Starlite

First and foremost, the food and service were amazing! I made a late-night reservation to celebrate my birthday, and our server was incredibly sweet, answering all our questions. My only pet peeve is that I wish they would enforce a NO FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY rule. I specifically chose this restaurant for its moody, low-lit atmosphere, so it was very frustrating when the tables next to us—tables are very close to each other—had a full-on photoshoot with flash. I understand wanting to take a few photos to document the experience, but at some point, it became constant. I felt like they should just turn on the lights at that point because the flashes were incessant. Again, people can take as many pictures as they want, but please consider COMMON DINING ETIQUETTE. If the atmosphere is dark, please don’t use your flash.

One of the coolest places in San Diego, 10 out of 10 recommend. Food was delicious, the service was great and the vibes were immaculate!

What a beautiful atmosphere, hard to say which room is the best! Food was perfection, as was service, so very attentive.

햄버거 안에는 치즈와 패티가 전부였지만, 패티는 소고기의 풍미를 느낄 수 있었다. 18달러로 햄버거의 가격만으로 생각하면 비싸지만 분위기를 보면 싼 가격이라 생각함

Well, finally came to this spot and luckily I found parking. Fair warning… parking is very limited. Come early because you might have to walk to the place. Now once you find yourself into this nice establishment. It’s dark, mysterious, and above all. A nicely decorated bar and even the bathrooms are easy on the eyes. Cheers my fellow starlite friends. Recommendations: -dessert (pistachio)

+3

Starlite had such a great dining experience! We had to make a reservation a week or two in advance because it got booked out really quick. Starlite has two floors, one with a more dark ambient vibe, and the other is more bright and open. I’m not sure if you get to pick where you’re seated, but both are nicely decorated and overall good vibes. My friend and I got seated in the more bright/open area. We started off with ordering the wagyu and yellowtail tartare, HIGHLY recommend, was probably one of the best tartare combinations I’ve ever had. She got the ribeye steak and I got the sea bass. The entrees are all al a carte, so we got a side of roasted broccoli and scalloped potatoes well. The food was AMAZING. My friend really loved her steak and my sea bass was super flavorful and tender. The sides also did not disappoint. Can’t compliment the service enough either. Not only our waiter was super friendly, but other staff who came around to our table to drop off food or take our plates chatted with us to make sure we had everything we need. Loved everything about this place.

Omg! This place is absolutely stunning! My friend and I came after work during the week as it's difficult to get reservations on the weekend. Parking is limited in the lot, but there is residential parking available if you're lucky! The inside left me speechless. It definitely isn't what I expected looking at the outside of the building. The chandelier as you walk in is so captivating, there are stars throughout the restaurant, and even the restrooms are gorgeous!! We got a few cocktails upstairs at the rooftop bar, which was super cute, but small. There is seating inside which is more intimate and also upstairs which is a little more spacious. We experienced some of the best service ever. Sean, was so sweet and personable and made us feel so comfortable and welcomed! I'll definitely be back to try more cocktails and food on the menu! Food and drink review: Honey Ryder: (5/5) So delicious. One of the best and refreshing cocktails l've had in a while. Definitely recommend. Kentucky coronel: (3/5) This wasn't my favorite. It's a simple, refreshing drink though! Goldeneye estate: (5/5) Must try! This was giving boba.Not overly sweet, it was delicious!! I would get this one again. Commander strange ways: (3/5) Not my favorite. It's heavy on the coffee. I wish it was creamier. Definitely a strong one! Caesar salad: (4.5/5) Honestly super delicious, but wish we got a little more. Dressing had the perfect flavor. Starlite burger: (5/5) One of the best burgers l've had in a while. It was cooked perfectly medium and the bun was soft and delicious! The fries were also seasoned really well. Sausage plate: (5/5) We were pleasantly surprised. It was one of the best sausages l've had. Apparently one of their specialties as the chef has experience with making sausage (I believe that's what our waitress told us lol) Mac and cheese: (4/5) This was pretty tasty! Super pretty presentation. Loved the crumbs and textures of it. Ice cream sandwich: (5/5) OMG. This was so damn good. I really wish I wasn't so full from the other food. I couldn't eat more than 1/4 of it. But I definitely would order this again and again and again. I never knew pistachio was so delicious.

+6

I had the pleasure of dining at this restaurant with a friend and was thoroughly impressed. We scored a last-minute reservation on OpenTable for Monday at 5:15 PM in the standard dining area, which features stunning starlight walls and rock walls, highly recommend requesting this section if you can! Parking is limited, so plan accordingly. I was lucky to grab the last available spot. The host was incredibly friendly and checked us in right away. We were seated immediately in a cozy corner, and I noticed the restaurant was well-staffed and organized. To start, I ordered the house-made ginger beer, so good and ginger forward, I ended up having two. For appetizers, we shared the steak and tuna tartare served with house-made potato chips, while my friend also had the French onion soup. They even brought us more chips! Everything was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. For my entrée, I went with the croissant and mac & cheese….WOW. Rich, buttery, and perfectly balanced. My friend had the steak and twice-baked potato, and both dishes were equally incredible. Every bite was memorable. We finished with the ice cream sandwich, which came out in a chilled ice bowl, a fun and unique presentation to end the meal. The lighting is on the dim side, and the music was a bit loud at times, so it may not be the best spot for elderly older adults or anyone with hearing or vision impairments. I’d also note that the main dining area seems best suited for parties of 2, as the tables are small and the acoustics might be challenging for larger groups. That said, this place has quickly become one of my new favorites. The ambiance, service, and especially the food were all exceptional. I’ll absolutely be back.

