First Look: Souper Jenny, Decatur

1 W. Court Square, Suite 130, Decatur. 404-378-1500, www.souperjennyatl.com.

Actress-turned-cook Jenny Levison, aka Souper Jenny, recently opened a second location of her popular Buckhead soup and sandwich shop in downtown Decatur. Judging from the crowds, it’s already a big hit.

The look: Located next to the Old Courthouse on West Court Square, the storefront space faces a narrow courtyard with outdoor seating. Inside, Levison has created another cafeteria-style Souper Jenny layout where you get in line, check the daily menu, order, and pay the cashier before finding a place among a jumble of shabby chic tables and chairs and happy, kooky art.

The scene: One recent Saturday afternoon, the lunch rush was in full swing, with a queue snaking around the order counter and a good-natured scrum in the dining room. Among those lucky enough to find a table, the demographic skewed toward families with small children and women meeting for a salad and a chat.

The food: There are six or more soups ($4 cup/$6 bowl) daily, with Weight Watchers points noted, and many vegan and gluten-free offerings. My Dad's Turkey Chili is a staple. Thai coconut chicken, beef and barley, everything veggie and Tuscan white bean were on recent menus. Sandwiches ($7), which are pre-made, usually include a healthy protein, such as grilled chicken, and a vegetarian option, such as black bean hummus in a pita. Look for salads ($7) such as Thai-style papaya with snap peas, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, green onions, peanuts and lime vinaigrette.

The drinks: Self-serve beverages include fountain Coke products, bottled water, and sweet or un-sweet iced tea.

The extras: The Souper Jenny staff has a reputation for thespian-related fun, and if you sing and dance with them, you just might get a free cookie. Note: The last two hours of each day is takeout-only time.