21 Best Restaurants in Upland, CA
Every city has its own flavor, its own rhythm that resonates through the unique blend of people, places, and, yes, food.
Join me as we embark on a gastronomic journey through the best restaurants in Upland, California.
I guarantee it will be a feast for the senses!
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Upland that are not featured here. Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself.
Taco Bout Good
It's absolutely impossible to resist the smell of sizzling meat and the taste of warm, flavor-packed tacos at Taco Bout Good.
I've been here countless times, and it's always a treat.
The Birria is a burst of flavorful goodness, while the tri-tip is simply mind-blowing.
The al pastor, too, is no less and is a must-try.
Not to mention, the freshness of the ingredients used further elevates the taste of the food.
Toro Y Pampa Argentinan Food
Every so often, my taste buds crave something new, something unique, something that will transport me to a different part of the world.
Most recently, my gastronomic adventure brought me to the doorstep of Toro Y Pampa Argentinan Food.
It felt comfortable and welcoming, just like how a cozy neighborhood eatery should be.
I decided to try their Carne Empanada.
And let me tell you, it was the best decision I had made that day.
The Carne Empanada was absolutely delightful.
I loved it so much that I ended up trying all the variants they had to offer.
The Capresse, Jamon y queso, Pollo, and Espinica were all exquisite, but the Carne still stole the show for me.
The next thing on my list to try is their Hamburger.
If it's anywhere close to as good as their empanadas, I know I'm in for a treat.
Now, I've been fortunate enough to have tasted authentic Argentinian food in the past.
A dear friend of mine from Argentina had a mom who was a professional chef.
I have never tasted empanadas as delicious as hers...until I visited Toro Y Pampa.
It's not just a place to grab a bite; it's an experience, a journey to a different culture right in our hometown.
Imari Sashimi & Sushi
I've been going to Imari Sashimi & Sushi for quite some time now, and let me tell you - it's definitely a place worth coming back to over and over again.
Nestled in an unassuming plaza, right next to a Little Caesars, this sushi spot is a hidden gem that would surprise you with the quality and taste of its sushi, rivaling even some of the higher-end sushi places in LA.
The authenticity of this place lies in the small details - from Akami, Chu-Toro, and O-Toro differentiation to the hand-written daily promotions, making it feel like a traditional Japanese sushi joint.
The sushi here is impeccably crafted with high-grade fish and the perfect amount of rice.
Whether you're going for the sushi or the chirashi bowl, you can expect a solid fish-to-rice ratio.
Personally, I would recommend any of their sushi bowls, having tried each one, I can vouch for them never being a disappointment.
The service here is also worth mentioning.
The family that runs it is as genuine and awesome as the food they lovingly make.
Spaggi's
There's a gem tucked away in a local strip mall that I adore - it's a little place called Spaggi's.
It's an upscale Italian restaurant that serves up some of the most delicious, authentic Italian fare around.
The ambiance of the place immediately sets the tone for a great dining experience.
The service is consistently top-notch, whether the restaurant is half-empty or bursting at the seams with diners.
The food, of course, is the star of the show.
The presentation is always impressive, and the taste is divine.
From the warm, freshly baked bread served with homemade sauce to start, to the exquisite main courses like their signature beef short ribs or the special pasta of the day, every dish is prepared to perfection.
Some of my personal favorites are the Calamari and the Scampi Al Limone.
And if you're in the mood for something sweet to top off your meal, I highly recommend the upside-down pineapple cake.
It's simply heavenly!
Spaggi's is a favorite haunt of mine, not just for a casual night out but also for special occasions.
My family and I often gather here to celebrate birthdays and milestones.
Le Gourmet
I've discovered a true hidden gem right in our neighborhood - Le Gourmet, a charming restaurant specializing in French cuisine.
I've visited this place thrice now, it's tucked away on their website and let me tell you, it's been an absolute delight every single time.
When you first walk in, the cozy ambiance of the restaurant immediately puts you at ease.
It's somewhat small, but they've done a fantastic job decorating, making the space feel intimate and welcoming.
Plus, there's always plenty of parking, which is a huge bonus.
They do accept reservations, but in all my visits, I've never needed one, even on a Friday night.
What makes Le Gourmet stand out, though, is the food.
It's always delicious, but some dishes truly standout.
On my last visit, I opted for the swordfish served with lemon sauce, mashed potatoes, carrots, and green beans.
