Home / San Francisco / San Francisco Restaurants / Quince

Quince

A Forbes Travel Guide 4-Star Rated restaurant

Overview

Moving from the cozy Russian Hill location to a newer, larger and historic spot in the Jackson Square neighborhood was a brilliant move, as Quince is fresher than ever. It is also more accessible, with a full dining room, lively 12-seat bar and separate lounge, all of which serve the full menu. Chef/owner Michael Tusk’s devotion to the lush seasonal ingredients that shape his daily changing Italian-focused menu hasn’t changed, but the wine list is now much more extensive under new wine director David Lynch. The atmosphere has been upgraded as well, with luxurious Venetian chandeliers contrasting with the rustic exposed brick walls. Menus range from an a la carte to two different five-course options. Recent highlights have included delicate squash blossoms with fresh crab, zucchini and fava beans, and spaghetti with clams, melon and espresso — an unusual combination for sure, but intriguing and satisfying. The cheese selection is well edited and desserts included chocolate beignets with cardamom ice cream.

Where is Quince restaurant located?

Located at 470 Pacific Ave. (at Montgomery Street) in Jackson Square, Quince is one of San Francisco’s most elegant restaurants. Set away from traffic on a quiet tree-lined street, the 1907 brick building allows for a clear view of the bustling kitchen next to the dining room. Quince has earned praise, including a Michelin star, for its Italian-meets-Californian cuisine. Chef Michael Tusk’s emphasis on fresh, locally-raised meats and locally-grown produce — along with a world-class selection of more than 800 Italian, French, and Californian wines — earned him the coveted 2011 James Beard Award for Best Chef: Pacific. A sister restaurant, Cotogna, opened in 2011 with a focus on more rustic Italian dishes.