oChef » Quince – San Francisco

Quince - San Francisco

Fine Dining Restaurant Quince in San Francisco
Photo from Quince
How do the guests rate it?
Quince at a glance
San Francisco Chinatown
$$$
Price per Person $101+
mentioned by 76 of the guests
#893 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#12 Fine Dining Restaurant out of 18 in San Francisco
Good
7.7 out of 10
7.9
Food
8
Service
8.1
Ambience
3.7
Value
764

Reviews

74.9%

Satisfaction

Often praised
  • Inventive cuisine
  • Attentive service
  • Elegant ambiance
Frequently criticized
  • Hidden charges
  • Pricing concerns
  • Solo dining

The restaurant Quince, a distinguished Fine Dining Restaurant in San Francisco’s vibrant Chinatown, offers you an unforgettable culinary journey. You’ll discover an upscale, romantic, and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a special evening.

This establishment is particularly celebrated for its great wine list, complementing an exquisite menu. With a focus on organic dishes and vegetarian options, Quince ensures a sophisticated dining experience for every palate.

Overview: Introducting Quince

Quince offers a refined dining experience where the culinary artistry truly shines, delivering an inventive meal with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Guests consistently praise the impeccable service and the elegant atmosphere, making for a memorable occasion.

However, some diners have expressed concerns regarding the overall cost structure, particularly the additional fees. While the quality of the experience is often lauded, the perceived bait and switch pricing has been a point of contention for a segment of its clientele.

Good
7.7 out of 10
764

Reviews

74.9%

Satisfaction

154

negative

38

neutral

572

positive

Quince achieves a commendable overall Restaurant Score of 7.7, reflecting a generally positive reception. This is supported by a good Customer Satisfaction rate of 74.9%, indicating that most patrons leave pleased with their visit.

These figures are drawn from a substantial 764 customer opinions, with 572 positive remarks outweighing 154 negative ones. Delving into specifics, the Ambience (8.1), Service (8.0), and Food (7.9) all receive strong scores, highlighting areas where Quince consistently excels.

However, the Value (3.7) score is notably lower, suggesting that while the quality is high, the pricing structure and additional charges are a significant point of concern for some diners.

What people like
  • Inventive, seasonal cuisine
  • Impeccable, attentive service
  • Elegant, tranquil ambiance
What people don't like
  • Hidden service charges
  • Questionable pricing structure
  • Limited solo dining

If you’re seeking a sophisticated dining experience where culinary creativity and attentive service are paramount, Quince is certainly worth considering. The high marks for its food, service, and ambiance suggest a truly special occasion, provided you are prepared for the investment.

However, be mindful of the pricing structure, as the Recommendation Score of 7.8 indicates a strong endorsement, but the value aspect remains a point of contention. It’s a destination for those prioritizing an elevated experience over strict budget considerations.

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Verdict: Our expert take on Quince

Food (7.9 out of 10)

mentioned by 98% of the guests

The food at this establishment truly stands out, with many guests raving about the innovative and excellent dishes, particularly the memorable tasting menu that often highlights incredible local ingredients. With a strong score of 7.9 and a good customer satisfaction rate of 77.9%, it's clear that the 318 positive remarks out of 408 total experiences reflect a generally delightful culinary journey. However, not every dish was a perfect hit.

Some diners found certain flavors to be occasionally bland or the portions surprisingly small, with a few experiences noting undercooked pasta or an inconsistent quality in execution. While only 71 negative comments were noted, these suggest that not every aspect of the high-end dining experience consistently met expectations.

7.9 Food

408

Reviews

77%

Satisfaction

71

negative

19

neutral

318

positive

Rating distribution
What people like
  • Innovative dishes
  • Excellent ingredients
  • Creative presentation
What people don't like
  • Bland flavors
  • Small portions
  • Inconsistent quality

Often praised

  • food
  • dishes
  • meal
  • tasting menu
  • wine pairing
  • dessert
  • cocktails
  • ingredients
  • lamb
  • wine

Frequently criticized

  • food
  • dishes
  • dessert
  • lamb
  • menu
  • presentation
  • wine pairing
  • Desert
  • French cooking
  • German Riesling

If youre looking for an inventive culinary adventure with a strong emphasis on quality ingredients and creative presentation, this restaurant is certainly worth exploring. Just be aware that while many dishes are exceptional, a few might not perfectly align with everyones taste or portion expectations.

