Detention 2.0, a new members-only concept from chef/owner Jason Quinn, will be taking over the old Detention space in Santa Ana. The project, at 220 E 4th St #102, is slated to debut in mid-February.
Quinn said the inspiration for the change came from “doing private dinners for people at their houses,” an experience that the chef said re-invigorated his culinary voice. “I just said to people, what is gonna make you the happiest and I prepared for them my best version of whatever it is that they wanted…I took great pride in being creative and making something that fit their situation. So my overall approach to hospitality has just changed quite a bit.”
Delving into a more existential concern re the state of dining, he added, “I do not believe that I see the path forward for restaurants.” Quinn cited both financial restraints and burnout resulting from the compressive pressure to meet the expectations of revolving diners.
The new Detention 2.0 will primarily function as a lounge space with chef driven bites and a cocktail program. The main Detention dining room will also host reservation-only dinners for members a couple of days per-week.
While Detention 2.0 memberships are currently sold out at both the base and VIP levels, Quinn said it’s possible more will become available for sale in the coming months.
Detention, which itself was a re-boot of Quinn’s iconic Playground restaurant, will have its final service January 28th. Quinn will continue to operate his tasting menu concept Trust, that shares a building with Detention. Detention in Santa Ana to Re-Brand as Detention 2.0