The flavors were incredibly balanced, with the acidity of the lemon cutting through the richness of the fish beautifully.
To start, I had the carrot soup, which was superb, and for a daring culinary adventure, I tried the frog legs with garlic sauce and parsley - they were excellent!
But the crowning moment of the meal was the Grand Marnier Soufflé, a perfect finale to the evening.
It was fluffy, light, and had a delicate orange flavor that was simply irresistible.
The service at Le Gourmet is also worth mentioning.
They truly make the dining experience that much more enjoyable.
D'Onza's Old World Deli
Oh, the wonders of living in a neighborhood blessed with a place like D'Onza's Old World Deli.
It's become a staple of my weekend routine to pop in for a quick lunch or to pick up some fresh meats for dinner at home.
The experience of every visit is a mixed bag.
One thing that gets me every time is the long line.
It seems like no matter when I go, there's always a wait.
But it's a testament to the popularity of the place, which is a good thing, right?
Once you're through the line, be ready for the price tag.
It's a bit on the higher side, but then again, I guess that's the cost of quality.
Speaking of quality, the food is certainly pleasing.
The highlight for me is always the fresh meat counter.
I've been meaning to try them out, and I'm sure they're as good as the rest of the food.
LyteBite Upland
As someone who often finds themselves strapped for time, I've become a regular at LyteBite Upland.
Their food is consistently good, and the selection is wide enough that you can always find something different to try.
Whether you're eating in or taking it to go, the food is always served hot and ready to eat.
One thing I truly appreciate is the option to take home meals and heat them up later.
It's perfect for those nights when cooking is just not happening.
Everything on the menu is delicious and offers a good array of options.
The simplicity and cleanliness of their offerings also make it my go-to choice when life gets busy.
LE Chef Mediterranean
I must tell you about a hidden gem in our community, the LE Chef Mediterranean.
Being a fan of Mediterranean cuisine, I've tasted my fair share from different places, but none have quite captured my heart the way LE Chef has.
Their food, always fresh, is a culinary delight.
A standout feature is their commitment to quality and freshness.
They don't rush their dishes, instead, they take their time to prepare food to order, striking a perfect balance of service speed and food quality.
The ambiance mirrors the warmth of a Mediterranean home, and the service is top-notch.
You are taken care of, not as just another customer, but as a part of their extended family.
It's not just a restaurant for me and my family, it's become a part of our lifestyle.
We find ourselves spending countless evenings enjoying the delectable offerings of LE Chef.
Nuno's Bistro & Bar
Here's one of my regular haunts - Nuno's Bistro & Bar.
Every visit feels like a warm homecoming.
It's like they've turned hospitality into an art form.
One of the things I love about Nuno's is their wide variety of European tapas and pizzas.
Being a fan of Portuguese food, I can't help but indulge in their delightful offerings.
Apart from the tapas, they also serve some main dishes that are just absolutely divine.
But it's not just about the food, their cocktails, especially the barrel-aged ones, are a must-try!
The shakshuka here is the best in the city, in my opinion.
But you'd have to drop by for breakfast if you want to give it a try.
If you're more of a night owl like me, you might want to try their “la pasión” drink.
It's one of my go-to whenever I'm there.
The ambiance at Nuno's is another factor that keeps me coming back.
With their contemporary space, it's the perfect place to unwind after a long day.
And if you're lucky, you might even catch some live music.
It's also a great date night spot, but don't blame me if you get hooked, and it becomes a regular thing!
Petrilli's Pizza
Oh, how I adore Petrilli's Pizza! It is my top choice when I'm in the mood for pizza, and honestly, I don't even bother with other places anymore.
The pizza here is second to none!
They stick to the traditional way of pizza making, and every piece I've ever eaten at Petrilli's tastes like it was made with heart and passion.
The Petrilli's Specialty pizza, loaded with every topping you could desire, is my personal favorite.
They're so generous with the toppings that there's no need to order extra cheese - it's already perfect as it is.
Each large pizza is monumental, enough to easily satisfy a family of six.
The crust is a divine mixture of east coast flavor and a sure crispness that hits the spot every time.
The place itself may be small, but it's filled with an inviting, family-friendly atmosphere.
The best way to enjoy Petrilli's Pizza?
Call in advance and grab your order for takeout.
Poki & Maki
One of my favorite places to grab a quick meal is Poki & Maki in Chino.
From the first time I set foot in this restaurant, I was very satisfied with their offerings.
