Our Story
The Gilded Spoon began as a dream, a shared vision between two passionate food enthusiasts, Eleanor Vance and Thomas Sterling, to create a truly exceptional dining experience in the heart of San Francisco. Inspired by their travels around the world and a deep appreciation for the artistry of cuisine, they envisioned a restaurant that would not only serve exquisite food but also provide a warm, inviting atmosphere where guests could create lasting memories.
Eleanor, a seasoned sommelier with an encyclopedic knowledge of wines, brought her expertise in pairing the perfect wines with each dish, enhancing the overall dining experience. Thomas, a classically trained chef with a penchant for innovation, infused his culinary creations with a unique blend of traditional techniques and modern flair. Their combined talents and unwavering dedication laid the foundation for what The Gilded Spoon is today.
The restaurant officially opened its doors in 2018, quickly earning a reputation for its exceptional cuisine, impeccable service, and elegant ambiance. Word of mouth spread like wildfire, and The Gilded Spoon soon became a sought-after destination for both locals and tourists alike. From its humble beginnings, the restaurant has grown into a celebrated establishment, consistently recognized as one of San Francisco's finest dining destinations. We are proud to be a part of the vibrant San Francisco culinary scene and are committed to continuing to provide our guests with an unforgettable dining experience.
Meet Our Founders
Eleanor Vance
Co-Founder & Sommelier
Eleanor Vance is the heart and soul of The Gilded Spoon's wine program. Her passion for wine began during her travels through the vineyards of Europe, where she developed a deep appreciation for the artistry and complexity of winemaking. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Eleanor has curated an award-winning wine list that showcases both classic and emerging vineyards from around the world. Her expertise in pairing wines with culinary creations elevates the dining experience to new heights.
Thomas Sterling
Co-Founder & Executive Chef
Thomas Sterling is the culinary visionary behind The Gilded Spoon. His culinary journey began in his grandmother's kitchen, where he learned the importance of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. After graduating from the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, Thomas honed his skills in some of the world's finest restaurants. His innovative approach to cuisine combines classic techniques with modern flair, resulting in dishes that are both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. Thomas's unwavering commitment to excellence has earned The Gilded Spoon numerous accolades.
Our Dedicated Team
We are incredibly fortunate to have a team of talented and dedicated individuals who share our passion for providing exceptional dining experiences.
Adrian Moreau
Head Chef
Adrian brings a wealth of experience and creativity to our kitchen, ensuring every dish is executed to perfection.
Isabella Rossi
Restaurant Manager
Isabella oversees all aspects of restaurant operations, ensuring a seamless and delightful experience for our guests.
Benjamin Parker
Sous Chef
Benjamin works closely with the Head Chef, contributing to menu development and maintaining the highest culinary standards.
Olivia Chen
Pastry Chef
Olivia creates exquisite desserts that are the perfect ending to any meal, showcasing her artistry and skill.
Our Culinary Philosophy
At The Gilded Spoon, our culinary philosophy is rooted in a deep respect for the ingredients we use and a commitment to creating dishes that are both innovative and comforting. We believe that the best food starts with the freshest, highest-quality ingredients, sourced locally whenever possible. We work closely with farmers, fishermen, and artisans in the San Francisco Bay Area to ensure that our dishes are bursting with flavor and reflect the unique terroir of the region.
We are also passionate about sustainability and strive to minimize our environmental impact. We use eco-friendly practices in our kitchen, reduce waste, and support sustainable farming and fishing practices. Our menu is designed to showcase the seasonality of ingredients, allowing us to create dishes that are at their peak of flavor and freshness. We are constantly experimenting with new techniques and flavor combinations to create a dining experience that is both exciting and memorable.
Ultimately, our goal is to create a dining experience that is more than just a meal. We want our guests to feel transported, to be delighted by the flavors and textures of our dishes, and to create lasting memories with their loved ones. We believe that food has the power to connect people and to create moments of joy and celebration. That is why we are so passionate about what we do, and why we are committed to providing our guests with the very best dining experience possible.