I have heard a lot of naïve hype about the Richmond restaurant scene in the past 8 months. Maple & Pine is one of the few places that deserves recognition as being something special. I’ll be back as soon as my bank account magically replenishes itself.
Patreace T.
Place rating: 4 Glen Allen, VA
I had a friend’s birthday dinner here at 5:30pm on Friday. I got there at a little before 5 and sat at the bar. I was very hungry so I ordered a glass of wine and potato wedges. It wasn’t a lot of people in there when I got there. There were a couple bartenders at the bar and I got my drink quick but my potato snacks took a while, like 20mins. By the time I got them it was time to sit at the table for dinner. The tables were cozy and the atmosphere was nice. The food again at the table took a rather long time to come. Maybe because there was 5 of us. There definitely wasn’t a lot of food on the plates when they came but it ended up being enough. I guess we are use to eating so much food that when we don’t get a lot on our plate it is a surprise. I got the pork loin and it was very good. 2 of us got that and 2 of us got the chicken and they enjoyed it very much as well. 1 of us got the lamb and that too was good. I would definitely go back.
Kristen F.
Place rating: 5 Williamsburg, VA
Best meal I’ve had in Richmond! The atmosphere, service, food, and drinks were all impeccable. I had a homemade tagliatelle pasta with a simple butter sauce and smoked sage– so elegant. My friends and I have a monthly supper club, and we’ve all agreed that this is one of our favorite places.
W W.
Place rating: 4 Virginia Beach, VA
4 stars for the service. It was was incredible. Is in the middle of the hotel lobby. Extremely loud. Can’t really describe how loud it is. The dinner menu didn’t mirror what I found online(I really wanted a pasta dish). Ordered the rockfish dish and my daughter ordered the pork entrée. My rockfish was good(not great) but my daughters pork was slightly below good. I had a cocktail — which was the highlight of the meal. It was great. Unfortunately we both left hungry. It was an expensive meal and we were not blown away. Maybe it was an off night.
Amanda J.
Place rating: 3 Manhattan, NY
Not a huge fan. It’s in a BEAUTIFUL hotel, so the aetsthetics are amazing– seriously, go check out my review for the Quirk Hotel — I’d recommend to anyone! I don’t really love the menu options. I understand that it’s meant to be trendy and unique and«quirky», but I’m a big believer that you should always have one or two items on the menu that can be enjoyed by picky eaters. I think the weirdest thing was that the only two ice cream choices they offered during my stay were bourbon ball and then cheddar cheese. I asked if they had basic vanilla or chocolate, but unfortunately they didn’t. This would normally be fine if it’s just a restaurant, but if you’re responsible for providing room service as well, a food regular options would be really great!
L D.
Place rating: 5 Aurora, IL
This place serves an excellent breakfast. The brioche French toast with stewed apples is outstanding! Small breakfast menu, but seems sure to please
Erica F.
Place rating: 4 Richmond, VA
Came with a friend for our mutual birthdays. Noted the birthdays in our reservation on Open Table and were greeted by our excellent server with 2 glasses of champaign(or maybe prosecco)! Food was very good, service even better. We shared the duck rillettes, each had the rockfish entrée and shared a yummy apple crisp with cheddar cheese ice cream. It was a bit on the pricey side for Richmond, so minus one star.
Danielle H.
Place rating: 5 Richmond, VA
Went for drinks after dinner. Great atmosphere, great service(Louis) and loved that they had sparkling wine on tap!
Sara G.
Place rating: 5 Richmond, VA
Been here twice now, once for drinks and once for brunch. The drinks were good but not earth shaking. The brunch however was a step above. Everything was pitch perfect from the hostess thoughtfully seating my date next to me rather then across from me, to the delightful salty tangy crispy brussels sprouts and fresh orange juice. You can always tell when orange juice is fresh squeezed because it’s not as acidic and this stuff was delicious, almost creamy in its subtlety. It’s pretty close but we agree that the best thing we had was the quiche which was soft, fluffy, delicate, and oh so flavorful. It’s an expensive brunch all things considered but if you can find an excuse definitely get yourself to maple and pine for brunch.
