Chef Dave is excellent. He came out to check on the temperature of my son's steak. Amy served us and was terrific. Everything about this meal was delicious. They were able to handle a party of six no problem. Our family loves the nostalgic feel of the restaurant along with the music. This is a nice place to take the family or have a romantic dinner for two. read more

We came for their $65 special that is posted on their web site and we got an e-mail for. Our server didn't know of the special so went to ask the chef. He came back saying the chef said the special had expired. We explained, we got the e-mail only a few days earlier and the special is posted on their web site. Our server said the only side was mashed potatoes. We pointed out the ad clearly states 2 sides not one side. The server also said the only steak option was a ribeye and that it would be a 16oz cut in half. As you can see from the picture, what we got is very different. This made for a rather uncomfortable dining experience. We've never had to justify our meal before. This was a bad dining experience. read more

Imperial Steakhouse - $65 special - Lounges Near Me - San Diego, California

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Cons: Inattentive. Neglectful. Worst customer service experience ever. Walked out after ~30 mins without receiving any greeting from a server, waiter, host, bus person, no one... no water, no bread, no preparation for our arrival, no drink order, no "hello," no "be right with you," no service, no apology, and no accountability. We were traveling and being impressed by reviews, we secured a RESERVATION days prior to our arrival!!! You'd think someone in the building would've been expecting us! No excuse for not being greeted, and not even getting the bare minimum treatment expected from any random 24/7 diner, let alone a premium steakhouse. Dining experience was disappointing (or nonexistent), and the private Yelp messages from the owner were extremely telling. Can't improve if you don't take care to acknowledge and address areas for opportunity. Customer service is a glaring one. Pro: Convenient parking. Spacious booths Wish we could give an opinion of the food, but we left. read more

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Fourth time around was as how we expected and what keeps us coming back. This time they did ask for reservations, they have great steaks like the cowboy ribeye, tomahawk steak and other very delicious steaks that are ordered as you ask for them during making reservation. If you don't they may not have what you are looking for. First room to right you find a live band and open bar. To the left you find the steak treasure restaurant. We ordered the ribeye and my boys ordered the cowboy ribeye. This time we took our 2mo old and the lady was accommodating to our needs. The plus for us too is that it comes with a cake dessert. It was so delicious I recommend it. read more

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Our group of five wanted to try the advertised special, $45 for a house salad , nice steak, and desert. We made a reservation on the advertised date 10/28/25. When we arrived the place was empty and they said the special was no longer available. We were all very disappointed. We decided to stay, however they had no baked potatoes, or a couple other dishes that we were interested in. For the amount of money we spent it was a very disappointing experience. read more

Imperial Steakhouse - This is the advertisement - Lounges Near Me - San Diego, California

A classic steakhouse from the 1960s (1968), that the original owners son keeps open. It's quiet and never busy, but you get a Frank Sinatra vibe upon walking into the dining room. A simple one page menu, classic steakhouse options (not cheap but comparable to steakhouses these days), and a full bar. Friendly service and worth a trip for an old-school steakhouse vibe. read more

Imperial Steakhouse - Dining room. All original fixtures and furniture, which a lot has been restored from 1968. It's a walk down memory lane type spot for sure! - Lounges Near Me - San Diego, California

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Located right downtown across from Balboa Park, at prime dinnertime you would expect at least to have ONE other party dining in the restaurant but no, we were alone and our reservation seemed silly to us when we got there and saw that. Still, we persevered and went ahead and ordered. Things on the menu were unavailable to order.The salad I had seemed like melting, old spring mix from a bag. The steak my fellow diner ordered was extremely tough. It has been a few months now and we still scratch our heads and wonder aloud about this place. Like what is the deal? How can they stay in business? How are there good reviews? read more

Great retro steak place! Amazing decor. Full bar. Like stepping back in time to the 1960s. Stiff drinks. Lots of steak options. Yummy side dishes (sides are kinda small to share though- better for one ). Awesome service & ambiance. Prices very fair for the quality. Great date night spot. Looking fwd to be back. Cheers! read more

Best burger (non smash) & great price point! Would argue that one of the best in SD! Very hospitable staff as well

