing.
(4)Chris M.
Since Lansing and East Lansing are practically one city, consider it a college town. And college towns in general all should have a major breakfast spot. By that I mean a place which features home-style cooking but that also gets creative. At my alma mater the University of Oregon, the Glenwood filled that niche. Here, Soup Spoon does. I've known devotees of Golden Harvest who will take exception to that statement. For all I know, they are right. But the only times I attempted to go there, a line out the front door dissuaded me. Soup Spoon was usually crowded, but I could always get a spot. As expected, you could count on some version of eggs benedict. My version one time had trout, a first. And waffles, and omelettes, and scrambles. Soup Spoon does it all. Not once did they fail me. Hence, this review. When in Lansing, stop by. Boom.
(5)Rilke L.
Too bad they went downhill. This was once my favorite restaurant in Lansing and I highly recommended it to whomever I could. The Soup Spoon has gotten too big for their pants. Their manager Keith doesn't seem to care about his loyal customers or staff - he also just might have a lil Napoleon complex. When the Soup Spoon first opened, they were great. Was a loyal customer for two or three years. I'm the first to support local businesses, and believe in all things local. I've arranged large parties and had my family meet there for post-funeral and post-graduation gatherings - spent much time and money with business lunches/post work dinners/imbibing with friends there. Fast forward a year: last three visits the food was dreadful. Servings shrunk, and quality and speed suffered. The last time I ordered a sandwich, the meat portion was horrible and the bread was hard. I mentioned it to my server and she tried to make it right, but the kitchen and then Keith refused. I used to visit at least once a week but sadly I won't go there anymore because of Keith's inability/refusal to make it right. Sad - they were once one of my favorite restaurants. Keith pretended to be nice to me (albeit he was condescending and disingenuine) but was rude to his staff in front of customers. Despite my appreciation for the menu and the waitstaff - I will not return. Buy local - but go somewhere else.
(1)Cassidy S.
Had a nice time at Soup Spoon with six friends last week. We came for early dinner and had some drinks as well. My friend had come earlier in the week and recommended the soup flight, so that's what I picked for my meal. Ten minutes after ordering my server returned saying that the lamb soup was out, which was too bad, but I changed to the chowder. I also got a side of kale and swiss chard with garlic, as well as a Woxum to drink. Our seven-top was seated near the office door, which I didn't think would be an issue, but two gentlemen kept entering and leaving and my chair was right by that door. Thankfully the food was stellar! The cocktail was nice - herbal and dry. All the soups were delicious, though I got the eggplant parmesan instead of the chowder I had ordered. The lentil was a little on the spicy side. The pumpkin bisque was INCREDIBLE! I highly recommend this one for a fall selection. The side of veggies was a little heavy on the garlic for me but otherwise tasty. Overall, I was really hoping to return for Sunday lunch, but they were sadly closed that day. Next time I'm in Lansing, I"ll be back!
(4)Cristy C.
The first thing to know about the Soup Spoon is that there is always a wait. Fortunately, the overall experience is usually worth the wait. However, if you are disinclined to wait for a table, you can call ahead for a same-day reservation before 4pm that day. They have also very graciously allowed me to push back the reservation to a later time that night when one of our party members was stuck in traffic. The decor is interesting and artsy. The staff is friendly and professional. The food is tasty and decently priced (especially at breakfast and lunch). Another review called the vibe of the Soup Spoon "bright and fun" and this description is spot on. The bar seems well stocked with a focus on Michigan products. I usually just get a Soup Flight ($10), four decently sized soup cups (of your choice) served with bread. I always choose the French onion and seafood chowder and then pick the two most interesting of their soups of the day. Among the appetizers, the Greek Island Plate ($8) and the Cafe Bread ($8) are favorites among my group of friends. For breakfast, I have found their Gourmet Breakfast Wrap ($7) very tasty. At dinner, I have had the Mediterranean Risotto ($22) and the Voodoo Pasta ($17) and both were quite good. The Soup Spoon does what they do exceptionally well. Good food. Good service. Very popular.
(5)Stacey H.
LOVE LOVE LOVE this place! The breakfast variety is great & all of the lunch menu hits the spot. I've never tried dinner here but look forward to it! Try it if u haven't yet
(5)Val V.
Always Delicious! Always Satisfying! Daily specials are unique and unforgettable!
(5)Robert D.
Ok so seriously the best breakfast place I have eaten at in the area. I decided to get the Irish Scramble and it was absolutely delicious. It was so good that I ordered a lunch smoked salmon wrap and that was so impeccable as well. I had a Bloody Mary with meat which came with bacon and salami wrapped around cheese. My friends ordered the gourmet breakfast wrap, BLT with avocados and the southwest scramble. Seriously we all left this place with absolutely nothing but great things to say about the place. The prices were very reasonable and they use local products in almost everything they make! Don't be surprised if you have to wait in line but it is well worth it. Seriously EVERYONE needs to try this place out you will not be disappointed!
(5)Nicole M.
After going to school at Michigan State University for four years, my biggest regret is not coming to the Soup Spoon in Lansing until my last year there. Whether for breakfast or lunch, this place does simple, fresh food in the best possible way. Their menu has lots of classics but then takes them up a notch by adding some unique flavors. My personal favorites are their beef stroganoff with a creamy dill sauce and their bacon and corn chowder. Oh yeah, and being the Soup Spoon they definitely have fantastic soup. Trust me ,when you see their four soups of the day you'll have to get a soup flight because it is actually impossible to choose between their amazing soups. This is truly one of Lansing's gems, so you'll probably have to wait during the school months when MSU students are there but it is worth the wait!!
(5)Catherine F.
This place was excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed everything we got (French toast, biscuits and gravy, and salmon Benedict) and will definitely be coming here again!! Also, the service was excellent as well!
(5)Bill F.
The freshest, most authentic food in the Lansing area. Salmon is devine, scallops were great, and draft beer selection is impressive. My dining partner visiting from Cali said "I haven't had food this good in Napa!"
(5)Hannah S.
This place took us completely off guard. The term cafe is definitely used lightly here because this is for sure a fancy soup sandwich place. The staff were super friendly and the vibe of the place was very bright and fun. We were so close to ordering the flight of soups (sample 3 soups) but we wanted a tasty sandwich to go along side. We split a soprano sandwich, very tasty in that pesto, sun-dried, salami way. We also shared two bowls of soup (which weren't very big, but I knew they weren't cups) of french onion and the black eyed pea soup. SO GOOD. The black eyed pea soup was a sweet and savory special of the day, and a bit spicy. The french onion was super super ooey yum yum (that's the technical term, I promise). Surprisingly when our bill came it was a lot less than we expected it to be...so not sure how that happened. Maybe those really were cups, or someone miscalculated, but hey, yummy food for cheap right? Great view of the capital building if you're leaving at night :) Parking is a bit tight so heads up.
(4)Shelby L.
I'm gonna start with the things I don't like, because they're quite small compared to the good things. First, I've been turned away from this place at least 5 times. I've come at least three times for dinner only to be told the place was booked for the night. Once it was on me, as it was V Day, but the other times were just average nights around 6:30-7. I've also tried to come here a handful of times while it wasn't open. Also on me, but COME ON! I need the goodies! It's the only actually good restaurant in town so it's a bummer when I have to just say fuggit and go to beggars. The other thing I don't like is that this place may use healthier, higher quality ingredients and put more imagination into their food and actually keep up with food trends, but this place is really fattening and less vegan friendly than I was hoping. Very vegetarian and carnivore friendly, though. They clearly use a lot of cream, oil, sugar, mayo, butter, etc in their food. BUT, if you can look past that, the food is always tasty. I really enjoy their soups. I went there once and the waitress was really pushing the pumpkin soup on us. We all agreed that it sounded delicious but ordered other things and she brought out little samples! How sweet! And, let me tell you, it was AMAZING!!!! But it was not soup. It was dessert. It was pretty much pumpkin pie filling, and it even came with whipped cream on top. Heaps of cinnamon, too, which is always good in my book. I don't like to eat bread and I never eat pasta but my dining companions always seem to order pasta or sandwiches at this place and are always very pleased. Before I was a vegan, I had a bite of my friend's lamb entree special and WOW. It was cooked so nicely and just delicious. Overall, this place is very cute and has good food and a great drink selection. It's not a perfect 5-star restaurant, but you really can't ask for much more in the greater Lansing area.
(4)Shannon B.
We love this little eclectic cafe. The San Diego Benedict is to die for! My cappuccino was burnt but whatever. Service was really good.
(4)Lindsy C.
I had lunch at the Soup Spoon Cafe for the first time in December with my family. I had heard good reviews so I was excited to try it, especially on a cold day! We started off with drinks (Dark & Stormy) while we waited for our table. They were pretty busy, but the wait wasnt too long. My das and I had the lobster bisque soup, which we both loved! Highly recommend. I then ordered the smoked salmon appetizer as an entree, which I wasn't impressed with and do not recommend. The salmon tasted fresh, but there was something missing, it needed a kick! Service was okay. Nothing to rave about but the soup definitely was. I would recommend this Cafe and look forward to trying it again soon.
(4)Sarah B.
Really tasty well seasoned food. Unique to this area. The name does not do it justice. The service was good too!
(5)Janet F.
Visited Soup Spoon Café for a Friday lunch with several family members. Even though we weren't in any rush, the server left our table a couple of times telling us she would give us more time to order. It would have been nice to have her ask us if we'd like more time to order, as we were ready. I split lamb sliders and an Asian salad. Both were fresh and plentiful. The lamb sliders had a great sauce and were served on fresh, grilled buns. Better than I imagined. Several others ordered the soups. One family member ordered the soup flight which included 4 cups of soup and a side of bread. This is a fun way to try their amazing choice of 6 homemade soups. The seafood chowder has a slight kick to it, but not enough to keep those that don't like spicy food away from eating! It's my absolute favorite. The Reuben soup was fabulous! A tomato based soup with sauerkraut and corned beef. The Reuben sandwich was served with a side of au gratin potatoes. A nice change of pace from the usual chips or fries. Everyone was happy and we will definitely go back again soon!
(4)Megan K.
This review is long overdue. This is probably one of my favorite places to eat in the Lansing area. The restaurant is cozy and has sort of a warm, comfortable vibe. It's definitely not a pretentious or overly fancy place. However, the food and service are always awesome. One of my favorite things is the Dark and Stormy, their rum and ginger cocktail. They have a housemade peppercorn and ginger syrup that is to die for. Their cocktails are more than reasonable in price as well, ranging from 5-7$. The Cherrybomb Shrimp is awesome and I always get that. So yummy! I've eaten here dozens of time and I've never had a complaint with the food. The last time my boyfriend and I came, we each got two cocktails, the Cherrybomb shrimp, a Reuben sandwich, and the Kevinator sandwich. It came to $50 which is pretty amazing and everything was delicious. Highly recommend!
(5)Lisa W.
Food is awesome, service could be better. We entered to find a small line, which is okay. We gave the host our names and sat down to wait. My husband noticed two spots open at the bar so we went to sit down, the host yelled my husbands name very loudly saying NO, NO, don't sit there....we were both very embarrassed. I thought this was terribly rude to embarrass a guest like this. Why not just walk over to us and say, sorry these sets are not available...Very unprofessional. Our server was not any better. We waiting for coffee after asking several times. Once the waiter had the pot in his hand at the table next to us and still forgot to fill ours. I get the feeling as I do too often that places that have a following have given up on real service.....sigh...problem with that, we haven't been back.
(3)Chelsea S.
Fantastic place to eat. Didn't have to wait long and was able to drink coffee as I did. I didn't try a Bloody Mary but they had a variety of ones that sounded great. Ordered the goat cheese points to start out with and the breakfast wrap. Both were very delicious. Very friendly service and inexpensive for the quality of food.Best brunch I've had in a while!
(5)Tony E.
Really great food / amazing selection / choices / and the service was good. Clean and I like the ambiance a lot. I will be back with
(4)shara A.
