Can't believe I've been missing out all these years. One of the best dining experience I had when out late night. The food is overall excellent and I love the breakfast menus. Had the Star Scramble on one of my visits. I'd recommend trying the quesadillas and Novato Burger. (Was skeptical about the name but it's not as bad.) The breakfast burritos are overrated, I seen a good amount of customers order it but its nothing mind blowing. The dessert menu is overall great. They had a Madonna song played on the radio a few instances I showed up which set the mood right for me. read more

We ordered takeout cheese burgers with homemade potato salad. It was delicious. The burgers were cooked perfectly. Plus the hostess at the counter was so friendly and cheerful. read more

We had to ask for menu after 10 Minutes. The chicken Marsala was horribly salty. The waitress tried by bringing me chicken with mushrooms AKA rubber chicken. My boyfriends pork chop was barley edible. We didn't expect much due to the decor. But when we discovered our entrees were $13.95 we expected that it would be edible. We would ever go back, Yuck, Yuck, Yuck read more

It's been really sad seeing how bad this place got...I used to love Star when I was a kid, always asking my parents to bring me there. Sadly, now it's a disappointment whenever I go. Because of this, I haven't been to Star in years, but this year I happened to go a few times to meet up with friends. First, the service: The last two times I've been there, the service has been SO slow. The first time, we waited 15-20 minutes after the server brought our drinks for her to come back and take our orders. The second time, I anticipated this happening again, so after we had spent a sufficient time waiting, I got up and politely asked one of the servers if she could direct someone my way. All I got was an icy stare and a single syllable, "'Kay," with a LOT of attitude. Eventually, a server came to take our orders, and the rest of the meal progressed with a lot more attitude. Maybe the slow service is due to the lack of servers, but then management should deal with that, and it also doesn't explain the attitude (though I'm sure they're stressed). Where are the kind, friendly servers I remember from my childhood? Wasn't even that long ago... Second, the food: The quality has gotten so flaky, it's generally been a hit-or-miss when I go. The second-to-last time I've been there, I got a pasta (cream pesto and chicken) and it was pretty good. Not amazing, but not bad at all. The last time I went, I got another pasta (marinara and meatballs) and I pretty much had to choke it down. The meatballs were hard, dry, and tasteless, the marinara itself left a lot to be desired. It almost tasted like it was out of a bottle, very bland and watery. Again, back to my childhood, I remember the food being a lot better when I was younger; always a hit back then. Third, the atmosphere: When I think of a diner, I think warm and friendly with just a bit of quirk. Star: Warm? No. Friendly? No. Quirky? A bit too much...I won't focus too much on the decor, since it really depends on an individual's taste, but I'll just say that it's quite outdated and tasteless. Again, some people like it, to each his own. Also, they could raise the temperature a bit...last time I went I actually had to keep my fat winter coat on while eating...Moving on to warm and friendly: These are probably the last two words I would use to describe Star. When you enter, no one greets you. When you're seated and/or eating, no one checks up on you other than to bring the check. Smiles are rare, attitude is VERY common. I have noticed that regulars get some better service, but still; in my opinion, good, friendly service should be extended to all customers. The quality of Star today is a real disappointment. When brought up, the name "Star" brings with it an air of inferiority and negativity. It's sad that the main reason we go is to "not see anyone we know." Maybe management has changed since the time when I was a kid, or something, but this diner has gotten considerably worse. So sad that this happened; used to be one of my favorite places. read more

Man... where do I begin? Pink flowers bursting from the ceiling, blinding pink neon lights, and pink sugar in mini-vases that probably hasn't been changed out since the Spanish Inquisition. Still, it's in Novato, it's cheap, and probably a better option over Denny's any day of the week. read more

Great place to have breakfast in Novato the atmosphere is nice and the servers are attentive.

