The idea for the show came from a Leeterman episode in which he featured the quirky proprietor of a soup kitchen (The International Soup Kitchen)in NYC. Of course, the show picked it up and exagerated the character, as they tend to do.
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Went to the Soup Nazi yesterday for lunch. Ordered a small shrimp bisque. Mildly curried, I think. Real good, definitely gourmet fare, but not "orgasmic" like the way they carry on in the episode. Larry David and Jerry must have felt like Frank Thomas getting a grooved one when they came upon this guy. Everything they used in the episode is right there, ripe for the picking. The sign (slightly paraphrased, I can't remember it verbatim): "For best service, please have your money ready and move all the way to the left after ordering. The line must keep moving." The speed with which the Soup Nazi returns your change. His two helpers, who prepare, and BANG, deliver your bag of soup on the small round brown table in front of you with similar dispatch. The uncanny resemblance of the Soup Nazi to the actor who portrayed him (sans mustache). About the only thing I didn't experience was "No soup for you," but I'm sure that if I went back and tried hard enough....
I know this question must have been asked a bunch of times before in this group (but I'm new here!)...would someone post the International Soup Kitchen's address and/or phone number?
The 'Soup Nazi' owns the Soup Kitchen, in Manhattan on W. 55th St between Bway & 8th Av. (closer to 8th Av. on the North side of the street- look for the line!). And do 'follow the rules'; if you do, he's actually very nice. For example, even though there are big signs saying bread costs extra ($2!!), I've always gotten mine for free, along w/complimentary fruit!
I moved to NYC 1 block from the Kitchen right about the time this episode aired, and ironically didn't see the episode. I have, however, eaten the Natzi's soups which are very good (albeit expensive!). Expect long slow lines during the lunch rush (locals say it's always been very popular, and that the Seinfeld exposure has added the tourise element, much like around the corner at Sirajul & Mujibar's shop next to Letterman). [email]