Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Starlite

    4.1 (2.7k reviews)
    Closed 5:00 pm - 1:00 am (Next day)
    Updated a few days ago

    Starlite Photos

    Business Info

    STARLITE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Loud
    Trendy
    Good for groups
    Outdoor seating

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Starlite

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Seating area
    Danielle V.

    My 1000th review! This restaurant is all about the vibes. The bar area where you can get some food but not the main dining area is this cool all desk space with lights that makes it look like stars in the sky. The other area is a cool indoor space that makes you feel like you are outside, that's where we sat for dinner. I got the sea bass, scalloped potatoes and Mac and cheese. Everything was great but nothing I would crave again. I got a mule for a drink and that was also good. The prices for the food and drinks were very reasonable for what you good. The service was also really friendly. This would be a five star if the food would have been just a tad bit better. Other than that everything was great!

    Interior
    Michelle B.

    WOW this place is stunning!! Came by with a friend and reservations (!) for a Thursday evening and loved it so much I came back the following Saturday night! Yes, this is a bar + restaurant but I think most people come for drinks / photos. I highly recommend making reservations in advance ($50 reservation placeholder fee on OpenTable though, please be advised!!) Location wise, this place is very unassuming from the outside and is located near the airport and ~10-15 mins via car from Gaslamp. Once you walk in, everyone is immediately carded and checked in with the hostess. We initially thought this gorgeous part of the immediate interior was the entire place and were already taken away! However!! Past the DJ booth and futuristic bathrooms and up the stairs, there is a tropical area followed by this futuristic disco ball patterned dome shaped room with a waterfall. 100/10 for aesthetics!! Honey Ryder 5/5, I could only drink these and be very happy; sweet but not too sweet, very light, excellent pricing French Fries 3/5, average, not mad at this, would order again Mozzarella sticks with Caviar and Crème fraîche 3.5/5, okay yes enjoyable but I wish the mozzarella sticks were larger and more cheesy

    sea Bass
    Elizabeth M.

    Shout out to the designer behind Starlite. The moment you walk in, your eyes are immediately drawn to the recess bar area, with those gorgeous Starlite chandeliers hanging low at eye level. Against the dark ambiance, it really feels like gazing into a night sky filled with bright stars. It was absolutely mesmerizing. Climb the short staircase and you'll find an indoor outdoor patio dining area, lush with tropical plants hanging from above and palm trees throughout. It gives off such a warm, exotic, vacation like feeling. Then, walk further to the right and you'll discover another dining room they call the Disco Cave. With all the sparkling mirrored glass decorating the walls, it feels like a time capsule transporting you to another era. The mood and ambiance were unexpectedly festive and magical. Our server, Mati, was wonderful. She constantly checked in to make sure we were doing well. We weren't happy with the sea bass dish we ordered, and she immediately took care of it and graciously offered us the menu to choose another dish. The food was unexpectedly delicious, especially the Prime Filet Steak, which was seasoned and cooked perfectly. Also the Chef's Vegetables Salad, I don't usually get excited about a salad, but this salad completely won me over. The vegetables were fresh, crisp, and beautifully presented. We'll definitely be back.

    Weak salad wedge
    Alex L.

    Sh!tty service overall. Quality of food is also a let down. Ambiance is mid af. Don't come here. Go to Leila for a better experience . I sat at the bar and got double charged.. Also ask for Jake if you want to get treated badly. Enjoyy

    Yumi L.

    One of the most beautiful cocktail bars ever! It looks like something out of a Star Wars movie. However, me and my friends had to share a small table and sat in tiny stools. If you make a reservation be sure to reserve the booth seats. Parking was HARD and nonexistent. Less than 10 parking spots provided by Starlite, then you need to drive through the hilly residential area for a spot. Drinks were decent but nothing special! You really just come here for the ambiance. Presentation was nice. Service could be better, was slow.

    Manda M.

