Chef Bruce Kalman opened Soulbelly BBQ in Las Vegas. Provided May 10, 2021 Leaving fine dining Italian cuisine for American BBQ, James Beard-nominated and Bravo Top Chef Chef Bruce Kalman is opening his first fast casual restaurant this week in Las Vegas. Dubbed Soulbelly BBQ, the former automotive garage-turned-restaurant reflects the culture surrounding American BBQ, according to a press release. Murals on each side of the space showcase iconic figures like the Queen of Texas BBQ and pitmaster Tootsie Tomanetz, alongside southern musicians like Koko Taylor and Buddy Guy, Kalman said in the release. "I want Soulbelly to be something special that celebrates the amazing soul of Las Vegas and its people," he said. " We've held a series of pop-ups to build momentum, but it's finally time to show the city of Las Vegas what we've been smoking!"