The second it hit the New York City scene; Upland was an instant New York staple. Led by chef Justin Smillie, Upland prides itself on serving as a “beacon of stunning California-inspired cuisine in the bustling heart of New York City.” Upland believes that a smart global approach, a New-York eye for details, and a global nation-wide familiar rusticity serve as a trident of culinary excellence – and based on how beloved it’s become, it’s hard to say they’re wrong. An open kitchen, 500-bottle wine list, and a menu that changes as surely as the seasons do haven’t hurt, either.

Menu favorites include the Five Lettuce Caesar Salad; Sausage and Kale pizza served with young pecorino, stracciatella, and parmigiano, the Whole Crispy Mushroom; Beef Tartare served with black trumpet mushroom, puffed faro, egg yolk, and anchovy; the Bucatini Cacio e Pepe; Slow Roasted Porcelet served with tomatillo mostards, marinated mushrooms, and radish sprouts; and the Crispy Duck Wings served with a yuzu kosho.

Located in the thick of Flatiron on Park Ave. South, Upland’s décor serves as a backdrop to a colorful menu; careful not to overdo or outside the stars oh show. Natural oak, elegant leather, patinated copper, custom-blow glass, and original murals for California produce created by Wayne Pate give Upland an intimate west-coast vibe. Upland is open for dinner on Sundays from 5 until 10 p.m. and Monday through Saturday from 5 to 11 p.m. Lunch is served Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 3 p.m., and brunch is available Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.

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