+6

We recently checked out this newly renovated cocktail lounge and restaurant, and it definitely lived up to the buzz! We didn’t make a reservation—figuring a Sunday evening would be pretty mellow—but we were wrong. The place was popping! Luckily, they were still able to seat us at a small table in the lounge area, and we were more than happy with that. In the lounge, you can only order small plates (brought out one at a time due to space), but honestly, it was perfect for us. We each had a cocktail and shared the Wagyu and yellowtail tartare—a combination we never would have thought of, but it was really good! The servers were fantastic—friendly, attentive, and really helped make the experience even better. The atmosphere is incredible, with rock wall interiors and star-lit ceilings that give the lounge a super cool, galactic vibe. They did an amazing job with the renovation! I had to sneak a peek at the main dining area while we were there, and it’s just as impressive—brighter and airy, with circle windows in the ceiling, hanging greenery, and a great overall vibe. We will definitely be back—next time, with a reservation!—to try more of the menu. This spot is a must if you’re looking for a unique atmosphere, great cocktails, and a memorable night out.

+1

This place has so much aviance. The staff were so nice and the food was amazing. I can see why you have to put in your reservations at least 2 weeks in advance.

Ambience is incredible. The main chandelier room is a must see. The back dining room also carries a totally different but also fantastic vibe. Drinks are tasty. Food was mediocre for the price, although the fries are absolutely perfect.

So excited Starlite is open again! We used to go years ago and loved the atmosphere and food. It was closed for a while for a remodel so last night was the first time we have been back in years. We loved every minute of it and were so excited they kept some of their staples. The burger is to die for (one of the best burgers in SD), we ordered a side of the gochujang carrots which had so much flavor, and my favorite - the pistachio ice cream sandwich. Also possibly one of my favorite desserts. Being 9 months pregnant, I am STILL dreaming of that freaking ice cream sandwich (which is literally the size of your head and can easily feed 4 people). The ambiance is gorgeous and so romantic! I checked out the outside patio and it looks so beautiful. So I think both inside and outside are great! My husband enjoyed his 2 amaro forward cocktails and I got the crème de cacao mocktail and it was so yummy! Service could have been a little quicker. Everyone was super nice but I wish we got checked on a little more. May have just me being impatient be said I was pregnant but I noticed the table next to us was also trying to get ahold of the waiter several times. He even got up to go ask for the check. But overall, so happy with our dinner! Super cute place for a date night or bringing friends!

I was not expecting this to be my favorite consortium holdings restaurant yet. Amazing decor, superb service (thank you Justin!), delicious food and drinks. Attention to detail in absolutely every detail of this place. Love it!!!

+1

This amazing bar boasts great music, unique decorations, and a beautiful layout. Upstairs, you’ll find cozy date tables and a small bar with soothing waterfall sounds.

+1

The food was so good, and the atmosphere was very cool, kind of felt like we were on Mars! The entrance and pathway to the restroom & outdoor dining area are pretty trippy. Just a little odd that we had a reservation but they couldn’t seat us right away, so we had to wait outside. Very busy for a Wednesday. There’s just not a good place to wait in the restaurant and the sidewalk is definitely not a cool place to wait. Ended up having to sit at the bar, I wish they would have just offered that to us initially.

+1

5 Stars – An Unforgettable Experience! From the moment we arrived, we were absolutely blown away by the ambiance—elegant, refined, and perfectly curated for a memorable evening. Every detail, from the lighting to the music, created a luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere. The staff were exceptional—warm, attentive, and incredibly professional. They made us feel like VIPs the entire time, anticipating our needs without being intrusive. It’s clear they take great pride in providing top-tier service. Justin was our server he was really good and provided some of his recommendations which were all really good. This place isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience. Highly recommend for special occasions or anyone looking to indulge in something truly special. We can’t wait to return! The steak were perfectly cooked, and the sides perfectly pair the steaks and the drinks were delicious 😋 too.

+6

Mozzarella sticks and caviar are the combination you never knew you needed!! So, so delicious. Highly recommend the Wagyu board. Cocktails were excellent, all the food was incredible, wrapped up in one gorgeous interior - 10/10

+3

What to say about Starlite?! Every aspect of this restaurant went above and beyond. We were visiting from Toronto and The service we received from both Peyton and Tina was incredible. Very kind, patient, and informative. The food and drink were incredible. The taste, the portions, the plating was all top notch. The ambience absolutely transports you to a different world. I would gladly return to this place when I am back in San Diego!

Highly recommend coming here for the food was amazing got the sausage patter and Waygu mashed potatoes with the pickled cauliflower as a side.

+5

Beautiful design and finishes, very friendly staff and great food, we had the steak that was awesome. Perfect for date night any day of the week!

+2

Peyton made our experience at Starlite absolutely unforgettable. From the moment we arrived, everything felt thoughtful, intentional, and meticulously planned. Peyton’s attention to detail was next-level nothing felt rushed or overlooked, and it truly elevated the entire night. The service was warm, welcoming, and effortless, and the food was phenomenal every dish was incredibly flavorful and perfectly prepared. You could feel the care that went into every part of the experience, from start to finish. This wasn’t just a dinner, it was an experience, and Peyton played a huge role in making it feel that special. Can’t recommend her—or Starlite—enough. We’ll absolutely be back.

