Dark Horse Brewing Co. officially found the best way to tell Old Man Winter to take a hike. On Saturday, February 21, the Marshall, Michigan community gathered at the compound for the city’s first-ever Soup Showdown, kicking off Marshall’s Restaurant Week with a serious dose of comfort and soul-warming broth.
For a cool $15, we were handed 10 tickets and a wristband—basically the “beer festival” model, but for soup. Each ticket snagged a 4 oz pour, totaling a massive 40 oz of soup. Sure, you could have spent all ten tickets on one pot, but where’s the competitive spirit in that? How could you complete your ballot with any integrity?
The event was cooked up by Andrew from Pastrami Joe’s and Emily from Dark Horse Brewery. Despite the chill, the taproom was packed with people darting out to the “soup stations” and retreating to their tables to judge.
The Winner’s Circle
Best Soup: Schuler’s Restaurant
The Dish: Jerk Chicken & Sweet Potato Chowder.
This delivered everything they promised: a bold, Caribbean-inspired hug that balanced warm island spices with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes and corn. I predicted it would take the top prize, and I was right!
Visiting Schuler’s is like stepping into a Michigan time capsule that never goes out of style. Opened in 1909, it’s the king of hospitality. You come for the history, but you stay because the food is consistently world-class.
Did You Know? In 1952, Win Schuler wanted a way to welcome guests immediately as they sat down. Legend has it he whipped up a snack for his friend, MSU football coach Duffy Daugherty, by mixing cheeses and a splash of beer. And voilà—Bar Cheese was born! While the “Bar-Scheeze” name was sold in the ’80s, the restaurant now serves “Heritage Cheese.” It’s based on the original 1950’s house recipe, and locals swear it’s the only “real” version worth eating.
Most Hearty: Dark Horse Brewing Co.
The Dish: Golumpki Soup.
Cabbage, ground beef, rice, and tomatoes—this wasn’t just soup; it was a liquid meal. It pairs perfectly with their Crooked Tree IPA.
Dark Horse is the cool, slightly rebellious soul of Marshall. It’s a place where the beer is bold, the atmosphere is denim-meets-leather, and the community is always family. They aren’t just about great brews; they are a powerhouse for good, collecting donations for Marshall Area Community Services (MACS) during the event.
Just Like Mom’s: Pastrami Joe’s
The Dish: Avogolemono (Greek Lemon Rice Soup with Chicken). This was pure nostalgia in a cup—bright, citrusy, and deeply comforting. It held the lead for most of the afternoon because it tasted like home.
If you have a hankering for an authentic New York-style deli experience, Pastrami Joe’s is your ticket. It’s the kind of place where the sandwiches are piled high, the ingredients are “real deal” honest, and you’re always greeted with a smile. It’s a local favorite for a reason.
Most Creative: Cafe Rica
The Dish: Curry and Potato Soup. Spicy, creamy, and incredibly rich. Hands down the most unique flavor profile of the day!
Based just a hop, skip, and a jump away in Battle Creek, Cafe Rica is where modern coffee culture meets high-end cafe eats. They have a passion for sourcing and craft that really shines through, whether they’re pulling an espresso shot or simmering a spicy curry.
Brenda’s Personal Awards
Best Apron: Broadway Grill
The Dish: Chicken Florentine. I didn’t just have a sample; I had seconds. It was that good. If there had been a category for best table decor, they would have run away with the win.
Broadway Grill is your quintessential “go-to” spot. It feels like the heart of the neighborhood—perfect for a casual date night or a family dinner. With hearty meals and handcrafted drinks, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to become a “regular.”
Best Beer Companion: Stagecoach Inn
The Dish: Zuppa Toscana. With savory sausage, kale, and potatoes, this was the ultimate companion to a cold beer.
Talk about character! The Stagecoach Inn is one of Michigan’s oldest stops, dating back to 1838. Today, it’s a lively bar and restaurant located at the corner of Michigan Ave and S. Eagle St.. It’s the perfect blend of historic charm and modern-day fun.
Best for Picky Eaters: Copper Athletic Club
The Dish: Loaded Baked Potato Soup. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with all the good stuff. Even the most selective eaters were coming back for this one.
Don’t let the name fool you, Copper Athletic Club is not a gym! It’s a fabulous, high-energy sports bar on Michigan Ave. Located just two minutes from the American Museum of Magic, it’s the perfect anchor for a “Magic & Meals” night out with the family.
Best Surprise: Gull Lake Distilling Company
The Dish: Chicken Gnocchi Bisque. I loved the “hidden” peas in this creamy, veggie-loaded bisque.
Gull Lake Distilling Company is the new kid on my radar, with locations in Galesburg and Battle Creek. As a distillery, they bring a level of craftsmanship to everything they do. If their soup is any indication of their spirits, we’re in for a treat!
The “OH MY” Award: The Tavern at Emerald Hills
The Dish: Tomato Bisque with Roasted Red Pepper and Smoked Gouda. Just thinking about this has my taste buds dancing. It would pair perfectly with a piece of crusty bread or a grilled cheese to dip in it. I’m still shocked it didn’t win “Best Soup!”
Located on Kalamazoo Ave, The Tavern is a perfect destination for hanging out. Whether you’re there for a round of golf, catching live music, or just lounging on their scenic patio, it’s the place to be when you want the vibes to be as good as the food.
More Photos
We’ve got a few more photos from the Soup Showdown in our gallery.
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