Some call it sweater weather; I call it soup weather. My love for soup runs deep. In fact, I subject my family to soup probably once or twice per week. My kids love it! While I agree it’s probably not the easiest meal to eat as a child; it is pretty inexpensive and delicious.
My slow cooker is on overtime during the chilly fall and winter months, but there are some days that I can barely get myself and kids out the door in time let alone throw stuff into a crockpot. I know, I know, #workingmommyproblems. When that happens, we all pile into the car and head to get the good stuff at some of our favorite local spots or bring it back by the pint to enjoy at home.
Here are my favorite recommendations in the Northwest ‘burbs:
Mariano’s
I couldn’t suggest places for soup without suggesting my absolute favorite place to grab a piping hot and delicious homemade bowl of soup. They have at least 8-10 flavors on a daily basis ranging from my absolute favorite Cream of Chicken with Wild Rice (which I craved incessantly with both pregnancies), Kale and White Bean, and Shrimp and Corn Chowder. They never disappoint and are available in three sizes to take home.
Locations throughout Chicago and suburbs
Omega – French Onion
They have an amazing rotating soup schedule, but my absolute favorite is their ooey gooey French Onion soup. It’s just the right amount of melted Gruyere cheese, salty beef and onion broth. They even serve it with complimentary onion bread.
9100 W Golf Rd, Niles, IL 60714
Uptown Café – Mushroom Barley
Uptown Café has a rotating soup schedule, and it’s quite hard to choose my favorite when all are made from scratch in their kitchen. But, the earthy Mushroom Barley soup is one of their crowd favorites. It’s also light, but also really rich and comforting. Basically, a hug in a bowl.
24 E Miner St, Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Kaufman’s – Matzo Ball
When I can’t even muster the strength to make my own chicken soup (and my mama isn’t available), I treat myself to the Jewish penicillin from Kaufman’s. Even if you’re not feeling under the weather, it’s great anytime. The soups in the freezer are an awesome and easy weekday meal.
4905 Dempster St, Skokie, IL 60077
Don’s Dock – Lobster Bisque
Serving the Chicagoland area for more than 50 years, Don’s Dock specializes in all things seafood. Their Lobster Bisque is absolutely the right balance of lobster, cream and a hint of sherry. It’s the perfect way to warm up on cold, blistery days. Don’t want to dine in? Take a half pint to go!
1220 Northwest Hwy, Des Plaines, IL 60016
