Starlite Returns: A Reimagined Icon in San Diego

After nearly two decades as an iconic bar and restaurant in San Diego, Starlite is back with a refreshed design, expanded kitchen, and the same timeless vibe that made it a local favorite.

This reimagined version of Starlite brings new life to the beloved space while staying true to its original mid-century aesthetic.

Starlite bar and restaurant

A Design Legacy Reimagined

Originally designed by Bells + Whistles in 2006, Starlite became a standout for its cathedral-like cave ceiling, Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired details, and a touch of 1970s Italian futurism.

Now, nearly two decades later, Bells + Whistles has refreshed the space in collaboration with CH Projects, adding a hi-fi DJ booth curated by Vinyl Junkies’ Tim Mays and refining the overall experience while preserving the bar’s signature charm.

An Expanded Kitchen With Classic Favorites

The kitchen has undergone a major expansion, paving the way for an updated menu that blends classic Starlite favorites with new additions.

Fans of the Jidori Chicken with truffled chicken jus and the Starlite Burger with caramelized onions, gruyère, and dijonaise will be happy to see them return, alongside new prime filets, protein platters, and elevated starters and sides.

A Cocktail Program That Stands the Test of Time

Starlite’s iconic cocktail menu continues to shine, featuring:

  • Kentucky Colonel – Bourbon, ginger, lemon, tiki bitters, seltzer
  • Starlite Mule – Vodka, lime, housemade ginger beer, bitters
  • T. Mays Margarita – Tequila blanco, agave, lime, cilantro, rose tincture

New additions include the Atomic Age (overproof rum, navy-strength gin, Benedictine, vermouth, cola, bitters) and the Golden Eye Estate (Irish whiskey, cognac, crème de cacao, milk tea, Licor 43).

iconic bar and restaurant in San Diego

See you there!

📅 Reopens Monday, March 24, 2025
📍 3175 India St., San Diego
🎟️ Make your reservations here
ℹ️ More info here

Starlite is back and better than ever, reclaiming its place as an iconic bar and restaurant in San Diego. The kitchen will be open daily from 5 PM to 11 PM, with the bar pouring until 2 AM.

See you there, San Diego!

Share This Post
The Latest
Summer Concerts in the Park series in University Heights
It’s the last Friday of the season, and it’s a big one. Head to Trolley Barn Park this Friday for the grand finale of the...
Dorothea Laub Balboa Park Carousel
Experience the magic of National Carousel Day Balboa Park featuring the Dorothea Laub carousel and free entertainment.
big list of things to do in san diego this weekend
Check out this week’s Things to Do in San Diego This Weekend and make your plans! Comic-Con takes over downtown this weekend, but there’s plenty...
top concerts in san diego this week
Here are the top concerts in San Diego this week! Whether you’re singing along with Simple Plan, catching the indie vibes of Rainbow Kitten Surprise,...
Vinyl at the Market Liberty Station
If your record collection has been feeling a little thin lately, this Sunday is the one to fix that. Vinyl at the Market is back...
Summer wine tasting at Mission Bay Beach Club with bay views
A wine tasting on Mission Bay with Michelin’s 2021 Sommelier of the Year leading the way – yes, that’s actually the plan. Charlotte Randolph is...
Recently Featured Restaurants
Moniker General is coming downtown, and honestly, it makes all the sense in the world. The coffee and cocktail concept that helped shape Liberty Station...
Little Italy is getting a new coffee spot this summer, and it’s coming from one of the neighborhood’s most respected kitchens. Cloak & Petal –...
Downtown San Diego is getting exactly the kind of neighborhood spot it deserves. Pear Plum is an all-day café, specialty coffee shop, and wine bar...
Something genuinely intriguing opened along the 101 in Encinitas, and it’s not giving much away. Anigma is a new hidden cocktail bar from the owners...
À L’ouest San Diego
TRUST Restaurant Group just opened À L’ouest, their 13th restaurant and most ambitious project to date, on the prominent corner of 30th and University in...
Bacari, the family-owned Mediterranean small plates restaurant, just opened its doors in North Park, and it’s taking over the beloved two-story building at 30th and...