Since 2009, Soul Gastrolounge has been serving eclectic tapas along with craft cocktails in Uptown Charlotte. Their globally inspired small plates range from sushi to meatballs to lamb lollipops. DJs and a lively patio bar enhance the vibrant dining experience. Soul provides a one-of-a-kind gastropub experience.
A Gourmet Experience at Soul Gastrolounge: An In-depth Review
An Introduction to Soul GastroloungeSoul Gastrolounge, a renowned tapas lounge in Charlotte, has been praised for its exquisite offerings of small plates, sushi, and cocktails. Established in 2009, the lounge took over the former home of Charlotte’s premier improv comedy club, The Perch. The atmosphere of the lounge, featuring local DJs spinning a range of music styles after 10pm every night, combined with patio dining offering a great view of uptown Charlotte, make it a must-visit spot for locals and visitors alike.
Soul Gastrolounge: Eclectic Global Tapas Under One Roof
Step inside Soul and enter a chic industrial space fusing modern gastropub and lounge. Exposed ductwork and pops of color add visual interest. Communal tables encourage diners to sample broadly across the menu. Soul’s varied decor mirrors its globally influenced cuisine.
The menu traverses the globe from Asia to Latin America and beyond. Sushi rolls reflect Japanese minimalism. Empanadas offer a taste of Argentina. Moroccan spiced lamb awakens the palate. Soul brings eclectic small plates together under one roof.
Soul Gastrolounge: The Gastronomic Delights
The heart of Soul Gastrolounge lies in its food. Patrons have repeatedly lauded the phenomenal nature of the dishes served here. From the Asian Glazed Pork Belly Tacos to the Sticky Veal Shortribs, each plate is a testament to the culinary excellence of Soul. Their sushi is considered by many to be the best in town, with the Red Dragon Roll and Dancing Tuna Roll being standout favorites. However, it’s not just the sushi that wins hearts. The Lamb Lollipops, Korean BBQ, and Ramen Bowl have also garnered much praise.
Scratch Food with Creative Flair
While the decor delights, the diverse flavors shine brightest at Soul. The kitchen approaches each culture’s cuisine with authenticity then adds its own creative riff. Sushi rolls like the Red Dragon surprise with unexpected fruits and sauces. Fusion tacos feature kimchi slaw and mango salsa.
From scratch soups to hand-crafted cocktails, expertise and innovation shape the menu. Soul takes global comfort foods to new heights through skilled execution and whimsical presentations.
Soul Gastrolounge: A Lively Patio Bar Under the Stars
In addition to its eclectic interior, Soul’s patio bar provides an outdoor lounge experience. The covered patio offers views of Uptown Charlotte’s skyline. Heated ceiling fans allow for use during cooler months.
Patrons gather at the lengthy bar to sample Soul’s extensive cocktail menu. Many linger late into the evening sipping drinks, nibbling small plates, and absorbing the vibrant scene. The patio’s lounge vibe makes it a destination apart from the dining room.
Soul Gastrolounge: The Spirited Cocktails
The lounge doesn’t fall short when it comes to beverages either. The cocktail selection at Soul Gastrolounge is remarkable, offering a variety of tastes and mixes that ‘hit’ every time. The “Stranger Things” themed cocktails, in particular, come well-recommended. Each cocktail serves to enhance the overall dining experience, adding a spirited touch to the food’s flavors.
Bringing Creative Tapas Dining to Charlotte
For over a decade, Soul Gastrolounge has livened up Charlotte’s restaurant landscape with its inventive approach to global tapas. The ever-changing, scratch-made menu keeps patrons returning for new flavors. The eclectic decor and energetic ambiance add experiential flair.
From sushi to sliders, tacos to empanadas, Soul provides a passport for the palate. This Uptown spot offers a truly unique dining experience.
The Verdict
With its internationally inspired small plates, handcrafted cocktails, and buzzing ambiance, Soul Gastrolounge promises a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Their menu artfully fuses global flavors into tapas brimming with creative flair. An eclectic, energetic decor and patio bar scene enhance the vibrant gastropub vibe. For exotic yet approachable cuisine in a lively setting, Soul delivers.
The Inviting Ambiance
The ambiance of Soul Gastrolounge is an integral part of its charm. Its low lighting and cozy seating create an intimate, relaxed vibe, making it a perfect spot for date nights or family dinners. More than just a restaurant, it’s a space where people have celebrated their life’s milestones, from birthdays to graduations. The music, spun by local DJs, adds to the overall experience, making diners feel like they’re part of something special.
The Exceptional Service
Beyond the food and ambiance, Soul Gastrolounge is a place where service is given top priority. The bartenders and servers are appreciated for their attentive and welcoming nature. The personal touch of the staff, from the servers to the owner, adds to the feeling of being valued and cared for, making the dining experience all the more memorable.
The Future of Soul Gastrolounge
Despite its popularity, Soul Gastrolounge had to close its doors due to an increase in rent. However, the love and longing for the place are evident in the pleas of its patrons for its swift reopening. The community eagerly awaits the lounge’s return, hoping to continue their gastronomic adventures at Soul Gastrolounge in a new location.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Soul Gastrolounge is more than just a restaurant; it’s an institution. From the food and cocktails to the ambiance and service, every aspect of the lounge contributes to an unrivaled dining experience. The resounding praise from patrons and their anticipation for its reopening is a testament to its standing in the community. Despite the recent closure, the spirit of Soul Gastrolounge lives on in the hearts of its patrons, and the Charlotte community eagerly awaits the day they can once again savor the lounge’s culinary delights.