Quince has been a leading destination for fine dining in San Francisco since it opened its doors in 2003. Over the past two decades, it has earned three Michelin stars, attracting food enthusiasts from around the world. The restaurant is known for its farm-to-table approach and seasonal Californian cuisine with subtle Italian influences.
The owners of Quince understand exactly what food lovers look for in a great dining experience. That’s why the restaurant blends comfort with creativity. They offer everything from beautifully crafted dishes to a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Quince offers a culinary journey that goes beyond just a meal.
In this Quince restaurant review, we take an honest look at the full tasting menu experience, exploring the menu, ambiance, pricing, and everything in between.
How Quince Builds Its Identity Through Quality
Quince focuses on delivering the highest quality in every dish. The chefs source fresh, seasonal ingredients directly from local farms, including Fresh Run Farm. Fresh Run Farm is an organic farm located near Bolinas, California. It’s not just a random supplier: the farm is run by Peter Martinelli. And it has a direct partnership with Quince restaurant.
The restaurant balances Californian flavors with Italian traditions. While Italian heritage appears in dishes like pasta and seasonal cheeses, the focus is on local ingredients that highlight the season. Quince SF consistently updates its menu to reflect what is freshest, giving diners a new experience each season.
This dedication to quality creates dishes that are vibrant, visually stunning, and flavorful. Diners can expect a balance of simplicity and elegance, with plates crafted to showcase the natural taste of each ingredient.
The Current Quince Menu & Price Structure
A full dining experience, including beverages, tax, and gratuity, can cost more than $2,000 for two guests. If you’re on a budget, the pricing looks expensive. But the value becomes clear once you taste the food. The level of craftsmanship and luxury simply goes beyond a typical meal.
Quince offers several pricing options to suit different dining preferences. The table below summarizes the main offerings:
| Menu Option | Price (Per Person) | Description |
| Four-Course Dinner (Salon/Bar) | $270 | Shorter, refined dining experience |
| Full Tasting Menu (8–10 courses) | $360 | Multi-course, immersive fine-dining experience |
| Non-alcoholic Beverage Pairing | $150 | Carefully curated to complement dishes |
| Standard Wine Pairing | $290 | Classic wine progression to match courses |
| Rare & Unique Wine Pairing | $440 | Premium wine selection for connoisseurs |
Dining Experience After the 2023 Remodel
Quince’s renovation in 2023 changed both its atmosphere and dining approach. Here’s what guests can expect.
1. Interior & Ambience:
The dining room at Quince now feels open and inviting, with natural light and warm tones. Modern décor and thoughtful table spacing create a comfortable yet elegant atmosphere. The refreshed interior enhances the overall dining experience, making each visit feel special.
2. Flexible Dining Formats:
Quince offers multiple ways to enjoy its cuisine. Guests can opt for the full 8–10 course tasting menu, a shorter four-course dinner, or select à la carte items in the salon/bar. This flexibility caters to different time commitments and dining preferences.
3. Time-Friendly Dining:
Not every diner has hours to dedicate to a full tasting menu, and Quince accommodates that. Shorter menus and à la carte options allow guests to enjoy high-quality dishes without a long-term commitment. This makes the experience accessible to a wider audience.
Customers Reviews On Quince Restaurant
Some people have concerns about the pricing of the restaurant. They thought that prices are too high.
Review 1:
Let’s have a look at the experience of a real-time customer. It helps to understand what kind of issues they face there.
Review 2:
While some customers also have a little concern about the food. They found the taste good, but it was not a memorable experience for them.
What the Tasting Menu Experience Looks Like
Strengths Of The Restaurant:
- High‑Quality, Seasonally Driven Dishes: The menu often uses produce from local suppliers, offering dishes that are vibrant, fresh, and of high culinary standard.
- Attention to Detail & Presentation: Plates are thoughtfully composed, with a refined aesthetic that matches the restaurant’s reputation.
- Flexible Dining Options: The addition of à la carte and shorter menus makes Quince more accessible to those who may not have time (or desire) for a full 8–10 course dinner.
- Elegant Ambience & Renovated Space: The 2023 redesign created a warmer, brighter environment more welcoming than the older, darker dining room.
Things to Consider / Potential Drawbacks:
- Cost Can Add Up Fast: With the base tasting menu plus beverage pairings, tax, and gratuity, dinner for two can become a significant expense.
- Time Commitment for Full Menu: The full tasting menu remains a multi-course affair; it’s a luxury meal, but it still demands time and patience.
- Some Dishes Are Optional Add‑Ons: For diners who add extras like caviar or truffle pasta/risotto, the price and value equation shifts depending on how much you opt in.
- Mixed Opinions on Value vs. Experience: While many praise the restaurant’s commitment to quality and ambiance, some reviews suggest the experience may feel “safe” but not always groundbreaking.
Signature Dishes to Try at Quince
These dishes reflect the seasonal and local philosophy that Quince is famous for. Guests can expect flavors that are fresh, balanced, and thoughtfully paired. The menu changes seasonally, but certain types of dishes often appear and showcase the chef’s expertise:
| Course | Recommended Dish |
| Appetizer | Seasonal caviar with accompaniments |
| Main | Market-fresh seafood or pasta special |
| Dessert | Seasonal fruit-based dessert or signature chocolate dish |
Why Quince Stands Out
Quince SF is more than a restaurant; it’s a representation of modern fine dining. Its focus on seasonal ingredients, sustainable sourcing, and careful presentation makes it stand out.
The 2023 remodel and menu updates show that Quince is evolving with time. It balances tradition with modern flexibility, offering both classic tasting menus and shorter, approachable dining options.
Quince Restaurant Price vs. Value
The Quince restaurant’s price reflects its Michelin-star status and high-end dining experience. While expensive, guests receive expertly prepared dishes, thoughtful service, and a refined atmosphere.
| Price Element | Approximate Cost |
| Full Tasting Menu | $360 |
| Wine Pairing | $290 |
| Non-alcoholic Pairing | $150 |
| Total for Two (with beverages, tax, gratuity) | $2,000+ |
Wrappin Up
Quince Restaurant in San Francisco offers a world-class culinary experience. Its tasting menu celebrates seasonal ingredients, local sourcing, and exquisite presentation. The redesigned space and flexible dining formats make it accessible for different preferences.
While the price and time commitment are significant, the experience is rewarding for those who value high-end cuisine. Quince SF continues to be a benchmark in fine dining, combining tradition, innovation, and sustainability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guests can choose between a four-course dinner at $270 or a full 8–10 course tasting menu at $360.
Including beverages, tax, and gratuity, a meal for two can exceed $2,000.
No. There are multiple options, including full tasting menus, shorter four-course dinners, and à la carte dining.
Contemporary Californian cuisine with Italian influences, emphasizing seasonal and local ingredients.
For fine dining enthusiasts seeking a premium culinary journey, yes. For casual meals, it may feel expensive.
Yes, Quince can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary preferences if notified in advance. The chefs craft dishes to maintain the tasting menu’s seasonal and high-quality standards.
Quince offers valet parking for diners, and there are nearby public parking options. It’s recommended to check in advance, especially during peak dining hours, as parking in downtown San Francisco can be limited.
