Description: Living in Hawaii I have the good fortune of regularly eating outstanding seafood in some very superior seafood restaurants. Thus, when I’m away from home and find myself in the proximity of the ocean, I long for fresh fish. After expressing this desire to my son, who is a San Diego resident, he cleverly directed us without further adieu to the venerable
Star of the Sea located in downtown San Diego next to the harbor.
Our arrival was met by much fanfare --the exploding of fireworks over the city, which I soon learned was a nightly occurrence in the famed Gaslamp section of town. After our share of oohs and aahs and grateful exclamations of our good fortune to be here this perfect warm San Diego evening, we entered the sophisticated foyer of the restaurant built right over the water with celebrated architectural acclaim.
With buoyant spirits and anticipatory cravings we were lead immediately to our table. Candle lighting, neutral colors, specially designed textiles and painted ceilings, plush booths and various cozy levels made the room immediately inviting. Through walls of glass the harbor lights twinkled, the old sailing ship, Star of the Sea, docked permanently alongside, bobbed to and fro to a soothing rharbor rhythm. Our booth was in the corner of the restaurant where our head waiter, assisted by two eager attendants, made certain we were catered to in every way possible.
After perusing a fantastic assortment of appetizers , we settled on a bowl of steamers and the roasted beet and goat cheese salad, which both proved to be scrumptious ways to intrigue our tastebuds in preparation for the main course. We debated a bit about which would be the most fitting, most perfectly satisfying selection for our piqued appetites; seabass is always a treat, but the thought of Cioppino and Red Chili Linguine made our mouths water. In the end, I followed the waiter’s sage advice and ordered the Halibut with Foie Gras while my son stayed firm with the seabass.
Delicate, perfectly sauted, wonderfully complimented by the side dishes, I pronounced the halibut/foie gras combination perhaps the most exquisite seafood dish I’d ever eaten. It was all perfect already when friends who I hadn’t seen in years and we’d chance to meet while admiring the fireworks outside, sent over a bottle of delectable Paul Hobbs wine. I must admit that put the meal and the evening right over the top.
Star of the Sea has jazz performances on Thursday nights, and a light menu is also served at the ultra-cool bar. Next door, the San Diego institution of Anthony’s Seafood House, the sister restaurant to Star, serves up wonderful food in a bit more casual setting. For decades this restaurant family has delighted visitors and residents to San Diego. Regardless of which venue you choose, I’m certain you’ll finish the evening with spirits high and taste buds singing.
Close