A. D.
Place rating: 3 Washington, DC
Overall I found the restaurant to be overhyped and overpriced. I had dinner at maple and pine yesterday and was super excited to partake in a trend everyone has been raving about. We arrived and were ignored by the host for a bit even though there was no one else in site, but I brushed it off and we were seated. The restaurant itself is interesting and has good ambiance, but it’s right behind the reception with the bar being just at the back making it seem like you’re just sitting in a hotel lobby that happens to have dining furniture in it. Our server was polite and helpful once we were seated. I commented to my friend that I was starving and I must have jinxed myself then. It took a bit for our beverage orders to appear at our table but the really frustrating part happened after we ordered our entrees. I was eyeing the bread baskets on other tables enviously as time just ticked by with no hope of food in sight. As I flagged our server down to plead for some bread(which everyone had received upon being seated) he came back to tell us they were making some more fresh. Great. Meanwhile our entrees arrived. The bread arrived a bit later. Even better. I had the Rockfish which was over a bed of mushrooms and bok choy in a dashi broth. I found the dashi to be extremely overpowering to the rest of the items and the fish skin was unevenly cooked leading to one side being super crispy and great and the other being soggy and I just peeled that off. For dessert I had the orange mouse with olive oil cake. The cake was wonderful but the mousse had the strangest texture, not like the airy mousse you’d expect but more of like the texture of flan. It was weird. Overall I’m glad I tried it but I don’t think I’d come back. There is definitely the same caliber of food in Richmond that is better priced and even more delicious. I do think the ambiance is lovely and the Hotel is fun to see. Restaurant not so much.
Cate S.
Place rating: 4 Midlothian, VA
Add Quirk Hotel to your list of date night destinations! Such a fun atmosphere without being too hipster or pretentious. Had dinner here after making a last minute reservation and they were able to accommodate our group. Might be the best service I’ve ever experienced in RVA. I never noticed the waiter hovering but when my Prosecco was almost empty a new glass would arrive almost magically. Btw, Prosecco on tap. On tap. Cocktail menu looked creative and my friends enjoyed theirs. The starter courses we had the sunchokes and the diver scallop crudo. The scallops were perfectly sliced and very fresh although I would have liked a little bit more acidity. Main course we had the lamb, lobster risotto and duck. My duck wasn’t the best but the lamb and risotto were phenomenal.
Morgan F.
Place rating: 4 Richmond, VA
This place was great! Wonderful seating and fantastic service! The good was delicious. The portions were a tad small but I left stuffed. If you’re lucky you’ll get to sit in the glass room and have Louis as your waiter!
Dianna L.
Place rating: 5 Alexandria, VA
Went to Maple and Pine, the hotel’s restaurant downstairs, for a quick bite and the quick bite turned into a full blown meal because the food was so delicious. I sampled a few appetizers(the chestnut soup which totally blew me out of the water was my favorite — order it you won’t be disappointed) enjoyed an almond crusted lamb with lavendar hummus and blueberries and ended the meal with an espresso chocolate mousse(which was a deliciously whipped chocolate feast for my tastebuds). Of course the meal wouldn’t be complete without a few cocktails and the silver queen was my favorite. The portions of the food were nice bites, and it’s best to order several things and share. It makes for a much more fun eating experience. I cannot wait for the rooftop to open up!
Dorothea H.
Place rating: 5 Mechanicsville, VA
Beautiful restaurant. Nothing else like it Richmond! The Hanger Steak was to die for. I was in a party and didn’t choose the wine. But it was lovely. The service was top notch. Quirk is a perfect mix of elegance and fun. My whole experience is incredible and I’m already begging friends in NYC to come for a visit just so I can wow them at Quirk.
Bryce C.
Place rating: 5 Richmond, VA
I came just for drinks and I was really pleasantly surprised. I’ve never been wowed by hotel bars before, but I though Maple & Pine changed my perception. I came with a group of six towards the end of the night and we never once felt rushed. Our server made fantastic suggestions for everyone and we all loved our drinks. I told him I wanted a 80s wine cocktail and they made me one of the best drinks I’ve ever had. I will absolutely be going back for drinks and dinner.
K S.