The fantastic fries and impressive triple decker grilled cheese sandwich were always my top choices at Star. Their reasonably late hours are also a plus in a town that dies at sundown. I gotta knock them a little for their overwhelming use of pink neon... but, then again, maybe one day such kitsch will secure Star's role as a Novato institution. Who knows. read more

Though nobody greeted us when we arrived, or even smiled... Our server was very friendly and personable. The eggs - cooked as I ordered them, but they were cooked in oil instead of butter, so they were tasteless The sausages were gristly. The fruit platter consisted only of watermellon and honeydew. I would have liked a little more variety - even the addition of apples or oranges would have been great. read more

I'm giving this restaurant 5 stars for what is is - good, consistent diner food (but is more variety than I would expect from a regular diner). I'm surprised by all of the bad reviews. My family and I have been going here on and off since it opened. I don't think we've ever had a bad meal. It's really almost like home cooking, without the hassle of ME cooking! They use "real" cheese in the omelettes and the salads are fresh. The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable (especially compared to places like Sam's or Firehouse Subs). The decor isn't the greatest, but that's not what I'm coming for. The servers have all been there for a long time (and that says something good about management) and they're usually very attentive and friendly, so no real complaints there either! read more

When I saw how low the rating was for this restaurant, I was amazed... I have been going here almost every Sunday after church with my friends for almost 10 years. The owner is always friendly and knows you by name, the waitresses are extremely sweet and always checking in on you to see how things are. I have never felt more attended to at any restaurant then here. The thing I love the most about star restaurant is that you feel like you are at home. Plus, there it is never one thing on that menu that does not come out amazingly delicious! If it's not on the menu they will cook it for you. These are the reasons why I give five stars because to me this restaurant never disappoints. I have even taken family members, new friends and coworkers here and they all say the same. read more

I've been here once and it didn't really impress me or my wife too much. It was ok though. They have tons of items on the menu which is cool. Food was OK. But I got the hamburger, and hamburgers are never great in places like this! I didn't really like the inside of it... they have carpet on the floor was kinda made the place not smell great. Remove that carpet asap. lol. Also the walls seems pretty dirty... like people had been picking their nose and rubbing it on the wall.. just kinda gross... didn't feel like I could touch anything. I wouldn't go as far to say this place is filthy though either. Kinda in between lol I wish they would give this place a makeover, then it would be good. Remove all the old lady decorations and dark lighting.. brighten the place up a little... or at the very least a good, good... GOOD scrub down! lol read more

I know what to expect eating here. So...why did i eat here? Ah-air conditioning. I blame it on mild heat stroke/insanity. So hungry and so hot all at the same time. The staff is very friendly and accommodating. But for 2, our bill total was under $18-so I can't really complain.... read more

Decor: beyond tacky. I mean really: I'm no interior designer, but neon lighting all over the place? "O" to the "M" to the "F"...well, you get the point. Food and service: unremarkable, but effective. Good-size portions and good preparation. And the price isn't painful either. I had a chicken club sandwich and fries. My friend had the biggest cobb salad I've ever seen. Easily enough food for 4 meals. It's not the sort of place I would go on a date, but if you're in Novato and you just want to grab some basic food at a good price, this is the place for you. read more

I'm a regular, so I've tried most of the menu and everything is great! The staff is always friendly and greet you like they've known you for years, even if it's your first time there. Portions are generous, and the prices are in line with that. Most of the time, you will get more than you expected and will be taking it home, so come here very hungry or be prepared to carry a doggie bag! The atmosphere is inviting, and it's a comfortable place to have a meal and some conversation. Parking can be a pain, but usually a spot opens up soon enough, even when it's busy - worth a wait. This place is my old reliable, as there aren't many places in Marin County to eat good food without paying an arm & a leg. Give it a try! read more

This is Novato's true diner. The food is just what you would expect to get with no bad surprises. The prices are back in the range of resonable, unlike so many other restuarants that try to make a big margin on marginal food. They are also contributors to their community. They were generous enough to donate all of the provisions for my son's pancake breakfast fundraiser at Pleasant Valley School. This pushes them into the 5 star position. Go support these guys and fill your belly. read more

