Where To Find The Best Chicken Soup in Philly

Philly's Penicillin: A Guide to the City's Best & Most Comforting Chicken Soup

In Philadelphia, a city of four distinct seasons, there is no comfort food more universally beloved than a soul-warming bowl of chicken soup. It's the ultimate remedy for a cold day, a case of the sniffles, or simply a craving for something deeply satisfying. The city's rich culinary landscape offers an incredible variety of this classic dish, from the legendary matzo ball soups of its Jewish delis and the hearty Pennsylvania Dutch versions to classic diner-style chicken noodle. Here is a guide to some of the top spots to find the best chicken soup in Philly.

The Jewish Deli Classics (Matzo Ball Masters):

1. Famous 4th Street Delicatessen (Queen Village):

   
   
   

   • A true Philadelphia icon, Famous 4th Street Deli's chicken soup with a fluffy matzo ball is so renowned it was once named one of America's best comfort foods by Food Network. Served steaming hot, this soup is rich, flavorful, and the epitome of traditional Jewish deli fare.

   • Location: 700 S 4th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

     
     
     

2. Schlesinger's Delicatessen (Center City West):

   • Schlesinger's offers a classic deli experience with a fantastic chicken matzo ball soup that is simple, clean, and delicious. What sets this spot apart is the beloved free condiment bar, where you can load up on half-sour pickles, potato salad, and sauerkraut to accompany your comforting meal.

     
     
     

   • Location: 1521 Locust St, Philadelphia, PA 19102

3. Koch's Deli (West Philadelphia):

   • A University City institution for decades, Koch's Deli is a beloved no-frills spot famous for its massive sandwiches and, of course, its classic Jewish-style chicken soup. It's a must-visit for students, locals, and anyone seeking an authentic deli experience.

   • Location: 4309 Locust St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

4. Hymie's Merion Delicatessen (Merion Station):

   • Just a short trip to the Main Line, Hymie's is a legendary suburban deli where the portions are famously generous. Their chicken soup, available with matzo balls, noodles, or kreplach, is a hearty and satisfying meal that has been a staple for generations of families.

   • Location: 342 Montgomery Ave, Merion Station, PA 19066

Homestyle & Regional Flavors:

5. Melrose Diner (South Philly):

   • Sometimes, you just want a classic, straightforward bowl of chicken noodle soup, and there's no better place for that than a quintessential Philly diner. The Melrose Diner, a 24/7 South Philly landmark, serves up a comforting and reliable version that hits the spot any time of day or night.

   • Location: 1501 Snyder Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19145

6. Dutch Eating Place (Reading Terminal Market):

   • For a taste of regional Pennsylvania Dutch cooking, head to the Dutch Eating Place inside the bustling Reading Terminal Market. Their chicken soup is different from the deli style; look for hearty variations like Chicken Corn Soup or Chicken & Dumplings, offering a thick, rich, and uniquely satisfying experience.

   • Location: 51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

A Spicy International Twist:

7. DanDan Rittenhouse (Rittenhouse Square):

   • If you're craving a chicken soup with a kick, DanDan offers a fantastic alternative. Their menu of Sichuan and Taiwanese cuisine features a delicious and spicy chicken noodle soup. It's a fiery, aromatic, and complex bowl that will warm you up in a completely different way.

   • Location: 126 S 16th St, Philadelphia, PA 19102

Philadelphia's chicken soup scene is a delicious reflection of the city's diverse culinary traditions. Whether you're seeking the comforting embrace of a classic matzo ball from a historic Jewish deli, the homestyle goodness of a Pennsylvania Dutch recipe, or the fiery kick of a Sichuan noodle bowl, there is a perfect bowl of "Philly's Penicillin" waiting to make your day better.

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