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Cowboy Star

4.3 (2.4k reviews)
Ultra High-EndSteakhouses, Bars
Closed • 4:00 pm - 9:30 PM

About Cowboy Star

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COWBOY STAR ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Moderate noise
Classy
Dressy
Happy hour specials

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Recommended Reviews - Cowboy Star

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Mango sorbet, green apple, tajin bonus bite
Denise M.

Sometimes, it's 8:30 pm and you're craving a steak and nothing else will do. Cowboy Star had been on my list forever, and I figured it was as good a time as any to treat myself. It was the perfect experience, start to finish. I was seated at a lil petite booth that was so comfortable and gave me a good view. My server Veronica was exceptional! Incredibly warm and welcoming the entire time, and even gave me a delicious bite of mango sorbet with green apple and tajin, and later a scoop of tiramisu ice cream on the house. I sprang for the dry aged bone-in ribeye and it was everything I wanted it to be. Perfectly seasoned, spot on medium rare, full of buttery goodness. The mashed potatoes and broccolini with it were delicious too, I couldn't resist getting the mac and cheese, but it was honestly a bit sweet for my taste. I really enjoyed my solo date here, and appreciate how great the staff were and their care and attention to detail, highly recommend dining alone or with company :)

May E.

Cowboy star had good eats and my favorite drink during my bar hopping day in San Diego. We came during happy hour so they didn't have the full menu sadly, but I will definitely be back for that. We ordered the New York steak frites and two drinks. The steak was a tad overcooked for medium rare but still so flavorful and juicy! The fries it came with were amazing as well, they reminded me of McDonald's fried but on crack. Steak is always good but the Lost Cowboy cocktail was the star of the show. The red wine float on top really made the flavor and vibe of the drink insane. We also got the Angie's painkiller, which was good but the Lost Cowboy was definitely the better drink.

Ran C.

So, when more than a handful of people, San Diego locals recommend a spot - I had to make sure I dropped in last week while there for Comic Con. BE SURE TO MAKE A RESERVATION! Service was excellent. From the host/hostess, to the server, expo and chefs and other FOH staff who all made sure I was taken care of there at the Chef's Counter. I'd go back just for the service alone. Always nice to experience top notch attention. Food was excellent. If I had to leave a short review, I'd just use one word - excellent and call it a day. The flavors of the dishes. The taste and balance of the drinks. The perfectly prepared Ribeye (Black & Blue). The dessert that wasn't too sweet. And especially the bread that seemed like it was made with crack because I was hooked on my first bite. To give you and idea of the line up: The C-Star Caesar The Cattleman's Cut Bone-In Dry-Aged Ribeye Broccolini and Mashed Potatoes Roasted Bone Marrow Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding Drinks: Prairie Blossom C-Star Old Fashioned 2022 Sinegal (Napa) Yes, I devoured all of it. I even bought more bread. For me, it was that addictive. I'd do it all over again. The whole experience was excellent.

Nata Z.

The ambiance is beautiful, the service is great, and the food is delicious. They had the best bread and steak I've had in a long time! I especially loved the coffee service. My only complaint is that the steak was a little too salty for my taste, but it was still delicious overall. Definitely a great dining experience! Make sure to make a reservation because it's a busy place.

Appetizer (modified to be vegan)
Milene L.

As a vegan, a steakhouse wasn't really my first choice, but I came to Cowboy Star because my husband wanted to give it a try. My first experience was very good, and they were able to modify a dish to fit my vegan dietary needs without any issue. I came back with my husband to celebrate his birthday, and again I was very well treated. I was honestly taken aback by how many of their dishes could be modified to be made vegan. I ended up ordering the mushroom risotto and the grilled peach salad, and both were amazing. Both the palate cleanser and the appetizers were made vegan to suit my needs, and the waiter made sure to confirm that everything was vegan before serving it. I also really enjoyed the atmosphere and being able to watch the chefs work while we enjoyed our meals. But the most outstanding thing is definitely the service. We were treated so well the whole time, especially when it came to accommodating my dietary restrictions. I really recommend this place!

Menu
Maria B.

Cowboy Star is one of my favorite steakhouses. This time I came to try their happy hour. i just flew back and thought to myself, steak sounds yummy. I made it right before happy hour ended, and I have really wanted to try their happy hour. I parked on the street and walked over, immediately offered a bar seat- I was alone so worked perfectly. I was greeted and given a menu. I ordered the skewers, fries, and deviled eggs. I ordered a martini- not on happy hour but they make a good one. Everything was delicious. I did ask for a little salt for the beef skewers and it was to my personal tasting. The portions for happy hour were surprisingly large. I absolutely ordered more than I could eat. But walked out spending $50 for a quality meal. Can't wait to go back.

Urias E.