I usually travel to Novato to visit family and see them when I'm on business in the area as well. I've been to Star many times in the past 10 years and have always had good food and service. Most recently, we opted to go to Star after being poorly received at another Novato restaurant. When we got to Star, it reconfirmed why I love it! It was early on a Saturday morning and, while the grill wasn't quite ready and the neon sign still said "closed", the waitress was welcoming and friendly. She was by herself most of the time we were there but, despite having a number of other patrons to wait on, kept our coffee cups full and made sure we were enjoying our food. I had the short stack of pancakes, which were hot and tasty. I can always count on Star for good customer service and good food. My only regret is that we didn't go straight to Star that morning. read more

Don't eat here. I owed a friend breakfast and as a result he got sick. It was better, not by much however, when it was a Sambo's franchise a long time ago, I am 77 and live a few blocks away and have learned to cook a good breakfast at home. I will say that the help is great. read more

In 2007 this restaurant is what the old corner diner used to be. If you frequent it enough, you will see many familiar faces and repeat diners. My husband and I eat there at least twice a month, and have tried many of the menu offerings. The food is always served hot (or cold if it supposed to be!) and very tasty. They don't overdo the seasonings, so that is a plus. Also, the staff is great! I have also eaten at the Star Restaurant in Rohnert Park/Coati and like the Novato one best. The environment is interesting, due to the multitude of neon lights and pink flowers over the ceiling, but the dining room and booths are always comfortable and clean. They accomodate groups with ease and again, the staff is just the best. Also, one last thing, try the pie! I have even ordered and purchased pies for Thanksgiving and no one has been disappointed. read more

Great breakfast food. Kinda strange decor and slow service, but I'm under 85 years old, so I'm not exactly the market segment they are shooting for... read more

Going to the library and stopped here for some dinner. First off I have to say - best price in town. My sandwich, chicken pesto club, generous with the chicken breast, was good - I would have again and just asked to have the bread toasted not grilled (a little greasy). My sandwich came with fries. I also ordered the house salad. My grandson had the popcorn chicken, fries and a vanilla shake from the kids menu. The total cost less than $17. You can's beat that. Their hours are great too - 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. - practically unheard of in Novato. I would like to go back and try their breakfast. One other thing - each table has a small vase with pink sugar - yes, pink sugar. What is that? I thought it was small crystals to hold flowers in place but they had not replaced the flowers. My grandson (while I was in the restroom) gave it a taste and informed me that it was sugar. Yes, I asked the server and she confirmed that it is sugar. Just a little different I will say! read more

I love Star : ) Their French Dip rocked my world one fine day. I'll definitely be coming back because I'm right around the corner! : ) read more

See all

As long as when you're walking in, you realize "it is what it is", you'll have a great experience at Star Restaurant. You can't compare it to anywhere fancy, but it's like a diner and as diners go, it's pretty good! I had the chicken quesadilla which gives La Pinata around the corner a run for it's money. It comes with nachos w/cheese & jalapenos etc. Very good! We had great service too. Second to none are their cream pies. I had the coconut cream and my boyfriend had the chocolate cream and we both loved them! Try it...you'll like it! read more

This used to be one of my favorites but over the years I realized the pink has got to go they should upgrade. Still the food and service is very homey and has the typical american diner feeling read more

We are pretty regulars here since it's so close to home when we don't feel like cooking or driving elsewhere. The food is good but service is hit or miss. Lots of parking and there's usually no wait to be seated. read more

Star Restaurant - Waffle with eggs and bacon - American Near Me - Novato, California

This is the restaurant that was formerly known as Sambos, and formerly known as Seasons, and formerly known as Bakers Square. At least, that is true for the location. Frankly, if you need to sit down w/ friends, and not be limited by your selection, and not worry about price or noise, this isn't half bad. Sure, the decor is, uh, interesting, but for what Star provides, I'll live with it. I've had the chicken parmesan, the NY Steak, the hamburger, and the berry pie (on separate occasions, of course). None of them will win any awards, but all hit the spot for the occasion. The one thing I've been tempted to do, but haven't, is try one of their well beverages. They all contain something called "Han", which is apparently 48 proof (I guess this restaurant can't carry anything with more than 25% alcohol). For this day and age, I'm a little suspicious of trying a $4.95 margarita - perhaps I won't know the difference, but perhaps it's something akin to rubbing alcohol. Recommended. read more