I feel bad for these people who are giving SSC low star reviews. 1st of all, the place is called Soup, let me say that again... SOUP Spoon Cafe. When I try a restaurant, I'm going for what their famous for first, then I'll try the rest of the menu. French onion soup... *drops mic* I mean, how can you go wrong? No, the question is: what in the world are they doing to make everybody else's wrong. (tee hee) Seriously though, I've only been here a hand full of times. I don't care about the wait for a table... their french onion soup makes it worth it. I've also had the bacon avocado sandwich, the Ava, and the Soprano...Somebody smack your momma!!! My husband all but got up to kiss the chefs for his Cubano. Then they've got this tea they do something to... you have to ask one of the waitresses because it's not on the menu... raspberry? or maybe it was peach? IDK, I think they add crack to it, because it is DEEEElicious!! I can't wait to get back. (mumbling: who gives this place a low review? Sheesh)
(5)Synthia G.
Service was great and consistent. Food exceeded my expectations. Highly recommend the soup sampler. Crab avocado bites were delicious! Our server was really sweet and attentive. Very satisfied with this place can't wait to come back for breakfast!
(4)John B.
Food is exceptional, prices are very reasonable. Our Waitress was very pleasant and the staff were wonderful and very courteous (even with our crying baby). We waited for over an hour after ordering. Make sure you set aside a large block of time if you plan to go there. I was there another time for a lunch and the wait time was similar. Great food though, everything about it is yummy.
(4)Rachel D.
Soup Spoon is one of the only restaurants in Lansing where you can rely on fresh ingredients and food that didn't come from GFS. In my opinion that's why everyone raves about it, not because of the actual taste of the food. I've been here many, many times but it's rare that I leave feeling like my meal was great. The sandwiches are typically the best in my opinion- the po boy is pretty good, I've enjoyed the geek wrap and the veggie wrap, and their lamb burger is all right. I would suggest being picky on the salad- the tenderloin is chewy and on every occasion that I've gotten something with avocado it's had a very strange consistency. I'm not sure what's up but it's rubbery looking and certainly nothing I've ever seen anywhere else. Their goat cheese points are great, and I love the tomato basil soup. My husband gets the Spoonipino often and seems to love it. If he doesn't get that, he often gets the special which is usually awesome. I will say Soup Spoon's redeeming feature is their breakfast. There aren't a ton of places in Lansing where you can get breakfast food that's better than diner quality. My only qualm is that they're not open on Sunday which stinks because my husband works Saturday morning, so he's never been able to come with! Finally, the service is so-so. The entrees come with bread and olive oil, but we seem to have a 50% chance of actually getting it. Some of the servers are awesome and on other occasions we've sat for 20 minutes after finishing and our table being cleared before receiving the bill. At any rate, I'll keep going because it's one of the best in the area. But I'll still keep hoping they'll do better.
(3)J C.
2 stars because, "meh, I've had better" is literally how I felt about this place. I will say this place has improved it's professionalism since it first opened. But I just don't think that the food is anything spectacular. I've never had their soup so I can't speak on that, but I've give this place multiple tries at different times of the day - Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner. I've tried their breakfast stuff, salads and entree style dishes. I think there's better food around, and for me, it seems like this place is living off the ambience more than the actual food. But if you want to take a work colleague to a trendy, non-threatening place- it's good for a lunch stop.
(2)Ashley M.
This lovely, cozy place was a perfect place for me and my main squeeze to find ourselves on an extremely frigid Friday night! The staff here was fantastic. The host advised it'd be roughly a 30 minute wait as we did not have a reservation. There was room to sit and it was no more than 10 minutes until we were seated. Our server, Corey was friendly and attentive. Curry Cauliflower soup was amazing! The Chorizo Chili my handsome date had was also. The dinner menu here is diverse enough to offer a couple vegetarian and vegan options. Would love to come back and try more very soon!
(5)Marc M.
In my travels, I find that the size of the city, nor the location within a city makes a restaurant "GREAT". While in Lansing overnight, I trusted Yelp to find that 2nd best restaurant. I say "2nd" because the more reviewed/known place has been featured on TV. Don't let the neighbor hood, exterior or even the interior fool you. Soup Spoon is a real diamond in the rough. My coworker and I came for dinner and had such a great experience that when we found out they serve breakfast, we came back the next morning! Interestingly, the two experiences were very different - both excellent, but the night crowd was more of a hipster crowd (it IS close to MSU) and the morning group was a mixed lot of old-timers and business people. At night they serve craft cocktails and draft beers. We were here on a Monday night and it was PACKED. In fact, there was a wait when we left at 8:30pm. A wait on a Monday night? In Lansing, MI?!? We sat at the bar and made conversation with the bar staff. One of the things that makes any restaurant good is happy servers. This team works together and appears to be having fun. The other thing that makes a restaurant good is the food, of course. For dinner, I had the french onion soup - to die for - and a hanger steak special. For breakfast :) I had the breakfast wrap. In the morning, we had the occasion to meet Nick, the owner. Very nice guy and I wish him much continued success
(5)Jenna H.
We had a large party of 27 and they reserved tables for us ahead of time. The service was efficient and very friendly. And lastly the food was fantastic. From stir fry, salads and to sandwiches every person was very satisfied. Thank you so much for the wonderful experience! If we are ever back in town you will see us again :)
(5)Michelle E.
We came here with our small kids which was our mistake. The food is very fancy for kids, (there is no kid's menu and mine aren't adventurous enough to eat a goat cheese frittata). They were kind enough to make naan with red sauce and cheese, a kind of 'pizza' for them, but my kids weren't fooled. I ordered the Kobi beef burger and potatoes dauphinoise. I ordered the burger without onions but they forgot. I was ok with picking them off but they did offer a replacement. My 3 stars come from the potatoes dauphinoise- which should have been delicious. Or at least hot. Instead they were lukewarm at best and congealed. The prices were a little high for what I ate.
(3)Chad H.
This place is really simple. Warm staff, great diverse selection of food, and excellent service. There is a small bar which has terrific artists and beers on tap, a great wine selection, and really good liquors. The seating area is, again, simple. There is plenty of lighting and a great host to help with the flow. The food was incredible! My wife got the macaroni and cheese. It was delightfully rich, well-balanced, beautifully presented. I got the sirloin and Gorgonzola wrap. Simply put, I've never had a "wrap" this good in my entire life. As with everything else, the balance of the ingredients was spot on. Absolutely everything we encountered was of the highest quality, with from scratch items that need you didn't need much of, because of the excellent, full flavors throughout.
(5)Wenbo X.
A simple little restaurant. I went for the breakfast, and it was amazing. A nice varied menu with everything you can expect for breakfast. The food portions are the perfect size. Large enough to fill you up, but not so large that you feel slow and tired afterwards. The service was also very good. I went right as they opened up, and there was already a good amount of people streaming in as I ate.
(5)Tiffany M.
This place is amazing. It's hard to find good food in michigan after living in LA for 5 years but this reminds me of it! You have to try this place it's so good! I got the chicken sandwich with chipotle mayo.
(4)Rachel C.
I wish I could eat here every day! Seriously, their food is AMAZING. Always a good selection of beer, great apps and entrees and also great breakfast! Service can sometimes be a bit slow, hence the 4 star review but overall great experience.
(4)Kristin R.
We chose this restaurant because I'm vegan and it was listed on happycow.com . Besides a couple of salads, there was only one item on the menu which was vegan. It was a sandwich with a lentil patty. It was ok, a little bland. The waitress said they also have one soup everyday which is vegan. I tried the hot and sour vegetable soup. It was very good. The ambiance was nice - brick walls and nice paintings for sale. There is a bar on one side. Overall experience was very good and we will probably go back.
(4)Debbie G.
Friendly atmosphere, easy parking for downtown and amazing food. I loved the variety. My breakfast was tasty and the servers were always there filling my coffee. Excellent!
(4)Elizabeth D.
Third time's not the charm! Dinner a couple of years ago was fine but not memorable, lunch a few weeks ago was salty and greasy, and breakfast a few days ago was "meh, I've experienced better." I tried the classic Eggs Benedict. While the eggs were cooked appropriately, the Hollandaise sauce was flavorless. The side of potatoes was cold! And the side of homemade sausage was so dry... I really should have sent it back, but I soldiered on and ate the whole dry pattie anyway. One star for the coffee, which was fairly hot and good. And one star for the friendly greeter at the door. Other than that, there was no reason why breakfast on a weekday morning at 10 AM had to be that bad. They really did not have to serve cold potatoes and dry sausage. I don't know where the high rating is coming from, but my experiences here with the food have been very disappointing.
(2)Liz A.
this place is just ok. i honestly don't get what they're doing with their atmosphere. i can't figure out if it's trying to be upscale (based on the waiters' level of formality) or not (based on the fact that it feels like you're in a middle school cafeteria). mixed drinks are like something out of a bad episode of bar rescue. the food is ok. i think they're trying to be creative but nothing really seems to go together, nor is it memorable. they are very friendly and wanting to please, i will give them that. i just never really feel like it's worth the money.
(3)Dani B.
I hadn't been to the soup spoon since the expansion and my mom wanted to go to breakfast so I gave it a whirls and found it all kinda disappointing. I tried the johnny cakes and my mom had the salmon Benedict. Both where poorly presented on the plate and while the Benedict was okay the johnny cakes could have been so much better. They tasted like a dry flavorless pancake when they could have been buttery,or better yet cooked in bacon grease. The salmon was over cooked and grey looking. The atmosphere was fine and the restaurant appeared clean and bright but noisy and chaotic ( it was a weekend). The menu is well presented and clear and the server was friendly and very capable. she earned the stars I was willing to give because the food was a zero for me. I feel bad giving such a poor review to a place I used to enjoy.
(2)Barbara R.
great place, delicioius and unique food
(5)Jessy B.
Amazing butternut squash and Apple soup! French onion was very good as well. The onions were well cooked and melted in your mouth. Was a little disappointed with the pricing on the "small plates". For $8-$12 each I thought they would be a little bigger.
(4)Mallory H.
Usually I come here for breakfast with the girls after work and the food is good/solid, nothing mind blowing, but I do really like the staff who are always friendly and fun. I've had the eggs benny, the Irish breakfast, the breakfast sandwiches and all have been good. The homemade jam is good but they're a little stingy with it. I've also come once for dinner and had cajan pasta and the salmon both were tasty and good portion sizes.
(4)J Michael L.
A casual, eclectic artsy place with jazz music. Recently expanded (doubling space) next door, but still awaiting liquor license there. Loved the seafood chowder, but I'd rather have seafood gumbo or the Fisherman's Chowder.I'll ask for a flight of soup next time. ($10). French bread should arrive warm or freshly toasted - better for dipping in the olive oil & spices. LOVE the in-house smoked salmon. An amazing selections of wine and craft beer at its best. And someone locally roasts their coffee fresh every 7 days. Stop in on Saturday mornings for breakfast/brunch and you can meet the coffee roaster.
(5)Anne-Marie H.
It's a busy Friday afternoon, right before graduation. We expected to wait for a table, even at 1:15 pm. We didn't expect to wait 37 minutes for our food - sandwiches and chips - once we had ordered. Sandwiches were all cold when they arrived. Cheese was that congealed greasy gelatinous goop that had long since been cooked and served. Honestly: I get "busy," but this was really bad planning. The tomato bisque was awesome, though. I'd think hard about coming back here on any day when it was supposed to be busy. Maybe a random weekday during the summer will be better.
(3)A C.
Every time I've been here, the food has been amazing. It's too bad the place is getting so popular, yet it's a small place & sometimes understaffed. So there is usually a wait, either to be seated, to order, or for your food. But that's also a testament to how good this place is. Wonderful vibe & amazing food.
(5)Linden B.
