SOUL Restaurant Bar and Lounge

Editor's Note: THIS BUSINESS HAS NOT YET OPENED. Angela Bassett and other longtime star enthusiasts will undoubtedly be making the scene at the corner of Hollywood and Curson in early 2010 when SOUL restaurant debuts. This gorgeous space--think 3,300 square feet of corner space and 2,200 square feet of basement with original artwork by her painter mom--in the Hollywood Professional Building is part of the so-called "New Hollywood" movement. Energetic, organic and real all describe Chef Yealang Smith and her farmer's market-meets-Dixie soul food creations with a healthy, gourmet twist. Some of her tangy menu highlights include BBQ ribs, collard greens, cornbread and delectable peach cobbler for dessert. There is no VIP section--as she says, "Everyone here is a VIP." If this 'tude is the "New Hollywood," then sign us up. There will be an extensive bar and a Chef's Table, in addition to valet parking.