Really could be the go to standard for when you want something you could cook at home, don't want to apply the effort, and you want a little extra kick to it. The food here was an 8.99/10. It is certainly more traditional but everything is prepared to perfection. The crust on our steak was remarkable, inside, slightly more than medium rare but it was so thick, so juicy, so flavorful, it's easy to disregard. The potato skins were also awesome. Perfectly seared, nice balance of toppings and the ranch it was served with was awesome too. Mushrooms, again, traditional, but again they were cooked to perfection. Our server, Amy, was quirky, fun, and very kind. "Free" cheesecake came our way. One item of note is that the restaurant was EMPTY. From when we arrived to when we finished. There's an old school sense of royalty here decoration wise. Red velvet seats and booths, chandeliers, fake flowers, it's all pretty cool. The restaurant was very sound and solid, but silent. Come here if you have kids and want a silent evening, not if you want fun. Overall though, grade A everything. read more

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I love this throwback steakhouse! Red leather furnishings, small footprint, low light chandeliers, fantastic bar, top shelf beef, fantastic appetizers, and personalized service is old skool fantastic. The steaks are great. The bone marrow is fantastic. The bar is a fantastic with a loyal local following. Reasonably priced cocktails. Give this classic local spot your business! read more

Sent my parents here for dinner tonight and it sounds like an absolute disaster! Horrible food, poor service, no bread, no baked potatoes, salty thin tasteless filets. Mega expensive for terrible experience. Avoid!!!!! read more

I loved the rib-eye steak I had here! If you're craving a good steak, you'll really like their steaks. It's a meat lover's happy moment read more

Booked a table for my wife's birthday. Arrived early and took advantage of good wines on Happy Hour (goes to 7pm). Had two different steaks and both were amazingly tasty. They also give you a free desert! We plan to go back soon. read more

Love this place, it is perfect for date night, high class vibe, affordable prices, GREAT service.. Hostess Amy is very attentive, but not needy.. The menu is pretty basic in a good way, an priced spot on. Oh and the octopus is brag worthy, priced perfect, quality is awesome and the quantity is almost too much..YUM.. Lighting is on the dimmer side, however it makes the leather interior pop.. Makes you almost feel underdressed and not worthy. Waiting for Elvis or Sinatra to walk in any minute... All in all, perfect place our date night, you SHOULD try it..!! read more

Imperial Steakhouse - Lounges Near Me - San Diego, California

Love this place, food is always great and the staff is welcoming. Lowkey vibe with old school feel.

Food was great! Haven't had great steak like this in a while. When the steak is great, the sides aren't, but not here! Amazing as well. Only complaint is we shared the steak and got a split charge $15 added to our check. read more

This place rules! Seriously the best kept secret in Bankers Hill if you like a low-key spot to have a super good deal on happy hour, classic rock, Leslie the bartender who is sweet as the day is long! Friday nights there is live music and a dance floor in the bar. So much fun. It's so low profile I have rolled out of bed at 11pm and came dancing in my pj's, lol! Such a chill spot! Oh, and the steaks and Caesar salad are ridiculously good. Coming from a Caesar salad snob, it's one of the best read more

Food was amazing. Music family friendly and not loud. Lighting was dim but not too low. Server Amy was amazing and attentive. We will definitely come back! read more

Happy Hour Review Located in the heart of Banker's Hill, across the street from Balboa Park and a restauranteur icon that is also layered with San Diego History. You will leave happy if partakng in this quiet low light happy hour iconic lounge. The restaurant is on the left side the lounge is on the right side. No frills HH and still only two 13inch TV's. Happy Hour is underrated. But the food, prices and choices are good. Sure there may be one waitress but she is quick to respond and take care of your needs. You must def check it out. Trust me, locals know the best happy hours can be energetic but sometimes you just want to chill after work, be around happy people and eat good food with delicious drinks. If you fall in one of these categories, check it out: You like quick bites with good flavor and memorable portions Your budget is between $5- $9 each quick bite You're cheating on your partner and you know for sure they won't find this place Highlight Actual food matches pictures Crab jalapeno bites are a must-have Real potato skins from grown up potatoes Night piano bar singer is the main reason to visit here read more

