About Ken D. Kaplan and NY Soup Exchange
For over a quarter-century, Ken D. Kaplan has been a culinary cornerstone in Garden City, delighting locals with his hearty, homemade creations at NY Soup Exchange. A classically trained chef with 40+ years of experience in the restaurant industry, Ken's journey is a testament to his passion for food and his unwavering dedication to feeding people. His story is one of tradition, innovation, and a deep commitment to his community, all of which are reflected in the vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere of his restaurant.
A proud alumnus of Johnson & Wales University, Ken's culinary education laid the foundation for a career that has spanned the nation. He honed his skills and expanded his palate as an executive chef in diverse locales, from the robust culinary scene of Texas to the historic kitchens of Boston and New York. His travels also took him to Rhode Island and California, where he absorbed regional influences and cooking techniques. This extensive experience across different parts of the country has been instrumental in shaping his unique cooking style, allowing him to create an array of ethnically inspired recipes that are both authentic and innovative.
A Culinary Philosophy Rooted in Health and Community
At its core, Ken's cooking philosophy is refreshingly simple: he just likes to feed people. Born in New York City and raised in Long Beach, NY, he possesses an innate understanding of what New Yorkers crave—comfort food that is both satisfying and familiar. However, his approach goes beyond mere taste. Ken’s personal life, specifically the history of heart disease in his family, has profoundly influenced his culinary methods. This personal connection has led him to champion health-conscious cooking, incorporating techniques like steaming and grilling to create delicious yet nutritious menu items. The daily menu at NY Soup Exchange often features several heart-healthy soups and even includes macrobiotic options, demonstrating his commitment to providing wholesome choices for his customers.
This focus on health doesn't mean a compromise on flavor. Ken believes that good food can be both delicious and good for you. He meticulously sources ingredients and prepares each dish with the care and attention of a true artisan. The menu is a rotating celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients, ensuring that regulars always have something new and exciting to try. From robust grain bowls and fresh salads to flavorful wraps, every item on the menu is crafted with the same dedication as his signature soups.
Giving Back: A Core Ingredient of the Business
Beyond the kitchen, Ken is a staunch believer in the importance of giving back to the community. This belief is not just a marketing slogan; it's a fundamental part of how he operates his business. Ken and NY Soup Exchange have been generous supporters of various charitable organizations, demonstrating their commitment through actions. They have partnered with groups like Too Good To Go company and Island Harvest to help combat food waste and food insecurity. Ken has also donated food to local soup kitchens and actively participates in charitable fundraisers, using his business as a vehicle for positive change.
One of his most notable community contributions is his partnership with local Catholic schools. Ken has provided his homemade soups at very moderate prices to help supplement their hot lunch programs, ensuring that students have access to a warm, nourishing meal. His hands-on approach is further highlighted by his personal commitment to volunteering at a local soup kitchen, where he donates both his time and his products. This deep-seated desire to help others is a core ingredient in the NY Soup Exchange's success, building a loyal customer base that appreciates not only the quality of the food but also the integrity of the man behind it.
The Evolution of a Brand
Over the years, NY Soup Exchange has grown from its brick-and-mortar location into a more expansive brand. The concept of Ken’s freshly made soups has resonated so deeply with the community that he has operated kiosks in other locations, including Great Neck, Long Beach, and Mineola. These extensions allowed more people to experience the quality and care that define NY Soup Exchange's offerings, spreading the word about his delicious soups and other menu items.
The heart of the operation, however, remains at the original Garden City restaurant, located at 945 Franklin Avenue. Here, customers can find a wide variety of homemade soups that change daily, ensuring that the menu is always fresh and exciting. Whether you're in the mood for a classic chicken noodle, a rich and creamy bisque, or a unique ethnic creation, you'll find something to satisfy your palate. Beyond soup, the menu includes an assortment of salads, grain bowls, and wraps, all made with the same dedication to quality and flavor.
Ken’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and community spirit. For 45 years, he has dedicated his life to the art of cooking, and for 26 of those years, he has been a beloved fixture in Garden City. His story is more than just about running a restaurant; it’s about a man who uses his craft to nourish bodies, uplift spirits, and give back to the community that has supported him for so long.
While the focus of the NY Soup Exchange is on providing high-quality, delicious soups, and Chef Kaplan's reputation is the cornerstone of the brand, the success of the business is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire team.
Our team members are integral to the daily operations, from preparing fresh ingredients to serving customers. Their contributions are vital to ensuring that every bowl of soup meets the high standards that Chef Kaplan has set. The team's commitment to quality and service is what makes the NY Soup Exchange a beloved local establishment.
You can visit Ken and his team at 945 Franklin Avenue in Garden City or call them at (516) 742-SOUP or through the website to learn more about their daily specials.