Starleaf, a newly opened Thai-fusion restaurant in Pasadena, offers an intriguing blend of Asian and French-inspired decor, immersing diners in a 1930s-style ambiance that is both elegant and inviting. The aesthetic alone sets the stage for a potentially exceptional dining experience, but unfortunately, the food and service fall just short of delivering on that promise. Overall, I'd rate the experience at 3.5 stars (rounded up on Yelp). The evening began on a positive note, with the Bakka Wild Salmon with Thai Vinaigrette standing out as a fresh and well-executed starter. The vibrant Thai Vinaigrette, paired with mint, provided a refreshing and delicate balance to the salmon--a thoughtful and creative take that set high expectations for what was to follow. However, the mains--Thai Royal Curry (w/ Lobster) and a Pan-Seared Steak Fillet (substitute for Japanese Wagyu A5 Fillet as it was unavailable at the time) --revealed inconsistencies that left much to be desired. The Royal Curry, while creamy and flavorful, lacked the depth and spice one expects from a Thai curry. The flavors, though present, didn't evolve beyond the initial creamy note, leaving the dish feeling one-dimensional. The lobster itself was slightly overcooked, detracting further from what could have been a standout dish. The Pan-Seared Steak Fillet, regrettably, was even more underwhelming. Accompanied by a pleasant salsa verde sauce, the steak itself felt like a lower-quality cut, with an oily aftertaste that clashed with the otherwise well-prepared sauce. The absence of the A5 Wagyu fillet option, which was unavailable, made it clear that the replacement did not live up to expectations, leaving a gap between price and quality. Service was friendly, and the timing of courses was well-paced, but the overall experience was hindered by a lack of attention to detail. The hosts at the front desk lacked warmth, and small but significant oversights--such as serving room temperature water throughout the meal--detracted from what could have been a more polished experience. Notably, the lack of acknowledgment for a birthday celebration, especially at this price point, felt like a missed opportunity. A simple gesture, such as a complimentary dessert, could have elevated the evening and added a personal touch. In its current state, Starleaf's pricing feels ambitious for the quality of the dishes served. While the ambiance and decor show promise, the menu would benefit from added quality and refinement in execution. With a few key adjustments, particularly in flavor depth and ingredient quality, Starleaf has the potential to become a notable dining destination. For now, it remains a restaurant with room for growth in both its culinary offerings and overall guest experience. read more

Ambiance StarLeaf is located in downtown Pasadena and has been open for almost a month. Upon entering, you'll experience an ambiance reminiscent of Southeast Asia. ---------------- Service The service is exceptional from start to finish, especially with the gesture of offering mint-infused water on a moistened tissue before meals. This allows patrons to freshen up their hands before dining. Throughout the restaurant, the meals are imbued with Southeast Asian flavors from Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, and more. Each dish is plated meticulously, and I genuinely find them all delicious! ---------------- Foods Thai Ice Tea Let's take a seat and order four cups of Thai milk tea immediately. Each cup comes with a scoop of ice cream on top. And it's not overly sweet, it's truly delicious. Night-Market: Shichimi Tofu Fried Tofu This fried tofu is seasoned with seven Japanese spices and served with homemade sweet and sour sauce. In addition, there are slices of avocado and watermelon served alongside. Combining all the elements makes it even more delicious. We all agree that this fried tofu is the most delicious dish. Siam Beach-Club Egg Rolls Fried spring rolls wrapped in banana leaves are accompanied by a flavorful sweet and sour sauce made with prawns and mangoes. Spicy "Tom Yum" Soup "Tom" refers to boiling, "Yum" resembles tossing a salad, and "Gong" signifies shrimp. This soup is a traditional secret recipe passed down from the Dongyin Gong lineage. Thai spices are added to a pot to create the soup base. Fresh prawns are then added in. The entire dish is brought to our table for cooking on the spot. The soup has a robust and flavorful taste. Malay Captain Curry Chicken A secret curry sauce infused with a variety of exotic spices and fragrant coconut milk is served alongside French bread. It offers a delightful balance of subtle spiciness and sweetness. Royal Crown Fried-Rice The fried rice is generously garnished with large, plump dried shellfish and topped with a thick layer of tiny fish eggs. Mixing it evenly with the rice makes for a truly delicious experience. read more