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I am admittedly not a steak expert, but I think I can adequately distinguish good vs. bad steak. I was super excited to celebrate a birthday here with a steak loving family member, but I was disappointed by the food options, the cost, and the texture of my steak. The ambiance and service were definitely spot on! I just wish the food had been more enjoyable. I won't be returning unless it's exclusively to enjoy their bar and live music, which were lovely. read more

We went there for our daughter's college graduation. There were a few items we would like to try but were out. Those were Roasted Bone Marrow, Tomahawk and Prime T-Bone. Ended up ordering Caesar Salad, Porterhouse, Dallas Filet, and some side dishes. The Porterhouse was great, but the Dallas Filet was a little bit overcooked for a medium rare. Overall, it was a great experience! Side story. I left my sunglasses at the restaurant. They shipped them back to me in two days. I really appreciated it. read more

My boyfriend and I have been here I think maybe twice. The first time was maybe a year or two ago. There is two different sections. I remember sitting on the side where there wasn't the bar or stage the first time. Kinda dark inside. Sitting on that side of the restaurant made us feel like mobsters. Leather booths. It was cool. I remember the steaks were amazing. Nice steak dinner date. The second time we went, I think there was a new owner or Chef because the menu was totally different and a lot more expensive. Even a side of bread was $3. The food was good and service was totally fine. I just was really surprised with the change of menu and how crazy the prices were. read more

I'm reluctant in leaving this review as I don't want to share this secret gem with many! Everything about the imperial house exceeded my expectations. By far the best steak, grilled octopus and lobster Mac and cheese of my life. The service, quality of the food and atmosphere was outstanding. We will be back next week for another amazing experience! read more

GO SOMEWHERE ELSE! We decided to take a chance and try something new, usually when we want a steak we walk over to a steak house in downtown since this is where we live, I looked up reviews of steak houses and this one came up, with good reviews and some bad, we should have listened to the bad ones When we first got to the restaurant, they asked if we had reservations, we did not and waited about 5 mins for a table, ordered a Cesar salad, nothing special, a tomahawk and a baked potato. While waiting for our food, I took a sip from my water, once I put it on my mouth I noticed two lip stick marks on the cup, I was stunned and I knew we should have left then, I called the waiter over and told him, he kind of laughed and said sorry then took the cup to replace it. Our tomahawk came out, which was okay, nothing special, same as the baked potato. When we got our bill, the waiter let us know that he gave us 10% off the bill for the lip stick on the cup, again he chuckled about it. Long story short, there are so many other nicer and better steak houses in the area or down the street, please do not waste your time here for the pour cleanliness and not notable food. read more

Imperial Steakhouse - Lounges Near Me - San Diego, California

Would absolutely NOT recommend. We showed up and were the only one's there, made reservations thinking it'd be busy. Arrived and didn't have our reservation written down, dining room lights weren't on, music wasn't on. Should've left when they said they didn't have any tea. Politely asked if the lights could be turned up a tad bit more as my grandmother accompanied us and we were the only ones there. I understood the ambiance of the place but thought they would let this slide. Waiter later then came out and notified us there were no baked potatoes, as the waiter chuckled. EXCUSE ME?!?! How are you a steak house and don't have potatoes??? As one of us was ONLY having a potato. We got up and left, wasn't a good experience at all and customer service could definitely be improved read more

Other than when I try to call to make reservations, you can't because the phone just hangs up on your automatically. I think the phone goes straight to the Chef not sure but other than that. Came in a group of nine the other night. had a great time our server, Sara was fantastic. Food was phenomenal, but they didn't have everything that we wanted on the menu but what they substituted us with was perfect. Also, the lady working in the bar was really cool as well. read more

This steak was everything and it was huge! I couldn't finish it all the night of, so the rest because lunch for work the next day. Let me tell you, this steak was seasoned perfectly! No steak sauce needed here. It was pricey, but worth it for sure. read more

Imperial Steakhouse - Steak with broccoli - Lounges Near Me - San Diego, California

