Eugene may get dark and stormy in the fall and winter, but with the chillier weather comes the perfect excuse for cozy sweaters, fluffy blankets and big bowls of hearty, comforting soups. Not much of a cook? No problem! These Eugene restaurants are making some of the best soups to keep you warm all winter long.
Vietnam Restaurant
Serving up some of the most flavorful Vietnamese noodle soups in town, Vietnam Restaurant packs each bowl with spices, aromatics, herbs and fresh vegetables. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat lover, this restaurant has a soup for you. Their classic pho is warming, filling and budget-friendly, delivering a flavorful kick. Pho may be the most popular choice, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try the bun bo hue — also known as spicy beef noodle soup. The beef broth is made in-house and filled with tender pieces of beef, bouncy noodles and crisp vegetables.
“It is my comfort meal. It’s so filling and warm. You can’t beat it,” Owen Stevens, a Vietnam Restaurant regular, said. Each soup is packed with rich flavors that make every bowl a satisfying experience.
Falling Sky
This local brewery and restaurant has been a Eugene favorite for over 10 years, and for good reason. Known for dishes made with local ingredients, talented chefs and some of the best comfort food in town, Falling Sky is serving a seasonal butternut squash soup this fall that’s not to be missed. This rich, creamy soup offers a complex blend of squash, spices and herbs, creating a balance of sweetness and earthiness in each spoonful.
“It’s funny, I come here just for this soup—it’s warm, comforting and you can taste how fresh the ingredients are.” Rachel Nguyen, a Falling Sky regular, said. Falling Sky may be best known for its unique, locally crafted beers, but don’t overlook the soup—it’s some of the best in Eugene.
Laughing Planet
One of the most convenient restaurants on the list, Laughing Planet is the perfect quick lunch. This neighborhood gem offers a variety of salad, rice bowl and soup options, with a rotating soup selection daily. This season, however, the standout on the menu is the Vegan Chili. Vegetables may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of chili, but Laughing Planet may change that. This hearty soup is packed with black and garbanzo beans, corn, zucchini, carrots, onions, green bell peppers and celery, each ingredient contributing its own unique flavor.
“I was never able to try chili until I came to Laughing Planet and now I can’t get enough,” Carly Adams, vegan and Laughing Planet customer, said. The chili isn’t just for vegans; it’s a win for everyone. This spicy, earthy dish is sure to bring warmth even on the coldest days.
Tokyo Tonkatsu
This downtown spot brings authentic Japanese flavors to Eugene with a ramen menu packed with options for every taste. Their offerings range from the rich and creamy Tonkotsu Ramen, simmered with pork bone marrow and topped with tender chashu and a soft-boiled egg, to lighter, veggie-focused bowls like the Tanmen Ramen, filled with tofu and fresh vegetables. For those who crave a bit of heat, the Spicy Katsu Ramen delivers just that with crispy pork, chicken or tofu and a kick of special spicy sauce. With affordable prices and bold flavors, Tokyo Tonkatsu serves up comforting bowls of ramen that are sure to satisfy every craving this season. The broths are rich and brimming with umami, spice and savory notes. The noodles are fresh, springy and chewy, making these noodle soups one of the most comforting meals in Eugene.
Cornucopia
One of Eugene’s coziest spots, Cornucopia is a go-to for comforting dishes, and its soups won’t let you down this season. While they offer several options, the standout this fall is their Crock of French Onion Soup. This rich, silky roasted beef broth is layered with thinly sliced caramelized onions, topped with toasted bread, and finished with a bubbling layer of hot, melty cheese. This French classic is loved for a reason, delivering savory flavors that make it a crave-worthy choice on any chilly day.
Whether you’re craving a spicy kick, a classic comfort or a unique twist on a favorite, Eugene’s diverse soup scene has something for everyone. These local restaurants bring warmth and flavor to every bowl, making them the perfect go-to spots for the colder months. So next time the clouds roll in, grab a friend, head to one of these cozy spots and savor the season with a bowl of soup that’s sure to lift your spirits and keep you coming back for more.