My girlfriend and I have both worked in restaurants the majority of our young adult lives and our empathetic to what goes on behind the scenes. We literally never complain, but this was the worst experience we have ever had. We spent a total of an hour and a half waiting for our food (breakfast food should only take 10-15 minutes max). We watched five other parties who arrived after we had ordered get there food before us. After an hour or so we complained,we could tell they then began to make our order because the kitchen is open and you can see what is being made. My baja scramble was more like a shit pancake and my girlfriend's yoke in her eggs benedict was the same consistency as a golf ball. We were extremely patient and polite, a manager of sorts came and gave us a half hearted apology and justified the wait by claiming they were busy. Unless they were feeding half of china out of the back of the restaurant there is no way it takes an hour and a half to get through breakfast orders when your restaurant only seats 50 people. I've seen full coursed meals for a 50 person party be cooked faster (with well done steaks). The manager then took off a whopping $10 which was a 12% discount. I just want my 90 minutes of my life back as well as the time it will take to poop out the food.
(1)Jasmine D.
We had lunch around 2pm on a Saturday here. Took about 25 minutes to sit us. It was packed. Nothing special going on in the area either. Our server visited our table 3 times. To take our order, bring our food and fill our water once. It is a cute restaurant. The French onion soup was delicious. My bf had the firecracker shrimp pasta and enjoyed it plus he said the lobster chowder was awesome. Too bad it took an hour for our food because it was a set back to the entire day. We would eat here again but only if the wait time is significantly less.
(4)Richard K.
For lansing, the food was good, but not great. I expected more. Atmosphere is poor and food could have been prepared better. Also, the server didn't inform us of specials and I had to request bread. Please renovate your decor soup spoon!! I can't justify paying $20 for a dish when I feel I should be ordering a BLT.
(2)dawn v.
Thank You Yelpers! NEVER would've stopped. A place called Soup Spoon, especially looking like nothing from the outside! Who knew they made their own homemade mixers for cocktails???? (The Stormy cocktail is made with their own ginger syrup and packs quite a kick.. And only $4 during happy hour??? Steal!) I'm not really a soup girl tu the Yelpers aren't lying. Don't come here and not get soup. Other things are good too but the soup is like heaven in a cup. The pumpkin bisque is like nothing we have ever had before. A cross between soup and pie. Seafood chowder is obviously something they perfected a long time ago. Total bill for two soups with salads and a cocktail was $20. (Try the shrimp alas.. Big plump shrimp with a kick)
(5)Amber V.
pretty good food. i would like a little more vegetarian and/or vegan options on the menu. overall, good service and very decent food. especially for the area.
(3)Sam B.
By far one of the best restaurants in Lansing area. Great breakfast and lunch. Food comes out hot and the beer is on point.
(5)Danielle B.
I wish I could give places 1/2 stars, I would have given this place 3.5 because it has fantastic potential to be 4 stars. Maybe it is what I ordered but when I went, I got a cup of the shrimp soup and it was salty, and I am the person that SALTS my food DAILY and it was just a tad bit salty for my palette. I also got the hangar steak, which I received cold and was slightly chewy. The hangar steak was with a chimichurri sauce which was good and the asiago mashed potatoes were just okay. I don't remember the service--which can say something all in itself. This is a good place to try though if you are in Lansing though, there aren't many places like this in Lansing/EL in comparison to Ann Arbor.
(3)Janet C.
Good food. Some of the waitstaff are snotty.
(4)Nick B.
I can always count on Soup Spoon for a great dining experience. Their focus on maintaining imaginative specials, local produce, quality beer selection, old style cocktails, and good service sets them apart. Portion sizes are sometimes huge, which when you add quality is dangerous. It's way too easy to overeat and miss one of Soup Spoon's best features - dessert. The bread pudding is addictive and the goat cheese cake has become a favorite. One of their largest problems has been wait time for seating, given folks tend to linger here. The recent expansion to the space next door has really helped.
(5)Ron K.
Three of us decided to stop and sample the soup. Two of us have gluten allergies and we asked the server to verify which (if any) soups were gluten-free. She was gone for quite some time and another server was asked by a table of six that same question, he responded with the gluten-free soups without leaving the table. Our server finally returned and informed us that two of the soups were GF and I told her that I heard the other server rattle off several soups that were GF, she furrowed her brows and told us that the soups in the kitchen are labeled if they are GF and she saw only those two. The server definitely needs a personality injection.....Brrrrrr.... Oh well. 'Nuff said 'bout that. My Chicken Tortilla soup was fully absorbed into the tortillas when it arrived leaving absolutely no "soup", it was tasty and spicy but I've always enjoyed the crunch of the tortillas when I eat this soup. Not so this time. Just a mushy, thick quagmire. I also had a small Smoked Salmon salad and it was certainly prepared with delicious greens, not a bit of cheap iceberg lettuce. The only negative was the Salmon did not have the "mud vein" removed prior to cooking. I've been a fisherman all my life and when we filet our catch (mostly Walleye), one of our tasks involves the stripping of the mud vein. I believe this omission contributes to many peopple turning their nose up at fish offerings in restaurants. My companions enjoyed the Tomato Bisque (I think it was titled that way). We were seated at the very back table in the bar area and the 'Office' door was adjacent to our table. Frequent in-and-out activity through that door is very disruptive to diners that are seated so close. The entrance to this joint requires negotiating a couple of concrete steps that are definitely not designed for safety and convenience. The "rise" is very steep and there is no landing area in front of the door. Prices were fair. Is it soup yet?
(3)Alessa T.
This place is wonderful! Farm to table style restaurant with great cocktails as well as superb food. Menu has wide range of pricing too. Great atmosphere and friendly staff. My favorite place in town.
(5)T D.
I need 2 update my review. Accidentally I hit "very bad". Definitely not what I meant. I love this place & their food. Just food & waitress (new??) was not up 2 par (for them) last visit. I will continue 2 go there. Hopefully it was just a one time thing. Sorry 4 the confusion. Luckily someone PM me & asked. Thx Tim. :-). Newbie mistake. Sigh.
(4)Huyen V.
Decided to give this place another try Went here for breakfast the other day. And thankfully was seated not facing the kitchen haha. I got the biscuits and gravy which was very flavorful and pretty good. It also came with an egg on top which was basically raw. I could not eat it due to the fact the whites were not even cooked at all still clear and jiggly like how it came out of the egg. The bf ended up getting pancakes and bacon which were good. I would probably just come back for the biscuits and gravy the bf definitely liked them a lot. Service is usually good. And prices are average $7-12.
(3)Darren B.
We go here often on Saturday morning for breakfast. I am trying the whole menu and so far I give everything A++! I am uploading a photo of my food today and I will try to add photos as often as I remember. The service has always been acceptable especially considering how busy they are and you can call ahead for a reservation which I highly recommend unless you like waiting for a table. It's busy for a reason, the food is pretty much the best in town and most people know it. If you haven't yet been here try it for breakfast. I have had the lunch once and dinner once as well and I haven't been disappointed. I don't think you will be either. The food is different, but try it!
(5)Chelsea S.
Soup Spoon is one of the must-hit places I stop when I come back to Lansing to visit family. Great for both breakfast and lunches it is an awesome place that has become known in the city for good eats. Prices are very reasonable, they now have their liquor license, they have several Michigan beers on tap, their soup changes daily, and their menu is extensive. Decor is charming and space has increased so the wait is not as long. However, you can sometimes end up waiting a time for your food as the kitchen is small, and open so you can see what is going on. Service is friendly and attentive. Though they have good soups some are misses. I still love trying one of their uniques flavors as they are anything but ordinary. Their sandwiches and salads are great and you can create your own combos at lunch which I love. Their breakfasts are so good, featuring several omelets, scrambles, sandwiches and benedicts. I have tried several of them but continue to come back for the Yooper Benny. I think I love it for its originality and local fish that I can't get back in Seattle. The terragon aioli is sometimes a little too thick in my opinion but pairs very nicely with the fish and eggs. Their house potatoes are really good and their side salad option is also very delicious and fresh with a very nice house balsamic dressing. Their coffee is decent but refilled often. A local favorite and a true gem in Lansing!!
(4)Neha M.
Great brunch and breakfast place near Michigan State University. The waitress who served us was very nice and helpful. I ordered a Greek Omlet with potatoes and wheat bread. The food was amazing and very filling. :)
(4)Christine K.
Came here for lunch. I had the seafood chowder. A little disappointed... tastes like your average lobster chowder soup. I had their specialty sandwich. Though it was kinda greasy, it was good! I ordered some kind of salad as a side and was surprised when I received a coleslaw... kinda deceiving. Their interior design is however spectacular and makes you feel good as you eat. I would give the meal I had a 3star, however our server was excellent. She did a good job in splitting our meal into separate plates and making sure our water was always full. Very friendly and always checked in on us. Will be back to try breakfast and dinner!
(4)Esther G.
Best breakfast in town, period. None of that cheap, greasy diner stuff that's everywhere. That was nice for college and a few post-college years, but now I try to stay away from them for the most part. Quality dishes at a great price. I have visited here for lunch a while back and remembered I wasn't too impressed, but the breakfast is done to perfection. It's divided into cafe specialties, eggs/omelets and sammys. Everything sounded great (my friend vouched for the pesto scramble) but I settled for Allan's smoky scramble -- two eggs scrambled with smoked salmon, applewood smoked bacon, green onions and tomatoes drizzled with smoky ancho pepper hollandaise. I was most worried about the hollandaise, that it would be overpowering but it wasn't. It was mild. It was served with cafe potatoes (smaller sliced/seasoned potatoes) and toast with what tasted like homemade jam (not so sugary or syrupy). I was a little hesitant when my food was presented. At some places, the food is served on a giant plate, and that can sometimes be deceiving. It looks like there's a small portion of food. Here, I had the opposite problem. It was like everything was stuffed into a small plate, so I thought there wasn't enough food! But the potatoes were kind of underneath the omelet. This was fine for eating it all together (maybe it was intended that way?), but it did say the potatoes were a "side" item. Not heavy nor greasy, just really well executed. If there's another breakfast place better than Soup Spoon, I wouldn't believe you, but by all means, let me know. Another thing to love about this place: Their giant beer list is all Michigan beers. My only beef is that they should be open for Sunday brunch! I feel like they're getting a giant chunk of their business taken away by not opening at that time. Also, I know people complain about the wait, but we must've lucked out. Saturday before noon, we were seated right away.
(5)Renee L.
Ordered the standard breakfast two days in a row. Day one was perfect! Hot and delicious! The second day was less impressive. The eggs were overcooked and the potatoes were served just warm. My toast included the heel of the bread which I found interesting.
(4)Jill P.
They have a lamb burger that is amazing! I've been here at different times and on different days and if there is a wait it has been reasonable. The food is consistently wonderful. My husband and I try at least one new dish every time we go and have been very happy with everything. It is not the best place for young kids that are not into trying new things. My 10 year old loves the 2 kinds of naan pizza he's tried so far and keeps asking to go back. My 8 year old is more picky and won't pick anything, we just order what we want and encourage him try some of it. The best item in my opinion is the bread pudding. I've ordered bread pudding at almost every restaurant that has it in search of the perfect one and this is it. I won't bother ordering it anyplace else, Soup Spoon nailed it.
(5)Dan N.
This is now a MUST stop every time I'm in the Lansing area. Two reasons why I always stop: 1) Seafood Chowder--maybe the best chowder you'll ever have (at least in the Midwest) 2) Moscow Mule--I've tried without any luck at all to create their magical pepper/ginger infused simple syrup--fantastic drink! Beyond that, everything that I've ever had at Soup Spoon Cafe has been not only delicious, but also unique. Great little spot in downtown Lansing!
(4)J H.
Went last weekend, late lunch. Menu looked good, got the salmon on lunch menu, friend had beef cabbage soup and Greek salad. Salmon was just okay, too much sauce that left the rice swimming in excess sauce; also was more undercooked than I would have preferred. The soup was very excellent and so was the salad. Good Bell beer selection. I would like to come back again and try breakfast as well as the dinner menu. Interesting art work on walls, definitely a conversation starter. Ambiance was just okay.