Service (8 out of 10)

mentioned by 83% of the guests

The service here generally shines, boasting a good 8 score and a solid 76.3% customer satisfaction, based on 177 total opinions. Many of the 135 positive comments praise the impeccable service, attentive staff, and genuine hospitality, often noting the well-paced meals and personalized moments that make dining special. However, not everyone had a flawless experience, with 31 negative comments mentioning issues like feeling rushed out, ignored requests, or service mistakes.

Some also noted concerns with booking options for solo diners and serious shellfish allergy errors, suggesting inconsistencies in attention to detail.

8 Service

177

Reviews

76%

Satisfaction

31

negative

11

neutral

135

positive

Rating distribution
What people like
  • Impeccable, attentive service
  • Personalized, genuine hospitality
  • Well-paced dining experience
What people don't like
  • Failed allergy accommodation
  • Ignored guest requests
  • Inconsistent service quality

Often praised

  • service
  • staff
  • Service
  • kitchen experience
  • team
  • Juan
  • attention to detail
  • hospitality
  • Chef
  • Chef Michael Tuk

Frequently criticized

  • service
  • staff
  • Maitre’d / General Manager
  • asparagus dish
  • attention and respect
  • booking options
  • chef
  • exceptional service
  • identical dishes
  • management approach

Overall, the service here often delivers an excellent, personalized experience, making it a great choice for those seeking attentive dining. However, be mindful that some guests have reported significant inconsistencies, especially regarding special requests or allergy accommodations. If you have specific needs, it might be a gamble.

Ambience (8.1 out of 10)

mentioned by 68% of the guests

Stepping into this restaurant, you'll find the ambience generally hits the mark, earning a 8.1 score and leaving 82% of customers satisfied. With 114 positive observations out of 139 total, many guests rave about the beautiful decor, inviting atmosphere, and the relaxed, unpretentious setting, often highlighting the thoughtful lighting and elegant design. However, not everyone finds it perfect, with 21 negative comments pointing to issues like loud contemporary pop music and bad acoustics making conversation difficult.

Some also mentioned dark, stuffy surroundings or a dislike for the plastic tables, suggesting a few areas where the atmosphere might not quite hit the mark for all.

8.1 Ambience

139

Reviews

82%

Satisfaction

21

negative

4

neutral

114

positive

Rating distribution
What people like
  • Beautiful, elegant decor
  • Warm, inviting atmosphere
  • Quiet, relaxed setting
What people don't like
  • Loud music, bad acoustics
  • Dark, stuffy surroundings
  • Plastic tables used

Often praised

  • atmosphere
  • ambiance
  • ambience
  • dining room
  • experience
  • interior
  • decor
  • evening
  • noise level
  • space

Frequently criticized

  • atmosphere
  • parking
  • acoustics
  • bar seat
  • bar table
  • chipped plate
  • contemporary pop music
  • conversation
  • decor
  • dining atmosphere

If you're seeking a dining spot with a generally beautiful and inviting atmosphere, this place is definitely worth considering. Just be mindful that while many adore the elegant setting, a few have found the noise level or specific decor choices a bit off-key.

Value (3.7 out of 10)

mentioned by 24% of the guests

Despite a low score of 3.7 and customer satisfaction at just 12.5%, a few diners found some value, particularly with a la carte options offering a taste of a Michelin-starred experience. Some felt the price was worth the food, especially for special occasions, and appreciated the dessert cart. (5 positive opinions)However, the overwhelming sentiment, with 31 negative opinions out of 40 total, points to significant issues.

Many felt ripped off by service charge and SF fees, describing the price as hefty and bait and switch pricing. The final bill often included unexpected charges, leading to disappointment.

3.7 Value

40

Reviews

12%

Satisfaction

31

negative

4

neutral

5

positive

Rating distribution
What people like
  • A la carte experience
  • Food worth price
  • Dessert cart joy
What people don't like
  • High service charges
  • Unexpected SF fees
  • Bait and switch pricing

Often praised

  • a la carte
  • affordable and casual
  • price
  • pricier
  • worth

Frequently criticized

  • price
  • service charge
  • SF Mandates
  • SF fees
  • SF mandate
  • advertised price
  • appetizers and coffee
  • bait and switch pricing
  • charge
  • dining experience

If you're considering this spot, be prepared for a potentially steep final bill due to various service fees and SF mandates. While a few find the experience worth it for special occasions or a la carte options, the majority feel the value is poor. Proceed with caution and a clear understanding of all potential charges.

