Chef Dan Nichols began cooking professionally over 15 years ago. Since then, he has presided over kitchens throughout Michigan and Colorado, mentored under Master Chef and three-time Culinary Olympic gold medal recipient Travis Smith, and owned and operated three successful, award winning restaurants. He is an active member of the National American Culinary Federation and has enjoyed giving back to his craft by training aspiring culinary professionals at Colorado Mountain College. Chef Nichols recently relocated to Bloomington from Detroit to take over the directing of Upland kitchen operations, and we are thrilled he chose to make this move!
Over the years, Chef Nichols has gained invaluable experience in many different types of cuisine. He names Asian and Southwestern Fusion, Classic French, Wild Game, and Sushi as his main influences. Chef Nichols has defined his own unique style within the culinary arena, with his often avant garde approach of applying exotic flavors and textures to ornate plates, emphasizing classic cooking techniques. Welcome to the team, Chef! We can’t wait to see what you come up with next!
Awards:
3 diamond AAA Award – 2001
Best New Restaurant – 2004
Best Small Plates Restaurant Detroit – 2009