(3)Penandra P.
A delightful little restaurant and just perfect for a cool autumn day. The seafood chowder is delicious. The pumpkin soup could be dessert. Staff is very friendly and service is quick. Prepare for a short wait if you come at lunchtime. But you can get right in if you're here at 11:30. A treat to find this place.
(5)Meraki G.
Had a couple really great meals here and the staff and atmosphere are nice. Can be crowded and tough to get into though.
(5)Betsy C.
Great soups. A little pricey I think and have had sandwiches that weren't that impressive but the soup is always a safe bet.
(4)Drexel S.
Ive tried almost everything on the menu and its all delicious. Staff is always friendly. Excellent eating expirience every time
(5)Sherry B.
A few vegan options. Ethiopian stew is awesome. vegan breakfast ok... hold the bland lentil patty. Not pleased about paying 2.99 for a cup of coffee and then .50 more cents for soy milk. Kinda tired of being "milked" for not drinking dairy milk.
(4)Gabriela G.
I almost didn't come here on my trip to Lansing-and that would have been a big mistake!!! This place is awesome! Probably one of the best meals in Lansing, possibly in Michigan. Atmosphere is diner-style. Cheap tables and wooden chairs (they probably bought from the Amish). Really ugly amateur art on the walls. The bathrooms are lime green, Amish-country-feel with copper candelabra, wicker furniture and plastic flowers. They have between 5-8 soup options. The ones on the menu and the specials on the blackboard. My waitress, as well as the young man who seated me (Keith: the manager), were just friendly smiles all around and super positive energy. I ordered the salmon salad and a cup of their Ethiopian Stew (one of their specials and it happened to be vegan): SCORE! Super tasty, full of greens and protein: chickpeas, green-peas, chunky tomatoes and carrots in a delicious broth. Salmon salad was best salad I've had since I've been on the road. I switched out the raspberry vinaigrette for balsamic and added dried cranberries for a hint of sweetness. When it arrived I was slightly concerned since the salmon was cold and brown and looked more like a chicken cooked badly but once I broke up the salmon into little pieces it was he perfect shade of orange and the taste was super smokey and flavorful. Manager checked up on me from time to one to make sure I was enjoying my meal. I came at a good time since they seem to have a bit of a wait for a table. Young kitchen and staff. Open till midnight. They serve alcohol. Really varied menu for all tastebuds from the all american PoBoy sandwich to a gourmet scallop entree. From a hearty, healthy soup and salad to a heavy creamy meat-fest. Plenty of street parking and side private parking adjacent. Prices are fair for quality and portion. My server(Jessica) was stellar!!! If they had this restaurant in LA I would be a regular customer! Even if placed outside of the limited Michigan food options it would hold its own as a great meal, great service, great ingredients for a reasonable price. I'll be in Grand Rapids for work next week again, might be worth the 1hr drive to Lansing just to eat another meal at Soup Spoon Cafe.
(5)Cameron J.
Wow! Just in town for a few days and glad I gave this place a chance. Had the Smoked Salmon Benedict which was delicious and just the right portion. Another person in my party had the Gourmet Wrap and I was surprised of the presentation. He said it was amazing. Overall, this place is a must when in Lansing.
(5)D D.
Driving from Niagara Falls Canada back to California. Hit Michigan and we needed to eat. Checked Yelp and found this place! Amazing great soup and a great sandwich. If you are checking Yelp this place is a must!
(4)G G.
We love this place!! The food is always great and unique! I am so bored with all the chain restaurants. They always change up the menu so there is always something new to try.
(5)Andy B.
I've only been here for breakfast, and was extremely underwhelmed. The food was a combination of soggy and burnt, nothing was cooked right. I've been meaning to come here for dinner, but thanks to everyone posting pics of their "yummy" mains, I think I'll pass.
(2)Ryan D.
This was once my favorite place to get breakfast in Lansing. Lately, however, they have really been slipping. Some of their staff is great, some of them are not. How good of a dining experience you're going to have depends entirely on which group of employees is working on that particular day. One week, I would be waiting around forever to be seated, while there were open seats at the bar, because the staff was so disorganized, the next week the staff that was in was spot on and perfectly organized. One week, the food coming out of the kitchen would be sloppy, and careless, another week it would be put together with care and perfectly made. The lack of consistency, as well as some of the newer restaurants that have opened in the area has taken Soup Spoon out of my regular rotation.
(3)Michael K.
I've never had a meal here that I thought was anything other than great. The food is always good and the service warm. That said don't expect a fast weekday lunch here; the food comes out quickly, but there is always a line. Even when showing up either before or after typical lunch times you'll be waiting for a table.
(5)Meredith B.
Lansing's food scene is generally crap, and is in desperate need of more places like Soup Spoon Cafe. Being an urban snob, I was skeptical at first, but I see what they're trying to do here and I respect it and I hope they get even better and more popular as the months pass. You would never expect to see this menu here. I assumed it was a breakfast and lunch place based on the name, but they serve a surprisingly smart dinner menu and a nice beer/wine list. The owner and servers are pleasantly hipster, they are also friendly and knowledgeable about the food and drinks, which is a good sign. We had a nice bottle of wine at our server's recommendation, and struggled to pick entrees from all the great sounding options. I went for the Seafood Santorini, which is described as follows: "Shrimp and scallops sautéed with garlic, dill, white wine and tomato, finished under the broiler with breadcrumbs and feta cheese. Served with Mediterranean orzo." That is everything I love in the world right there. I also asked for a side of veg, which I'm not sure was on the menu, but they were kind enough to give it to me anyway. It hurts me to say I didn't love the my entree. The seafood was nicely cooked, particularly the scallops. I don't know what the deal was but texturally, it did not work. Breadcrumbs got soggy in no time, and the whole dish developed a mealy consistency as a result. The subtleties of the flavors listed in the menu like garlic and dill were not apparent. My parents and grandmother loved their food. They were happy and raving about all the wonderful components. Was my dish just not a great one? Or has living in Chicago turned me into some kind of snob-beast incapable of satisfaction? I can't say. However - I do think they are on to something here. All the dishes sound excellent and no doubt can be prepared deliciously. Perhaps some need a little work (including mine) but others are perfect. I'd say it was absolutely worth a stop and is one of the most unique places that Lansing has to offer. I would love nothing more than to see a whole street of restaurants like Soup Spoon, casual, friendly establishments with fresh ingredients and creative menu items. Maybe I just got unlucky. But I have a good feeling about them and I guarantee I will give them another shot.
(3)Jessica S.
Pssst, Lansing-area Yelpers. I've got a secret for you. The best cocktails in town are at a cafe known for breakfast whose name sounds like a lunch deli. The Soup Spoon has a lovely list of classic cocktails available, including the Old Fashioned, the Pisco Sour, the Moscow Mule... pretty much everything that you'd find in a lushly illustrated cocktail book. The kind of drink you'd like to try at home, but just didn't want to clean up after. And everything from proportions to garnishes to presentation is simply done correctly. It's an art. Many of the mixers are made from scratch. The Soup Spoon's house-made ginger syrup (used in their well-known Dark & Stormy) will kick you in the mouth in a good way - spicy and satisfying! If you're not drinking alcohol but love some zip, they'll mix a ginger ale out of it too. The printed cocktail menu doesn't stray too far from the classics, but the bartenders are always experimenting with new things. There are some awesome seasonal drinks - keep your eyes open for them. And beyond the mixed drinks, the beer selection is TOPS. Other people have covered the pros and cons of the food (love the lamb sliders) and atmosphere (be prepared for a wait), but the bartenders deserve some love. If you're searching for a craft cocktail bar in Lansing, you might actually be looking for a Soup Spoon.
(5)Cathy B.
Just finished eating here. Food was excellent and beer and wine list were very complete. Soups were superb. Service was outstanding from those who seated us to smiling Jessica who made our visit so wonderful. Can't wait to make trip back for another delightful meal
(5)Wayne P.
I had the blackened swordfish special and my wife had the Hanger steak and both were fantastic! Logan waited on our table and he was great! My wife said that she liked white zin but it wasn't on the wine list...Logan said"no problem, I'll make one" and it was outstanding! That is the type of service that you get at Soup Spoon! We'll be back!
(5)Whitney C.
We wanted to find a new soup place and this hit the spot! All choices on our soup flight were delicious. The specialty pumpkin bisque was a sweet and delightful surprise. The crab cakes had good flavor and the sauce enhanced the dish instead of over powering them.
(5)Joe G.
Really yummy Cafe Stroganoff with fresh mushrooms and wild rice plus the Greek Linguine pasta. Excellent comfort food, with flare. Excellent service, too. So good we're going back tomorrow!
(5)Pacita R.
This is a great place to eat anytime, any day. I come here often and have tried their breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu. All were delicious. It's an excellent go to place when you're looking to eat something delicious and sit in a great atmosphere. You're guaranteed to eat something tasty almost every time. Their alcoholic beverages are also on point, shout out to the amazing bartender. Expect a bit of a wait on weekends but as one of the few good places to eat in Lansing it's well worth it.
(4)Will K.
this is where i had the best steak of my LIFE!!!!!! ribeye smothered in morel mushroom sauce....its been two years and i still dream about it...heaven in every bite....hopefully they bring it back again when morels are in season
(5)Erik O.
We had an unbelievably delicious meal here last night. Simple as that. To start things off, the staff is amazing and very knowledgable about the beers (awesome selection), the food, and wine pairings. The cocktails available are old fashioned and are the best in Lansing. For an appetizer we ordered the house cured gravlox which was perfect. Absolutely perfect. We ordered the braised lamb shank and the hanger steak and holy lord they were both above and beyond what we were expecting. Excellent portion sizes and great greens came with both of the meals. At the end of our meal the waiter brought us a complimentary bread pudding which was an awesome finish to an awesome meal. Easily our favorite restaurant in Lansing.
(5)David S.
Well, I finally tried the Soup Spoon and it was honestly so-so. The wife had the French onion soup which was excellent and I had the barley vegetable which tasted like progresso soup. The ceasar salad was next but had too much dressing which I couldn't finish. We then split a Cuban sandwich which compared nothing to an actual cuban so half of that was left over. The service was good when we got there but as it became busy, it took 30 minutes for the salad and cuban to actually arrive at the table. Overall it wasn't bad but I dont think I would spend another $30.00 there. Wasn't worth the effort...
(2)Manuel F.
Have been here three times and will continue to come. Haven't been here for breakfast; only lunch and dinner. Service had always been excellent and the food outstanding. They have different soups every day and are great. Can get busy but well worth the wait.
(5)Heather H.
This place was really hyped on Yelp, but I wasn't that impressed upon coming into Soup Spoon Cafe. The host at the entrance was pretty rude to us, and seemed insulted that we had walked in without a reservation. We were seated in 15 minutes, which honestly I've waited longer at PF Chang's, so I wasn't sure what the problem was. Our seat was right by the kitchen and the waiter checkout. Not the greatest place to sit, and a very odd layout as it was. The soups at this place were great, just great. Just the right portion size, and filling. The sandwiches were rather dry, and seemed to be just bread...not a lot to the sandwiches. I would come back here to try breakfast (I'll make a reservation first) but not sure I would come back for dinner.
(3)Xinhao Y.
This is the best brunch place in the Lansing area! Be sure to come early or you will have to wait for half an hour to get your seat! Egg Benedict and bread pudding are the must-try entrees!
(5)Jessica D.
This is a solid restaurant in the Lansing area. I've enjoyed every meal from this establishment.
(5)Allison G.
Great craft beer selection that is always changing. Good wine selection as well. Menu is diverse and unique. I have tried many items on the menu and they are all great. The Eastside Chicken is my favorite and I usually don't get too excited about chicken. The atmosphere is cozy and the staff are the best in town! My family and I eat at Soup Spoon almost every week and have never been disappointed! There isn't a kid's menu, but my 9 year old loves the grilled cheese and always finds something she likes even though she is a picky eater.
(5)Gus M.
