The iconic cocktail bar reopened last spring, with a funky and modern vibe, true to its roots. It’s been one of the most anticipated reopenings for locals, and the bar’s been packed ever since.
Starlite, then and now
Back in the day, Starlite was THE hotspot for musicians, artists, and all-around creatives. And that’s no wonder, since it was run by 3 big names of the San Diego scene: Tim Mays, Steve Poltz, and Matt Hoyt. Unfortunately, Matt passed away in 2021, which also meant that the iconic bar closed its doors.
Offers poured out for the amazing space, but only one promised to keep its legacy and unique design – and that’s who renovated it, and finally reopened it this last spring.
What to expect – a look inside
This place is a whole vibe, as it always was. It’s just as perfect for a date night as it is for a (classy) night out with friends. You won’t leave Starlite without taking a couple of pictures, and that’s a guarantee. The main dining room, which still has its classic hexagon shape, is centered around a massive, sparkling chandelier. You’ll be surrounded by cool, cavernous rock walls and plush velvet seating. Walk past the skeel DJ booth and find yourself on a bright, green patio with dining tables and a fire pit.
There’s more! A former storage space has been turned into a lounge with crazy disco ball walls, and even a waterfall.
It’s the Starlite you might remember, just seriously spruced up with stylish touches. They even brought back original GM Jack Reynolds and the brilliant chef Ted Smith.
On the Starlite menu
As you can imagine, the cocktails and the food match the glam setting. Think mozzarella sticks, but with with crème fraîche and caviar. A beloved burger, but with caramelized onions, gruyere, dijonnaise, and dill pickle. A spiked milk tea, perfect for this season, with Irish Whiskey, cognac, crème de cacao, cream, milk tea, and Licor 43. There’s nothing on the menu you can go wrong with, and the reviews confirm it.
Have you been back yet? Else…run, don’t walk. This truly is an iconic spot for San Diego, that we’re just so happy to see back in town.