Seinfeld's Soup Nazi is Back!

Al Yeganeh, the inspiration for Seinfeld's infamous "soup nazi," reopened his original soup stall on July 21st. Yeganeh, who's famous for his strict rules and aggressive manner, no longer owns and operates the stall, although his soups live on.


The proper patron conduct that would score you free fruit and bread from the intimidating Soup Man--know what you want, have your money ready, move to the far left after ordering -- was no gimmick to attract costumers and claim a spot on a popular sitcom. Yeganeh simply wanted the ordering process to be efficient and the line to move quickly. He actually resents the way his character is portrayed on Seinfeld and has banned Jerry Seinfeld from his soup stall. Jerry Seinfeld has attempted to visit several times, but the Soup Man never let him in. Yeganeh believes his soup promotes itself and doesn't need Seinfeld's parody to acclaim fame.

Excited fans -- of both the Soup Man as well as Seinfeld -- lined up outside the small stand on West 55th Street on the day of its reopening. The eager line wrapped around the block, the tail end making it half-way to 56th Street. It was no dull wait as media vans and news cameras lined the streets interviewing the hungry crowd.


People from all corners of the world had come to visit the famous soup stall, and many planned on ordering the Soup Man's most popular and most expensive variety -- lobster bisque. 


As the Soup Man can be found on my block, I am astonished to see people sitting at the portable tables and folding chairs set up across the street from the stand, eating soup day after day in 90 degree weather.


Open from 12-7:00 p.m., you better make room in your schedule for the Soup Man because he's evidently not making very much time for you.


The Original Soup Man
259A West 55th St., New York, NY