Unfortunately, it was not a good experience. Both my wife and I ordered a medium rare steak tenderloin fillet. Mine was well done and about 3/4" thick, tough, and extremely salty. My wife's was much thicker, medium rare, but not tender and also very salty. We requested bread, but it was not available. We asked for a loaded baked potato (cheese, butter, soure cream, chives and bacon). The server didn't know what we meant. She came back to tell us they were out of baked potatoes and bacon. The server suggested mashed potatoes, we agreed, however they were lumpy and lukewarm. My asparagus and Black Russian were very good. So too was my wife's Mai Thai. My wife's brussel sprouts were soggy, with a peculiar taste. Our first glass of water was cold and refreshing. The refill was warm. Many will read this and say all this guy does is complain. Fortunately, you were not with us. Again, it wasn't a good experience. read more

This menu has numerous spelling errors and appears to have been written by someone with poor grammar skills. Additionally, the menu lacks vegetarian options, side dishes are very small and the cheesy dishes tasted moldy. The dining room has a charming ambiance, but it may not be suitable for those who prefer a brighter and more modern setting. The music from the dive bar can be quite loud, which diminishes the Frank Sinatra ambiance. The steaks are charred on the outside but come out hot. However, if you plan on sharing a steak, be aware that there is a service fee for an extra plate. Unfortunately, there is no kids' menu available, and the restaurant does not accommodate modifications for food allergies. And when ordering a medium-rare plus this request for steak temperature doesn't exist at any steakhouse. When Chef Dave chatted, we noticed his breath smells so bad like rotted meat. We spoke to locals after our dinner and we received confirmation that his breath smells awful! With 40 years in the industry, he looks about 50 years old... a legend in his own mind. read more

Imperial Steakhouse - Our meal. - Lounges Near Me - San Diego, California

I went here tonight and was sorry I did. On their website they indicate that their steaks are "prime". NOPE!! These are NOT prime steaks. I go to steakhouses all the time and buy prime cut steaks when I want one at home. I ordered the Delmonico. It was tough and dry while heavily salted with burnt chopped garlic. Garlic does not taste good when it's been blackened. I asked for a side of bernaise. NOPE!! They don't have it like it says they do on the website. May I have a glass of ice tea? NOPE!! We don't have it. Why am I the only one in this entire restaurant? I would like to answer that but I think it would hurt their feelings. The waitress (was also the bartender I think) was sweet and nice and asked if I wanted to take my steak home in a to go box. No thanks. It was dry and tough. She replied "well, you just don't know about steaks". Ummmm yes I do. A "prime" steak is supposed to be tender and not chewy. I didn't ask her but she was nice enough to take 20.00 off my check. The one star is for her. The rest of the restaurant doesn't get any stars. I wasn't going to write a review but after the rude passive aggressive comment the manager "Dave" gave to the woman who had them cater her wedding I had to take a stand. Dave, you are just rude and you should never talk with a paying guest like that. I won't be back. read more

Rick Lyon makes the keys his b*tch Felipe makes the bar his b*tch Plan accordingly. Cheers. read more

The Worst. Worst worst experience ever! I have been coming to this place 30 plus years. The chef came Out and kicked us out because the chef screwed up our order so much the chef could Not handle the downfall of his kitchen and decided to kick us out. MINUS 2 in reviews. read more

Came here to celebrate a friend's birthday, and we were the only table. I was worried because sometimes that can mean that the staff isn't trying as hard as they're not in that busy flow, if that makes sense. But that wasn't the case! Our server, whose name I can't recall (I'm sorry!!) had just celebrated a birthday, so him and my friend v bonded over that fact. The menu had quite a few great looking items with the smallest steak weighing 8 oz. I ordered the Dallas Filet, and it was absolutely delicious! My friend ordered the Cowgirl med-rare, and it was a little under, but he didn't want to make a fuss about it as he enjoyed it anyway. The decor and music, while dated, is perfect. There are dozens of other steakhouses that people go to if they want a modern vibe, but very few give that feeling of nostalgia and of a simpler time as Imperial Steakhouse does. I chose to sit by the table with av red light fur the ambiance, but it did make for a difficult time when reading the menu. I personally feel that the prices were higher than the value. For example, the cheapest steak is $58 and doesn't come with any sides. Each side is sold individually for $10/plate, which is quite inflated in my humble opinion. Although, I will say that the mashed potatoes were quite tasty and the asparagus was, as well! All in all, I would suggest this place for an intimate dinner date, and I would return. read more