Place rating: 5 Charlottesville, VA
Someone famous says«Love is in the details». Well, Quirk Hotel definitely loves their guests. I am a Richmond native however moved away but returned to check out the hotel and a few new foodie restaurants in town. The Lobby is light and airy, crisp and clean with beautiful pinks and greys on mostly a white or light washed wood floor. Very large windows wrapped the entire area; it is beautiful and very chic. My guest and I were in love with the open feel of the restaurant/lobby area and decided to ask about dinner reservations. They were highly recommended. We received a table for two at Maple and Pine at the earliest 9 p.m. We made our way up to the room where our bags were waiting for us after a coffee and stroll in the shop and art gallery. The doors to the hotel are glossy black; very cool, down the white hall with continued grey and pink accents. Our room, modern, clean, comfortable, gorgeous large windows with black sheer and despite the fact that we were on top of the very busy Broad street just one floor up; quite quiet. We had all the amenities one might expect. At 9 we went to dine; our reservation unfortunately was not noted, I said who I spoke with and the Host immediately apologized and asked that we have a drink at the bar while he made arrangements. He expected to have a table for us in less than ten minutes, despite the crowd. We decided to order a bottle of red from a vineyard I knew of from Walla Walla, Washington; it was superb and they had a great selection of wines not extensively intimidating, just enough for variety. The cocktail menu appeared trendy and fun as well as the bar fare. Our bartender Kim asked if we would be dining; we said yes, she replied«You are in for a treat; I’ve worked in a few high end restaurants but never for a Chef as talented as ours.» Very impressive compliment for sure which led to higher expectations. I inquired about the cheddar cheese ice cream on the apple crisp, more curious than anything; well Kim offered a Meg Ryan/“When Harry Met Sally” type response. .. . The cheddar cheese ice cream had us at hello. Just as the Host promised, we were seated after only two sips. We sat on this winding grey with white trim banquette; so comfy and elegant. We were promptly greeted by our server and asked her favorites. Not to anyone’s surprise they mirrored bartender Kim’s favorites. The Pekin Paradise Duck Breast, Grilled Plums, Quinoa, Ginger Dressing and Beef Hanger Steak, Variations of Broccoli, Bay Leaf Crumble. We ordered roasted Sunchokes for appetizer, the Hanger Steak and the Duck. The Sunchokes were incredible in a purée that I am embarrassed to say, I cannot recall. The Hanger Steak, cut like three filets and cooked perfectly medium rare with broccoli variations was to die for; the broccoli fried, steamed and pureed, YUM, the Hanger Steak had us wondering why the protein gets such a bad rap! The Duck was exceptional however the grilled plums with quinoa and a ginger dressing made me want to lick the plate. We went to order the cheddar cheese ice cream with apple crisp and much to our disappointment, the were SOLDOUT for the evening since they are made fresh daily. I may have expressed my disappointment especially given Kim’s hard sell. Our server, whose name escapes me, knew that we were staying, found out when the ice cream would be ready in the morning and promised an 11 a.m. delivery. She also offered the chocolate hazelnut mousse as a peace offering. It was delightful, so much so, I wasn’t even aware of the hazelnut skin on my top front tooth; embarrassing when you compliment and shake the Executive Chef’s hand, but hey — he knows we enjoyed it and ate every last drop! What more of a compliment could a Chef want!?! The next morning, I had an errand and returned to the room at 11:30, «is our ice cream here???» I inquired. «Better, look» Sitting on the desk, a beautiful little basket with fresh local fruits, chocolates and a lovely note from Emma, the F&B Manager. «Emma stated that the delivery of the ice cream would not do it justice so we were invited back for the entire dessert on the house.» My friend and I planned to eat our next meal elsewhere but we were SOIMPRESSED with Maple and Pine we thought, why leave!!! For lunch we enjoyed a Virginia Ham and Appalachian Cheese Sandwich, House BBQ Potato Chips; their version of a croque monsieur. Decadent and delicious as well as the Chicken Panini, Pepperoncini Marmalade, Asiago Cheese, Celery Root Slaw. It had a bit of a kick complimented nicely with the calm, cool Celery Root Slaw. Fantastic. And now for the Cheddar Cheese Ice Cream with Apple Crisp; let’s just say it was a shame our bags were packed and the road was calling. Well done Chef Dunlap, well done! Applause to the entire talented team of Quirk! It may have been our first visit however I dare say it will not be our last! Thank you again.
