Lord Stanley, the beloved Upper Polk dish-dojo, is serving its final course this spring, partially due to its chef heading back east. This story began a decade ago when the dynamic duo, Rupert and Carrie Blease, opened the cozy eatery that dazzled the culinary world with its blend of California and French cuisine. In 2016, they took home the prestigious Best New Restaurant from Bon Appétit and snagged a Michelin star for their culinary artistry.

After shuttering during the pandemic, the Bleases rustled up their kitchen skills to create a vibrant pop-up atmosphere, featuring guest chefs from across the globe. Post-pandemic, they revived their culinary altar, now Lord Stanley 2.0, with chef Nathan Matkowsky at the helm. Unfortunately, Nathan’s resurgence is bittersweet, as he’s making his own exit back to New Hampshire just as their 10-year lease expires.

You might think after a decade of success, they’d be popping champagne bottles. But the Bleases have decided that this spring will mark the end of the road for their Upper Polk gem. Despite the restaurant thriving since the early pandemic, they will close on May 31st to pursue new dreams elsewhere in the city. According to Rupert, “We are leaving on a high note just like we opened: doing things on our terms”.

They’re not going quietly into that good night either. The Bleases are promising a final farewell filled with celebrations, memories, and undoubtedly, their exquisite dishes. As they bid adieu to their first home, the couple hints at a forthcoming restaurant project that will surely make waves in San Francisco again.

The world of fine dining is always about reinvention, and honestly, with the talent these two possess, we can’t wait to see what they whip up next. As a city that loves its foodie scene, we’ll be eagerly watching! Fingers crossed for a delivery of more deliciousness, and less of the pretentiousness that sometimes clings to fine restaurants like our underneath our favorite flannel!

So, grab those last reservations, honor the memories, and let’s raise a glass (or a solid takeout container) in salute to Lord Stanley. Here’s to new beginnings as we move forward into the fog of the future.