Soup Shop Cerritos: Fresh Homemade Soups in Cerritos, CA

Soup Shop Cerritos: Fresh Homemade Soups in Cerritos, CA
Soup Shop Cerritos is a locally owned soup restaurant located in Cerritos, California, known for its fresh, homemade soups made from locally sourced ingredients. The establishment offers a rotating menu of seasonal soups, including vegan and gluten-free options, served alongside freshly baked bread. Open seven days a week from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, it has become a community favorite for both casual lunches and take-home meal solutions in the South Bay area.

When searching for quality soup experiences in Southern California, Soup Shop Cerritos stands out as a destination that consistently delivers on freshness and flavor. This local eatery has cultivated a loyal following by focusing on what matters most to soup enthusiasts: high-quality ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and a welcoming atmosphere. Unlike chain restaurants, this independently owned establishment changes its menu weekly based on seasonal availability, ensuring customers experience the peak flavors of each ingredient.

What Makes Soup Shop Cerritos Special

Soup Shop Cerritos distinguishes itself through several key factors that appeal to both casual visitors and regular customers. The owners, who previously worked in fine dining kitchens, bring professional culinary expertise to their soup creations while maintaining approachable pricing. Each batch is made in-house daily using a combination of traditional techniques and modern flavor pairings that keep the menu exciting throughout the year.

One notable aspect is their commitment to dietary inclusivity. Approximately 40% of their rotating menu caters to specific dietary needs, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. This thoughtful approach has made Soup Shop Cerritos a reliable choice for families and individuals with various dietary requirements throughout the Cerritos community.

Location and Accessibility

Situated at 12726 Towne Centre Drive, Soup Shop Cerritos enjoys a convenient location near the Cerritos Towne Center shopping district. The restaurant features ample parking and is easily accessible from major thoroughfares including Rosecrans Avenue and Carmenita Road. Public transportation options include several bus routes that stop within a five-minute walk of the establishment.

Operating Hours Monday-Friday Saturday-Sunday
Lunch Service 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM
Dinner Service 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Last Order 7:45 PM 7:15 PM

Menu Highlights and Seasonal Offerings

The menu at Soup Shop Cerritos features eight to ten rotating options that change weekly based on ingredient availability and seasonal produce. Regular visitors appreciate the consistent quality across different soup varieties, from hearty chowders to delicate broths. Some signature offerings that frequently appear include:

  • Roasted Tomato Basil - Made with locally grown organic tomatoes and fresh basil
  • Wild Mushroom Barley - Featuring foraged mushrooms and pearl barley
  • Spicy Miso Ramen - A house specialty with house-made broth and toppings
  • Butternut Squash Coconut - A vegan option popular during fall and winter months

Each soup comes in multiple serving sizes, from a small cup (8oz) perfect for sampling to a quart container ideal for taking home. The shop also offers freshly baked bread daily, including sourdough, multigrain, and gluten-free options that complement the soups perfectly.

Community Engagement and Sustainability Practices

Soup Shop Cerritos has developed strong community ties through various initiatives. The owners partner with local farms in the South Bay area to source ingredients, reducing food miles while supporting regional agriculture. Their commitment to sustainability extends to packaging, with all takeout containers being compostable and made from plant-based materials.

Monthly, the shop participates in "Soup for Seniors" program, donating unsold soup from Friday afternoons to local senior centers. This community-focused approach has earned them recognition from the Cerritos Chamber of Commerce as a "Small Business Community Champion" for three consecutive years.

Planning Your Visit to Soup Shop Cerritos

For the best experience at Soup Shop Cerritos, consider these practical tips. Weekday mornings typically offer the shortest wait times, while weekends see increased traffic, especially during lunch hours. The shop does not take reservations for dine-in service but offers online ordering for takeout through their website, which can save significant time during peak hours.

Parking is generally plentiful, with dedicated spots for the restaurant in the Towne Centre lot. The interior features both counter seating and small tables, accommodating everything from solo diners to small groups. High chairs are available for families with young children, making it a family-friendly destination throughout the day.

What Regulars Say About Soup Shop Cerritos

Customer feedback consistently highlights the freshness of ingredients and the knowledgeable staff who can describe each soup's components and preparation methods. Many patrons specifically mention the "Soup of the Day" as a reliable way to discover new flavor combinations they wouldn't typically consider. The shop maintains a 4.7-star average across multiple review platforms, with particular praise for their accommodating approach to dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts on Soup Shop Cerritos

Soup Shop Cerritos has established itself as more than just a place to grab a quick meal—it's become a community gathering spot where quality ingredients meet thoughtful preparation. Whether you're looking for a satisfying lunch, healthy takeout option, or simply want to experience what makes a truly exceptional soup, this Cerritos establishment delivers consistently. Their commitment to seasonal ingredients, dietary inclusivity, and community engagement makes them a standout option among soup restaurants in the South Bay area.

What are the most popular soup options at Soup Shop Cerritos?

The Roasted Tomato Basil and Wild Mushroom Barley consistently rank as customer favorites at Soup Shop Cerritos. Their Spicy Miso Ramen has gained significant popularity, particularly during cooler months. The shop rotates eight to ten options weekly, with approximately 40% of their menu catering to dietary restrictions like vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free preferences.

Does Soup Shop Cerritos offer catering services for events?

Yes, Soup Shop Cerritos provides catering services for events of various sizes. They can accommodate orders for 10-100 people with advance notice, typically requiring 48 hours for standard catering requests. Their catering menu includes soup selections in various quantities along with bread baskets and side salads.

Are there vegetarian and vegan options available at Soup Shop Cerritos?

Absolutely. Approximately 40% of Soup Shop Cerritos' rotating weekly menu consists of vegetarian and vegan options. Their staff clearly labels each soup's dietary attributes, and they take care to prevent cross-contamination for customers with strict dietary requirements. Popular vegan choices include their seasonal vegetable soups and coconut-based broths.

Can I purchase Soup Shop Cerritos soups for later consumption?

Yes, Soup Shop Cerritos offers soups in quart containers designed for home consumption. These containers are microwave-safe and maintain freshness for 3-4 days when refrigerated. They also sell frozen soup packs during holiday seasons that can be stored for up to three months. The staff provides reheating instructions with each take-home order.

Does Soup Shop Cerritos have outdoor seating available?

Soup Shop Cerritos features a small outdoor patio area with seating for up to 12 guests. The patio is shaded and temperature-controlled with heaters for cooler days and misting fans for warmer weather. This outdoor space operates during all business hours when weather conditions permit, providing a pleasant dining option for those who prefer fresh air while eating.

Sarah Johnson

Sarah Johnson

A passionate culinary historian with over 15 years of experience tracing spice trade routes across continents. Sarah have given her unique insights into how spices shaped civilizations throughout history. Her engaging storytelling approach brings ancient spice traditions to life, connecting modern cooking enthusiasts with the rich cultural heritage behind everyday ingredients. Her expertise in identifying authentic regional spice variations, where she continues to advocate for preserving traditional spice knowledge for future generations.