Q:  Do you think Soul Gastrolounge will be able to recapture its old magic? After all, it’s been a while.

Tom: I think they have a good shot. I guess we’ll find out after they open their doors for the first time in three years (and one week) on Monday, August 25. It’s a new building, off Sugar Creek, so it won’t have that “lived in” hip-grunge feeling of the original Plaza Midwood location, but you will see a lot of the original decorations (including the peacock) to welcome you. I certainly think they have the right people working the bar, kitchen, and house to pull it off. Beverage director Steve Laws usually flies under the radar when the discussion turns to Charlotte bartenders, but the man can craft, stir, shake, and pour with the best of them. But don’t take my word for it, Diageo named him one of the best bartenders in the country a few years ago. Chef de cuisine Richelle Espinosa-Brewer is a Kiki/Soul alum with other impressive stops on her resume. She knows the history of Soul’s most beloved dishes and should be able to ignite your taste bud’s memories with her recreations as well as introduce you to some of her more original dishes. Sushi chef Joe Thu created Soul’s original sushi menu, so we’ll definitely be in good hands there. You can also expect the same music vibe as DJs That Guy Smitty, Shanti Love, and Scott Weaver return “home” to spin and mix — along with a new wave of now popular Charlotte DJ’s See Bird Go, Suadade, and others. So, yes, I’d say they have a very good shot. Click here to read more about Soul Gastrolounge 2.0.

Q: Do you know how to get plugged into Top Chef events while they’re filming in Charlotte?

Tom: This topic has probably set the UP record for most asked Concierge question ever! I can certainly undertand why. You have to remember that most of the series is filmed in secret, so I’m guessing any tasting events, etc., will be by private invitation — and accompanied by very strict NDAs. But you never know. At this point, we have yet to hear of any public opportunities in either Charlotte or Greenville, SC for Top Chef Season 23. However, should any arise, we’ll definitely let you know.

Have a question for us? Email us at editor@unpretentiouspalate.com and we’ll answer it on our next Concierge Thursday!