 When most folks see the letters AQ (“As Quoted") next to an entrée, it typically symbolizes a dish with a sky-high price tag. However, executive chef-owner Mark Liberman’s intention in naming his mid-Market restaurant this well-known acronym was to emphasize the “fresh at market” nature of his ingredient-driven menu, not one that is astronomically priced. In fact, AQ’s prices are surprisingly moderate, with pricing grouped by category. The long, narrow space features a 65-seat dining room and 22-seat counter at a large, open kitchen. Exposed brick walls, timber beams, and 12-foot-tall warehouse windows make for a venue that is at once cozy and modern. That same duality is evident in Liberman’s cooking, where he delivers vibrant, earthbound dishes with sophisticated presentations. Bitter, juicy bits of grapefruit are placed between creamy morsels of charred avocado, further punctuated by tender pieces of Monterey squid. Cured local sturgeon is another exciting dish, thanks to a smattering of flavors and textures; airy dollops of yogurt, potato chips, and tart pickled apples. Monkfish roasted in an IPA is hearty and uncharacteristically savory. Desserts are artistic, such as geometric discs of thyme blancmange, each with a tailored center of huckleberry compote. The wine list numbers more than 200 bottles, with the majority stored in what was once a glass conference room in the restaurant’s basement.
|
Send to Phone 
AQ Restaurant & Bar is one of our 2012
Hot 10 SF Restaurants | Top 10 SF Brunch Restaurants
|
Hungry for a hamburger? From simple patties with a pickle to gourmet takes by top toques, we've compiled lists of the Top 10 Burgers in cities across the USA, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco.