How are the prices at Quince?

On average, you’ll spend around 122 per person – based on 76 guests. That puts the restaurant squarely in the $101+ category. For a Fine Dining Restaurant, especially in San Francisco, thats definitely a premium price point.

Its interesting to see that almost all recent diners are spending in this higher bracket, suggesting a very consistent high-end experience rather than a mix of cheaper and more expensive options.

Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 76 reviews.

Discover how this restaurant’s value for money stacks up against similar places in San Francisco.

Considering it’s a Fine Dining Restaurant in San Francisco, a 122 per person average feels appropriate for a premium experience. We think the pricing aligns with what one would expect for high-quality dining in this city.

Customer Reviews: what people think about Quince

Price per Person
  • $101+
Visit Type
  • Food Exploration
Group Type
  • Large Group
Group Size
  • Large Group
Service Type
  • Dine-in
Meal Type
  • Dinner
Noise Level
  • Quiet
Jeremy W.
Review date: 11/01/2025
10
Exceptional Fine Dining at Quince
My experience at Quince was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we arrived, every detail reflected precision, grace, and care. The atmosphere was calm, elegant, and inviting, perfectly matching the restaurant's three-Michelin-star reputation. The seasonal tasting menu was outstanding. Each course felt purposeful and beautifully executed, with ingredients that clearly spoke to California’s best farms and producers. The presentation, flavor balance, and pacing were all flawless. What impressed me most, though, was the team’s genuine hospitality. The staff went out of their way to make sure we were completely comfortable, even taking the time to store our electric scooters safely during dinner. That small gesture says a lot about their awareness and willingness to accommodate guests beyond expectation. Quince delivers everything a fine-dining experience should be: precise, personal, and memorable. It’s a restaurant that truly earns its three stars and leaves you feeling valued from start to finish.
  • seasonal tasting menu10
  • ingredients10
  • presentation10
Price per Person
  • $101+
Visit Type
  • Food Exploration
Group Type
  • Couple
Group Size
  • Couple
Service Type
  • Dine-in
Meal Type
  • Dinner
Noise Level
  • Quiet
William T.
Review date: 11/01/2025
10
Exceptional Service, Food, and Wine Pairing
My experience at this restaurant was truly exceptional, offering some of the best service, pairing, and food I've ever encountered. The wine pairing was great, introducing me to a variety of new wines that perfectly complemented the meal. The meal itself was fantastic from start to finish. The staff was knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the overall dining experience. I appreciate not knowing too much beforehand, allowing the chef's creativity to shine, especially when I'm just looking for protein. The mushroom dish was probably the best I've ever had, and while not an everyday choice, it's exactly why I visit places like this. It was a fun experience that made me want to go home and try to replicate it. I would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who enjoys places like Addison, FLaundry, Alinea, Le B. , and Disfrutar; it's in your world and absolutely worth it. You will not be disappointed.
  • service10
  • pairing10
  • food10
Price per Person
  • $101+
Visit Type
  • Food Exploration
Service Type
  • Dine-in
Meal Type
  • Lunch
Amy K.
Review date: 10/26/2025
10
Elegant Atmosphere, Exceptional Food & Service
My experience at Quince was wonderful. The decor was elegant, understated, and relaxing, yet interesting with all the different textures and tones in the room. I really enjoyed how inviting the atmosphere was, and felt that the decor reflected, yet firmly placed the focus on, the food. The service was attentive, formal, and friendly at the same time, with details paid to what one responds to. When I commented on the beautiful dinnerware, a book on a Kyoto artisan from whom Quince gets some of their dinnerware was brought over, which I found to be sweet and appreciative of the different elements that make Quince what it is. What I loved about the food was its focus on ingredients, yet with layers of flavor that felt just right for the season, in addition to the perfect techniques. Every dish seemed to flow from one to the other, while being unique. It was creative, different, yet harmonious. This was definitely one for the books, and I hope I’ll get to return in the future.
  • decor9
  • atmosphere9
  • service10
Visit Type
  • Food Exploration
Group Size
  • Solo
Service Type
  • Dine-in
Meal Type
  • Dinner
Wait Time
  • Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
  • Quiet
Hiten D.
Review date: 10/04/2025
9
An Unforgettable Cocktail Experience
My experience at Quince began the moment I stepped in and was greeted by Eric, the bartender. He immediately made me feel welcome, sparking an easy conversation. I asked him to create his version of a Negroni, and his passion for his craft was evident as he explained the use of their farm-sourced gin and his intention to balance the bitterness with rum. Tasting the gin on its own was a revelation – strong yet elegant with lingering botanicals. The Negroni itself was sublime, offering a familiar yet entirely new depth, a quieter, more poetic side of the classic. Though I hadn't planned to eat, the beautifully plated dishes passing by stirred a quiet hunger. Eric, noticing this, went above and beyond by bringing me a small plate of house-made condiments: perfectly balanced olives, deeply flavorful curried walnuts, fresh breadsticks, and my unexpected favorite, crisp house-made potato chips seasoned simply to let the potato's essence shine. For my second drink, Eric crafted his version of an Old Fashioned, sharing the historical context of a brandy-based original. He guided me through a ritual of observing and smelling the drink before tasting, allowing for a fully sensory experience. The first sip was a slow revelation, with flavors unfolding in delicate layers. This drink was not just consumed but experienced, a testament to Eric's ability to weave a story into each cocktail. What made the evening truly memorable was not just the craftsmanship of the cocktails but Eric's theatrical approach, turning service into an engaging performance and a drink into a lasting memory. He continues to impress by having me taste new versions of their farm-produced gin, each infused with seasonal citrus, showcasing an ever-evolving spirit.
  • Negroni9
  • gin8
  • condiments9
Price per Person
  • $101+
Visit Type
  • Special Occasion
Service Type
  • Dine-in
Meal Type
  • Dinner
Noise Level
  • Quiet
Saminda W.
Review date: 10/01/2025
10
Extraordinary Experience at Quince
My experience at Quince was truly extraordinary. I first visited in 2006 when I lived in San Francisco and returned last month for a birthday weekend. The service remains exceptional, matching the superb cuisine. Every course of the 3-hour tasting menu was creative, well-presented, and bursting with distinctive flavor. The attention to detail was inspiring, and I was even treated to enjoying a course inside the kitchen, witnessing the immaculate environment and the precision of a 3 Michelin star restaurant. I will definitely return soon and won't wait another 19 years.
  • service10
  • cuisine10
  • tasting menu10

