Known for some of the best soup recipes on the island of Manhattan and immortalized in a famous 1995 episode of Seinfeld, the "Original SoupMan," may find himself in a soup kitchen of a different kind if his chain's financial troubles persist. Al Yeganeh was reportedly the real-life inspiration for Seinfeld's uncharitably nicknamed "Soup Nazi" (portrayed by Larry Thomas), who refused service to George Costanza and Elaine Benes. Yeganeh was not interested in profiting off the Seinfeld name, however, discouraging employees from referencing the sitcom and frowning upon his supposed "nickname."
While he is known for his tight-ship practices and regimented way of doing business, he is also known for his exquisite varieties of soup. But even the best crab bisque, turkey chili or even Mulligatawny may not be able to save the Original SoupMan chain from angry franchisees and frustrated customers.



