Soul City Owners: Amy & Kevin Smith, Ken & Tom Clifford
TULSA, Okla. - April 19, 2019. "Soul City is back and stronger than ever," says Amy Smith, co-owner of the beloved Tulsa gastropub. This Friday, April 19 marks the beginning of Soul City's celebratory grand re-opening weekend with live music, fresh food, drinks, and a deluge of improvements. The new tap system will provide more local and craft beer options. The listening room is filled with locally-inspired pieces that signify the artistic history of Tulsa. Brand new food selections complement the Bluesy Island vibe. Artists for the grand re-opening weekend will include Carter Sampson, John Fullbright, and Dustin Pittsley for the Gospel Blues Brunch.
Owners Amy and Kevin Smith are now joined by new partners, Ken and Tom Clifford. Together, they will continue the Soul City legacy and vision of providing an eclectic atmosphere that emphasizes the importance of art, culture, and music in the city of Tulsa.
1. What inspired you to start Soul City and how did the concept develop?
This started as a working art studio that came about from our love for the arts in Tulsa. We wanted people to experience a higher level of art, live music, food, and drinks - all in one place.
2. How did you come up with the 'Soul City' name?
Soul City begin in a small downtown location at 3rd & Lansing. Visitors would always comment that our art had a lot of "soul." Thus, the name Soul City came about and it went right along with our dedication of operating an establishment with heart and soul.
3. What products and services is Soul City known for?
Soul City is known for its island vibe offerings of live music, hand-crafted cocktails, artfully-prepared food, visual art, unique decor, and backyard for all ages.
4. What makes Soul City unique and set apart?
Our funky style and decor are definitely things that make us different and memorable to visitors. We also embrace the rich musical heritage of Oklahoma.
5. Was being set on historic Route 66 a goal for Soul City?
Yes, certainly. We specifically relocated our business to be set on Route 66 because of the historical significance of both the Mother Road and the part/neighborhood area of the city.
6. What's your favorite part of being located in the Meadow Gold District area of Route 66?
When we first moved out to this area, it was lonely. It has been exciting to be part of a community that has risen and that is continuing to grow. This area along Route 66 has a very eclectic vibe that tells a story. The businesses here are arising via repurposed buildings. This preserves the historic symbolism of the existing infrastructure. Soul City definitely fits within this vision.
7. What would you consider to be the biggest achievement of Soul City?
The community that has been cultivated here, it feels like family. We welcome people to come as they are. We've also instilled a high musical standard for Soul City, are proud of the family recipes we've perfected to serve (such as our jerk chicken), and the 66 Beers on Route 66 craft and local beer offerings.
8. What do you see in the future for Soul City?
Growth and expansion: a bigger kitchen and an expansion of the backyard. We're also looking forward to the addition of Maggy the Mermaid this summer. This piece of art will extend out the front of the building, through the ceiling, and out to the back patio.
Soul City is open Tuesday - Sunday and is located at 1621 E. 11th Street. They offer Tuesday Bluesday, art classes on Wednesdays, Thirsty Thursday specials, happy hour, and more. Art, food, drinks, and live music in the heart of Meadow Gold District on historic Route 66 in Tulsa.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Erik-Michael Collins, Marketing & PR
erik@erikmcollins.com