    Such a cute and aesthetic spot! I originally couldn't get a reservation, so I joined the waitlist and ended up getting notified last minute. Check-in was super quick and easy. I was a little disappointed that we ended up sitting at the bar area because I was really hoping our reservation would get us into the beautiful waterfall room. Other than that, the service was great and the food was SO good! Definitely worth checking out if you're looking for a cute dinner spot with a fun atmosphere.

    Andy V.

    Popped in late with a friend, and honestly, finding a spot that's open late with vibes this good is a total lifesaver for night owls. The ambiance is top-tier--that stunning starlight ceiling light fixture sets the coolest, moody tone the second you step inside. Ordered the Starlight Mule, and it was crisp, refreshing, and crafted perfectly. Great drinks, incredible mid-century modern aesthetic, and standard-setting late-night hospitality. Will definitely be making this a regular late-night haunt!

    Rosy C.

    This place is amazing to look at. The night that I was there, there was a DJ playing chill music, which was super nice. Sat at the bar and ordered a drink, it was a nice place to just enjoy ourselves.

    Tartare
    Jenna L.

    Starlite was definitely a vibe! The downstairs is more a cocktail lounge, small seating and crowded but intimate. The upstairs is a whole different vibe with a waterfall and more space to eat. The food was good! I liked the apps and the steak sampler. I was expecting more from the potatoes but still good! They surprised us with birthday cakes with our names on them which was such a special touch! Service was a bit slow, it's very dark inside but totally a vibe!

    Jennifer C.

    My goodness what a stunning space this is! I was absolutely captivated by the interior of the restaurant downstairs, as well as the newer upstairs area where we ate. Everything is beautiful to look at, and I would say this was absolutely the highlight of the experience. Not all seating is equal, here, however. So it's kind of a gamble what you are going to get. We shared a salad and honey gochujung carrots which all were very tasty. The cocktails had a great presentation and were delicious as well. I really loved how they took notice of my birthday and even brought out a cake slice with my name on it!! What an amazing touch. My only criticism would be that everything took a while. I'm sure the place gets busy, but I did spend a lot of time waiting to catch a glimpse of our server who was busy running around. To me it just seemed like he had too many big tables to manage, which isn't at fault to him. He was actually amazing! I would definitely come back here for a special occasion again.

    Non-alcoholic House-made Ginger Drink
    Jemiah J.

    Loved Starlite. Everything we got here was delicious. The Starlite Ice Cream Sandwich was heavenly. The fresh ginger non-alcoholic drink the server recommended was exactly what I wanted, even though I didn't know it until I had my first sip. My grilled sea bass was perfection. I'm definitely getting it again when I visit. My husband loved his steak with puréed potatoes, and my friend really enjoyed her Starlite Burger. We also got a wedge salad, which was divine, and the mushrooms were so good. Fantastic place to visit for delicious food and a beautiful setting. You'll have a great time here.

    Graysen A.

    I would highly recommend Starlite to anyone who will listen. The cocktails were so amazing, we had zero intentions of staying for two rounds but we did. I would've stayed for 3. We cannot wait to come back for dinner here. The servers are on top of everything, and the inside is incredible. If you want to teleport to somewhere else, just take one step inside this restaurant. Truly is incredible. You won't find anything with this level of ambiance anywhere else in San Diego.

    exterior
    Camille H.

    Starlite is absolutely beautiful and the food was incredible. The staff were very nice as well. We asked our waitress if we could eat inside (we made a reservation for anywhere because we didn't know the layout). She said it was full but said that we could eat outside (which is also a very beautiful area btw) and then have drinks after at the bar inside. She even reserved us a place after we finished eating. I highly recommend the roasted mushrooms. They had a great flavor.

    Inside

    See all

    17 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    17 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Amanda B.
    170
    106
    53

    12 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    19 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    19 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    18 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    14 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    19 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Douglas L.
    214
    91
    33

    14 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Johnny P.
    353
    15
    12

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    15 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    14 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    19 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Avery J.
    107
    41
    0

    18 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    17 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    16 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    19 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    19 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0

    15 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Lisa H.
    36
    42
    109

    14 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of David S.
    33
    174
    2

    19 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    18 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    19 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    18 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    13 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of LJ L.
    160
    452
    101

    13 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Liz L.
    55
    47
    9

    19 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    16 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    16 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 29 of 68

    Starlite Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Starlite

    Do they take walk ins?

