On Working Across the Street from a Seinfeld Legend

Al Yeganeh, the real-life "Soup Nazi"

For three years, I worked on West 55th Street in Manhattan, directly across from the real-life inspiration for one of Seinfeld’s most memorable characters: the infamous “Soup Nazi,” introduced in the 116th episode on November 2, 1995.

The Soup Nazi denies Elaine soup

In that installment, George and Elaine are denied bread and, later, soup by the draconian proprietor and chef of a lunch spot that serves only soup and bread. Customers learn to adapt to the Soup Nazi’s severe and arbitrary attitude when doling out his product due to its exceptional flavor. When George asks why he hasn't received bread with his soup, the irascible Soup Nazi snatches the soup away and barks, “No soup for you!”

After the “Soup Nazi” episode aired, there was a significant buzz in the offices of Esquire magazine. People who had never ventured across the street or even noticed Soup Kitchen International were now going daily, standing in long lines and boasting about scoring one of the six soups before they sold out for the day.

Workers from other neighborhoods traveled to West 55th Street to stand in line for an order of abuse served with a side of soup. Keep in mind that this was a lunch counter with no seating. After enduring all the drama, one would have to return to work and eat the soup at their desk.

Seinfeld did wonders for the real-life Soup Nazi’s business, but fame did nothing to improve his outlook.

His real name was Ali "Al" Yeganeh, and the soup was buttery and fattening. While it tasted good, it was low on vegetables and protein and made me feel ill after eating it in the way that fast food does.

Al’s demeanor was strict, proud, and condescending. While I never heard him say, “No soup for you!” he was imperious in the extreme. He presided with an iron ladle and high-handedly rang people up at the cash register. He could not be won over easily.

For all that, this man, so harsh to others, took a shine to me for some reason. Game respects game. He was pleasant, smiled, and even occasionally gave me extra bread.

I'll take the win if that elevates me above those pitiful Seinfeld characters who clamored for soup.

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