I came by with my boyfriend and in laws the other day for Dine LA. From the moment we walked in, the ambiance of the place stood out. The design and decor were thoughtfully done, with a great balance of modern and elegant touches. The color palette gave the space an upscale, polished look without feeling stuffy or overly formal. The lighting was dim enough to create a cozy, intimate vibe, but still bright enough to comfortably see everything around us! When it came to the food, our experience was a mix of highs and lows. We started with a few appetizers, which were absolutely delicious and left us excited for the rest of the meal. The salads were great too and very refreshing. Unfortunately, some of the main dishes didn't quite meet the same standard. The curry, in particular, lacked depth and seasoning. It felt like it was missing that bold, rich flavor you typically expect. The mango sticky rice was another letdown. While the mango itself was fresh and sweet, the sticky rice was bland and lacked the usual sweetness that ties the whole dessert together. It tasted more like plain rice than a dessert, which was disappointing. That said, the service really helped elevate the overall experience. The staff were friendly, attentive, and very helpful throughout our visit. They checked in at just the right times and were happy to answer questions or make suggestions. On top of that, the food came out incredibly fast, which was a pleasant surprise given how busy the place was. One area that definitely needs improvement is the restroom situation. During our visit, two of the toilets were clogged, and there was no toilet paper in any of the stalls. It seemed like that area hadn't been checked or maintained in a while, which was unfortunate and took away from the otherwise polished feel of the restaurant. Overall, it was a good experience with beautiful ambiance, excellent service, and a few standout dishes. With some attention to consistency in the food and better restroom maintenance, it could easily become a favorite spot. read more

3 months ago I had the pleasure of dining at the new upcoming restaurant in Pasadena called StarLeaf, courtesy of my close friend who happens to be the owner. Although it may not be open to the public just yet, I was fortunate enough to experience the culinary delights and ambiance of this remarkable establishment. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the owner himself, who personally curated a delectable selection of dishes for our table. While I can't recall the exact details of what was ordered, I can confidently say that everything we tasted was nothing short of extraordinary. Each dish was prepared with impeccable attention to detail, showcasing the chef's culinary expertise and creativity. One particular highlight of the evening was when the owner surprised us with a Wagyu steak, which was not even on the menu. The melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and rich flavor of the steak left us in awe. It was a true testament to the owner's dedication to providing an exceptional dining experience. As we indulged in the exquisite cuisine, the owner graciously took us on a tour of the restaurant. He proudly shared that he invested a staggering 2 million dollars in the interior alone, and it was evident in every aspect of the restaurant's design. The elegant decor, stylish furnishings, and attention to detail created an ambiance that was both sophisticated and inviting. I left StarLeaf with a sense of anticipation for its grand opening. The experience was truly unforgettable, and I am eagerly awaiting the opportunity to return as soon as it officially opens its doors to the public. I have no doubt that StarLeaf will become a cherished gem in the Pasadena dining scene, offering exceptional cuisine and an ambiance that will transport guests to a world of culinary delight. read more

My recent dining experience at Star Leaf was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment I stepped through the doors, we were greeted with warmth and hospitality that set the tone for the evening. Let's talk about the food--each dish was a masterpiece in its own right. The Royal Fried Rice was a delightful blend of flavors and textures, with each bite offering a tantalizing combination of savory and fragrant elements. The Salmon Sashimi was impeccably fresh, expertly sliced, and practically melted in my mouth, a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality seafood.The Sea Bass was cooked to perfection, its delicate flesh infused with lemongrass spices that elevated its natural flavors to new heights. And the Short Rib--oh, the Short Rib--was an absolute triumph. Tender, succulent, and bursting with rich flavor with the green curry, it was a true standout dish that left me craving more. But it wasn't just the food that impressed me; the service was equally outstanding. Lee and Wichita, were our attentive servers and they went above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of our dining experience was flawless. Their knowledge of the menu, coupled with their warm demeanor and impeccable timing, truly elevated the evening. As for the ambiance, Star Leaf strikes the perfect balance between chic sophistication and inviting comfort. The elegant decor, accented by subtle Asian-inspired touches, creates an atmosphere that is both stylish and welcoming, making it the ideal setting for a memorable dining experience. In conclusion, my visit was nothing short of extraordinary. From the exquisite cuisine to the impeccable service, every aspect of the evening exceeded my expectations. I can't wait to return and indulge in another culinary journey fit for royalty. read more

