Soul Gastrolounge, which has been an anchor in Charlotte’s culinary scene for more than a decade, is facing an uncertain future thanks to development.

The building that houses both Soul and Kiki is up for sale, the Charlotte Business Journal first reported.

We’ve written in the past about the huge role developers and landlords will play in the future of Charlotte’s restaurant scene. The closure of Soul wouldn’t just mean something to owners Andy and Lesa Kastanas; it would change the heart of Plaza Midwood.

“Managing partner Andy Kastanas and wife Lesa Kastanas were notified this spring that the building at 1500 Central Ave. — home to their businesses Sister, Tattoo and Soul Gastrolounge — would be going up for sale,” according to a press release. “In June, the Kastanases were informed that if their businesses were to stay, the leases would be restructured with an increase in rent of 114 percent, from $20 per square foot to $43.”

With its creative, reliable menu and edgy staff, Soul remains popular because it’s the kind of place that feels unique to Charlotte. It’s where we take guests, so we can show off a side of the city’s personality that so few people see.

Whoever buys the building, we hope they can see the value in that.

Currently, Soul’s last day will be Aug. 14. The Kastanases are looking for a new location for both Soul Gastrolounge and cocktail bar Tattoo.

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