Starlite

"Tucked away in San Diego's buzzing Little Italy neighborhood, Starlite serves as a sanctuary for the city's food and cocktail connoisseurs. Drenched in accolades, this swanky dining spot scooped up titles like "Best Cocktail Bar" from San Diego Magazine in 2018, "Best New Restaurant" by Eater San Diego in 2017, and again, the "Best Cocktail Bar" honor from Thrillist in 2019. Once you step inside, you're treated to an array of palate-pleasing dishes, from small plates to generous entrees. Not to miss are the crowd-pleasers - the creamy mac & cheese, spicy and tangy buffalo cauliflower, succulent grilled octopus, and the refreshing mix of strawberry and avocado salad. For the carnivores, their meat & cheese board is a must, while the pan-roasted jidori chicken and Starlite burger never fail to hit the spot. But it's not just about food at Starlite; their cocktail game is strong, bringing an exciting blend of flavors and spirits to your table. Try the La Suegra, a daring mix of jalapeno tequila, watermelon basil, shrub, cucumber syrup, lemon, and pomegranate. Or drift away with the Adrift on Spruce, a smoky concoction of mezcal, ancho reyes chile liqueur, licor 43, lime, and tajin. For a fizzy treat, the Pomegranate Sparkler is perfect, and the Scarlet Ibis weaves a delicate balance between white rum, giffard wild elderflower, aperol, and lime. Beyond the gastronomical delights, Starlite creates an intimate and dark atmosphere with dim lights and plush seating, the subtle music gently humming in the background - a perfect backdrop for a romantic dinner or a relaxed gathering with friends. Starlite, while leaning towards the pricier end, promises a sophisticated dining experience that's well worth your dime. Located at 3175 India Street, San Diego, they open their doors from 5pm to 1am daily. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, as it's a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. Expect to spend an average of $30-$40 per person, and trust me, you won't regret a single cent!"

"Starlite is a San Diego institution. This cozy, dark, and intimate spot has been helping couples enjoy a night out since 2007. Arguably the creators of the San Diego craft cocktail scene, come here for a drink or a bite to eat. What We Love: Starlite Mule Salted Maple Old Fashioned Starlite Burger The Steak Salted Pretzel Bread Pudding"