Star Leaf restaurant exceeded my expectations in every way, starting with their Ume Old Fashioned whiskey. Served in a glass bell jar filled with smoke and rose petals underneath, the presentation alone set the tone for a unique experience. The whiskey itself was refreshing, and the addition of a dried plum to bite after the first sip was genius--transforming the flavor into something even more robust and complex with each sip. Next, the shrimp egg rolls were perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The garlic chili dip that came with them was addictive; I couldn't get enough. Their royal crown fried rice was, without exaggeration, the best fried rice I've ever had. It came topped with roe, which our server mixed in for us, creating an explosion of flavor in every bite. I found myself entirely focused on this dish, and it stole the show. Though I didn't pay much attention to the chicken curry at the time, when I reheated it for breakfast the next day, it took me right back to the restaurant experience. The curry had a delightful balance of spice and sweetness, and the chicken was still juicy after a night in the fridge--truly a testament to the quality of the dish. We ended our meal with the Pink Mekong, a refreshing dessert made of ice cream and fruits, topped with a light coconut and red dragon fruit cream. It wasn't too sweet but packed with flavor, the perfect way to end the night. What made the experience even better was the service. We stayed for nearly three hours, and not once did our server rush us or make us feel pressured to leave. It's safe to say Star Leaf is now an instant favorite, and I'll definitely be returning soon! read more

Embarking on a brunch adventure at Star Leaf was a true delight! The inviting atmosphere set the stage for a memorable experience from the moment we stepped inside. Our culinary journey began with the iconic Kamata Club Blues cocktail, a refreshing start to our morning indulgence. The Summer Spring Rolls and Siam Beach Club Egg Roll were the perfect brunch starters, each bite bursting with vibrant flavors. We ordered the Royal Crown Fried Rice topped with fish roe first, and it was a heavenly delight! This regal dish features perfectly seasoned fried rice crowned with delicate fish roe bursts, offering a symphony of flavors fit for royalty that will leave you craving more. The Royal Lobster Curry was another highlight of our brunch experience, featuring lobster meat immersed in a rich and aromatic curry sauce that was simply divine. Paired with fragrant jasmine rice, this dish was a delight for seafood enthusiasts. As we wrapped up our brunch adventure, the Pink Mekong dessert stole the show with its captivating presentation and exquisite taste. The sticky rice added a delightful touch to the dish, leaving us with a sweet and satisfying ending to our meal. Star Leaf's brunch experience offers a unique journey through Southeast Asian flavors, expertly curated and sure to impress even the most discerning brunch enthusiasts. It is a culinary escapade that will linger in your memory long after the last bite. Don't miss out on the must-order Royal Crown Fried Rice and Royal Lobster Curry- these are delectable masterpieces that will leave you wanting more! read more

Stepping into Star Leaf was like entering a world where every detail mattered. From the moment we arrived, the attentive service made us feel like honored guests. The décor, with its captivating beauty and intriguing backstory (which I highly recommend asking your waiter about), added an extra layer of charm to the dining experience. Our culinary journey began with the Tropical Mango Fish starter, a crispy delight with a tender, buttery interior that left us craving more. The mango sauce provided just the right amount of heat, teasing our taste buds for what was to come. As for the mains, both the 12-hour Braised Angus Short Rib and Lime Steamed Chilean Sea Bass were culinary masterpieces. The short rib was melt-in-your-mouth perfection, while the sea bass danced with vibrant citrus flavors, leaving us utterly satisfied. And dessert? The Slow-Drip Vietnam Coffee Flan was the perfect finale, boasting a custard consistency that was nothing short of perfection. Throughout the evening, Evan, our server, provided impeccable service, anticipating our needs before we even knew them ourselves. While Star Leaf may be on the pricier side, every penny is justified by the exceptional quality of the food, service, and ambiance. I'm already counting down the days until my next visit, where I plan to indulge in the tantalizing offerings of the table-side Spicy "Tom Yum" Soup, Pineapple Fried Rice, and Thai Royal Curry. For a dining experience that combines exquisite flavors with unparalleled hospitality, look no further than Star Leaf. You won't be disappointed! read more

I recently had the pleasure of celebrating a special occasion with my loved ones at Star Leaf, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. This fine dining Thai cuisine restaurant exceeded our expectations in every way, from the exquisite dishes to the exceptional service and stunning ambiance ( the first of its kind in the Western Hemisphere). Our server, Melissa, was a standout - knowledgeable, professional, and kind. She expertly guided us through the menu, making recommendations and sharing stories about the dishes. Her attentiveness and warmth made us feel pampered and valued. The culinary delights were nothing short of spectacular. The pineapple fried rice was a Fresh and fragrant, while the yellow curry was rich and creamy with tender chicken. The lamb chops, cooked to perfection, simply melted in our mouths (note, I'd don't But what truly sets Star Leaf apart is its attention to detail. Every aspect of the space, from the elegant decor to the impeccable table settings, exudes refinement and sophistication. This is the perfect venue to celebrate milestone events, as we did, and make lasting memories. We left Star Leaf feeling full, happy, and indulged, with a deep appreciation for the exceptional service and culinary artistry. If you're seeking a special night out or a memorable dining experience, look no further than Star Leaf. read more

