Soup Season: Where to Find the Best Soups in Franklin, Brentwood, and Williamson County
When the temperature drops, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of soup or stew. Luckily, Franklin, Brentwood, and Williamson County offer plenty of spots where you can indulge in hearty bowls of goodness, with flavors ranging from classic to bold. Whether you’re craving a classic chicken noodle, a rich bisque, or a bowl of gumbo, these local eateries have something to satisfy every soup lover.
Cozy Cafés with Soulful Soups
Start your soup journey with the warm and welcoming vibes of Franklin’s beloved cafés.
Located in downtown Franklin, Merridee’s Breadbasket is known for its house-made soups served alongside their famous buttered Viking Bread. Whether you pair it with a sandwich or a fresh salad, this is comfort food at its finest. A favorite for coffee and casual dining, Frothy Monkey serves a simple yet flavorful tomato basil soup. Served with a slice of sourdough bread, it’s great for a light but satisfying meal. Tucked away in downtown Franklin, Franklin Mercantile Deli features a soup of the day, served with crackers or bread. It’s the ideal accompaniment with one of their sandwiches or wraps.
Classic Comforts with a Twist
For those who love Southern flavors or something a little richer, these spots offer unique takes on soup classics.
Known for its Southern-inspired menu, 55 South serves a standout gumbo packed with chicken, shrimp, and sausage. It’s enough to be a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with one of their salads or sandwiches. In the heart of Franklin, Puckett’s Restaurant combines live music and hearty dishes. Their classic chili and gumbo will warm you up on a chilly day, all while enjoying live performances by local artists. In Brentwood, Mere Bulles is famous for its Charleston she-crab bisque—a creamy soup that feels like a warm hug. For those wanting variety, their soup du jour ensures there’s always something new to try.
Elevated Soups with a Gourmet Twist
Sometimes you want soup that’s not just satisfying but also indulgent. These upscale spots deliver on both fronts.
Nestled in downtown Franklin, Red Pony offers an elevated take on the classic pairing of tomato soup and grilled cheese. Additionally, they feature a rotating selection of soups of the day, such as cream of asparagus and truffle soup topped with crispy onions and fried asparagus. In Cool Springs, Connors Steak and Seafood serves a lobster crab bisque that’s flavorful and indulgent. It’s perfect as a starter but can stand alone as a meal in itself. Also in Cool Springs, Wild Ginger offers a decadent lobster bisque with jumbo lump crab, served in a sourdough bowl. If that’s not enough, ask about their soup of the day for a surprise.
Global Flavors to Warm Your Soul
For those who crave something beyond the traditional, these spots bring an international flair to your soup bowl.
Located at The Factory at Franklin, Otaku Ramen serves steaming bowls of Japanese goodness. Their Tonkotsu Shio features a pork broth, while the vegetarian Tantanmen delivers bold flavors with miso, smoked tofu, and chili crisp. Also located in The Factory at Franklin, etch offers a soup of the day, showcasing globally inspired flavors. With its creative approach to cuisine, the restaurant’s daily soup is always a great choice for adventurous diners. Island-inspired Kokomo Trading Company in Westhaven offers a savory roasted red pepper smoked gouda soup served with lime-infused garlic bread, blending familiar and exotic flavors to transport you to a tropical paradise.
Soup’s On—Where Will You Go First?
From cozy cafés to elegant dining spots, Franklin, Brentwood, and Williamson County offer an impressive variety of soups to chase away the winter chill. Whether you’re in the mood for a light tomato basil, creamy bisque, or an adventurous bowl of ramen, there’s a spot waiting to serve you. So grab your spoon, and let soup season begin!