✨Went to Starlite in Middletown and I get the hype now. 😎Dark, moody, cave like space with this volcanic, tiki inspired vibe that feels intimate and cool without trying too hard. 👌🏽First thing I noticed was the staff. Everyone was incredibly kind and dressed in denim coveralls. Chic, relaxed, and very on brand. 🥩🍸🧁What we ordered: • Salted croissant with everything butter • Fries with aioli • Dry aged half duck with spiced fig port reduction • Wagyu Picanha • Filet with a side Caesar salad • Wagyu fat mashed potatoes • Herb scalloped potatoes with cheddar, confit onions, and chives • Honey gochujang carrots with fried garlic and Thai herbs Dessert was fun and nostalgic • Mini Funfetti cake (they brought it out for our friend’s birthday) • Ice cream sandwich with vanilla ice cream, pistachio, and toffee chips Honestly, everything hit. Definitely make reservations and try to Uber. Street Parking is very limited here. We didn’t sit in the front retro room, so I already have an excuse to go back and check that out. I’ll absolutely be back.

Starlit has an awesome experience with its indoor design. Love the lighting and the ambiance it creates. We came for drinks and mistakenly made a rsvp. Which is for food only so if you want drinks there’s small tables along the edges of the restaurant to sit and admire the atmosphere. No need to rsvp for drinks only

Went here as a party of two, ordered a lot. Drinks were great so as the food, except the mushrooms side. It was blunt and ehh. Parking is tricky but plenty free around the block. Expect to spend over $200+ for a party of 2 with drinks. Highly recommend for occasions or dates.

We stopped in on Jose, from Born and Raised, recommendation. What a cool place! Star Wars bar / Egyptian tomb / disco cave. The drinks were amazing and everyone was super friendly. It’s a little north on India street. Worth checking out.

+6

Great ambiance, mixology and food. The service is amazing and the selection (bar and menu) is great. Quality ingredients shine in original and well prepared and very well presented dishes. Can’t wait to go back!

+3

Right off the bat when you enter you’re not gonna look at your beautiful date, you’ll look at the stars on the ceiling; great design and they have 3 different “rooms” with different decor, walk around and see all of them. Food service was a bit slow but with this place you wouldn’t feel like you’re in a hurry, on top of that the staff were extremely friendly so it didn’t even bother us. Don’t bring a date here if you want to break up with them or talk about something serious, there’s barely any privacy and you’ll be sitting right next to another table, so don’t make it awkward and keep the conversations chill. Food was small portions but it was all 10/10, only 4 mozzarella sticks shocked us but they also surprised us by how good they are so it’s worth the big price on it; same goes for the other appetizers or cocktails. For proportion - 3 appetizers and a big steak later and im still hungry but i might just be a fat ass, still I’d come again because of how good it is. First date? Take her somewhere quieter, 3rd date? Come here and enjoy people watching together. Hungry? Eat a small bite at home and come here because you’ll enjoy every minute of it.

+1

Starlite is super popular and you need to make reservations well in advance. I had never been here and it did not disappoint! We sat upstairs near the waterfall, I was glad that I brought my coat since it was raining on New Year's Eve. We only ordered the oysters because we had dinner reservations following this experience. In hindsight I wish we had eaten here! The oysters were delicious (Kumiai and Stringrays from VA that I cannot remember thr name). We have another reservation here on Sunday so I'm looking forward to trying some other dishes and cocktails. Such a fun experience. Highly recommend 👌

+6

First and foremost, shout out to our server Justin! From the service & staff, to the atmosphere, the drinks, the food - all around quality. Absolutely worth the trip to this unassuming place. - Mozzarella Sticks: caviar, creme fresh. - Sausage plate: served fresh with fermented veggies, bread and mustard. - filet, pichana with Mac n cheese + broccoli sides. - ice cream sandwich dessert Everything was absolutely delicious - we were prepared to have something to take home, but everything was too delicious and we finished every plate. All three rooms of the establishment are unique. Highly recommend.

+5

This place looked enticing from the social media posts, but in person, was so much cooler. Outside and inside are two totally different vibes so you will want to come back more than once to experience the different settings. The drinks wete Great too. Loved their version of the espresso martini. Very good old fashioned as well. The food was what really got us though. It was so much better than we were expecting and we dont mean that in a bad way. Truly knocked it out of the park with their menu. Cant wait to come back!

+2

Parking is limited! But If you love modern design and soft lights this is the place! Delicious food and sexy vibe perfect for a date. No much for exploring around on that neighborhood so I suggest to arrive close to your reservation but with enough time to search for parking. Is a vibe I love it and you would too. ✨👌🏻

Absolutely love this place! Went for a girls night out, and let's just say it was worth it. From the moment you walk in you feel the cozy vibes bit sexy at the same time. We requested to sit by the water and so worth it. We stated with the caviar and OMG i crave this daily. We also ordered the wagyu it was food the twice baked potato amazing and we'll seasoned. The macaroni and cheese was so creamy.

+3

This was easily one of the best meals I’ve ever had! I made a reservation for my husband’s birthday and was very excited for the ambiance, but this place couldn’t have been better! Every dish was delicious, the service was impeccable, and their whole team really went above and beyond to make us feel special. I cannot recommend this spot enough. It is everything and more! We will absolutely be back and telling everyone we know about it!

I celebrated my birthday at Starlite last weekend and it did not disappoint! We were seated on the first floor, dimly lit, super cozy under the starlit ceiling. Allie was our server and she was the sweetest- super friendly and made us feel right at home. She encouraged us to check out the second floor, but we never made it, so we’ll have to come back. The cocktails were a hit (the Beretta & New Wave- yum!). Our Wagyu steak was cooked perfectly and their mac & cheese was probably one of the best I’ve ever had. Soooo creamy and al dente, I’m still thinking about it a couple days later. Allie recommended the broccolini and I would say that is a must when you visit Starlite. They brought out a darling little funfetti cake for my birthday, and we also indulged in the chocolate mousse. Everything was superb. I highly recommend!