    I've been seated as a walk-in but it was at one of the small cocktail tables (not ideal if you're ordering multiple items)

    What's the dress code?

    Oh my God. San Diego's hottest bar is Starlite. This place has everything. Normcore guys who look like they were grown in a Patagonia incubator. Lumbersexuals whose beards have their own side quests. Indie sleaze gremlins wearing three belts for no… 

    Is this business kid friendly?

    Says on description 21+ at all times.

    Do they have DJs every Friday & Saturday or only on specific weekends?

    How am I able to make a reservation for 5 people? It doesn't seem to be an options on open table...

    How ADA friendly is it? Depending on how I'm feeling, I use a wheelchair or cane.

    It's kinda tight in there. If they can accommodate you up front that would probably be the best.

    What is the dress code?

    No actual dress code but I would definitely dress to impress to match the vibe of the location

    Happy hour available ? Which days and when?

    Can kids came in?

    At Starlite, it is treated as a bar, and you MUST be 21 years of age or older to enter.

    Do they not answer their phones at all? Have been trying for over a week to reserve for a larger party for a birthday and no one answers or calls back to return messages.

    I tried to ask some questions before we went for our first time and I also encountered the same issue. Tried over and over 10 times and no answer

    What time/days is happy hour ? And what's on the menu?

    I don't believe they have happy hour.

    Are kids allowed here?

    Not really an environment for kids. I doubt they are.

    What's the updated email address to make a group reservation? The one on your voicemail and website doesn't work

    Not sure, but we made reservations on Open Table app

    What is the corkage fee? The only response was from 2017 for $15, is that still their fee?

    I don't believe this is a BYOB spot therefore corkage fees don't apply?

    Is there just a bar to sit at?

    There is both a bar top (U shape) and a lot of tables 2/4/6 person tables. IMHO It's just as much a… 

    Late night dining still a thing here? If so, what time is last call for the kitchen?

    It's right when they close which is 12 last I was there

    Do you have valet parking?

    Afraid not; the parking lot only has 4 spots that's pretty much taken all day/evening. There are street parking areas around the restaurant.

    Is the downstairs open yet? I went a couple of months ago and it wasn't.

    It is now open!! Offering both inside seating and patio seating.

    What days and time is happy hour?

    I don't believe they have one cause they are open only from 4pm-9pm

    Are walk ins welcome?

    They are! Reservations are prioritized and tables are primarily for apps and dinner. Open seating at the bar and you're able to have a full menu there too. There's a patio bar that's open on Fridays and Saturdays. Reservations are strongly… 

    View All 37 Questions

    You might also consider

    False Idol

    False Idol

    4.4
    (1.4k reviews)
    1.1 mi
    $$

    I love it here; this is one of my go to spots to bring people when they are in town for…read morework/visiting etc. Be warned, you can have a very long wait here if you just pop in, especially on a Friday or Saturday evening. Make a reservation if you know this is your destination. They have some spot on Tiki decor and the staff here is really friendly, happy to share their favorite drinks, or make suggestions based on your likes. If fruity drinks are not your jam... what are you doing in a Tiki Bar!! No really, they have great options for on the rocks or straight as well as ordering your favorite cocktail or beer. They have a ton of options, all sorts of alcohol bases depending on what your vice is, they also have non-alcoholic drinks for those so inclined. Hard to pass on a Mai Tai or a Zombie to start your evening off. lately I have been enjoying the Eastern Sour which is their take on a whiskey sour. It's always fun when someone orders a bowl and the room shakes and the lights flash with thunder and lightning adding a bit of excitement for first timers. Just to recap: Don't get mad if you have to wait and did not make a reservation. While they have lots of options, most drinks and all specialties are Tiki Drinks. Tiki drinks can be strong, mind yourself. If a place like this is not your vibe, that is fine, head back into Craft & Commerce, make room for others who are waiting to get in, just have fun!

