Chef Bruce Kalman’s Soulbelly BBQ Pops Up in Downtown Las Vegas with Brisket and Pulled Pork

While the Kitchen at Atomic in Downtown Las Vegas remains closed, a chef with barbecue on his mind takes over the space for a pop-up until his own restaurant can open. Chef Bruce Kalman brings his roster of brisket, ribs, and Carolina pulled pork smothered in house made sauces with sides such as green chile and cheddar corn casserole from Soulbelly BBQ. The pop-up kicks off on Thursday, February 18, running from noon to 8 p.m. every Thursday through Sunday. Think of this as a test run of the menu.

And even though Atomic Liquors and the Kitchen at Atomic remain closed, only those age 21 and over can attend. Look out for curbside pickup in the near future as well.

The former Top Chef contestant plans to open his own barbecue restaurant just south of the Arts District in the Gateway District at 1327 Main St., inside a former gas station originally built in 1966. Construction just started on that space sandwiched between HUDL Brewing Co. and Nevada Brew Works. The narrow 2,916-square-foot space will include a 1,581-square-foot patio sitting right on Main Street, located next to the outdoor smokehouse.

The space will feature offset smokers burning the Texas favorite of post oak wood, chef Kalman is focusing on a traditional “meat and three” concept with a choice of proteins and regional-inspired sides.

An already previewed menu hints diners will be offered selections of brisket, pork ribs, smoked turkey breast, pulled ale and cheese sausage, smoky wings, hot links, salt and pepper beef ribs, plus a collection of sides including braised collard greens, spiced cottage fries, and green chile corn casserole.

• Former ‘Top Chef’ Contestant Bruce Kalman Now Plans a Barbecue Restaurant in Downtown [ELV]

• Former ‘Top Chef’ Contestant Plans a Downtown Debut of Texas-Style Barbecue [ELV]

• All Coverage of Soulbelly BBQ [ELV]