+2

We really loved this restaurant. The interior is incredibly beautiful, thoughtfully designed, and luxurious — it’s the kind of place you want to keep looking around because every detail is impressive. Everything looks absolutely stunning. The service was excellent, the cocktails were delicious, and the food was truly top-level. The sea bass was simply fantastic.

I visited Starlite with two of my girlfriends and it was an absolutely lovely experience. We made reservations with a request to be in the disco cave, which was fabulous. I might note that the waterfall itself and music makes this a bit of a louder space for dinner, but perfect for date night if you choose to sit next to each other! The design elements in all three rooms are thoughtful and impactful, and the food and cocktails matched the above and beyond visual aesthetic of the dining experience. I enjoyed a filet alongside the wedge salad and their house margarita. Adored the small plates (which somehow looked like Moscow mule mug material?!) and our server was great. Highly recommend for girls night out or date night! Truly a one-of-a-kind spot.

CH knows interior design and I’d put this one in top 5 CH restaurant. Interesting area between little Italy and mission hills but with Aero/Dyno bar 2 block walk down the street it gives a fun local vibe. $100 steak was nothing special. But the $17 burger was divine for the price. Speciality cocktails were very good space cadet being my favorite sweet delight. Overall you can get out of this place for 30$ a person but with some apps a steak and drinks it was $120 a person for us.

+6

I used to live in San Diego and have found a lot of good food, especially casual and tasty dining. This place is in a league of its own in San Diego. I had the salmon and tuna for starter. It was fresh and incredibly flavorful and came with umami tasting chips. The beef (I was able to choose a 6 ounce) was exquisite, tender, and deep tasting and cooked to perfection. I also tasted the wedge salad with the most incredible tasting dressing, and the scallop potatoes were wonderfully dense. The service was friendly and impeccable, but the atmosphere is really something. It’s like a 70s lounge, something I’ve always dreamed of being brought back to life.

What a night! My boyfriend booked us reservations for my 40th birthday and it did not disappoint. Delicious mocktails, super friendly staff, Pablo is the man and answered all our questions about the menu and was very attentive and on point with service. Nathan the manager stopped by and wished me a happy birthday and was super kind and made us feel very welcome. I can’t even begin to describe the vibes here. It’s fun and fancy but not at all stuffy or off putting. Everywhere I looked, people were truly enjoying themselves and enjoying the food and ambiance. It was sooo much fun I strongly suggest checking out Starlite for a date night or special occasion. Thanks Starlite for making my birthday so memorable!!

I’ve patronized the bar prior, but last night was the first time I’ve gotten a chance to eat there. I was sat in the back next to the waterfall which was very pretty and unique… perfect for a first date. I recommend the steak sampler… Sauces, flavor and portions were top notch. Our server was also very attentive and charming (red hair) and the other server assistants made us feel welcome I also want to acknowledge the hostess Arianna and the other female at the front desk who were extremely warm, cool and professional. 5 stars Bathrooms were clean and trendy Usually when a place has really nice Ambiance… the food / service doesn’t keep up, but Starlite did just that. I see why the resos are booked out weeks in advance :)

Loved this place. Went for a night out and it was totally worth it. The ambiance really sets the mood and makes it great for a special evening, the vibe feels cozy and very classy. We tried the Beet Steak, Roasted Broccoli, and a couple of cocktails. The cocktails and the Beet steak stood out. It's such a great spot in San Diego if you’re looking for good food, drinks, and a date night.

+1

A birthday meal I’ll be thinking about for the foreseeable future. The vibes, atmosphere, and service were immaculate. If you’re like me and want one of everything on the menu but don’t have the stomach space, get the steak sampler. It’s the perfect way to try several incredible cuts, each with its own dedicated sauce. I’d also recommend grabbing a few sides — the mashed potatoes, the carrots, and a salad were perfect complements. And I cannot forget the caviar and mozzarella sticks starter. Truly the best way to kick off my birthday celebration (caviar anything and I’m in). The cocktails were top‑tier and somehow tasted even better in the moody lighting and groovy, laid‑back vibe of the space. After an amazing meal, they surprised me with the cutest birthday dessert — birthday‑cake flavored, topped with sprinkles (a nostalgic dynamic duo), and they even printed my name on top. I melted. I’ll absolutely be coming back, especially to check out the outdoor dining area, which I hear is out of this world. P.S. Stop by the bathroom. Trust me.

My husband took me here for my birthday dinner and wow — this place is stellar. From the moment we sat down, everything felt thoughtful and intentional. Our waiter, Pablo, was so kind and genuinely attentive. He even sneakily asked how to spell my name to make sure it was spelled correctly on my birthday dessert 🥹 — such a small detail that meant so much. The food was delicious across the board, and the ambiance was exactly what we needed: chill, vibey, great tunes, but not too loud — perfect for actually enjoying conversation. The manager, Nathan, stopped by our table to introduce himself and wish me a happy birthday. He was incredibly welcoming, and you could tell he has regulars who truly love coming back — which says a lot about the place. Overall, it was a beautiful experience from start to finish, and we will definitely be back. Can’t wait already. Food ordered: Bison short rib Double baked truffle potato French onion soup Herbed fries Cocktails: Starlite Old Fashioned Goldeneye Estate Highly recommend ✨🍸🍽️

+2

One of the best restaurants I’ve EVER been to. The food was insanely delicious. We ordered a lot and was impressed by it all. Oddly enough my favorite item was their baked potato from the sides menu, holy hell , they mastered the potato. We also got mozzarella sticks, with low expectations cause they are just Moses sticks, but NO those were way more than “just mozzarella sticks”, served with sour cream and caviar and idk how that worked but it was 10/10. Best cookie I’ve ever had also. I was also very impressed by service. they were very attentive, patient and very friendly. I still remember their names and it’s been a month since my experience. Juliette and Nathan were amazing!!! Need to note the restaurants absolutely gorgeous and it felt like we were transported to a foreign cave on a stary night. Overall an amazing experience. I’d drive 4 hours for dinner here.

