LAST EDITED ON 03-31-11 AT 01:52 PM (EST)Pretty much agree with everything you've said.
Soul food does not seem to be a hit in the midwest, unfortunately. We've seen a few good spots have little success here. But there could be pockets. I doubt Minneapolis would find it a huge hit (one of the opening three markets).
I'd go to Spice Coast, but not on a regular basis. I think they should go with a concept that people would easily return to weekly if not a few times per week.
The grilled cheese concept you describe is what they do at Chedd's: http://www.chedds.com/ So, that already exists, but can tv and star power launch a better brand? Likely. And could they add a few more interesting ingredients (fruit, proscuitto, etc.)? Yes.
-A Tribetastic Creation