Posted on: April 24, 2026, 06:15h.
Last updated on: April 24, 2026, 06:23h.
A renowned smokehouse known for its loyal customer base has officially established its presence on the Las Vegas Strip. SoulBelly BBQ, launched in 2021 by chef and Chopped champion Bruce Kalman, inaugurated a new stand within the Miracle Mile Food Court at Planet Hollywood on Friday, April 24.
“Bringing SoulBelly to the Strip is a significant achievement for us,” stated Kalman, who also participated in Season 5 of Top Chef. “It provides a chance to introduce our BBQ to a broader audience and celebrate our journey since we first opened.”
The new location offers fan favorites including the Chef’s Choice featuring six meats and six sides, as well as the Brisket Burnt Ends Grilled Cheese and a Texas Cheesesteak loaded with brisket, provolone, peppers, and onions.
SoulBelly joins seven other eateries in the food hall, such as Lobster Me, Tacotarian, Irv’s Burgers, and Carnegie Pizza. Operating hours are from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
In 2024, Texas Monthly recognized the original location on South Main Street as one of the premier Texas-style barbecue spots outside of Texas.
Closure of Pretty Soul Kitchen
Pretty Soul Kitchen has been compelled to shutter its doors following multiple burglaries last year. Chef-owner Brandi Bond informed KVVU-TV/Las Vegas that the $12,000 in losses she incurred made it impossible to continue operations.
“I’m truly heartbroken,” Bond shared with the news outlet, “particularly as a small business owner, knowing how devastating such damage can be.”
According to Las Vegas police, surveillance footage captured T’Shawn Allen breaking the restaurant’s window and stealing cash and liquor.
Facing ten felony burglary charges and twelve counts of property damage, the 27-year-old remains in custody pending a competency hearing next month.
Other West Las Vegas establishments affected by similar burglaries include Café Lola, Cobblestone Cottage, Casa Mia Pizzeria, and Filo Grill Mediterranean.
New Dining Developments
Siegel’s 1941 has temporarily closed at the El Cortez for renovations and a partial rebranding. Upon reopening, it will serve breakfast and lunch under the same name as a tribute to the casino’s history, transitioning to Alex Prime, a New York steakhouse in the evenings from 5 p.m.
Pho Concept has taken over the long-standing Pho So 1 space after operating there for 31 years. The new restaurant opened at 4745 Spring Mountain Road on Friday and is offering a 20 percent discount until May 1.
In another part of town, The Irish Spot has launched on East Tropicana, taking over the cherished former Crown & Anchor, a beloved British pub and the backdrop for the narrative of The Killers’ hit song.
El Dorado Cantina, which opened in January 2020 in Tivoli Village near Summerlin, has ceased operations, although its original location on Sammy Davis Jr. Drive remains active.
Downtown, the Arts District is preparing for an innovative addition: an indoor food-truck park. This 7,000-square-foot venue can accommodate up to 10 food trucks, offering free parking outside of event hours (hello, First Friday!). The space is expected to open in June.
And after nearly a year of anticipation, Southern California favorite The Hat has announced its opening date in Las Vegas. The 75-year-old pastrami institution will debut on May 6 at 6125 S. Rainbow Blvd., marking its first expansion outside of SoCal, with promises of its signature pastrami, fresh-cut fries, burgers, and sandwiches.