Rancho Cucamonga, California – A new restaurant in Rancho Cucamonga, California, is bringing back the beloved all-you-can-eat experience similar to that of the now-shuttered Souplantation chain. Located on Foothill Boulevard and Vineyard Avenue, Soup ‘n Fresh is a family-run establishment that aims to capture the essence of the popular buffet chain that closed during the pandemic.
In a nostalgic nod to Souplantation, Soup ‘n Fresh opened its doors to long lines of eager diners during a soft opening on February 28. Social media platforms were flooded with photos and videos of patrons excitedly indulging in their favorite soups and salads, reminiscent of the experience at the defunct buffet chain.
Visitors to Soup ‘n Fresh are greeted with a setup that mirrors that of Souplantation, with diners creating their own salads filled with a variety of toppings before entering the main dining area. The restaurant offers a wide array of all-you-can-eat options, including soups, pasta, focaccia pizza, baked goods, beverages, and desserts, allowing guests to customize their dining experience.
The interior of Soup ‘n Fresh features an open-concept dining room with a bright and inviting atmosphere, offering ample seating options ranging from booths to tables. This layout echoes the familiar ambiance of Souplantation, providing patrons with a sense of nostalgia as they enjoy their meals.
Souplantation, known as Sweet Tomatoes in other states, originally opened its doors in San Diego in 1978. However, the chain faced permanent closure in 2020 due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Food and Drug Administration’s recommendations to discontinue self-serve stations, including salad bars and buffets, ultimately led to the downfall of Souplantation and other iconic buffet establishments nationwide.
Despite the challenges faced by buffet chains, there is a glimmer of hope for fans of Souplantation. In a recent announcement, a new Sweet Tomatoes location is set to open in Tucson, Arizona, reigniting excitement among loyal customers. This development, coupled with the emergence of family-owned ventures like Soup ‘n Fresh in Southern California and Dollie’s Soup & Salad in Utah, showcases a continued interest in reviving the communal dining experience that was once synonymous with Souplantation.
Soup ‘n Fresh is scheduled to officially open its doors on April 2, inviting patrons to share their feedback and relive the cherished memories associated with the buffet chain. The restaurant’s operating hours from Sunday to Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., cater to a wide range of diners seeking a taste of nostalgia in a vibrant and welcoming setting.