Excelente lugar! Me atendieron super bien, el bartender me ayudó eligiendo comida y trago y no me arrepiento. Un poco caro para mi bolsillo latinoamericano pero valió la pena. 100% recomendado

Sup cool atmosphere inside. One of the most interesting restaurants I have been to before. Servers were very kind and professional and made us feel welcome. Food was great. Doesn’t have to be expensive, especially if you don’t get cocktails and don’t order anything to crazy. Good experience

What a restaurant!!!! Stumbled by chance over this. It's a MUST SEE! Downstairs is a super cool dimly lit bar in a 'cave surrounding', with an awesome DJ stand! Pop through a 'Time Tunnel' Neon doorway into 'an enchanted forrest'. Carry on walking past a second bar which leads to a 'cave' lined with mirror mozaics with a waterfall, illuminated resin floor and tables! It's all extremely tastefully well done. Whats it like to eat? Well I had a burger, fries and a beer and came to around $24 so very reasonable. I had to follow with a cocktail, which Nathan the barman was expertly crafting. All in all a terrific night with friendly prompt service from all staff. 10 stars out of 5 if I could give! Geoff from the UK.

I chose Starlite to celebrate my boyfriend’s birthday, and it was the best choice! The food, drinks, and atmosphere were perfect. Julia was our server, and she was AMAZING! I couldn’t recommend it more!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Starlite absolutely stole our hearts! We had the shrimp cocktail and tartar — both so fresh and flavorful. The atmosphere was warm and full of good energy; we ended up chatting with so many wonderful new people. It felt easy and welcoming, like we’d been going there for years. And being just a short stroll from our favorite spot, Aero, made the night even better. Can’t wait to go back! ✨

Close friends of ours agreed to dine out w/ us on a Tuesday night and agreed to try something new. We decided to take a chance with Starlite without a reservation and were fortunate to secure a corner booth upstairs. We were served by Christina and decided to share their seafood tower, share their charred broccoli and mac & cheese appetizers, and order our own salads (Cesar Salad & Crab Louie Salad w/ both 1000 Island & vinaigrette dressings on the side), and finished our meal sharing their pistachio ice cream sandwich. Drinks ordered included sparkling water, a Diet Coke, lemonade, and several rounds of their ‘filthy’ martinis. The upstairs dining area lighting from daylight to nightlight was simply stunning, music wasn’t too loud, table service staging was a tad slow (but since we were enjoying our company so much it really didn’t matter), and their restrooms were very clean. Jack (restaurant GM) stopped by to see if we were enjoying ourselves. We have nothing bad to report. We recommend those wishing to dine here to get a reservation as it was extremely busy for a Tuesday night and can only imagine how it is the rest of the week.

As a San Diego local, born and raised, I’ve never heard of this place until I was invited to come by just recently. And let me tell you, I had no idea such an impressive bar existed here in SD. The ambiance was just simply brilliant and amazing. I stayed at the first half of the bar not knowing the second half existed. But once I was told I can go past the sliding doors, I discovered the dining area and the really cool water fall. I will definitely come back for a date night in the near future!

I’ve been wanting to come here since their renovation/remodel. I was so impressed! Pictures don’t do this place justice. It is more cramped and narrow than expected, but that’s the only negative thing about it. It’s like a morph of Las Vegas, Palm Springs, and Star Wars. I have a shellfish allergy. Kristina was very helpful with that. Unfortunately I couldn’t have anything fried because the fryer is used with shellfish, too - so no mozzarella sticks, chips (comes with the tartare), or broccoli for me. The Jidori chicken was fantastic! I didn’t have to deal with bones or tendons, aside from the small drumstick part of it. My boyfriend loved the bison short ribs. I had a few bites and it was so tender that the meat was practically falling off the fork! Very good if you like braised short ribs. Cocktails rocked. Honey Ryder was my favorite. We got the carrots, mashed potatoes, and mac n cheese for sides. I recommend the mac n cheese. We also got the Wagyu and yellowtail tartare and French onion soup. We liked the tartare more, but avoid the chips it comes with if you have a shellfish allergy. The chips share a deep fryer with shellfish. Kristina gave me a heads-up on this, which I appreciated. Both of us were so full that we couldn’t try dessert, but we will next time. If you want to keep it below $100 per person, skip cocktails and get just one entree and side per person. We were eager to try as much as we could, though, so our bill came out to $211. That included two entrees, two appetizers, three sides, and four cocktails. The Honey Ryder is so easy to drink yet still boozy - so don’t drink it fast if you’re on an empty stomach. We walked through the entirety of the restaurant and sat at the very end in front of the waterfall. It is very loud so conversing is difficult, but it didn’t bother us because we loved that seating so much. The waterfall has a nice firepit to keep you comfortable.