I'm so glad that Yelp led me here. Thanks to my fellow yelper's I have embarked on this magical place ;) We walked in and were seated quickly. This Resturaunt is supposed to have amazing soups so naturally I had to try it. Soup- I ordered the spicy seafood chowder soup. It had large lumps of crab and the texture was perfect. It also had an amazing spice factor that was just right. Appetizer- Cherry Blossom Shrimp, about 6 shrimp with a spicy butter wine sauce. Also amazing flavor. Entree- Our waitress recommended the Smokin B sandwich. It was thin sliced of beef brisket on flat bred with tomato, lettuce, cheese and a spicy tobacco lime cream sauce. It was fantastic I really enjoyed all of the flavors. I recommend everybody in East Lansing give this place a try. And It's worth an hour drive as well ;)
(5)R. L.
Great atmosphere and cute space. I like the dining experience here, but I wish there were better vegetarian options. I have yet to try the breakfast but hear great things!
(4)Angela E.
I'm a little confused by this place. The food is great! The soups are definitely made with love! They have a great beer and wine list! I wish they gave you a beer and wine list at your table but maybe they have changed that since I've gone for dinner. The bar is small, 15 seats maybe. You have to see the host to be allowed to sit at the bar. This is an unspoken rule, meaning if you sit at the bar you will get shocked looks (like, "how dare you??"). The host will graciously tell you that there are people waiting for seats at the bar. So the bar seating is confusing. They have a food window into the bar which is also a service window for the wait staff on the other side. So the kitchen staff passes good into the bar and then the bartenders also pass drinks into the kitchen area. All in all the food and drinks are amazing! Solid breakfast food also! Very friendly and attentive service! Just be prepared to wait because they are always hopping!
(5)Dan G.
I was in Lansing on business, and this nice little place was just down the road from Sparrow hospital. I waited for an associate for an hour at the bar. Love the free WiFi! They have a wide selection of local Michigan beers. If I hadn't been on the clock I definitely would have imbibed. Both my coworker and I had the kickin' pastrami sandwich, which the bartender recommended. It was definitely good although I think the pastrami could have been a bit spicier, but I know they've got to cater toward those Midwestern pallets that fear spice. It's nice that you can get chips, pasta salad or coleslaw as a side. The crowd definitely picks up for lunch. By noon, there were no table open and there appeared to be a 15-20 minute wait. Not bad for a Wednesday afternoon. I don't know if my travels will ever take me back to Lansing, but if I'm ever by that hospital again, I'll definitely go back.
(4)Karen S.
Yes! My friends live just down the street from this place... The menu has a wide variety of options that include a soup of the day, a pizza of the day... It's just so darn inviting, the staff is lovely, and the food is delicious. I ordered the shrimp risotto cakes since I wasn't hugely hungry... they were just the right size, perfectly cooked and mouth watering. My friends each had a sandwich of some sort which they both enjoyed; no surprise as they have been coming here for several years already.
(5)Jon M.
This place wouldn't get 4 stars in a major city, but for Lansing it's a fantastic place. An eclectic menu of sandwiches, salads, soups and other interesting items... the food itself wasn't something to write home about, but hey I would take it over almost everything else I saw in Lansing (i.e., the typical American fast food and walk in restaurant chains). They also have a great, albeit small, selection of beers on tap. all of the staff was also extremely friendly, and helpful.
(4)Erin K.
Locally sourced meat and vegetables and craft beer. The pastas are amazing and we definitely recommend the Chicken Po Boy. They do take reservations on the weekends but I think you have to make them a day in advance. They don't accommodate large parties and don't have a kids menu but will make grilled cheese.
(5)Drew P.
Fun place to grab a bite to eat for breakfast and their is a bar. A tiny little kitchen that you can see and tasty specials. Servers that occasionally disappear for ten minutes and no plate warmer take some of the joy out.
(3)Rebecca G.
First time I went into this restaurant, I found it delightful and the food wonderful. The second time I went into the restaurant, the food was terrible and we were treated horribly. The food that was brought out, was not what was described in the menu but after waiting nearly an hour for it to be delivered, we were starving so we ate it anyway. When asked how the food way, we told them, however the reaction wasn't an apology. We were called us out as liars implying the food must not have been that bad if we ate it. The problem here was this: we weren't looking for a refund or new food. We ate what was provided and was planning on paying whatever was on the check. We just weren't going to go back. But when we were asked for your opinion, we gave an answer they didn't like and were treated extremely poorly by the manager. I think this restaurant and it's owners should be ashamed. I'll never go back nor will I ever recommend this restaurant to anyone.
(1)Jesse W.
This place makes me want to move to Lansing. Great atmosphere and a unique selection of beers. I had the lamb meatballs and the marinara sauce was among the best I have ever had. The service was friendly and did a great job. I sat next to some locals who couldn't stop raving about this place. Well, I am a believer--I'll be back.
(5)Kyle K.
The food here was great but the service was so slow it almost ruined the experience. Though we had to wait for our table, it took about 15 mins compared to the 30 mins she quoted me. Our waitress was not attentive or all that courteous really. They seemed short staffed. Regardless, we asked about our food at least twice and didnt see anything on the table for over 45 mins. Though they were busy, the place is small and we had to ask for everything multiple times (food, ketchup, drinks), so I cant justify the long wait for food. Not sure this is a place I'd frequent honestly.
(3)Gail W.
I was very disappointed in the food. I had a sandwich with the brisket. Besides a skimpy portion of brisket, it was half fat. Also, the naan bread was burnt. My niece had a breakfast dish with poached eggs. The eggs yolks were hard. My first time there and I won't be back.
(1)Emma K.
Favorite spot in town! Breakfast, lunch or dinner this place does it all! The only problem is it's very hard to get in during lunch so I usually try to avoid normal lunch times.
(5)Stephanie M.
Love everything I've tried here. They are always friendly, always recognize my family even though we aren't exactly regulars and the food is beyond compare. Our finicky son loves the French Dip, my favorites are the Kobe Wagyu burger and the Cubano, and my husband enjoys just about everything (including the great beer selection). We've even enjoyed breakfast several times. Great addition to the Lansing area.
(5)Shawna F.
I had the seafood soup and the Pastrami sandwich. It was delicious. My friends had the voodoo pasta. It is delicious but spicey. I would definitely come back if I go to lansing.
(5)Krishnan M.
Love this place ... Good food and good people can't ask for better. The staff is always warm. Definitely try the French onion soup actually all of them are good but the FO here is one if the best I have tasted Try the daily specials too.
(4)heather t.
So, I am giving this place a 3 based on poor service. It took them 2 hours to serve us drinks, apps and our entrees. We started with the cafe bread, amazing for being so simple! A lot of flavor. I had the French onion which was probably the best French onion I've had to date. Then for an entree I had the chicken PO boy, good sandwich. The bread was awesome and the sandwich was flavorful and filled with sautéed veggies.
(3)Joshua R.
The environment is great. Perfect for a semi-formal lunch or dinner. Be prepared to wait during lunch hours during the week. The food is good. It isn't outstanding, but its fresh and made from scratch (mostly).
(4)Mark B.
Short and sweet... order the breakfast wrap and prepare to be amazed!
(5)Jennifer T.
While I've lived in Lansing for nearly 5 years, I didn't give Soup Spoon a try until a couple years ago after hearing so many good things. It's located right downtown and is fairly small, easy to drive right by. The interior is eclectic, yet welcoming like a friends' home. I have not had anything that I didn't love. Every soup is delicious and often a mix of ingredients you never would of thought of. They are not afraid of making food SPICY! So many Michigan restaurants tend to "bland" food down. Try the Voodoo pasta, my spicy fav with in one of a dozen craft beers. Staff is ultra friendly, expect a wait at lunch and a bit slower service.
(5)Ashley N.
After reading reviews about this place and looking at the menu, my husband and I were very excited to try them. We went in knowing that the service was slow because they make everything made to order. But it got a little ridiculous. Our server didn't bring my husbands drink until she was reminded when she finally brought our soup. Which was about 30 mins after ordering. Our salad followed about 10 mins later. When we finally got our main dishes we were very hungry and happy. This is were it really went to hell for us. I had got the lamb burger, well done because I am pregnant. It was a little pink, but not terribly so. Lamb is a pink meat anyway. It was delicious! Loved the burger and the toppings and the bun. I got the side greek pasta salad. It was homemade, but the pasta wasn't cooked enough, and there was no flavor. No seasoning, no dressing My husband got the meatloaf sandwich. Not only was there no meat on half of his sandwich, which they immediately through another piece on the grill. Fine right? No! My husband bite into the other half. A huge long hair cooked right into it. This was the last draw. We asked the manager to take my husbands meal off our bill. He quickly comped our whole bill. This is the only reason that we will return to try them again. Not for a while. But, because he handle it appropriately, we will give them another chance.
(3)Laurie D.
We're so glad we went today. The food was excellent. It's always crowded there and we have a nice pursued it. Today we went at 11 AM and ordered lunch because breakfast was over. We ordered a sandwich and linguine. Appreciated the flavors, sauces and the multiple vegetables in the food. Everything was excellent. We sat near the kitchen area and watched many things going by. Everything that went by, looked wonderful. Our service was excellent too. Even the side coleslaw was homemade. I stopped to tell the waiter, and then supervising manager, the food was excellent. Not like the front steps as they were very steep for my mother to get up. Although the desserts look absolutely wonderful, we went next-door to Fabiano's chocolate and enjoyed our sweets there.
(5)Adrien D.
Amazing food! Service is excellent. Come and try the biscuit and gravy! But they keep having Cajun items on the menu that aren't cajun. Fail...but still come here!
(4)Jo P.
Amazing! Delicious food, especially the chicken salad sandwich and breakfast burrito! Good service. The wait is worth it.
(5)Jody C.
I arrived about an hour or so before Soup closed. I sat at the bar order a Two Hearted and looked it over. On the menu I found the braised lamb shank with balsamic drizzle.tasty wowowow.sick. To top that they sent out two shanks to boot!!
(5)Sarah C.
Had a really wonderful dinner at Soup Spoon! I had the spoon-i-pino - tasty sauce, excellent chorizo, good seafood, perfectly al dente pasta. Yum. My two dining companions had the surf & turf and the special, which included some delicious quail. They both loved their meals as well. We ordered two cups of soup to share but the waitress forgot to bring them. She was super nice about it and brought us free soup (cheesy bacon potato goodness) and later brought us two free desserts. The bread pudding was phenomenal - cinnamon-y and caramel-y and covered in whipped cream. The meal was relatively expensive for Lansing but definitely worth the splurge due to excellent food and nice atmosphere. Can't wait to go back for brunch!
(5)Kat H.
PUMPKIN BISQUE! Oh my goodness, this was so delicious. We went to Soup Spoon Cafe for lunch on a game day, wanting to get a great meal but not be surrounded by football insanity. We accomplished our goal. The place was busy and we had about a 20 minute wait, but it was totally worth it. Three of us got the pumpkin bisque, not really know what to expect. What we got was a super thick, wonderfully spiced pumpkin soup with a squirt of whipped cream on top! It tasted more like a thick, somewhat savory mousse than a soup really, but it was so delicious it didn't even matter. The whipped cream added a perfect sweet counterbalance. Add that to our great main meals (Yooper Benny, Georgia Reuben, Peacemaker and Tuna Melt) and we had a great time. I'm also so grateful for their very decent draught beer selection. What a great place to have in Lansing!
(5)Danielle P.
