Special occasion dinner - Spruce or Quince or somewhere else?

[jocelyng]

My parents are coming to town to take me, hubby and 13 yo DD to dinner for a big birthday I'm having. Trying to figure out where to go. I'd like great food, obviously, but not stuffy or overly stylized food. I don't mind dressing up (jacket and tie for the men would be fine), but I don't want a place that has a formal feel, if that makes sense. DD is quite sophisticated, so I don't worry about her. Anyway, I'm looking at Spruce or Quince or maybe Gary Danko. Must have an a la carte option since my mother doesn't like prix fixe. Would also consider Berkeley or Oakland. Don't want molecular gastronomy. Thoughts on these or other places? Thanks!

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Gary Danko
800 N Point St, San Francisco, CA 94109

[whiner]

I prefer Quince to Spruce but would choose Boulevard over either of them. Ame is sublime, I wouldn't call it stylized, but somewhat cutting edge... awesome. I like La Folie more than Danko in the upper price range... laid back Provencal food and atmosphere, just beautifully executed.

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La Folie
2316 Polk St., San Francisco, CA 94109

[bbulkow]

Wow, a Boulevard supporter. I haven't heard that in a while. Last time I was there... 2008? 2009? there just seem too many more interesting restaurants, and I've had enough average meals there, it's a risk at that price point.

[Paul H]

I've eaten at Boulevard somewhere between 10 and 20 times, and have never had less than a stellar experience. It's expensive, but I've always felt I got my money's worth.

[Windy]

Love La Folie. Very flexible menu options (like Danko, you choose the number of courses from an extended menu), quiet, elegant, and well executed.

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La Folie
2316 Polk St., San Francisco, CA 94109

[kleungsf]

I would suggest Gary Danko, Spruce and Quince on your list based on order. I like the serivce at Gary Danko and Spruce has great casual menu for your 13 year old if she is not into formal food. For a steakhouse Harris Steakhouse on Van Ness is old school service but they only have 2 large tables, rest are all booths. Boulevard is also a great choice with the breadth of the menu.

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Gary Danko
800 N Point St, San Francisco, CA 94109