We create intimate, curated dining experiences interpreting history through food.

A person breaks an egg over a mound of flour.

A UGK plate, featuring oysters on a bed of salt.

UGK's pork tenderloin dish, paired with leeks, plums, yam purée, and pickled mustard seed dressing.

UGK's Cracklin dish, paired with fresh heirloom tomatoes and a peanut vinaigrette.

A chef sifting flour over a ball of dough. The dough on top of a cutting board, with a rolling pin next to it.

UGK's oxtail pasta dish with fresh tomatoes and Bellevue cream sauce.

Our mission is deeply rooted in celebrating the rich heritage of African American culture through food. Our approach to dining is an artful narrative, immersing our guests in the captivating the melodies of people of color, one dish at a time. Our six-course menu pays homage to the profound impact of history on food. Crafted by our renowned culinary director, Steve Glenn, a finalist from Hell's Kitchen, each course is a tribute to our culture. Every bite tells a story of resilience, innovation, and heritage.

As you savor each course, you'll experience our commitment to uplifting the culinary voices of chefs from diverse backgrounds. We wholeheartedly embrace and support vibrant communities of color, LGBTQ+, and women in the culinary world. Our aim is to create a space where respect, trust, and appreciation flourish.

Join us on a heartfelt journey, where culture, inclusivity, and delectable cuisine unite to create unforgettable moments.

Our menu is a testament to the enduring influence of African American history on the art of food.

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Upcoming Events

Looking for an exciting food & beverage event in Richmond?
Browse our upcoming experiences below!

Past Events

Healing, Hope & Freedom

Fort Monroe

Bringing the History of Fort Monroe and It’s Role in the Pursuit of Civil Rights in our Country to Life in Six Courses. In support of The Fort Monroe Foundation & The African Landing Memorial Project. Honored to have current and former Governors of Virginia, members of Congress, mayors, and Virginia state representatives in attendance.

Led by culinary award recognized Chef Danielle Harris of "Almeda", “Healing, Hope & Freedom” offered a six-course edible history lesson, utilizing locally sourced ingredients aimed at immersing guests in African, European, and Native American foodways, ingredients and recipes that not only sustained those early generations, but lived on through the descendants of the freed slaves who found refuge at Fort Monroe more than 240 years later in the aftermath of the Civil War.

FORT MONROE Menu - Sixth Page - Reception Menu - 5.5x8.5.jpg

Exploration &
Innovation of Smithfield

Dover Hall

The evening offered an opportunity to discover the versatility of Smithfield products. UGK chefs crafted inventive recipes that guests savored while interacting with the chefs and their culinary masterpieces. The event enabled guests to explore the diverse ways in which Smithfield products can be incorporated into their own operations."

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The Underground Kitchen

experiential dining 🍷 | top chefs 🔥 | collaborative culinary movement 👊🏽 | Donate to @ugkcommunityfirst food relief for #RVA 🥣