Bruce Kalman, James Beard-nominated and favorite chef of Bravo Top Chef will open Soulbelly BBQ, the first Las Vegas restaurant in the heart of Downtown’s Arts District, with his business partner Richard Camarota on Thursday.

Kalman says, “I came to Las Vegas because a chef friend of mine convinced me it was a great place to start a business. I’ve been so warmly welcomed by the incredible culinary and business community. I want Soulbelly to be something special that celebrates the amazing soul of Las Vegas and its people. We’ve held a series of pop-ups to build momentum, but it’s finally time to show the city of Las Vegas what we’ve been smoking!” 

“We saw an opportunity to bring a totally new experience to Las Vegas’ growing off-strip dining scene. The combination of great, honest barbecue, cooler beers, American whiskey and live music is something we’re really passionate about and excited for people to enjoy. We’re also really proud and grateful to be joining this awesome family of indie restaurants, bars, shops in the area; the whole neighborhood is set to explode with energy as the world re-opens,” says Camarota.