A 9/10 experience I will continue returning to for until I move away. First time I heard of this place was from a bartender in DTSD. I decided to go immediately but arrived 5 minutes after kitchen closed (10 PM PST) and that's on me, but the doorman was genuinely disheartened I arrived late (not the typical "Why are you coming so late im trying to go home LEAVE" type person) and that was motivation to come back. Booked reservation for 1 (so easy) a few weeks lateron July 11th, 2026. Ordered their local oysters (small just how I love them), an intro cocktail (yummy, not over the top), bread service (the crunch equivalent to Ratatouille's bread scene), and their A5 Japanese Omi Gyu (priced at $180) at medium. U N F O R G E T T A B L E. Gamey but flavorful to have you chew and remember it long after it's been swallowed. So much so, I left 1 slice left, but truly satisfied like a steakhouse hasn't in such a long time. BUT I thought it was a one-and-done scenario. Revisited on September 5th. This time tried their Smoked Esquite (So good I kept eating it through my desert), their take on a New York Sour (damned delicious), and their take on a Filet Mignon at medium (butter smooth, juicy as intended). I closed my eyes whilst eating and the bartender asked if I was okay (shoutout to their constant service), and again, blew me away. Consistent. Elegant. Insatiably delicious. In addition, sat in a different spot and saw their pastry chef working tiredlessly: Concocted a Banana dessert (I leave it to you to enjoy the photographs and ask yourself there for the name) I will long hail it the BEST dessert I have since a Apple Vanilla Ice Cream Crumble in Monterey, CA. Beauty on the plate as was on the palatte. Effectively: Cowboy Star has won my heart in service, continuity, and class artistry across all the respective chefs in the house. I will return in the upcoming months to continue the saga: Wagyu Skirt Steak.

Dione L.

we came here for happy hour before a concert and we absolutely loved it. It's a really good diverse menu with a lot of options. we got the sliders and the meat was so juicy and delicious and I love the assortment of sauces that come with the fries as well. We did also get the deviled eggs, which was such a good bite and so underrated. We also love the Caesar salad. It was perfectly dressed and umami. Our server was great as well. They have good cocktails and I would 10 out of 10 come back.

Wedge Salad
Don B.

Cowboy Star Restaurant and Butcher Shop on Tenth Ave offers some of the best steaks in town. Dry-Aged beef as well all the classics such as Filet Mignon, New York Strip, Porterhouse and Ribeye. On this visit, I was excited to come back to Cowboy Star as its been years since my last visit. They definitely made some really good changes with increased seating a more intimate dining area. The night started of course with bread - buttery, soft and so fresh its melts in your mouth. Second on deck was the wedge salad which had one of the fattest piece of pork belly and it was so good that I could eat a whole portion. With my main I went with the 18oz Dry-Aged T-Bone cooked medium rare from Snake River Farms. I didn't know much about Snake River Farms but from what I am told that their beef is top notch and sure enough, it was one of the best steaks I've had as it texture and taste was outstanding. For sides - always have to get the creamed spinach which was great and always a nice side to compliment the meat. We ordered the Mac and Cheese as well and that was excellent as well. One of the great things that sets Cowboy Star apart from the rest is the complete dining experience. A friendly staff from the front of the house to the back of the house, service was excellent. Each staff had personality and were fun to chat with. Highly recommend Cowboy Star if you are wanting a steakhouse with an excellent experience from start to finish. You won't be disappointed, its well worth the visit.

The wedge
Luisa C.

My husband and I went there on a Friday at 5pm for dinner and our server Mark was great. He really took care of us and knew exactly what to do, very knowledgeable of the entire menu and their summer specials. Now the food! Amazing high quality steaks. I ordered the filet mignon and my husband the bone-in dry-aged ribeye. The wedge is simply amazing! A must try! Plus, a very special amuse-bouche. I'll definitely be recommending this place.

Ribeye
Ronnie F.

I love this place. It doesn't matter whether you're at the bar or in a booth. Warm, relaxed atmosphere, some of the best bartenders in SD, and food that is consistent, prepared right, and absolutely delicious. Bar this time with colleagues from out of town. Happy hour. Exceptional. Thanks To the team here for never letting me down. If you skip dessert you're missing a major reason this place is so well loved. It's not just the steaks.

Sangria
Angela L.

We came here to celebrate my son's graduation. We had reservations at 7 and arrived a little early. We were lead inside to a large booth. We were given drink menus, regular menus, and the specials. My son ordered the prairie blossom which was basically a floral margarita. My husband got a sangria and my mother-in-law got a glass of cabernet sauvignon. The prairie blossom was sweeter than the usual margarita. The sangria was fruity and dry. My mother-in-law liked her wine which went well with the steak she ordered. My son and mother-in-law both ordered the special aged rib eye. I got the mussels and my daughter got the Mac and cheese. My husband also got a rib eye steak but from the regular menu. The beef was cooked to a perfect medium rare. They were tender and full of flavor. The dry aged just had a bigger beef flavor. My mussels were good and plentiful. Unfortunately, a few of them had sand which made it slightly unpleasant. Another sticking point is having to pay for bread service. It was good but not $10 good. Overall a good meal.