Love this place. Good food at good prices. Clean cozy restaurant. Friendly employees. Definitely recommended and will always return. read more

Star Restaurant - American Near Me - Novato, California

First time visitor I wish I had come sooner! Breakfast is better priced than other establishments and was tasty and cooked exactly as requested. Sherri was a lovely and prompt server - warm and friendly. See you soon!! read more

I don't even think they deserve even one star. But it's required. So here goes. I took my girls to dinner tonight. We were asked to seat ourselves. So we did. We ordered. Apparently off the menu. (Something that use to be on the menu). We said we'd order something else. The waitress left. Came back and with a huff in her breath (like we had requested she ask) said the the chef would not make the old menu item. No biggie. We asked for waters. Ordered hamburgers and an omelette. 30 minutes later our food arrived. We asked for water again. (Cause we never got our water. Though the tables next to us received waters, and proper care). So I never finished my hamburger cause I was parched. I asked for water one last time. She said she'd be right back with waters and she walked to another table. And brought them water. I asked for the check. 15 minutes later she came to the table carrying three boxes but forgot the check. Still no apology about the water and no water. She said she forgot the bill. (All this after I mentioned I was in a rush to get the bill and get out of there). Finally I get the bill. I go to the register to pay and wait about 12 minutes for her to come to the register. All because she was busy turning a plate under the heater. We'd made eye contact. So she knew I was there. She was also asked by the other wait staff to check me out. To no avail. She then went and handed a the wrong check, then the right check to another customer. All while I stood there. Waiting. No line. And she knows "I'm in a rush" My daughter didn't even touch her food because she took one bite and hit something hard in her hamburger and her tooth got knocked halfway out. They never asked why she didn't touch it. It was the oddest meal I'd ever had. And the first time ever I have left only an 8% tip. I wanted to leave nothing. But didn't think it was fair to the bus boys. read more

Love this place. Newly renovated, great all day breafast, yummy sandwhiches and salads. I especially love parmesan chicken special and fiesta salad! Very comfortable atmosphere and friendly staff. read more

If it wasn't for the decent breakfasts (eggs cooked perfectly), I'd give one star. Having lived in New York for 12 years I have lots of diner experience. I'm not a foodie, but know good food versus the mediocre stuff from Sysco (or the equivalent) that I sense is served at Star. The "specials" menu hasn't changed in 3 years, and I have never seen a same day special. As for the pies...the last two fruit pies served, I was disappointed as the crusts on the bottom weren't completely baked. The servers are as personable as any five star diner, but I'm evaluating Star by its food. To the owner/manager: PLEASE STEP UP TO THE PLATE!) Pun intended! read more

Greasy spoon diner. Not cheap. Wait staff is less than pleasant and talks more to the chef than to customers...and you can hear it from the kitchen to the door. I hope she gets her car fixed for a good price and nobody else has to listen to their conversations. Clearly they're happy with their "seasoned" regulars who like a breakfast without seasoning. Won't be going back anytime soon, or ever. Pretty gross. Also the coffee mug handle was sticky. Fun. read more

This place has definitely shortened their hours. It looks like they close at 9 every night now. So, nearly empty on a Friday evening. Meanwhile, 2 nearby Mexican restaurants are full and actually overflowing onto the sidewalk outside.I'm not sure what it's called now, but one of those places used to be a Lyon's. read more

False advertisement sign: they will not honor the $5.99 special today. (We are here Monday @ 11am) Scam? It's very cold in here too, everyone in this place is sits with a jacket on unless you're lucky enough to sit at a sunny window. read more