    My brother found this place several years ago on his visits to SD. It's now become a regular spot…read morewhenever we are in town. Most recently we were there for an event and as always, they were nothing short of exceptional! The drinks are always fantastic but what really elevates this place is the staff. They always have the best attitude, they are so accommodating, and you can tell they want you to enjoy your experience in every way. During our most recent visit, Lamar really went above and beyond to ensure our group was able to all be together for an event. I'm so very grateful for his assistance and wanted to say thank you again for everything! This place is an absolute must each time we visit, and I would highly recommend adding it to your list to try!

    Photos
    Tiki themed decor
    Tiki themed decor
    Rum barrel
    Rum barrel
    Back bar rum selection

    See all

    Back bar rum selection
    Noble Experiment

    Noble Experiment

    4.5
    (1.9k reviews)
    1.9 mi
    $$

    My husband and I recently spent some days in San Diego. He found this speak easy and we decided we…read moreneeded to try it out. This was definitely the highlight of our trip. From the spooky, dark, skulls old school ambiance and decor, to the experience of not ordering from a menu, everything about it made it feel unique and curated making it feel like a true individualized experience. As mentioned, there are no menus. We sat at the bar, the bartender makes casual conversation with you regarding the types of drinks you enjoy. He curated something for both my husband and I based on what we shared we enjoyed. The drinks were delicious. The entry was very cool! It felt as if you were entering a hidden spot - which you do. When you enter the restaurant, you let the hostess know you're there for the Noble Experience. She let us know to head to the wall with the kegs (which is actually a door). You enter and there's a small waiting area where you're greeted by another hostess. This place is a 20/10. We can't wait to return on our next visit to SD.

    This is an easy one and Consortium Holdings does it again...a MUST go. You know the rules...one…read moreshort review, let's go: Drinks: no menu. Love it. True bartender skills. Love it. Drinks. Love them! Whole crew did. Well done Ambiance: top tier. As with anything CH. so fun Service: amazing. Knowledgeable. Attentive. And so nice. Go go go to NE

    Photos
    Strawberry cucumber Gin cocktail
    Strawberry cucumber Gin cocktail
    Ceiling and chandelier
    Ceiling and chandelier
    Bartenders creations.

    See all

    Bartenders creations.
    Mothership

    Mothership

    4.3
    (978 reviews)
    2.7 mi
    $$

    Ambiance: 5/5 Service: 4/5…read moreFood: 4/5 Drinks: 5/5 Price: 4/5 Parking: 4/5 Came by on a Monday late afternoon with a reservation. It was my third overall visit but my first time bringing my kids (12, 5). We all love it and are big Mothership fans! I highly recommend for all ages, though come early with a reservation if you're bringing minors.

    The single worst experience I've ever had going out…read more If you're friends with the servers, bartenders, or hosts, you'll probably have a great time. If you're not a regular, be careful, because apparently all it takes is one drunk friend of the staff making up a story to get you kicked out. While visiting San Diego with friends, we came here after hearing so many great things. There was a short wait, which was fine. The four of us were seated at a small standing table, also fine. Behind us were two guys drinking at the standing bar. One of them bumped into my friend and then stroked her arm while apologizing. She was visibly uncomfortable, so I told her to switch places with me. The guy immediately said, "We're gay, so you don't have to worry," then turned to his friend and said, "Now he looks so stupid and embarrassing." I told him, "I don't think it's embarrassing to make sure your friends are comfortable," then turned back around. I didn't argue with him, insult him, or continue the conversation. I thought that was the end of it. A few minutes later, the manager came over and told us we had made comments that made other patrons uncomfortable and asked us to leave. We had already paid for our drinks and were still waiting for them. My friend followed the manager to ask what was going on, and I joined shortly after. The person complaining was, of course, the same guy who had bumped into her. He was clearly drunk and started rambling about how we had made homophobic comments toward him and his friend. This was especially ridiculous considering the friend I switched places with was there with her girlfriend. We calmly explained exactly what happened. The manager did not care. There was no real attempt to hear our side, ask questions, or figure out what actually happened. The decision had clearly already been made. While we were speaking to the manager, the guy who complained was cheerfully talking with one of the bartenders, receiving a to-go meal, and greeting them cheek to cheek. He very obviously appeared to know the staff. So that seems to be how things work here: a drunk regular or friend of the staff can make up whatever story he wants, and management will throw out an entire group of paying customers without even pretending to investigate. They refunded the drinks, which was the bare minimum. The ambience was nice, but that means absolutely nothing when the staff handles customers this poorly. Awful management, blatant favoritism, and easily the worst service I have ever experienced. I would never come back, and I would strongly warn anyone who isn't already friends with the staff to stay away.