The poke bowls stand out with the freshness of the ingredients and the generous portions.
You can literally taste the quality in every bite.
What sets Poki & Maki apart for me is their attention to detail.
For example, the rice in their bowls - which might seem like a small thing - is cooked to perfection.
I appreciate that they mix the protein in the sauces but smartly avoid pouring the excess liquid into the bowl.
This way, the rice keeps its texture and doesn't become soggy.
The sauces at Poki & Maki add to the charm of the place with their unique flavors.
And the variety of fresh fish and toppings is a delight for any seafood lover.
The customer service there also deserves a mention.
Mariscos El Guero Baja Style Ceviche Bar
I have been dining at Mariscos El Guero Baja Style Ceviche Bar for quite some time now, and I must say, it’s one of those places where you will find the best Mexican seafood in the area.
I remember the first time I checked it out, I was there with my siblings.
The atmosphere of the place is really comforting, and the music that fills the space is just right.
You’ll also find it comforting to see how clean and well-maintained this restaurant is.
When it comes to food, their seafood dishes are fantastic.
My personal favorite is their ceviche.
The freshness of the seafood mixed with the tangy citrus is simply divine.
Plus, their shrimp tacos are to die for.
They are a must-try if you are a seafood lover.
Since they only serve seafood, so it might not be an ideal place if you have picky eaters with you.
Their Michelada is another thing to note.
Do remember to check their tostada el güero, surprisingly, it has great flavors.
Padua Pasta Makers
I often find myself craving the fresh, flavorful sandwiches from my neighborhood's hidden gem, Padua Pasta Makers.
Whether it's a simple turkey and cheese or something a bit more gourmet, their sandwiches always hit the spot.
They're packed with deli-fresh meats, well portioned, and hearty - exactly what a sandwich should be.
But it's not just the sandwiches that keep me coming back.
The market is charming and filled with a variety of delicious food options.
They have a wide selection of fresh pastas, mouth-watering deli meat cuts, and a range of cheeses that would make any cheese lover's heart sing.
The beverage selection is also surprisingly diverse - you'll never be stuck for choice.
One of my favorite things about Padua Pasta Makers is the unexpected delights I stumble upon during each visit.
From wine and freshly baked cookies to fruit preserves and candies, there's always something new and exciting to try.
And, of course, I can't forget to mention the gelato.
Each visit to Padua Pasta Makers is not complete without a scoop (or two) of their creamy, delicious gelato.
Paulie's Pizza Pub
I've had some memorable times at Paulie's Pizza Pub, it's one of those places in the city that you just can't ignore.
It's pretty popular, so don't be surprised if you find the entrance crowded with regulars and their pets.
The food here is simply amazing.
Their Italian cuisine, especially the pizzas, is generously sized and full of flavor.
And if pizzas aren't your thing, their sandwiches are a sight to behold.
I must say, the place has a solid bar vibe, with some fantastic music that makes the drinks go down even smoother.
Arigato Sushi
My love for sushi led me to a gem of a place in Upland, Arigato Sushi.
I've been a regular patron here for years, and it has never disappointed.
What sets Arigato Sushi apart is the impeccable quality of the sushi.
It is, hands down, the best I've ever had.
A lot of the sauces used are made by hand, which adds a unique touch to each dish.
The Miso soup is always delicious, and the sushi rolls are always fresh and superb.
The atmosphere at Arigato is something that always draws me in.
It's fun, relaxed, and fosters a real sense of community.
Fratello's Pizza & Pasta
I've been a regular at Fratello's Pizza & Pasta for a while now, and it's fair to say that it's my go-to place for lunch.
The quick and friendly service ensures that I can enjoy a meal and still have time for a leisurely walk before heading back to work.
Trust me when I say that the pizza here is the best I've ever had.
High-quality ingredients and an unmistakable passion for the craft result in an incredible taste that never disappoints.
In the meantime, he let me have the unburnt slices to ensure I didn't go hungry.
Now that's what I call service!
It's not just the pizza, though.
The sandwiches are big, delicious, and the lasagna is excellent too.
Plus, the portions are generous, so you definitely get your money's worth.
It's a cozy place to dine in, but they also do takeout if you're in a hurry.
Kishi Japanese Restaurant
I've been frequenting Kishi Japanese Restaurant for the better part of three decades, and I have to say, their sushi rolls are out of this world.