We had such a lovely time at Starlite. The scenery and ambiance is so impressive, the food is always incredible, but the aspect about Starlite that takes the cake is the staff. Allie was our server and she was so kind and personable and a joy to have with us! Nate was also so welcoming and easy to talk to, we are so grateful that we got to meet them both. We felt invited and welcome the entire time we were there and can’t wait to go back!

The food had amazing flavors! The drinks tasted like they had a good amount of alcohol. The ambience is great. Our service was amazing. I had the bass and side of mushrooms which tasted so good and I think it was the sauce on the fish. Definitely worth a visit!

I’d been eagerly waiting to revisit Starlight after its remodel and refreshed menu and WOW, it absolutely delivered. From the moment I stepped inside, the hostess welcomed me with a warm, genuine smile. My server, Annie, was full of great energy and offered fantastic recommendations throughout the meal. The drinks were perfectly chilled and delicious, and every dish from the tartare to the ribeye cap steak to the carrots was outstanding. I truly can’t wait to come back.

Holiday shout-out to Emma! ⭐️ This was our first time here, and Emma was absolutely wonderful. I brought a family member visiting from Hawaii, and she was exceptionally accommodating on a very busy dinner night. Her warmth and hospitality made our experience extra special. We’ll definitely be back!

One of my favorite places to dine in SD. Starlite, along with Juniper & Ivy and Callie, are my go tos. Love getting a dozen oysters, the steak sampler, the green goddess salad and honey glazed carrots. YUUUUUMMMM. Can't forget the cocktails either - you'll never go wrong with their old fashioned. Besides the food, the decor is stunning and the Waterfall room is out of this world. Always a treat when I'm seated next to the waterfall with the back lit quartz tables and shimmering silver mosaic ceiling...... just stunning.

Such a perfect place to celebrate my birthday! We were greeted with complimentary champagne, and the entire experience was amazing. Every dish we ordered was absolutely delicious. The ambiance was beautiful and our server Justin was incredibly kind with spot-on recommendations. The entire staff went above and beyond to make us feel special including a surprise personalized slice of cake with my name on it! The attention to detail was so appreciated. I’d recommend this spot for anyone celebrating something special or just looking for an unforgettable dining experience.

Starlite was such a great experience! The food was delicious, the vibe was on point, and everything came out perfectly. You can tell a lot of care goes into both the menu and the atmosphere. Our server, Justin, was absolutely incredible. Friendly, attentive, and genuinely personable—he made us feel taken care of from the moment we sat down. His timing, recommendations, and overall energy were spot-on and really elevated the entire meal. Amazing food, excellent service, and a great overall experience. We’ll definitely be back!

El ambiente y la comida son buenos, salvó la atención al cliente deja mucho que desear.

La comida está muy deliciosa 100% recomendado

I like the aesthetic here. The exterior is very mid century and I like the dark interior with the lights over the bar. I dont really understand the chairs though, they look like patio furniture and don't really match. Anyway, the drinks were excellent, especially Drifters Gold. We got the salami and cheese board with added bone marrow. I'm really into their pickled vegetables. Very tasty. We also tried the stone fruit salad and mac and cheese both were decent. Service was attentive. I'd definitely come back to try some other cocktails at the bar.

+4

Everything is almost perfect🫶🏻, except the food takes a long time to arrive

+3

Food was incredible! Worth the higher-end pricing. Beet steak salad is so unique! Sea bass was perfect. Space Cadet was the perfect blend of refreshing & tang. Ambiance is incredible, try to reserve a table at the bar cave waterfall. So pretty! Critique: - Parking is horrendous! Found one 2 blocks away, way up on the hill. If you're wearing heels, bring an extra set of flip-flops just to walk down to the restaurant. 🤨 Yikes! - Noise level a bit high.

The atmosphere and food were top notch. Burger, Mac n cheese, shrimp and ice cream sandwich were the favorites. 1/2 of the fresh oysters were good the other half not so much. As for drinks, the mule was definitely tasty. The 4 star review was for the lack of service. The service was almost non existent. We had to order the burger and to go boxes three times. They never brought water to the table and only two napkins for four people. In 2.5 hours we were able to get three drinks, but not water. Also, never got the to-go-boxes, we finally got up and left. The lack of service will keep us from adding in into local restaurant rotation.

+1

The ambiance was great, our server was really nice and attentive he even brought us some champagne for our anniversary. Food is really good only the steak could’ve been a tad better.

I went to Starlite for my birthday and honestly the night started off rough. We had a reservation and got there on time, but the hostess wasn’t very friendly and told us our table wasn’t ready. She sat us on a bench with drink menus, but no one came to take our order for over 15 minutes. Then we got moved to another table for drinks, and still no server. When someone finally showed up, the hostess interrupted and said not to take our order because our table was almost ready. It was confusing and frustrating. Once we finally got to our reserved table, everything got better. Our server was awesome, the food and drinks were really good, and the place is beautiful for a special occasion. It’s just too bad the messy start kind of overshadowed the rest of the night.