Star Leaf is an Asian fusion gem that masterfully blends the bold, aromatic flavors of Southeast Asia. We visited during Dine LA and opted for the $25 lunch menu, which turned out to be an incredible deal for the quality and variety of dishes we enjoyed. Our meal began with the shrimp cake skewers, which were perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, packed with a delicious umami punch. Next, we had the soft shell crab curry, an absolute highlight--the crab was beautifully fried, and the curry was rich, fragrant, and layered with deep, comforting spices. The Singaporean laksa noodle soup with shrimp was another standout, featuring a silky coconut broth with just the right amount of heat. The shrimp were plump and fresh, complementing the perfectly cooked noodles that soaked up all the flavors. Lastly, the Bakka wild salmon in Thai vinaigrette was a refreshing contrast to the other dishes--light yet flavorful, with a well-balanced tangy and herbaceous dressing that enhanced the natural richness of the fish. The ambiance was modern yet inviting, and the service was warm and attentive, making the experience even more enjoyable. For a fusion spot that excels in bringing out the best of South Asian flavors, this is a must-visit, especially during Dine LA for an unbeatable value! read more

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Star Leaf Restaurant with my husband, and I must say, it was an unforgettable experience, thanks to our amazing server, Drew. From the moment we walked in, Drew greeted us with a warm smile and made us feel incredibly welcome. He guided us through the menu, sharing his expert recommendations and answering all of our questions with patience and enthusiasm. His knowledge and passion for the food were truly impressive. Throughout the evening, Drew's attention to detail was impeccable. He ensured that our glasses were always filled, our table was clean, and we had everything we needed to enjoy our meal. He anticipated our needs and went above and beyond to make sure we had a fantastic dining experience. What truly stood out about Drew was his exceptional service with a personal touch. He engaged in friendly conversation, making us feel like valued guests. His genuine warmth and sense of humor created a delightful atmosphere in the restaurant. Overall, our experience at Star Leaf Restaurant was made exceptional by the outstanding service provided by Drew. We highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for a memorable dining experience. Thank you, Drew, for going above and beyond to make our evening truly special! read more

From the moment we stepped into the restaurant, we were transported to a culinary paradise. The Thai Royal Curry with softshell crab was a revelation, perfectly balancing the richness of the curry with the delicate flavor of the crab. The Malay Captain's Curry with angus beef was a symphony of flavors, with tender beef that melted in our mouths, and a curry that was both robust and aromatic. The spicy tom yum soup was a masterclass in Thai cuisine, with a broth that was both fiery and tangy, leaving our taste buds dancing with delight. But the highlight of our luncheon was the service provided by our waiter, Drew. He was the epitome of hospitality, making us feel incredibly welcomed with his warm and friendly demeanor. Drew's attentiveness to our needs was impeccable, ensuring that our dining experience was nothing short of perfect. If you're seeking an authentic Thai dining experience with dishes that are crafted to perfection and service that makes you feel like royalty, then look no further. This restaurant, with the help of wonderful staff like Drew, will undoubtedly leave you with a memorable and satisfying culinary journey. read more

A Southeast Asian restaurant in LA that is very suitable for datingStar Leaf The whole restaurant is full of romantic feelings, the dishes are exquisite, and the Southeast Asian flavor is combined with Western romantic luxury. The service is really good. Fresh salmon sashimi is recommended. It is eaten with mint, garlic slices and sauce. The taste is very rich and refreshing. Thai royal curry lobster tail is a must-order signature dish. The lobster meat is very firm and chewy, paired with tender duck eggs and silky eggplants, wrapped in a rich coconut curry, which is sweet and spicy. The rice is super fragrant. Royal crown fried rice is an iconic dish famous for the classic Hong Kong movie "The God of Cookery". The legendary God of Cookery Emperor Fried Rice, high-quality Thai jasmine rice is steamed, and each grain is clearly paired with wild Icelandic capelin roe, scallops, and shrimp. The taste is rich and full. Every bite feels like the crab bursting in the mouth, super fragrant! Pineapple fried rice, a special pineapple fried rice with cashews, raisins, and pork floss. It is sweet but not greasy, and tastes sour and sweet. read more

Star Lead is my new favorite restaurant - an exceptional experience from start to finish! The moment I walked in, I was greeted by the warm and informative host who provided a personal touch to our welcome. The bar staff truly stood out during my visit. Sanderson's extensive knowledge of the drink menu was remarkable, and they were more than happy to recommend cocktails that perfectly suited my taste. Their friendly demeanor added to the inviting atmosphere, making it a joy to engage with them. The wait staff was equally commendable. Deja was incredibly efficient and timely, ensuring that our dining experience flowed seamlessly. My order was taken promptly, and the food arrived at just the right intervals, allowing us to savor each course without feeling rushed. There was even a magician, VIN CHEE, making the rounds who excelled at receiving oohs and aahs and really enjoyed engaging with the patrons. My daughter was blown away as was I! Star Leaf provides top-notch service, and I highly recommend it to families, friends, couples, and even individuals who sit at the bar. We look forward to our next visit! read more

