This past weekend I had lunch at Rooster Soup Company in Philadelphia. The idea for the restaurant began in 2014. The owners of Federal Donuts wanted to find a way to make use of the unused chicken parts they produced daily — more than 500 pounds per week. The team thought the parts could be used to make soup. They took this a step further and decided to partner with a local charity. Fast forward to 2017 and the opening of Rooster Soup Company. The luncheonette serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with 100 percent of its profits going to support the Broad Street Ministry’s Hospitality Collective.

Rooster Soup Company is located in Center City, a short walk from Federal Donuts. My friend and I sat at the counter — the place was packed! We went on the restaurant’s sixth day of operation, though things seemed to be moving smoothly. The menu is filled with diner-style favorites. We both opted for the soup and sandwich special, with matzo ball soup and a tuna melt. Our soups arrived shortly after we ordered and the sandwiches not much later. Both were flavorful, comforting and ideal for a chilly afternoon. As we enjoyed our meal we noticed plates of a delicious-looking pie arriving at nearby tables. Our friendly waiter heard us talking about the dessert and said it was the coconut cream pie special and we should definitely order it. Full from lunch, we decided to split a slice. I’m glad we did — it was one of the best pies I’ve ever tasted. The creamy, smooth filling stood up to the flaky crust. It was sweet but not overpowering. I easily could’ve devoured the entire slice myself.

A trip to Rooster Soup Company is a must. The food is tasty, the service is friendly, and it’s all for a good cause.

— Katie Skrzek, vice president/digital director