since 1957 a boston's south end

our story.

our stage.

More than a destination
Our Story: Uptown Social is more than a destination; it’s a revival. Born from the legacy of a landmark that’s been serving the city since 1957, we honor the roots that came before us while composing a modern take on a classic melody. We bring Southern hospitality to Boston’s South End, where the intersection of friends, food, and music beats on the brick walls. Every plate, every performance, and every pour celebrates connection, culture, and community — a rhythm that could only be US.
the people behind the plate

meet the team

Three distinct voices. One shared vision. This is the team that makes Uptown Social feel like home.
owner & founder

Nia Grace

Restaurateur. Cultural architect. Builder of spaces you never want to leave.
Nia Grace doesn’t just own restaurants — she creates ecosystems. A visionary at the intersection of food, music, and community, she has built a portfolio of hospitality experiences that feel less like venues and more like movements.
RECOGNITION
  • Women Who Mean Business — Boston Business Journal
  • Power 50 Movement Makers — BEJ
  • 100 Most Influential Bostonians — Boston Magazine
  • Pinnacle Award — Greater Boston Chamber

Comfort meal?
French onion soup, jerk chicken, and citrus rice finished with Grandma’s pepper sauce.

Game day song?
“Imaginary Players” by Jay-Z

What inspires you?
The pulse of NYC, the rhythm of the Caribbean, and the fearlessness of the Mediterranean.

End of the night?
A well-balanced tequila cocktail, the perfect Manhattan, or champagne.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR & CURATOR

Donnell “Brother D” Singleton

Poet. Builder. Visionary. Blending community, culture, and timeless taste.
Donnell “Brother D” Singleton creates spaces where art meets purpose. A cultural poet and community builder, he transforms stages into sanctuaries. From Tupac to the Super Club Poet Experience, poetry remains at the heart of everything he creates.
RECOGNITION
  • Best Soul Food in Boston — Boston Magazine 2022
  • Massachusetts state house citation — Literacy impact
  • Lizard Lounge slam team — 2022 – 2024

Comfort meal?
22oz boneless ribeye (medium rare), twin lobster tails, broccoli.

Game day song?
“Housequake” — Prince

What inspires you?
The streets of Roxbury, the spirit of the church, any space where truth is spoken out loud.

End of day sip?
Glenlivet… Wray and Neff… something smooth that lets the spirit settle.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR & CURATOR

Chef Chelven Randolph

Chef. Storyteller. Affable spirit in a kitchen apron.
Chef Chelven Randolph cooks in chapters. Every dish is a story rooted in Southern heritage, diasporic influence, and disciplined technique. From The Inn at Castle Hill to Fig & Olive — his path has been defined by range and refinement.
RECOGNITION
  • Best of Boston — General Excellence
  •  Featured: Eater Boston, Boston Chefs, Phantom Gourmet

Comfort meal?
Chicken and Dumplings.

Game day song?
“Knuck If You Buck” — Crime Mob

What inspires you?
The American South, coastal New England, and anywhere the diaspora tells its story through food.

End of day sip?
Something simple and cold.

Boston Magazine

"Every plate, every performance, and every pour celebrates connection, culture, and community — a rhythm that could only be US."