Fresh soup lovers have already made Zoup! a popular destination at two locations in the Portland area.

On Thursday, March 24, Vancouver will get a Zoup! all its own as the fast-casual, fresh soup concept opens its first location in the Evergreen State.

Zoup! Fresh Soup Company franchisee Michael Reid is putting the finishing touches on his new restaurant located at 1401 SE 164th Avenue, Suite 150, in the Columbia Tech Center in Vancouver, Washington.

 “I'm honored and excited to introduce the people of Washington to all the wonderful soups, freshly baked bread, and other delicious items we offer,” Reid says. “I truly believe our 'something for everyone' nutritional options will resonate with the Vancouver community. I think you’ll agree you haven’t had soup this good since your grandma made it—maybe ever.”

Zoup! is carving out a unique niche in the rapidly growing fast-casual dining segment. The new Vancouver location will be the chain’s 89th restaurant in 19 states, plus Ontario, Canada.

Zoup! features hundreds of award-winning soup recipes with 12 rotating daily varieties, including low-fat, low-cal, vegetarian, dairy-free, and gluten-free options, all served with a hunk of freshly baked bread. Customer favorites include Chicken Potpie, Lobster Bisque, and Vegetarian Split Pea. The menu also features made-to-order salads and sandwiches, and all items are available in convenient catering sizes for groups of 10 or more.

In addition to its unique and diverse menu, Zoup! is built on a foundation of guiding principles called Zoup!isms.

“Our Zoup!isms provide a framework for decision-making and help create a strong culture and brand image,” Ersher says. “They also dictate the brand’s uncompromisingly high standards and help guarantee the authenticity and quality of every pot, bowl, and cup served.”

Prior to its official grand opening, the new Vancouver store will hold a fundraiser on Wednesday, March 23 from 5 to 8 p.m. Guests may order a bowl of their favorite soup, a hunk of fresh-baked bread and a small drink for $5. All proceeds will be donated to the Band Boosters for Union High School and Mountain View High School, as directed by guests.

“We’re really pleased to dedicate our pre-opening fundraiser to support the bands at these two great high schools,” Reid says. “I hope lots of folks turn out to enjoy some delicious soup and help us make a meaningful difference in these outstanding music programs.”

News, Zoup! Fresh Soup Co.