It's funny, I always stay at a friend's about a block and a half from Soup Spoon while I'm in Lansing, but just went for the first time last night. I liked the atmosphere, casual and warm. It has a stellar beer and cocktail selection and a creative menu. The service was pretty good and I liked the whole experience overall. I chose the Dark and Stormy for a drink, which the waiter recommended as the house specialty. It has a strong ginger kick and ended up being a really nice choice. For an appetizer my friend and I shared the Michigan craft beer and cheddar dip, which was very good...but I didn't realize by looking at the menu that's it's rather green-onion heavy. For an entree I ordered the hanger steak which has a chimichurri and ancho jus, very good but needed a smidge of salt. It came with dauphanoise potatoes and swiss chard, also very tasty. My friend had the Ethiopian vegan stew, which smelled absolutely divine. At one point, our waiter went for a stretch without checking on us, as he seemed to be filling in for the bartender. Not the end of the world, but mildly annoying. The other thing I didn't love was how greasy the dining room floor was near the kitchen area, wear heels here with caution. Not a perfect dinner, but I would go back and recommend it as a different experience for the Lansing area.
(4)Iman B.
i tried the seafood chowder and its really great for chowder lovers i also had the lamb rib ad it is great
(5)Jen E.
This place is AMAZING!!!! My boyfriend and I stopped in for a bite and our socks were knocked off. We had the goat cheese points, soups, acropolis Sammie and greek wrap. Everything was delicious down to the pickles!!!
(5)Brandon S.
Very good food. Quite a few options for everyone. The spicy feta dip is tasty. Our server was friendly and did a very good job with our large group. The decor and layout are lacking. It feels like an earth friendly hipster hangout.
(3)Casey M.
Always great. Try one of the drinks- made fresh. No store bought mixers. I wish they would bring back the brisket but everything is good.
(5)Britta S.
I have had 2 bad breakfasts there. I originally loved the place, but they have lost their finesse. I've been served raw eggs today for the second time and the whites were so raw they were CLEAR. I sent them back and the cook seriously said " how does she want them cooked?" After the server told him they weren't cooked. I'm not picky, just don't want to drink them down like Rocky Balboa. My bf said at the end of the meal never again. The wait is long so I expect stellar food.
(2)Nate C.
As a new transplant to the Lansing area, Soup Spoon was the first place that helped me to feel a bit more at home. It's a bit hipster, but not overly so. The service has always been friendly and quick, and there's a vegan soup option every day. Bonus! When people visit me from out of town, I make a point to bring them to Soup Spoon, and everyone has been consistently blown away by the food. Try the peacemaker sandwich...trust me.
(5)Laela A.
Another unbelievable meal!!! By far, this restaurant has the best food in the greater Lansing area! Our wait-person (Lisa) was very accommodating, and Keith (the general manager) came to our table and answered a handful of questions that we had about the restaurant, and about the amazing balsamic reduction on the lamb shank. I had the seafood risotto, dad had the lamb shank, and mom had the voodoo pasta - we all truly enjoyed our meal.
(5)Rachel F.
I really would give this place 3.5 stars, but Yelp makes you choose & I'll be positive. The first two times I went to Soup Spoon. I didn't love it. The food was mediocre and I didn't really want to come back... But then I did and I'm happy I did. We had to wait for nearly 2 hours for a table for 4, which was kind of miserable, but I was catching up with my dad and the bartender was unbelievably generous with his pours. They have a great bar so that alone will make up for the 2 times of mediocre food. Also the host was super apologetic about the long wait and gave us an app on the house. When we finally ate everyone was super satisfied with their meals. I had the short ribs and they we some of the best I've ever had. So tender and delectable. If you go get the short ribs, they were easily the best thing on our table. I think their dinner menu is significantly more well crafted than their standard lunch fare. Hence why I wasn't a fan during my previous visits. Nonetheless, I think they're doing their thing well, and a welcome presence in my home county.
(4)Ashley E.
I'll be honest - Soup Spoon just isn't as good as it used to be. On recent visits I've been disappointed. Dine-in visits have had pretty lackluster service. It's hard to want to tip a server who behaves like you're lucky she's taking your order. Another visit I found hair in my soup - YUCK! Take-out is inconsistent. It's never been ready in the amount of time promised, and I'm never sure which side I'm going to get. I'll still eat at Soup Spoon, but only because I still appreciate the freshness of the food (when SSC is on, their food is fantastic). Bottom line: I wish that SSC would stop acting like a teenager who went from being a nerd to a cool kid and forgot all his old friends.
(3)Graham D.
This is the best restaurant in Lansing/East Lansing - which isn't saying all that much, but it's something. Better than Troppo, better than Fork in the Road, better than Beggar's Banquet. I've been here for lunch and dinner and have never been disappointed in the food. There's typically a wait for a table -- which can be quite long on a Friday or Saturday night -- but it's usually worth it, unless you really have a hankering for the bland giant portions most Lansing restaurants love to serve. Don't miss the Asian braised short ribs or the Wraptor sandwich - and as many reviews have mentioned, the bread pudding is absolutely out of its world. Best I've ever had. Soup Spoon is over looked for its great alcohol selection. They always have great beers on tap (and often feature Bell's Brewing tasting nights, complete with a firkin) and also have one of the best cocktail menus in town. No overly sweet cocktails here - just classics like a well-made Sazerac (my favorite) or a proper old fashioned. The owner has told me they plan on expanding this more in the future, so worth keeping an eye on. Service isn't always the best but it's worth the wait. Wait staff is always friendly and the food is a good value for the money. If you're in Lansing and looking for a good meal, look no further than Soup Spoon Cafe.
(4)H B.
There is not an over abundance of fine food choices in Lansing yet having the Soup Spoon option means we always have a great and reliable place for a wonderful meal. Reserve well in advance as the place is always full. We have been there with tables from two to ten. The service is great. Also like the decor and the beers. Worth a stop - and one of the best options in Lansing.
(5)Tom L.
I have been here 4 or 5 times now and have had great food and service every time. The only inconsistent thing has been their egg poaching prowess. Today's were rock solid yolks, last week's were slightly undercooked whites and every other time has been perfect. Maybe I need to branch out to other meals instead of eating breakfast here all the time. The coffee is fantastic and is brewed to perfection. I'm looking forward to trying other meals here, but it is still my favorite breakfast place in Lansing (and perhaps out of the 6 states that I have live in).
(5)Karen C.
We went here on a Friday night with a wait of around 45 mins. The prices of the sandwiches w/ a side cost anywhere between $6-12. The entree menu was quite pricey from around $16-30. I ordered the seafood chowder which was good but a bit on the salty side. I would try something else next time. I also got the cuban sandwich which was tasty but I've had better. I was looking forward to the side of coleslaw but it wasn't that great. Maybe a bit healthier since it didn't have a lot of mayo. If you're looking for a great cuban sandwich, go to Vincente's in Detroit. It is amazing! I would come back here just to try other things since they had a wide selection of sandwiches and soups. Maybe since it wasn't a cuban restaurant, I shouldn't expect much by ordering a cuban sandwich!
(3)Tessa M.
This place is one of the best places in the greater Lansing area!!! They have healthy, yummy food. as well as non healthy yummy food. I go here at least once a week!! so tastey.
(5)Jimmy P.
Some of the best soup you can find. A very laid back and easy going place, it is small but cozy enough to the point where reservations have little use. It is connected to a flower boutique. brunch, dinner, and lunch, are all four stars.
(4)Val K.
Excellent breakfast but longest wait I have ever waited to eat. About 45 minutes from sitting to getting served food after ordering of course.
(3)Sheena W.
Love this place! I live fairly close and it's an affordable healthy alternative to grab a quick bite to eat. Also a great place to take visiting guests from out of town. The ability to try the soups was a hit! The only reason I rate it 4 stars is because on rare occasions you can get an employee who isn't exactly as nice as you would expect service to be.
(4)Champika F.
The french dip here was really delicious. I will definitely go back when I'm in town again to try other tasty looking things on their menu.
(4)Michael T.
If I was with Jesus and wanted to show him a great restaurant, Soup Spoon would be the place. I'm really sad I didn't discover the spoon until my senior year at MSU. I've graduated now and miss this place every day. I think I brought at least 10 friends here and they all have loved it, as well. The food is unbelievable and I had a lot of great times with great friends here. We usually always came for breakfast/lunch after a night of debauchery. The staff is super friendly and they're doing great things. I haven't had a single thing that I didn't like. Big fan of the Seafood Chowder and the Cubano. It's hard to find a dish that doesn't sound appealing for Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner. A big thanks to Soup Spoon. You will always be a fond college memory of mine, and I will absolutely be back every time I return to the banks of the Red Cedar.
(5)Barb K.
Absolute best pancakes in town! Skip that loud over rated breakfast place in old town and try Soup Spoon if you haven't already. Mmmmmmmmmm
(5)Eliza M.
It seemed sacrilegious to not order soup at Soup Spoon. I followed my brother's lead and got the seafood chowder and it was tasty. The iced tea was very good--it was a little on the strong side for me but I liked that it wasn't sugary. I had the reuben (good and the horseradish-mustard on the side was a nice compliment to it) with cole slaw (just okay). I also tried my friend's wrap that had blue cheese in it and it was very good. Soup Spoon caters so I'm making a mental note that if I ever have to plan a shower/event in Lansing, this is a good option.
(4)Jessica W.
I love this place! The staff are friendly, and the food is great. The beer list is fantastic (as an avid craft beer drinker, I am in love). The place, the people, and the food are quirky and creative. It's a unique experience that I really enjoy. I'll admit that at times the service has been a little slow, but given how good the food is and how nice everyone is there, I'm willing to overlook it.
(5)Kate K.
I wish I could tell you this place is awful so you 'd stay home and not go there when I'm trying to get a table. But, I can't. Wow on the "real live no one makes them from scratch anymore" cocktails, wow on the french onion soup and tuna melt sandwich, wow on the coq au vin special the other night. I'm still thinking about the bread pudding we had for dessert, again, wow. Wow on the awesome breakfast menu too. Take even your snooty big-city friends there and they'll be impressed, I promise.Yeah. I wish I could tell you to stay home.
(5)Benny V.
2014 Edit: These days the Soup Spoon is not at all a good time, or a good place to go. The waitstaff are all less than interested to see, serve, or chat with you. The food hasn't gone down in quality too much, but if you want to try it, plan to be unamused by the service. 2009: Soup Spoon was one of my favorite places, the first time I went. The food is absolutely spectacular. It's cozy, but a popular spot. Get there early, if you're looking to lunch. If you've a large group, call ahead for reservations.
(2)Julie P.
To paraphrase Troy from "Community," if you could eat god, he would be potatoes dauphinoise from the Soup Spoon. And also Lemon Chicken soup from the Soup Spoon. That is all.
(5)Michael A.
Great food, super unique. Tasty craft beers. Friendly staff. All the good stuff. Love everything about the place, except for the fact it gets a tad cramped at peak times. Parking lot is a mess.
(4)Teresa K.
Awesome food can't wait to come back!
(5)Bonnie F.
My husband and I LOVE the Soup Spoon Cafe! Their food is creative, unique, and individually prepared. Although we've had many tasty breakfasts and lunches there, the items that stand out the most are the seafood chowder and the bread pudding. The former is more like a bisque than a chowder and is world class - I honestly cannot image it being better. As to the bread pudding, it is also the best I've ever had and comes with whipped creme and a caramel sauce that is phenominal. They also have a very good eggs benedict, and for those chili-heads out there, request the ancho chili hollandaise.....yum. I relish their creativity as nothing is just garden-variety food, but instead, everything has a definite artistic twist to it. Highly recommend a visit to this little gem on Michigan Avenue. Oh, and I've heard rumors that they have recently added Michigan craft brewery beers. We haven't been there since before Christmas due to being out of town, but we are definitely looking forward to imbibing in some of their craft brews - assuming this is true! Keep up the good work, SSC.
(5)Michael K.
Simply delicious, each and every time I go there. Perfect cocktail menu. They should be open on Sunday for brunch!!
(5)Aaron P.
Great place! Nice people, nice atmosphere. Most of the time, the food is really good and the prices are fair for the quality of food you get. I definitely recommend this place. Good soup as you may have imagined. Don't like that they aren't open on Sundays though--the best day to go out for breakfast.
(4)Jeff L.
