Special occasion SF restaurant for foodies and non-foodies?

[liz31]

I'm planning a dinner to celebrate a very special event and need to pick a San Francisco restaurant that will appeal to foodies and (older) non-foodies alike. I love Ad Hoc and think it would be perfect but unfortunately it's too far. Here are my criteria:

1. Great food that won't strike non-foodies as too strange or pretentious - no foams please. I think this group would enjoy homey American food.
2. Servings that won't be perceived as too small/overpriced.
3. Relatively quiet and not too packed in.

Some of the restaurants I'm considering are Spruce, Range, Wayfare Tavern, Nopa, Firefly, and Prospect. I was considering Frances but tried it recently and didn't like it. I would welcome any opinions or suggestions - thanks!

[j mather]

I think Wayfare meets a lot of your food criteria but it can feel a bit crowded. How many people? They have a room that will hold, IIRC, up to 16 comfortably. Have you considered House of Prime Rib?

[Robert Lauriston]

Wayfare seems like a great fit for those requirements.

[liz31]

Thanks! The group is only 6 so I think Wayfare will work.

I considered House of Prime Rib, but there is someone in the group who doesn't like it.