Here's a polished, glowing review you can post anywhere: --- **5/5 -- Outstanding Service from Deja at Starleaf!** I had an incredible experience at **Starleaf**, thanks entirely to our amazing waitress, **Deja**. From the moment we were seated, she made us feel genuinely welcomed and taken care of. Her warmth, professionalism, and attention to detail set the tone for a fantastic meal. Deja was not only knowledgeable about the menu, but she also offered thoughtful recommendations that perfectly matched what we were looking for. She checked on us at all the right times--never intrusive, always attentive. What really stood out was how accommodating she was. Whether it was customizing a dish, helping with dietary preferences, or simply making sure we were completely comfortable, she went above and beyond without hesitation. It's rare to find someone who balances efficiency, kindness, and genuine hospitality so effortlessly. **Deja is truly a standout** and made our visit to Starleaf exceptional. We'll definitely be returning--and asking for her! Highly recommend Starleaf, and *especially* Deja! read more

We opted for the soft shell crab curry, roe fried rice, and mango fish, and found each dish to be thoroughly enjoyable. The restaurant's interior exudes elegance, contributing to a satisfying dining atmosphere. Overall, our initial impression of this establishment is positive. The portion sizes were generous, and the flavors remained authentic. However, our experience was marred by subpar service. Despite the manager inquiring about our satisfaction, our waiter neglected to offer a choice between bread and rice to accompany the curry, serving hard bread unsuitable for the dish. Throughout the meal, our waiter's approach was peculiar, and basic needs such as water refills were overlooked. Furthermore, the lengthy wait times for each dish, even during non-peak hours, hint at operational inefficiencies that warrant improvement. While acknowledging the restaurant's novelty, there remains ample room for refinement, particularly in service efficiency and staff training. In a competitive dining landscape like Pasadena, sustained progress is imperative for longevity and success. read more

Absolutely stellar experience from start to finish! This restaurant has it all - delicious food, impeccable service, and a fantastic atmosphere. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with a lovely hostess and prompt seating. The menu offers a tantalizing array of options, and each dish we tried was amazing. Fresh ingredients, expertly prepared and beautifully presented. The service was top-notch - attentive without being overbearing. Our server was knowledgeable about the menu and provided excellent recommendations. The pacing of the meal was perfect, allowing us to savor each course without feeling rushed. The atmosphere is cozy yet elegant, with tasteful decor and just the right amount of ambiance. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, this restaurant sets the perfect tone. Overall, I can't recommend this place highly enough. It's a true gem and a must-visit for anyone who appreciates fine dining. We'll definitely be back for more culinary delights! read more

Starleaf is an incredible Thai restaurant! We ordered a variety of dishes, and everything was packed with flavor and beautifully presented. The Spicy Thai Som Tum Papaya Salad had the perfect balance of heat and freshness, and the Saigon Summer Spring Rolls were light and refreshing. The Salmon in Thai Vinaigrette and Steamed Chilean Sea Bass were both melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The Truffle Noodles added a unique twist, and the Tropical Mango Fish was a standout with its sweet and tangy flavors. We also loved the Chicken Curry and the Pork Collar, both rich and flavorful. On top of the amazing food, the restaurant has a magician who comes around to the tables and does some incredible tricks--it was so cool and made the experience even more fun! The service was warm and attentive, and the ambiance was perfect. It's a great spot for kids and anyone who loves Thai food and magic! Highly recommend Starleaf for delicious Thai food with a unique and entertaining touch! read more

I had lunch at 12:45 PM with a reservation, but the place was empty when we arrived. We ordered the lunch special to share and a steak salad. While the service was decent, it fell short due to the lack of a dedicated waiter; several people assisted us, which caused some confusion. Our food arrived, but the steak salad was missing. After finishing the shared entree, the salad was brought out, and although we initially declined it due to our full stomachs, the waiter explained that entrees are served separately. We decided to eat the salad and took the rest of the meal to go. The food was delicious, especially the shrimp skewers, which were fantastic. Although we missed out on cocktails this time, we're looking forward to trying their fun drinks on our next visit. The restaurant was clean and spacious, and they offered a complementary dessert to make up for the salad mix-up. Overall, despite the hiccup with the salad, we'll definitely return. read more