Seasonal tasting menu at Merchant Roots San Francisco dining experience.
At the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Mid-Market district, Merchant Roots offers a unique fine dining adventure with its exquisite seasonal tasting menu. This immersive 11-course journey artfully weaves diverse mushroom varieties with creative culinary techniques, evoking a spectrum of colors, flavors, and emotions that evolve quarterly. Known for impeccable service and thoughtful pairings, this vegetarian-forward experience is a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking an innovative plant-based feast.
starters to awaken your palate
Begin your dining experience with a selection of artfully crafted starters that highlight wild and cultivated mushrooms in innovative presentations. Delicate King Trumpet Chips paired with a creamy dip offer a satisfying crunch, while the Tofu Crudo & Porcini presents a silky, umami-rich combination. For a refreshing option, the Corycep Salad celebrates fresh mushrooms with vibrant greens, and the Winter Salad of Twigs & Mushrooms evokes forest flavors with an earthy, textural twist.
mains showcasing mushroom mastery
The mains at Merchant Roots are a celebration of sophisticated mushroom varieties, each dish thoughtfully composed to tantalize the senses. The Alpine Cauliflower Meadow combines tender cauliflower with date hummus for a sweet and earthy balance. Dive into the Oyster Mushroom Jambalaya accented with a maltose sphere that adds a playful texture. The Red Cap Mushroom Stuffing and Morels in XO sauce deliver deep umami flavors with luxurious sauces. Other standout entrées include the smoky richness of Smoked Oyster Mushroom Braised Kabocha, the hearty Hen of the Woods Soup, and the indulgent Truffle with Lobster Bisque Celeriac, all highlighting the versatility of fungi. For an adventurous palate, the 65° Quail Egg sits atop a silky Black Trumpet Puree, and the Tempura Enoki Agedashi Abalone offers a crispy and delicate bite. The Fairy Ring Gnudi with Sage and Duck Sausage presents a perfect union of fresh herbs and savory sausage with mushroom-infused gnudi.
desserts with a mushroom twist
End your culinary journey on a surprising note with desserts that incorporate the subtle earthiness of mushrooms into classic indulgences. The Shiitake Mushroom Parfait with Savory Caramel redefines dessert with layered textures and balanced sweetness. The Candy Cap Ice Cream paired with Winter Fruit delights with its aromatic mushroom flavor and seasonal freshness. For chocolate lovers, the rich Chocolate Pot de Crème offers a smooth, velvety finish, while the Buche Eclair brings a refined pastry experience to the table.
special dining features
- Innovative themed tasting menu – Each course explores a distinct color and emotion through artful flavor combinations.
- Expert vegetarian fine dining – Plant-based dishes crafted with culinary precision, perfect for vegetarian and vegan diners.
- Thoughtful beverage pairings – Non-alcoholic and wine options curated to complement each dish’s unique profile.
- Intimate and immersive ambiance – Seating arranged to face the open kitchen, elevating the dining experience.
