Luce Restaurant Closes Its Doors: A Look Back at Its Legacy

The prestigious Luce, once a Michelin-starred establishment located in the InterContinental Hotel in San Francisco, has officially shut its doors. Known as a culinary incubator for renowned chefs, including the celebrated Dominique Crenn, Luce’s closure signals a shift in the hotel’s dining landscape, likely towards a more casual concept.

A Culinary Journey and Achievements

Opened in early 2008 alongside the InterContinental Hotel, Luce quickly established itself as a cornerstone of the San Francisco dining scene. Under the helm of Crenn, the restaurant was awarded a Michelin star in 2009—a distinction it proudly retained for eleven consecutive years. This accolade solidified Luce’s reputation as a top-tier venue, drawing both locals and visitors alike.

Influence of Notable Chefs

Beyond its Michelin star, Luce has played host to a number of talented chefs. Notable among them is Melissa King, who served as sous chef before rising to fame as the winner of Top Chef Season 12. Furthermore, Rogelio Garcia, another Michelin-starred chef, took the reins at Luce in 2021 before moving on to achieve his own accolades at Auro in Calistoga.

A High-Quality Dining Experience

Luce’s menu focused on sophisticated Mediterranean cuisine, although it never fully solidified a unique culinary identity beyond that of a premier tasting-menu experience. Despite its location off the hotel’s lobby, Luce managed to remain a significant player in San Francisco’s competitive dining landscape.

Changing Tides in Hotel Dining

The shift away from fine dining restaurants in hotels to more casual dining experiences has become a notable trend in recent years. While the future of Luce’s space remains uncertain, industry experts speculate it may transform into a less formal establishment, in line with broader trends seen across hotel dining areas.

What Lies Ahead for the InterContinental

Despite Luce’s closure, the InterContinental will continue to offer food services through its bar, Bistro 888. The hotel remains committed to providing dining options for its guests and visitors, even as it navigates the changing dining environment.

Market Trends in Fine Dining

As the culinary landscape evolves, there is a renewed interest in elaborate fine dining experiences. New openings such as JouJou in the Design District and Via Aurelia from the chefs behind Che Fico are evidence that some restaurateurs are betting on the return of diners seeking unique, formal experiences.

In conclusion, the closure of Luce marks the end of an era, but it may also pave the way for new dining ventures at the InterContinental Hotel, reflecting the changing tastes and expectations of San Francisco diners.