I was hesitant to try this place as I had not heard any positive or negative feedback from anyone in my culinary circle. Boy oh boy was I impressed. I'll start with the environment and the "vibe". This place had it, has it and is on track to keep it. There are obviously some regulars, in which I had great conversations with. I now see why they are regulars. The food,.... SUPERB! My Manhattan filet was to die for. Cooked absolutely perfectly; I couldn't have asked for a better prepared piece of meat. The chef came out and introduced himself, very down to earth and quite hospitable. This place doesn't seem to be that busy... I don't know for how long. Once people get wind of how wonderful this place is... there will be a month wait for reservations. This is one of San Diego's few hidden gems. Throw back to the 70's inside, food thats tried and true. I will be back again and again. Did I mention how wonderful the scalloped potatoes were? How about the gal behind the bar? She's amazing and on top of her game. 2500 stars, top notch, high quality.... Perfect! read more

Let's start with the environment, it is very outdated and may scare you off; however, power through and order food because it is phenomenal. I ordered a Manhattan steak and the Tomahawk steak. Both were cooked to perfection, so juicy and nice render. I also order the spicy garlic shrimp, keep in mind you only get 6-7 shrimp and two Texas toasts, but it was very good. I would HIGHLY recommend this place and it would be a shame if people did not try it solely on the way it looks. read more

This place is so good! Definitely worth going. Don't be turned off by what it looks like outside, once you get inside it's a romantic restaurant that has a lot of history. We were told it was one of the first steakhouses in San Diego. The waitress was nice, and so was everyone else we met. The food was absolutely to die for. The steak was perfectly cooked, and so were the sides. They do recommend you have a reservation so they can cut ur steak for you and have it ready to cook at your reservation time, but we showed up without a reservation and we were fine. Everything was perfectly seasoned. Definitely go! My least favorite item was the side of green beans, but they weren't bad, just not my favorite. The asparagus was better, and I loved the potatoes (I got two types). read more

The food was great the service excellent. Only draw back is I could not get my steak done black and blue. Otherwise great place . As others have said do not judge by the outside . It also has a bar with a piano so you can go listen to a little music and have your after dinner cocktail ! read more

The staff was great, informational and courteous in recommendations. My wife and I came for dinner and had the filet tips and lamb and man it was delicious! I strongly suggest the lamb when you come, I would definitely return- the ambience and feel of the environment and design of the place was exquisite. It was a romantic, nice dinner we both enjoyed. read more

Imperial Steakhouse - Lamb Shank Texas Filet Tips - Lounges Near Me - San Diego, California

My Wife and I had one of the most unusual meals ever here, however we did have a great time. I've put this review off for a couple of weeks to try and be as fair as possible. The dinning room is beautiful, like an classic steakhouse or gentlemen's club updated and fresh. The service, even given this time of COVID recovery, was excellent. Cocktails were good and strong. wine list very limited but some nice choices. Now the odd part, appetizers are all bar food - nothing at all sophisticated as the place looks...no cold seafood?? The salads (choice of 2) was fair to poor; my wife's house salad was acceptable but my caesar was bland underdressed and the grated cheese was either as old as I, or Kraft from the shaker. Dessert likewise was ok, nothing to remark on. The steaks was very very good, cooked well and a nice cut and quality. Sides were ok, also limited...no mushrooms at a classic steakhouse? There was piano player in the cozy bar area, so we had after diner drink there to listen for a while. All in all, if you just want a nice steak entree (and I don't recall anything else on the menu) in very pleasant atmosphere with a cocktail or glass of wine, it's a great place. If you expect something similar to a Morton's or Del Frisco's or Lou and Mickey's (which are around the same price point I should add) then forget it. Go prepared for a very nice but quirky place. read more