This is my new favorite hangout when I'm in Lansing, I've been here twice and the food was fantastic, great sandwiches and soup, they also have a very nice beer and wine selection. Due to the students taken over golden harvest (sorry I'm not waiting an hour for breakfast) this will be my new go to place as well. It's worth mentioning the staff is very friendly and attentive, they'll make suggestions if you're unsure of something.
(5)Bethycorn Y.
these two girls definitely need more than one cup (of soup). soup spoon has recently expanded, and despite our initial negative thoughts about taking this soup and sandwich spot to the next level, we're delighted with the dinner menu, full bar, and great michigan microbrew selections. the seafood chowder is so good we've considered buying out their stock to bathe in it. tomato basil gets high marks as well, and pretty much everything has been top notch (except maybe the chicken salad and some of their rotating, namely chorizo and mushroom, soups). and everyone's heard of beer flights...but soup flights??!?! yes please! really important to get here early--definitely expect to wait during peak lunch/dinner hours. service can be hit or miss. we definitely believe everyone to be well-intentioned, but there can be some lulls...even when it's not busy. but the owner is super nice and we generally like the people who work here. this place is really turning into a lansing institution. all kinds of interesting people drawn to delicious often-local reasonable ingredient food. they even have a killer twitter account (@SoupSpoonCafe) where they update their soup specials and upcoming menu delights. end of story, you should go to there.
(5)Rachel L.
Mmmmm this place is good! It is such an unassuming place! i had this salami sandwich with pesto something. I crave it all the time now. It is probably one of the best sandwiches i have had in the EL/Lansing area.
(5)Michael W.
Well tonight I went with the Veal and goat cheese sliders with a cup of lobster bisque soup. The soup started my meal and it was smooth and left me wanting more. But then the slider special came out. The sliders just melted in my mouth. Would love for everyone to give soup spoon a try and support such a great lansing resturant.
(5)Meg H.
I have been three times, twice for dinner and once for lunch. If you plan to have dinner there, consider making a reservation. The place is small and popular. I had lunch there on a Monday recently, and because I was alone I sat at the bar. I'm not sure if it was a particularly busy Monday, or if Monday lunches are always that hopin', but the bartender was pretty busy. It appeared as though she wore many hats - waiting on bar customers, as well as a table or two (I believe), answering phones, taking to-go orders, distributing to-go orders, taking reservations. She could have used an extra hand. People were patient and understanding, as it was obvious she was busy. The food has always been great. You must ABSOLUTELY save room for the bread pudding. Amazing.
(4)Jill M.
Always a great meal. I usually go for lunch, but dinner is just as good. During the normal lunch hour, you can expect a short wait. I have never waited more than 30min for a table. Try the Avocado BLT. It's my favorite.
(5)Jamie R.
Hidden Gem. So many choices for such a small kitchen. Everything on the menu is worth trying at least once. Great place for breakfast. Service with a smile. Haven't been there for dinner, but menu looks amazing. Upscale food and service for reasonable prices. They have many local brews on tap. Yes, they also have a bar. The decor could improve, but the focus is surely on the food.
(5)Elizabeth P.
Excellent food and cozy, non-assuming atmosphere. I got the french onion soup, salmon with dill sauce, and split bread pudding. I got enough for 2 meals (I took some home) for a reasonable price. All of the soups looked delicious, staff was friendly. I recommend this any day, but particularly on a cold or rainy or snowy one. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming. The bread pudding rocked my world - I shared it with 2 other people and it was so rich I felt perfectly satisfied.
(5)Nelli T.
My favorite cafe in Lansing! Love the new bar and drinks too.
(5)Jessica D.
Small restaurant emphasizing sustainable, locally sourced food. Nice updated menu and (I hear) good selection of beers. Service could be a bit better. We were there for a meeting, and our waitress forgot about refilling water after the bill was paid. Other than that, very nice.
(4)David M.
Updated June 24th Last night we stopped in for a meal. We ordered the seafood chowder, the seafood risotto, a BBQ chicken pizza, and the special, a NY strip with truffle sauce. For desert we had the bread pudding. The thing is every thing was ok, not exceptional, well the seafood chowder was damn good. I was expecting and hoping for more. I would have written this off to an off night, but the last couple times we have been in for dinner we have walked out with a underwhelmed feel. So what specifically was off? I'll start with the special. The NY Strip was low on flavor, tough and the sauce was weird. Perhaps I'm not a truffle guy, but I do know that the thought I kept having was "why did I not stick to the plan and get the fillet? It is great." And pehaps my biggest irk was my medium rare was more medium done. This steak is disappointing. My wife got the risotto, she liked it and my daughter loved the shrimp (we share a lot). The taste I had was this Ok, the scallops had met the fate of my steak and were over cooked. The BBQ pizza was exactly what you expect. It was our safe order for the kids, and they nibbled on it. Finally the bread pudding. The flavor was spot on, the uncooked sugar, not so great. We wrapped up on a meh note. The service was good, the drinks too. Just doesn't seem Soup Spoon isn't able to achieve the excellence it once had. And when you are eating an underwhelming meal you think "why am I avoiding chain food again, at least I know what to expect." Original review. How have I not been here before? This place has great food. The kind you "drop money on and don't care" good. My wife and I shared * Seared Scallops Fresh sea scallops seared and finished with our Argentinean chimichurri and avocado * Maryland Blue Crab Cakes pan seared and drizzled with chipotle aioli * Filet Mignon Tenderloin of beef, seared and topped with exotic mushrooms in demi glace, finished with gorgonzola butter. Served with potatoes dauphanoise and fresh vegetable I had the Seafood Chowder - with shrimp & clams, and our daughter had the Cream of Mushroom soup and the Grilled Three Cheese & Tomato - choice of bread with sharp cheddar, gruyere, provolone and tomato. Also, I tried the French Fruitie Soda and our daughter had the Orange Cream Dream soda. Definitely worth a try! Its tough for me to say what I liked the most, the entire meal was fantastic. Things started off with the seafood chowder and they went and set the bar high. This is good chowder. It has all the right notes. Good seafood flavor, the right amount of potato, and a lovely warm down your throat that hints of spice, but doesn't leave you gulping water to soothe the burn. Our daughter's cream of mushroom arrived at the same time and was stellar. Next the scallops and crab cakes arrived were perfect. Very tasty, I ended up liking the scallops better than the crab cakes, but its like saying you like your free money in $100 bills better than $20 bills. The crab cakes were very tasty too. Just my preference. The Grilled Three Cheese (sans the tomatoes) arrived next. This thing is a healthy sandwich. It oozes cheese. If ever you had a grilled cheese with pride, this was it. Served with very crunchy, salty kettle chips and a crisp dill. Over all effect is a homemade grilled cheese with sophistication. Finally the Filet arrived. As we had agreed to split it, I agreed to medium (normally I am a med. rare kind of guy). It was perfect, exactly the right temp. I don't know which I am more impressed with. The flavor, or the tenderness. The steak left nothing to be desired. It was a tremendous way to end a meal that came out really strong. I will be trying to concoct my own gorgonzola butter very soon. So, grab the family or a friend or two and head over the the Soup Spoon Cafe. It will not disappoint. And one last tip, call ahead, a place this good is bound to be hard to get into. Menu: soupspooncafe.com/dinner…
(2)Lizzie P.
Went here a couple weeks ago on a Saturday for an early lunch, it was delicious! We had to wait for about 15 minutes, but after smelling and seeing the food the tables around us were getting we decided to stay. I got the broccoli cheddar soup and a grilled cheese--both were great! The soup was so rich and the grilled cheese was cooked to perfection on Breadsmith bread.
(5)Shaun L.
The food is outstanding. They have, hands down, the best soup I have EVER had in my entire life. You have got to try the chowder. Even people I know who do not like seafood love this stuff. Seriously I think they put crack in their food.
(5)Blue B.
Love soup spoon, great during these cold Michigan days especially. Make time to go to Soup Spoon some time and keep an open mind. Some of the combinations are different that what you might otherwise encounter on bistro menus, but they really offer balanced flavor profiles, great service and attitudes, and good prices.
(5)Russ C.
I love Soup Spoon, I try to at least once a week so I can have as many soups as I can. I always get the cafe combo when I go in, the bill is about $8 for a cup of soup and a half of any of their sandwiches. I love the turkey club, all the ingredients are so fresh and well put together on sourdough bread.
(4)Louise W.
A big shout out to the Soup Spoon Cafe, because a) they're in my neighborhood and b) they serve locally-roasted Rudy Baggs coffee, which is easily the best in town. The place is small but warmly painted and decorated, and serves breakfast and lunch only. (I listed it as a diner because none of the other categories seemed appropriate, but it's not a diner). You can also just get a cup of coffee and a brownie, if you prefer. I haven't eaten here yet, but other local papers, such as the normally-unreliable Noise and City Pulse, have praised it for serving interesting, lighter lunch items such as grilled salmon. Please go and check it out. I want this place to survive.
(3)Craig B.
I just moved to the Lansing area from Seattle and have begun to enjoy it alot!!! I live a couple blocks away from the cafe I now refer to as the "Poop Spoon". I have heard good things about this place and thought I would give it a try. In the past week I visited it twice and had horrible experiences both times. I normally would not wither about such things but I was left with a sour taste in my mouth, literally and whole heartedly. The first stop in was for a take home sandwich the Gardner or Farmer I can't remember, it is the sandwich with two types of carrots (misprint on the dirty paper menu from which you order from). I got the sandwich home and the bread was so dry and crumbly that it could not hold everything together to even consume, it turned into a salad with dry crumbly bread. The second time was a couple mornings later when I thought to stop in for a pastry and coffee... I walked in and the hippie guy with the 90's ponytail literally said "Good-bye" as he and his compadre sitting at the bar chuckled when I asked for soy milk with my latte. I am all for supporting local businesses and businesses in my "hood" along Michigan ave. but I like to be treated with respect and to think that my hard earned dollar is worth a little service and quality of goods. To say the least I will never be back in to enjoy any of what these other reviews experienced and will side with the reviews of distaste (at least the ones that remain and not the many that presumably have been removed at the businesses request).
(1)Erich Z.
Still a bit pricey in my opinion, but the soups and sandwiches are very good. I prefer the spotted dog in downtown, but when I'm in the neighborhood Soup Spoon certainly isn't bad.
(3)Gary H.
A group of six had dinner here. I had a Black and Bleu wrap with a cup of seafood chowder. Both the soup and sandwich were delicious. Three in our party had the beef stroganoff, and it looked very good. One person ordered creme brulee for dessert and shared with others. That was yummy, too. I can't wait to try this place for breakfast.
(5)Kristin M.
The seafood chowder was fab. Has a lovely little kick of heat on the backend. Also had the Greek Tenderloin Linguini, which I enjoyed. Even the iced tea was exceptional - they add flavored honey. I definitely recommend this little gem.
(4)Kuba B.
The Soup Spoon used to be my favorite place in Lansing but the last time I went here I noticed a significant change. For comparison, the first time I ordered a cheese plate here it came with fresh bread, fruit, and bunch of delicious cheeses. For a starter, it was pretty filling. More recently, however, I ordered the cheese plate and they served it with Club Crackers on a much smaller plate. Didn't even have enough stupid crackers to pair with the cheese. Second of all, all their nice wait staff is gone. The guy that served us smelled like cigarettes and made bad conversation with us the whole time. Not sure what spurred the change. I'll give them one more chance and that's it.
(2)Steve F.
Have you been yet? I mean come on...you HAVE to go! The soups are fabulous...fresh AND hot! When I managed restaurants in Chocago I was trained to always serve soup hot. Soup Spoon Cafe understands many important consumer desires...fresh, delicious food, friendly service and menu variety. You must try this place. I was fortunate to be at the grand opening of their new space. Beautiful music provided by Linda Abar and Frederick Issac to entertain while we dined. Wonderful night. Thanks and I hope they continue the live music.
(5)Mike B.
Great place to eat breakfast or have a wonderful lunch. The omelets are special in every way, staff is friendly, and reasonably priced. I always tell people about the Soup Spoon.
