Sol’ Delish has quickly become a standout destination in Charlotte, North Carolina, for those seeking hearty American, soul food, and seafood dishes served with warmth and creativity. Opened in 2023, this Black-owned restaurant blends classic Southern comfort with inventive twists, drawing locals and visitors alike to its welcoming spaces in University City.
What sets Sol’ Delish apart is its emphasis on flavour rooted in passion and family. From seafood mac and cheese to Pittsburgh-inspired salads, the menu reflects the personal journey of its chef and co-owner. In a city with a vibrant food scene, Sol’ Delish stands out for its commitment to making guests feel like family rather than customers.
Early Life and Background of the Vision Behind Sol’ Delish
Latell Brice, the driving force behind Sol’ Delish, hails from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Growing up in a lower-class African American family, he developed an early appreciation for stretching meals and creating flavourful dishes from humble ingredients. His exposure to diverse culinary influences, including working with Italian restaurateurs, helped shape his approach to food.
Brice entered the restaurant industry as a teenager around the age of 14. He started with entry-level roles such as bussing tables and progressed through waiting, prepping, and cooking positions. This hands-on experience across various aspects of restaurant operations built a solid foundation and fuelled his lifelong passion for cooking. Details about his formal education remain limited in public sources, but his practical training in the kitchen proved more influential than any classroom setting.
Career Beginnings and the Birth of Sol’ Delish
Before launching Sol’ Delish, Brice gained extensive experience in the hospitality sector. He owned other businesses, but the restaurant represented his first foray into owning and operating a full dining establishment. Co-founding the venture with his wife, Marilyn Brice, and business partner Mac Stephenson, he aimed to create a space that celebrated soul food with modern flair.
The original location at 9211 N Tryon St opened in mid-2023, quickly gaining attention for its bold flavours and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant’s name itself evokes “soul delicious,” capturing the essence of comforting, soul-satisfying meals. Early menu highlights included items like seafood mac and cheese with shrimp and lobster, crab cakes, jerk or barbecue wings, and the signature Sol’ Salad – a Pittsburgh-style creation featuring romaine lettuce atop french fries with various toppings.
Public reception was strong, with diners praising the generous portions, fresh ingredients, and friendly service. Sol’ Delish built a reputation as a lively spot offering dine-in, patio seating, and later live music, contributing to Charlotte’s growing culinary diversity.
Personal Challenges and Turning Points
Transitioning from employee to restaurant owner brought its share of hurdles. Brice has spoken about the hard work involved in building the business from the ground up, including experimenting with recipes to perfect signature dishes. Expansion efforts tested resilience, with challenges in scaling operations while maintaining quality.
The restaurant navigated typical industry pressures, such as staffing and customer expectations for consistent excellence. A notable milestone came with the decision to expand to a larger venue, reflecting growth amid these demands. Public information on personal family challenges is private, but the partnership with Marilyn Brice highlights a shared commitment through various stages of the business.
Personal Life
Information about Latell Brice’s personal life centres largely on his professional partnership with his wife, Marilyn Brice, who has played a key role as general manager and co-owner. The couple has worked closely to foster a family-oriented environment at Sol’ Delish. Details regarding children or extended family remain private, with public focus staying on their collaborative efforts in the restaurant.
Brice emphasises treating guests like family, a philosophy that appears rooted in his own values and upbringing.
Later Career and Current Activities
By 2025, Sol’ Delish had expanded to a spacious 4,700-square-foot location near the University City boardwalk (8927 J M Keynes Dr), featuring two bars, enhanced seating for up to 140 guests, and a stage for live music. The original Tryon Street spot continues to serve takeout, ensuring broader accessibility.
Menu additions like lamb chops, green beans, and Sol’ Pasta demonstrate ongoing innovation while preserving core offerings. The restaurant hosts events, live performances, and special nights that enhance its community presence. Brice remains actively involved as chef, focusing on scratch-made dishes and quality ingredients.
Sol’ Delish continues to participate in local initiatives, such as wine festivals and influencer events, solidifying its place in Charlotte’s dining landscape. Its success underscores the viability of Black-owned businesses in the hospitality sector.
Quick Bio
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Sol’ Delish (Sol’Delish CLT Restaurant) |
| Date of Opening | July 2023 (original location) |
| Place of Origin | Charlotte, North Carolina (University City) |
| “Nationality” | American soul food restaurant |
| Profession | Restaurant & Bar |
| Years Active | 2023–present |
| Known For | Soul food, seafood, and American classics with creative twists |
| Estimated Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
Legacy and Lasting Impact
Sol’ Delish represents more than a dining spot; it embodies entrepreneurial spirit and cultural pride in Charlotte’s University City area. By fusing traditional soul food with personal innovations – like incorporating Pittsburgh elements – it has influenced how comfort food is presented locally. Its growth from a modest venue to a larger entertainment-focused space highlights successful small business expansion.
The restaurant’s emphasis on hospitality and community has earned it loyal patrons and positive reviews. It contributes to the visibility of Black-owned culinary establishments, inspiring others in the industry. While still relatively young, Sol’ Delish’s focus on flavour, atmosphere, and genuine care positions it for continued impact.
Conclusion
From its roots in Latell Brice’s lifelong passion for cooking to its current status as a beloved Charlotte destination, Sol’ Delish exemplifies dedication to quality and connection through food. The restaurant continues to evolve, offering soulful experiences that resonate with diners seeking both nostalgia and novelty.