    Photos
    Mindkiller
    Mindkiller
    Away Mission
    Away Mission
    The bar area

    See all

    The bar area
    Bar Kamon

    Bar Kamon

    4.6
    (282 reviews)
    2.2 mi
    $$
    Private events
    Takes reservations

    This speakeasy is so u assuming! Enter Asa Bakery, immediately turn right and the hidden door is…read morestraight ahead. But the host is on the other side of the wall. You must ask at the Bakery counter to be let in. HINT: look for the handicap button on the wall. Just push it and the door opens. You will be met by staff immediately inside and seated. Its a small interior with not so intimate seating. The lighting is on the brighter side. Service is superior!! The food is great and the drinks were mostly hit and some misses. But they will remake you a new drink if you let them know. Surprisingly the food was outstanding. The plates are large! We had Chicken Karaage which was cooked perfectly and the sticky sauce was delicious. The Nagoya Karaage Nagoya Style Fried Chicken, Sesame Seeds, White Pepper, Cabbage. The glaze was sweet and delicious! OG Haccho Chicken Sliders were more like full size sandwiches - Miso Glazed Crispy Chicken, Sumono Pickles, Sesame Coleslaw, w Yuzu Togarashi Mayo, on a soft Brioche Bun. The Ronin Fries were so good. All the flavors went well together. Shogoyaki Pork Belly, Mozzarella Cheese, Bang Bang Sauce, Green Onion, and Furikake Seasoning. The Umi No Maboroshi Oysters were a disappointment. Only 2 oysters at this price point is pricey! It was weird- the Edible Tuile Shell, Caviar, Yuzu Caviar, Sancho Oil, Wakame, Micro Greens on top were just too much. The flavors did not show while eating. Too many flavors made the oyster unnoticeable! Next the Drinks!! The White Lover!!! Hands down the best drink we tried. All three of us agreed!!! Its topped w a Sherbet- ish frozen Yuzu ball. Eat it or add it to your drink to change the flavor a bit. Either way the best drink we had. The Tokyo Banana was next best!!! The Yama Matcha was good but lacked matcha flavor. Was a good drink but to me was not a matcha drink. The Sesame Old Fashioned had a slight sesame flavor. However I'd like more sesame myself. But a nice twist on an iconic drink. Overall our experience was 5 stars. Our server was great and she is the one who recommended White Lover. Sorry cant remember her name. But had sandy blonde hair and was on the taller side. She actually jumped behind the bar to make a custom drink for all of us! The shooters were outstanding!! Highly recommend this speakeasy for the Asian inspired drink and food!!

    When we walked into the bakery, I thought, "Wait... where is Bar Kamon hiding?" Turns out, it was…read morehiding in plain sight! The staff welcomed us so warmly and even accommodated our early reservation request such a lovely surprise. This hidden gem feels like a little escape from the city hustle, with such a calming vibe. The cocktails were fantastic Tokyo Banana was delicious, but the Yame Matcha was my favorite! Hubby had his whiskey, and we shared chicken karaage and fries. Such a fun, cozy date night and honestly, such a beautiful experience. We'll definitely be back!