(4)Kay S.
This is one of my favorite places to eat in the Lansing area. The food and drinks are excellent. While I don't get there as much as I would like, I have never had a bad experience there. The food is always fresh and hot and most importantly delicious! I have had a hankering for some crab cakes lately (theirs are some of the best I've had). I think it might be time to pay the Spoon another visit!
(5)B K.
Although I may normally steer away from 5-star ratings, as this implies perfection...something that is very hard to attain, I really have to give this place props. The breakfasts I have been served at the Soup Spoon Cafe are simply outstanding, and easily the best I have had in town. The coffee is also excellent - served up by local roaster Rudy Baggs. The lunch fare, while it may not quite blow me away like the breakfast items - is still very, very tasty and quite excellent. The sandwiches are solid, composed of quality ingredients and emminently satisfying. I've only tried one of their entrees...the grilled salmon, and it was spot-on and excellent. Now that they are open for dinner, I may make a point of checking out some of their other entree offerings. Now the soups, as one would hope, are absolutely world class! You simply MUST order soup if you eat here. Wow! Rounded out by comfortable, relaxed and inviting interior and a friendly and sincere staff. A hidden gem of Lansing. Recommended!
(5)Ed C.
I'm surprised I haven't already reviewed the Soup Spoon. They used to be a good soup and sandwich place. Now they are the single best restaurant and bar in Lansing. They have a breakfast on par with Golden Harvest. They have the best soups and sandwiches in town. They have lots of interesting dinner entrees that have meat, so I don't eat them. However, they serve their lunch menu at dinner, so that's no problem. They have great beer on tap and great wine by the glass, but their cocktails are what really stand out. You'd have to go to Chicago to find a better craft cocktail. My personal recommendation is the Dark and Stormy, but all cocktails are made with high quality liquors, house-made syrups, and high qualities bitters, garnishes, etc. They take their time and do it right. This isn't the usual swill blended with swill that even nice places in Lansing serve out. These are *cocktails*.
(5)Bruce R.
Dropped by the Soup Spoon on a recommendation from a local while visiting from out of town. I went for dinner and found everything on the menu to be very inviting. I went with the shrimp and goat cheese appetizers, the chowder and, the hanger steak. Each one was a hit. I was in Lansing for two weeks and, I am sorry I found out about this place too late to make a second visit. It is important to note this place has a smaller dining area served by what appears to be a smaller kitchen - reservations are necessary but, well worth any wait.
(5)Staci S.
Good food, great local beer selection, Awesome decor.
(5)Jonathan L.
It is nice to step into a bustling cafe mid-day. There is an air of familiarity with the staff and the patrons, who are as diverse as the menu, from artists to teachers to bankers. They are gather here for the best food the Eastside offers. The menu is peppered with tastes from many regions. The specials maintain some seasonality, but the regular menu has some great standby's, which is what I order for my tween meal today: Voodoo Pasta. Perfect portion and spice.
(4)Mike G.
Kind of a long wait to sit but the food and service were spectacular. I had the braised short ribs and Creme Brûlée and they were both amazing. I also tried the bread pudding and it was probably the best I've ever had.
(5)Jim M.
My wife is a new professor at Michigan State and her colleagues recommended the Soup Spoon to her. We went there with our 7-year old son and loved it. I had the seafood risotto and it was really, really good. I'm a bit of a seafood snob, but the shrimp and scallops were perfectly cooked. My son had the seafood stew, which was also great. It's not a fancy place, but I would recommend it highly. A nice beer selection, too.
(4)Tally B.
Best restaurant in Lansing by a mile. I moved here from Austin and was depressed about the lack of good food, until a friend took me here. I'd give 5 stars, but the service isn't up to par for 5 stars. I love their tap selection, but their wine pour is short, FYI. Call for reservations early in the day if you want to get seated during prime dinner hours. This is a great place to go if you have a few hours to relax over dinner and drinks with friends or on a date. The soup is all divine and the plates are all amazing and delicious. Like them on Facebook to get a daily teaser of their specials, soups and beers.
(4)Holly N.
I loved the Soup Spoon!! What a diamond in the rough! We showed up for a late lunch mid-week. The place was packed and everyone working was friendly and accommodating. Pulling up an extra seat to the only available table, we were ready to go. All of us partook in a soup of our liking and a sandwich - they do have a cup of soup and 1/2 sandwich deal, which was very satisfactory. I went with the seafood chowder - holy cow! It was creamy and loaded with various sea things and potato. The tomato soup was also fantastic, but not as what you'd expect. It was fairly light and well seasoned. The vegetable soup was also loaded with veggies and was quite herby. For sandwiches, I went for the Georgia Rubin and all I can say is YUM! We enjoyed our meals and sat and talked for over an hour afterward, since the crowd had thinned considerably we knew we weren't holding up a table. The staff had no issue with us just sitting and chatting, even when we realized that they were past closing time (which is 3pm on Mondays & Tuesdays). I'd call the décor rustic chic. Though things may appear a bit mismatched, it all flows together intentionally and creates a welcoming atmosphere. There's even a bar in the restaurant where you can sample some decent Michigan brews. The only downfall was that the bartender wasn't very good at describing the beers and was going to charge me to sample the one I thought I might like - bars always get bonus points for allowing patrons to try a sip before purchasing, they should at least have written descriptions. The restaurant is also connected to Bancroft Flowers and the guy working in there seemed to be friendly as well. I can't wait to get back to MI and go back to Soup Spoon Café! Definitely 5 stars!
(5)Jason F.
If based entirely on the food, I'd be giving this place at least 4 stars, but unfortunately there were some experience killers. Before I discuss the bad, here's the good. Everything was delicious. I ordered the Seafood Santorini, and my wife had the Pesto Prima Vera. Both of us agreed they were top notch meals. As an appetizer, we had the cheese plate. The cheeses were fairly mundane cheeses, so we didn't agree that it merited the 12 dollar price-tag. But cheese is cheese, and therefore was delicious. But the positive aspects of the meal were offset by the negative. Here's why: First of all, there was no air conditioning. On a hot day in June, consumers expect air conditioning. Secondly, the waitstaff seemed only moderately interested in helping us. When asked what cheses were included in the chese plate, she gave us some recommendations as to what they "might" be, but didn't have a conclusive answer. Finally, there was the decor. The resturant was mostly consistent in this regard, which gave us the impression that we were eating at a mom & pop diner. The menu's were of equally shoddy construction. All in all, this was a positive experience for us, but given the 58 dollar price tag and the otherwise consistent reviews that already exist on yelp, I expected more.
(3)Debra C.
Wonderful food. I could have had one of everything, but then I would have had to pay for it all. Reasonable prices.
(4)Tess K.
Following the Soup Spoon Cafe on Twitter has caused me to become nothing short of obsessed. Last week they Tweeted that the special was chorizo sausage and scallops in red clam sauce over linguine. We immediately left home and it was delicious. So delicious that I inquired what they were serving the next night (New Years Eve) when I heard one of the choices was shrimp and scallop risotto we booked our reservation. Again, the dinner was incredible. I took my time eating and savored every bite. The seafood chowder leaves me speechless. The environment is cheery and the staff is smiley and kind. Chef Nick is always available to provide wine recommendations and anxious to hear how you like your meal. I like how they engage the Twitter community by answering back or thanking customers for their visit. They are using Twitter to successfully create a caring and loyal community - smart. My friend and I are now studying the menu, prioritizing and planning future trips.
(5)Tuesday C.
Yummo! We love this place. It is great for both breakfast and lunch. Only warning, everyone loves this place so it does get a bit busy sometimes. I don't eat meat and although they don't have a ton of options what they do have is awesome and I don't mind getting the same things! They have different soups everyday too that usually rock. The Greek island plate is delicious as well as the Pesto Prima Vera. The pesto scrambler for breakfast is pretty amazing too. The staff is very friendly and the atmosphere is laid back. Try it and enjoy!
(5)Tami S.
Just finished the Baja Scramble for breakfast and it was fantastic. Tons of chorizo and the eggs were fluffy and moist. The avocado on top balanced the spice from the sausage perfectly!
(5)Kendra J.
Sooooo good! Omelets are amazing and so is the beer selection!
(5)Richard P.
By far perhaps the best restaurant in Lansing. Great variety on the menu, creative, knowledgeable staff, definitely worth going to. Having been in the hospitality business most of my career, I appreciate when it is done right. They even make their own bitters for their house cocktails Speaking of the cocktails, I can't remember the last time I saw a bartender slicing the twists to order. It's the little details like this that stand out. Enjoy!!
(5)Jeffrey C.
Amazing! Every dish I have had here meets or exceeds expectations. With the new cocktail selection and diner menu they have gotten slightly busier making a bit difficult to get a table at times but the quality has remained making this a great stop in Lansing. If it's your first time the flight of soups may be the way to go, although you may become addicted.
(5)Caitlin T.
We really wanted to like this place after seeing it had 2 of our favorite dishes on the menu. However, we left disappointed in the quality of the food for how much you spend. First I will give you a background story to what we compared our meal to. Ever since we discovered the Brass Cafe in Mt Pleasant a few years ago, we have tried to find our favorite dishes of theirs somewhere else with the same great quality. We have tried these dishes all over the US, including Hawaii, California, Washington and Texas. No one has come close to the greatness that is the Brass Cafe. Onto our dinner from yesterday. I agree with a lot of other reviewers in saying that it is confusing when you first walk into the Soup Spoon Cafe. Do you just stand there and wait for a hostess? Do you go up to the bar? Do you go into the other dining room? This seating process and the serving in general, need to be more organized. After sitting for awhile we had to wait for someone to take our drink orders, then she didn't even take our food order with the drinks when we were obviously ready. Since the husband couldn't decide on a soup to start with, we decided to do the Soup Flight with the Tomato Basil, Russian Cabbage and Pork, Seafood Chowder and French Onion. Even though these are 3 premade soups, it still seemed to take forever to get to us. My favorite one was definitely the Tomato Basil. The chowder seemed too fishy for me, but the husband liked it a lot. The french onion was alright, but the beef base (assumption) was overpowering and it didn't have much cheese on top. The Russian soup had a way too strong tomato broth in it, we both weren't fans of it. The Seafood Risotto was lack luster. The risotto itself didn't have much flavor. The shrimp and scallops were cooked well though. I ended up taking home most of it and added spices and more parmesan. Husband got the Korean style braised Short Ribs. These didn't seem braised at all. They didn't have much flavor and they didn't fall off the bone like you would expect. I would not consider the sauce Korean at all. Then they put the meat on top of curry rice so the plate was just a mish mash of different flavors and ethnicities. Our bill for one beer (B-Nektor Evil Genius which was good and different), the soup flight, seafood risotto and the short ribs came to $59 before tip. Definitely not worth the money. If we come back we will try their sandwiches in hopes that those will be better.
(3)George M.
Great beers. Non chain hip local feel. Amazingly good food at terrific prices. I love the Korean short ribs, the seafood chowder, and the tenderloin salad. Great friendly staff. Prolly my fav restaurant in the area.
(5)Moani B.
This is my favorite place to order out and din-IN at!!! I am not from around here and I do not like going to Big name places like Applebees or cheddars! Lunches are the BIZ!! I reccomend the Cajun Chicken Po Boy I believe it is called or the Beef Strog!!!! Dinner would most definately be the enitre menu if I had the ability to! but if I had to narrow it down, Lamb Sliders, Chicken Pesto Prime vera! Oh My!!!, Salmon and of course the Seafood bisque!!!There are no words!! Oh and dessert Bread Pudding aaaa yes Please!! The portions are great however it is a bit spendy :( All and all amazing place to hang out, people are usually nice except at dinner, it gets a bit crazy if you are dinning in which is understandable, but there have been a few times that we have ordered out by phone and when we headed to the bar to pick up our meals, we have been ignored and have waited for up to 5-8 min before even asked anything :( Other than that, It's all Yum!!!!!!
(4)