Matt M.
Place rating: 3 Richmond, VA
I have been to Quirk for drinks a couple of times, but was finally able to go for dinner last night. My wife and I love the place, but the meal was unfortunately a little disappointing. I want to preface this review with acknowledgement that this place is newly opened, so I don’t want to hold them to too high a standard. The service was attentive without being pushy. No complaints there at all. The space is incredible and unlike anything else in Richmond. It is by far the star of the show. The ceilings are high, the space is sleek, and the art work is great. The beer list is limited, which is not a deal breaker. It is clearly more a wine and cocktail place, and my wife really enjoyed her cocktail(the Annabelle Lee, I believe). We both ordered appetizers. She had the diver scallop appetizer, which was a thinly sliced scallop and very tasty. I had the sunchoke appetizer with candied bacon, which was surprisingly bland and unspectacular. For the main course, my wife had the lamb with lavender hummus and pickled blueberries. It was pretty good, and the flavors, especially of the blueberries, were nice. I had the pork loin with celery, apple sauce, and sweet potatoes. It was a pretty standard flavored dish. Our two courses and one drink apiece cost $ 125 with tip. We did not feel like it was worth the steep price. I will absolutely try this place again, perhaps for lunch or bar snacks some other time, and definitely for drinks. I am looking forward to the rooftop bar’s opening, as well. My bottom line is that the food was nothing special and a disappointment in the context of the awesome space and high price tag.
Chris L.
Place rating: 4 Midlothian, VA
Still some growing pains I think. There on Friday night and they were a little overwhelmed I think. Made my drink and forgot to put gin in it. Food wise though everything was terrific. It isn’t cheap but it is good. I will be back… maybe not on Friday. Definitely a great place for a special night out. Very big city atmosphere with restaurant in the wide open lobby. Good for group meet up for happy hour.
Cindy B.
Place rating: 3 Richmond, VA
No surprise, the interior here is gorgeous. Quirk Hotel feels just like a great little NYC boutique hotel, in the heart of Richmond. Beautiful architecture, soaring ceilings, wedding cake like moldings, simple lighting and fabulous art make for a great atmosphere. The size of the hotel limits the space a bit, so the restaurant is smack in the middle of the lobby/entrance. Not a big deal, but it definitely gives it more bustle and brightness, as people come and go. The service seemed a little confused/harried, and frankly, not as pleasant or on top of it as we would have expected. We waited a while for our drink order, then another while for the drinks to arrive. Everything, in fact, dragged, or we had to catch someone to get the server. The food was very good– I had the pasta, which was a black pepper tagliatelle with roasted eggplant with a basil sauce. Perfectly done, beautiful presentation, and delicious.(Be forewarned, though, these are not American portions– the pasta was swirled into a log that was about the size of a bratwurst. Really, the perfect amount, but I guarantee that will surprise someone.) Others in our party had the tile fish, which was a huge hit, and the hanger steak(one loved it, the other not at all.) Desserts were slow to arrive, but when then did, they were delicious and beautifully presented. We’ll definitely be back, though maybe for atmosphere and drinks next time.
Grace B.
Place rating: 4 Henrico, VA
Swanky interior with a very urban feel what you will find in this restaurant on the ground floor of the new Quirk hotel. The lighting is bright but warm. The clientele nicely dressed but not stuffy. It’s not hipster, but it is trendy. It’s got more of a DC feel to it, but this is what I love about our fair city of Richmond… The food scene here is always interesting and varying. The Cocktail bar features drinks with a southern twist. The two I tried were quite good. The bartender was friendly but not overly chatty yet not standoffish either. The scallop ceviche appetizer was small but the taste was delicious. The dinner selections could be best described as a «new American» menu. Ample seating with a lot of space between the tables. It was definitely a place to go and not feel rushed. What I tasted portrayed clean bright flavors. Looking forward to trying more of the offerings here.