While in Charlotte for the week, I was given multiple recommendations to come to Soul, but was warned repeatedly about the crowds and long wait times. Being by myself, I was hoping to sneak in to a bar seat and after about 30 minutes of creeping behind some folks I did snag a seat. So... I didn't have to experience the foretold wait times. That being said, after my experience I would have waited multiple hours to experience the amazing food and cocktails that Soul offer up.
The people were amazing. Amanda, Kelly, Johnny(?), and Josh(? - sorry, I drank a couple too many cocktails and some names are fuzzy, but EVERYONE from the host stand to the DJ were impeccable). Their suggestions were spot on and they truly know mixology. I didn't have a sip I didn't enjoy and found a few of the libations completely unique. Toward the end of my evening they every suggested that I try to make the Punch Room before it closed for the night because they said that there I could find the pinnacle of cocktails. But I just couldn't leave the amazing experience I was having here.
As far as cocktails go, I will let you go there and have the staff explain them, because I'm not sure I could do that justice. They have some cocktails on tap which I was skeptical of but the one I tried was spot on. They had a drink, Black Lace, with activated charcoal and porcini mushrooms - sounds weird? Yes. Was it my favorite drink of the night? Absolutely. The point is, I wouldn't come here and suggest drinking beer. These bartenders are on point and will guide you through the process to suit your tastes. Amazing!!
Lastly, the food. I ordered one thing at a time so my meal might seem to have been disjointed. But I enjoyed every bite. I started with Serrano and Manchego on Toast points. This is my all time favorite combo originating from Spain. I wish it had been served traditionally on a crusty bread BUT it was amazingly fresh and super generous. I then went to the dirty south nachos which were quite indulgent. These stuck out as the outliers. They didn't flow with anything else I ate but I would order them again. Then there was the cheese plate which was super generous as well, followed by the Duck Bahn Fit. This sandwich was so stupid good I wanted another immediately. But I had to try the sushi. This was the highlight of the night. I was convinced to go with sashimi. Whoever is cutting this fish is insanely talented. Non- traditional cuts but perfect to highlight each selection. At this point, these folks knew I was here to EAT so the chef sent me an amazing special soy sauce to accompany my last course (Many MANY thanks for this - truly unique). I basically rolled myself out in to the uber, but it was worth the slight discomfort. Thank you to everyone who made my night remarkable. I can't wait to come back