+1

This restaurant was so mysterious to us. I came across an Instagram video but we couldn’t find anything about it… not a menu or even what kind of food was served. So I made it my mission to get in here. Let me tell you it was not easy! I stalked opentable like it was the only thing that mattered.. No one answers the phone- So don’t bother calling. When we got there, the hostess wasn’t happy we were an hour early ( we could only get a 9:45 reservation and wanted to see if we could be sat early) but told us we can wait at the bar. The place was sooooo beautiful, like stunning!!! At the bar, the bartender was busy chatting with his friend that we got semi ignored… the drinks were good though. When we were finally sat in the main dining area, it was BEAUTIFUL. The decorator was talented, it was like an oasis.. all pretty!! My issue- it was half empty. I have no idea why we’re waiting so long… there was even a whole empty section. The food was okay. Kind of a let down if I’m being honest. It was presented nicely but for the price we paid for this “experience” I was disappointed for sure. I’m a foodie and things were good but not like omg good…

+6

We went to Starlite on a Tuesday to celebrate my friend's birthday. We had reservations at 8:15 PM and arrived about 10 minutes early. They seated us right away in a little corner next to the bar, where we ordered drinks while waiting for our actual table. About 25 minutes later, we were moved to our table. Not a deal breaker, just something to keep in mind if you're on a schedule. The vibe inside is beautiful. Dim, starry lighting, great music, very moody and intimate without feeling stuffy. It definitely feels like a "dress up a little and make a night of it" kind of spot. Our server Maddy was super nice and honestly one of the highlights of the night. She recommended a few drinks and dishes. Food: The wagyu yellowtail tartare looked great but needed more flavor. The Jidori truffled chicken was juicy and flavorful. The wagyu mashed potatoes were creamy and delicious. The bison short ribs were done just right. The honey gochujang carrots were my favorite dish of the night. Drinks: Tarantula Room (mezcal), Starlite Old Fashioned, Starlite Mule, and Commander Strangeways (espresso martini). The cocktails are definitely a strong point here. For dessert we had the honey cake, which was a little dry. They also brought out a funfetti cake with my friend's name on it for her birthday, which was such a sweet touch (also a little dry, but appreciated). One downside: the bathrooms. They look cool, but I saw toilet paper on the floor. When you're paying those prices and making reservations, you expect everything to feel polished. That part took away from the experience a bit. Parking seems very limited, so I'm glad we took an Uber. Overall we had a great time. It's a vibey, beautiful space with strong cocktails and some standout dishes. I'd probably come back to sit at the bar for drinks and soak in the atmosphere again.

+6

Sarah s nos atendió el día de hoy y desde que llegamos tuvo una actitud muy arrogante, cero amable:

Probably one of the best ambiances in SD. Food is hit and miss. Some items are delicious. Some are overpriced mid plates. If you haven't been, you have to go. Bar is great if you want to sneak in last minute. Watch out if you get seated in the back. Lots of mosquitoes.

The\nDecor is amazing and quite unique. What?\nI didn't like was how loud the music was being played.You couldn't hear your server and you couldn't hear the person next to you. That is too loud. Food was pretty good.My son had a steak that he really liked and it was very tender.I had the meatball sub, and it was good. The wedge salad was good too.I had French fries and they were disappointing.I've had much better , especially in a high end restaurant like that.

4.5 stars. I'll admit, I expected to be out on a cold patio in the back when we pulled up to the restaurant because the place was packed. Man, was I wrong! This place is beautiful- ESPECIALLY in the back by the waterfall! Our waitress Madison was awesome, friendly and just the right amount of attentiveness. I was served one of the best French onion soups I've ever had- and that's my favorite soup. I think these were honestly the best pickled veggies I've eaten since I left South Korea- I don't think I've ever been served pickled enoki mushrooms, but I'd eat them from here every day of the week. The steak sampler and the crab Louie salad were also highlights, but I won't forget that soup and those veggies. First time here, will NOT be our last

This place is all about the atmosphere! Food is decent, particularly the oysters when in season. The staff is friendly but a bit slow. There is only one unisex bathroom so there is always a line. The music is fun but can be loud. Parking is difficult so I’d go early if you have a reservation. Worth checking out!

Starlite is a beautiful restaurant with a great atmosphere and a really stylish, cozy vibe. It’s an especially nice spot for couples or a date night. The food was good overall, and the service was solid and pleasant, even if nothing particularly stood out. One thing to keep in mind is that there’s no on-site parking, which can make it a little tricky depending on when you go. Overall, it’s a lovely place to enjoy a night out, especially for the ambiance.

All shine, not a lot of substance. The vibes are incredible, very cool decor, and there was a dj on Saturday night. The cocktail menu looks fancy but is all sweet drinks. I Asked the waitress to recommend a cocktail that wasn’t sweet and the one she recommended was very sweet. I do appreciate that she took it off the bill and let me order something new. My new drink was ok

It's a nice place to try but it's kinda chaotic, noisy, congested feels inside. I think it's too small and compact design that resembles like a cave feels, i think that is what it is.

+2

3.5, could be better. Hyped up place for dates. Great tartar but short ribs were cold. Delicious but cold. . .side broccoli was cooked 10 times over - Vons is better. . . best thing is the friend shallot. Would not come back. Great service but kitchen needs to line up. Do better guys and it could be mint. . . Be sure to make a reservation.

Beautiful restaurant, bar, and décor, but unfortunately, the food and service did not match the ambiance. Before visiting, I did my due diligence by reading reviews and ensuring this place lived up to its reputation. I came to celebrate my brother-in-law and sister’s birthdays, and while the setting was impressive, the experience fell short in multiple ways. Our server Liana P. was noticeably rude and inattentive, despite the section not being busy. When I initially mentioned that I wanted to pay for two people, she dismissed the request, saying we’d “take care of it at the end.” It felt as though she ignored my initial communication. She was also short with my sister when asked about the difference between the steak sauces — a basic menu question that should’ve been handled kindly. When I asked whether the salads were large enough to share, she gave no input yet one salad was clearly enough for two people. I ordered the broccoli and scalloped potatoes; the potatoes arrived cold, and by the time we could get her attention, it wasn’t worth sending them back. The filet was dry, and the sauce portion was minimal, making it unenjoyable. While the small birthday cake gesture was appreciated, it didn’t make up for the overall poor service. Drinks took too long, and throughout the evening, the server seemed irritated by our table’s requests, even though she only had two other groups in her section. Having worked in the industry myself, I understand how demanding the job can be but if you’re not happy serving guests, perhaps it’s time for a change. When a bill totals $300, the service and food quality should reflect that standard. Unfortunately, this experience did not.