    Photos
    Bar Kamon
    Hibiki old Fashioned
    Hibiki old Fashioned
    Daikon Kombu Martini

    See all

    Daikon Kombu Martini
    Convoy Music Bar

    Convoy Music Bar

    4.5
    (427 reviews)
    6.2 mi
    $$

    I've been coming to Music Bar since they first opened, and somehow never got around to writing a…read morereview. This one is long overdue--not that they need my review, because by now everyone already knows how amazing this place is. What keeps me coming back is the combination of great music, an energetic vibe, outstanding service, and some of the most creative cocktails you'll find anywhere. Tonight was girls' night out, so we decided to order the prettier, and sweeter cocktails. But don't let the sweet flavors fool you--they are definitely generous with the alcohol. These drinks may taste dangerously easy to sip, but they pack a punch! I don't even remember the names of the cocktails we ordered, but honestly, that doesn't matter because the menu changes so often. And that's one of the things I love most about Music Bar. Every visit brings something new, fresh, and exciting to try. Both of my drinks were absolutely delicious, with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. I honestly don't know how the bartenders come up with these combinations, but kudos to the team for constantly pushing their creativity while still making every cocktail incredibly well balanced. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular, Music Bar never disappoints. I'll definitely keep coming back to see what new creations they come up with next. Cheers to one of my favorite cocktail spots in San Diego!

    Convoy Music Bar was my first HiFi experience and it did not disappoint! CMB is an intimate…read morelistening bar situated in an alleyway with a dark and moody ambiance. Speakers and vinyls line the walls. Vibes are more elevated here than at your usual bar. I ordered the Nickel Fortune, which came out with a fun tarot card. It was a savory drink with a nice lingering of sesame oil after each sip. Seating is pretty limited inside, so reservations are recommended. CMB's website states that "cocktail attire is celebrated."

    Photos
    Corner table view:  large JBL speakers with Macintosh amps
    Corner table view: large JBL speakers with Macintosh amps
    Interior
    Interior
    Interior

    See all

    Interior
    Polite Provisions

    Polite Provisions

    4.3
    (2k reviews)
    3.2 mi
    $$

    Always a 5 Star experience when gathering for drinks here…read more Over the years, the names have changed for the provider of Polite Provision's delicious orderable food to go along with their polite provisions. Items such as scrupulously prepared meatballs, fried polenta, spaghetti with mushroom sauce, etc., from the prior next-door, connected purveyor "Soda and Swine"...but those days are done ...I digress. And where is Soda and Swine's Yelp page? I know I did a review, but now the page appears gone completely in search? Nah, it's just hidden, presumably to accommodate Fortunate Sons, which opened about a year ago after re-construction of both establishments. I'm too lazy to see if still owned by Consortium Group. I did search my reviews and found my updated Soda & Swine review dated 8 & 10 years ago. O_o !! Now, food is still served, however, there's a new name in town called "Fortunate Son" (next door, connected). Apparently, food now served is Asian-inspired. I've not visited recently to taste. The North Park area is a great neighborhood with many different types of food close by. While you're there, don't forget to stop by "An's Dry Cleaners", where the most inventive gelato's, ice creams and sorbets come from.

    You can order from the bar or your table. Lots of different seating options indoors and outdoors…read more Very extensive drink menu almost too many options. The drinks we ordered were good and service didn't take too long. Right next to Fortunate Son so you can order food from them and enjoy in their bar.

    Photos
    Want. Make. Disco.
    Want. Make. Disco.
    Real oil lamps!
    Real oil lamps!
    Art deco