What Quince offers

Highlights

  • Great wine list

Planning

  • Reservations required
  • Accepts reservations
  • Dinner reservations recommended

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible seating
  • Wheelchair accessible restroom

Crowd

  • Tourists
  • Groups

Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments

Popular for

  • Dinner

Amenities

  • Gender-neutral restroom
  • Bar onsite
  • Restroom

Offerings

  • Hard liquor
  • Wine
  • Coffee
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Organic dishes
  • Vegetarian options
  • Alcohol

Dining options

  • Dinner
  • Table service
  • Dessert

Service Options

  • Dine-in

Parking

  • Usually somewhat difficult to find a space

Atmosphere

  • Upscale
  • Romantic
  • Cozy
  • Trendy

FAQs

What kind of atmosphere can you expect at Quince, and do you need reservations?
At Quince, you’ll find an upscale, romantic, cozy, and trendy ambiance, perfect for a memorable dinner. Given its popularity as a Fine Dining Restaurant, reservations are required, and dinner reservations are highly recommended to secure your table.
Quince offers a comprehensive selection of hard liquor, wine, coffee, beer, and cocktails to accompany your dinner or dessert. You’ll be pleased to know that the restaurant is fully accessible, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and restroom for your convenience.
Quince generally receives a positive reception, with a Restaurant Score of 7.7 and a Customer Satisfaction rate of 74.9%. While the **Ambience** (8.1), **Service** (8.0), and **Food** (7.9) are highly praised, the **Value** (3.7) is a notable area of concern for some patrons.
Customers frequently commend Quince for its inventive and well-executed food, often highlighting the focus on fresh, local ingredients and creative dishes. The service is consistently described as impeccable and attentive, and the ambiance is noted for being elegant, tranquil, and conducive to conversation.
The primary concern for some diners revolves around the pricing and additional fees, including service charges and local mandates, which some perceive as ‘bait and switch pricing.’ There are also occasional mentions of inconsistent food execution or limited booking options for solo diners.
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Location
470 Pacific Ave, 94133 San Francisco
Opening hours
Monday
Closed
Tuesday – Thursday
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Friday – Saturday
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Sunday
Closed