Take it from someone who has tried every sushi spot in the city, there's just something about Kishi that keeps me coming back.
For starters, their Blue Fin and yellowtail sashimi are a must-try.
The portions you get are quite generous - the slices are thick and satisfying, and the fish always tastes incredibly fresh.
Each bite is like a taste of the ocean, pure and unadulterated.
I've been ordering these favorites for 27 years, and they've never once disappointed me.
Not to mention, Kishi's specialty rolls and Teppanyaki dishes are simply divine.
The variety is impressive, and everything comes served in a casual yet sophisticated setting.
The ambiance inside the restaurant, with its nice lighting and spacious dining area, makes for a relaxing and enjoyable dining experience.
The quality of the food, coupled with the reasonable pricing, makes Kishi an undeniable value.
Pho Century
I've been to Pho Century a few times now, and I must say, it's one of my favorite local spots for pan-Asian cuisine.
The menu is a delightful blend of Vietnamese and Thai dishes - a perfect match for my adventurous palate.
One time, I found myself craving pho late in the evening, and even though they were just about to close, they still took my to-go order.
This gesture meant a lot to me.
The pho soup at Pho Century is just delicious!
The portions are quite generous, and the spring rolls always taste fresh.
On another visit, I tried the pork dish with rice, which was equally satisfying.
What I love about this place is the space and the ambiance.
It's well-spaced, making it comfortable for both small and larger groups.
And let's not forget the healthy options on the menu, which is always a plus.
I haven't had the chance to try everything on the menu, but the delectable pork-and-shrimp fried eggrolls and the beef fried egg noodles have left an impression.
Eden Garden Fusion Grill
Being in the neighborhood, I couldn't resist the allure of trying out the Eden Garden Fusion Grill.
The casual yet swanky space with a patio, specialty martinis, and hookah was hard to ignore.
The Mediterranean-style fare turned out to be surprisingly delightful and delicious.
The chicken kebab here is a must-try, and it's a testament to why this has become my favorite restaurant.
The place is generally quiet and not too crowded, making for a cozy dining experience.
It's also a great spot for those who want to enjoy a hookah and get some work done.
The restaurant is conveniently located off the beaten path, and the occasional passing train adds a charming and unique touch.
Another highlight at Eden Garden Fusion Grill is the chicken wrap with rosemary fries.
I've ordered them several times for the whole family, and they've been a hit every time.
King Falafel and Grill
King Falafel and Grill has become one of my go-to spots for a satisfying meal.
From my first visit, I could instantly tell that this place was something special.
The taste of their fluffy, perfectly cooked rice immediately stood out to me, as did their lamb and gyro.
Every bite was a revelation of rich, authentic flavors that satisfied my craving for Middle Eastern cuisine.
My visits to King Falafel and Grill have always been relaxing.
The restaurant is spacious and never too crowded, making it a great place to unwind after a long day.
I'm particularly impressed by the volume of pick-up orders they handle, especially on a typical Thursday afternoon.
While the prices are slightly on the higher end, they are more than justified given the current economic situation and the top-notch quality of food they serve.
Now let's talk about the star of the show, the mixed Shawarma meal.
It's a treat for the palate, bursting with a harmony of flavors that leaves you wanting more.
Molly's Souper
Whenever I wake up craving a cozy, homestyle breakfast, Molly's Souper is my go-to spot.
Nestled in a quiet neighborhood, this restaurant is like a delightful trip to grandma's house, with its quaint and quirky atmosphere.
You can find their location here.
One of my favorite things on the menu for me is the apple Belgian waffles.
They are simply delectable, served with a side of sausage and eggs.
Sometimes, I opt for their chicken fried steak or the mouthwatering eggs Benedict in hollandaise sauce.
And let's not forget about the wet breakfast burrito with rice and beans my kids adore!
What sets Molly's Souper apart is not just its delicious food but also its dog-friendly policy.
I usually bring along my furry friend, who has his special doggie menu.
The outside patio is perfect for a sunny day, but on colder mornings, we prefer to stay indoors.
Final Thoughts
The culinary scene in Upland, California, is indeed a treasure chest full of delights.
From my daily morning soup at Molly's Souper to the late-night sushi cravings satisfied by Imari Sashimi & Sushi, every restaurant here offers something unique and delicious.
As someone who's spent years exploring these local delights, I can say with utmost confidence that you'll never run out of options in Upland.
The city truly offers an extraordinary dining experience, one plate at a time.
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