    See all

    Art deco
    Realm of the 52 Remedies

    Realm of the 52 Remedies

    4.4
    (887 reviews)
    6.5 mi
    $$

    My friend and I made reservations here for this past Thursday at 9 PM, and I'm already looking…read moreforward to coming back! Definitely make a reservation in advance through OpenTable because they fill up pretty quickly. There is also a deposit required, which you can lose if you no-show or cancel within 24 hours, but the deposit is refunded once you arrive for your reservation. When you arrive, a hostess greets you at the entrance. There's a small waiting area where you can sit until they come get you. Then there's a door where you press a button, and it opens to bring you into the restaurant/bar. Inside, there's a mix of tables and bar seating, and they serve food in addition to having an extensive cocktail menu. The drink menu was definitely the highlight for me. There were so many creative and unique cocktails that really stood out. I'm usually not a huge cocktail person because I don't like overly sweet drinks, and it can be surprisingly difficult to find cocktails that are both original and sophisticated enough to actually sip and enjoy. They definitely nailed that here. I tried several: *Kasato Maru: This was so smooth and absolutely delicious. By far my favorite. You could really pick up the St. Germain elderflower and pear, and the flavors worked beautifully together. Definitely one of my favorites. *Sunomono: This was more liquor-forward, but still incredibly smooth. Definitely a good choice if you want something that lets the spirits shine. *Je Ju: Unfortunately, this one wasn't for me. It had a really unusual flavor that just didn't work with my palate, and my friend wasn't a fan either. I'm usually not one to send a drink back, but the staff was fantastic about it. They happily took it back and made me a completely different cocktail. *Softly Spoken: My friend ordered this one, and it came in a glass filled with small ice cubes. I tried it and thought it was really good, but it wasn't quite my personal preference. It definitely had more of a fruity flavor profile. The food looked absolutely amazing although we didn't eat here this time. There are still so many cocktails on the menu that I want to try so I'll definitely need to come back. The atmosphere is dimly lit, intimate, and full of character. It has that cool, moody feel that makes you want to sit back, sip a cocktail, and stay awhile. And the service was phenomenal from start to finish. Overall, this was such a fun experience. Great atmosphere, creative cocktails, excellent service, and plenty more on the menu I still want to try. I can't wait to come back!

    This speakeasy was such a fun experience…read more The entryway and the decor, music,lighting and Anime playing on the walls all added to an asian inspired sensory deluge. Loved the drinks, food, and the service. Highly recommend a visit!

    Photos
    Sitting area
    Sitting area
    Main dining area
    Main dining area
    View from my table

    See all

    View from my table
    insideOUT

    insideOUT

    4.4
    (1.4k reviews)
    1.7 mi
    $$$

    Last night was one of my top dining experiences. Everything about IO was great. Literally every…read morebite and sip was so delicious. And the decor was so thoughtful, refined yet relaxing. My friend is ready to redecorate his place with Moroccan lamps now. The only negative was our fault...we decided to go two days ago and the only reservation left was at 8:45. I think IO more beautiful at night, so we were looking forward to it nonetheless. We arrived around 8 and ordered a bottle of wine in the waiting area/courtyard ramp. Such an interesting layout, but it works! We got to sit at a table right next to the waterfall and pond. Our server was very nice. Probably the only slip-up in service, was that our main came out when we had barely put a dent in apps. We were probably chatting and sipping on wine too much? The expo realized, kept the mains, and said take your time. Then he brought out mains when we were ready. Everything on the menu sounded amazing. My friend and I decided to both get the steak on the hot stone. It comes out raw and you have to keep track of time to cook it how you like it. You can choose flavored salts and butters and sauces for the side. We also shared the pickled strawberry salad. It had lots of toppings, flavor, and textures. The pozole verde was also excellent.

    InsideOUT is one of my favorite places in Hillcrest, especially if you're looking for a restaurant…read morewith a fun atmosphere. What really keeps me coming back are the seasonal transformations. They go all out with the decorations, and during Christmas the entire restaurant feels completely transformed. It's one of the best holiday dining experiences in San Diego. The seasonal touches don't stop at the décor either. I like that they regularly introduce limited-time food and cocktail specials, so there's usually something new to try while still keeping some of their popular favorites on the menu. Everything I've ordered over multiple visits has been well prepared, and I haven't had a bad meal yet. It's definitely on the pricier side, so I see it more as a place for celebrations, date nights, or when you want a unique dining experience rather than an everyday meal. Between the food, drinks, and the incredible decorations, it feels worth it for those occasions. One piece of advice: make a reservation. This place is popular, especially during the holidays and other seasonal events, and tables fill up quickly.

    Photos
    Spring oasis
    Spring oasis
    Dip and chips
    Dip and chips
    Pear mocktail

    See all

    Pear mocktail

    Starlite - cocktailbars - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...