+1

We made reservations, waited about 35 minutes, and they did not have the area we requested. They had us wait in the area everyone passes through. We were told we can order a drink in the meantime and no one stopped to offer anything. The food was good. Our waiter was really nice and attentive. I'm hoping to give this place another chance as we went around the holidays, but definitely needs to be more organized, and the front hosts do be more attentive

The food was good, a bit pricey but still affordable. The atmosphere was nice and the place was pretty and well-decorated. We loved the fries and the chicken, but the mac and cheese was mediocre and flavorless. Entrees are served a la carte, so you have to order sides separately. The food took a little while and the waitress was a bit slow. She took quite some time to greet us and take our order. We ordered dessert and while we were still clearly eating, she offered us to pack the dessert to go, which made us feel rushed. I have ADHD, and while we were waiting for the waitress to bring our bill (which took a while), I was playing with the lamp, turning it on and off with the touch sensor. I was a bit mesmerized by it (I have a short attention span, I get distracted easily). However, she was quite rude and told me how long it takes her to charge the lamps and how much they cost. I'm not excusing my behavior, but her reaction was bizarre. Her telling us that those lamps cost nearly $500 and that the check presenters were almost $100 was really tacky. The waitress was a bit snappy, and she'd try to excuse her behavior by over-explaining. The experience was okay, but the waitress definitely needs better training.

+1

The ambitious is definitely what you're going for. Food was good noting mind blowing. Steak was chewy. Service definitely needs some improvement. With the prices they charge definitely should be packing our leftover food for us. You definitely will be spending close to 300 here. No coat check and tight seating. Long wait time even with reservations.

Starlite is definition of Instagram gimmick or hype trap. The food is average, atmosphere is ok, they might have most of areas closed which you see on insta feed. Place is good if you’re just visiting for drink or two. Wouldn’t visit again.

First time here and it was just okay. The service to get water and drinks was really slow - not sure if it was just unorganized or what, but it wasn't busy when we got there. The drinks were delicious and the yellowtail tartare was good, served with potato chips. We ordered steaks (I ordered prime filet), but my husband's was not all that great and was tough to cut (picanah). The mac and cheese and broccoli sides were very good, but the twice baked potato came out nearly cold. We ordered the chocolate mousse for dessert and it was the perfect sharing size and not overly frothy or sweet. I washed it down with an espresso martini (forgot the name) which was probably one of the best ones I've ever had. Overall, a decent experience and the ambiance was cool.

Our experience began with a 30+ min wait to be seated after our reservation time. Then the service continued to be very slow. We ordered a group of starters, shrimp cocktail, Caesar salad, and Mac and cheese, and none were remarkable. We were celebrating a birthday and they did bring a nice small cake, gratis, but again we were waiting just too long to be served. There seemed to be enough servers, perhaps there needs to be more support in the kitchen.

If you've been upstairs, you know about the waterfall disco ball tunnel room. Unfortunately, San Diego weather made things quite uncomfortable in that area this evening. I get that it's mostly out of your control, but good Lord - I felt like I spent a couple hours in a terrarium. The heat. The humidity. Not much else was on my mind as we waited longer and longer for sweet relief in the form of water refills and cocktails (which we saw sitting at the bar top for what seemed like an eternity - 5-10 minutes, actually). The food was a mixed bag. Oysters were acceptable, although the baja variety was deemed sub-par. The pickled vegetable appetizer left us wondering why a serving utensil was left out - but tasted quite nice. Short ribs and sea bass were the highlights of the evening. The ribeye cap was underwhelming, overcooked, and had a burnt / charred flavor that can only be attributed to a flare up. If the cook wants a tutorial on how to cook beef properly, hit me up. The honey carrots were tasty, but overcooked like they sat in a buffet tray for far too long. Other sides like mushrooms, broccoli and mashed potatoes were all forgettable. Service... perhaps I expect too much when I dine out. Pre-2020, you got attention, and staff seemed genuinely interested in making dining experiences top notch. These days, I suppose it's normal to have slow service - but it's not for me.

thought the food was decent but salty, then i got food poisoning a few hours after eating the chicken. so sad to be throwing up on my birthday. will not be returning or recommending this restaurant.

Terrible billing experience – be careful! I recently visited Starlite and spent $47, which I have proof of. However, when I later checked my card transactions, I found another unexpected charge of $39 from the same restaurant. I tried contacting them multiple times to fix the issue, but no one has responded. This is extremely disappointing and unprofessional. Be very careful when paying here — double-check your receipts and bank statements! I definitely won’t be coming back until they resolve this.

I’ve never left a review before and have never felt I needed to. But Starlite was terrible. We had reservations for 9:15 didn’t get seated until 9:35. Took another 20 minutes to take our order. Drinks were poorly mixed. Food tasted nonetheless like a cheap microwaveable meal. Both were insanely overpriced and worthy of a refund. The atmosphere was unique but mostly overcrowded, quite loud, and no where near the experience that was expected from a highly anticipated restaurant. The hype will eventually fade and starlite will be nothing more than a mid level restaurant

Mala experiencia, solo es por reservación no hay lista de espera, además un poco grosera la que nos recibe. El lugar se ve increíble solo que por la alta demanda no son nada amables.