Sophie K.

Came here for Christmas eve dinner and it was so cute and cozy, and food was good. We got to try steak with creamy horseradish sauce, beets, french onion soup, as well as cocktails. I forgot the names, but cocktails were sweet and good. I really liked the beets, it came with some sort of cream, I think mascarpone, it was so yummy! Also french onion soup was so rich and good. Steak was huge and I liked it came with sides.

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Cowboy Star Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Cowboy Star

Is this kid friendly?

I don't think so... it's hardly adult friendly. The tables are very close together, the noise is considerable, and they don't have a kids menu. The prices are high and I think of this as more of an expense-account dinner place than a place to bring… 

If we have a reservation at 5pm, can we use it for happy hour? or do we need to sit in the main dining area when we have a reservation?

Happy Hour is Monday through Friday in the bar and lounge only, 3:00 - 6:00 PM. $7 draft beer selections, $8 well spirits, $9 hand picked wine, $10 select specialty cocktails,… 

Can you pay with multiple cards?

Yes

What type of cheeses are in the mac and cheese?

Toe cheese

What is the parking situation? Is there a lot or is it street parking?

There is parking on the street. But it isn’t very good. It is over priced & I would skip it.

Can you order French fries during dinner time or is it bar only?

Yes you can! I just ordered fries with my steak during dinner time on 9/29/2024

Can you reserve a standard seat or only counter is available?

You can reserve a table but do it weeks ahead of time.

How are the steak and sides portions? Run on the smaller side or bigger? thank you in advance

Great portions and you really don't have to order sides as it come with

Do you need a reservation to sit at the bar? Also can you eat at the bar?

The bar is first come first serve. No reservation is needed. The bar has a happy hour/bar menu from 3:00-5:00, and then offer the full dinner menu after 5:00.

What's their corkage fee?

If I remember correctly, I think it was $30 or$35 a bottle. because of that, we chose not to drink the wine we brought, and just go for a few glasses of wine off of their menu. The restaurant is amazing and the food is amazing in the wine was… 

Do they do take out orders?

Your best bet is to call the restaurant and ask them directly.

What time and days is happy hour?

According to their website Happy Hour is Monday through Friday in the bar, 3:00 - 6:00 PM.

Is there outdoor seating available?

Simple answer is no. During the time when restaurants could set up outdoor tables, Cowboy Star had no place to do so. The sidewalk isn't wide enough, the front footprint of the restaurant is narrow, and there are lots of challenged outdoor campers… 

What is the dress code?

There isn't any dress code. Some people are casual in jeans and tees while others show up in a suit and tie. It's all accepted.

Can we bring a baby?

You can, I'm sure. But this is not the kind of place you would want to bring a baby. It is not a place for kids at al. While you can can bring a kid or a baby, it is probably not a good idea.

Any word on a reopening date?

June 17th!

How much is the current corkage fee? I'm seeing different amounts in the posts.

When we were there the end of December we called and asked about bringing our wine (be sure to call to verify they don't have what you want to bring.) if they have the same on their menu you can't bring yours in. The corkage fee was $25.

Do you have highchairs?

I've never seen a highchair here because I have never seen anyone bring their kids.

Do they have gluten free or dairy free options?

Hi Niks We do have several Gluten Free options listed on the menu. All have a GF logo next to them so you can see easily which items are gluten free. Some of our menu items… 

What is counter seating?

https://www.cowboystarsd.com/make-a-reservation/ If you click on the url above, look at the… 

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5 o'Clock Somewhere Rooftop Bar - Coco Cabana upgraded to boozy blender

5 o'Clock Somewhere Rooftop Bar

4.5(97 reviews)
0.3 mi•Gaslamp, East Village

I arrive on a Thursday night on a whim. I keep hearing this is a decent place to chill…read more The elevator took a little bit but there were people coming down from the bar. I get there and they have plenty of seating available. I check out the bar and take a seat. The place itself is huge! Lots of great places to hang with friends and party. They had a padres game in and lots of specials when the Padres play. I had the Ballpark Paloma which has tequila , dragon fruit juice and grapefruit juice and soda. It was very refreshing and delicious. My only knock is I hate drinks served in plastic cups but this is normal for a lot of bars at the pools. The bartender Jason was extremely friendly and courteous and I was extremely happy with my drink. I will definitely be back soon with friends.

Came here the week of Comic Con on a Friday and it wasn't too busy. The Gas Lamp restaurants that…read morewere closer to the Convention Center were the busier restaurants. Was greeted immediately and was seated within 10 minutes which was great, but there was a little bit of wait to order our food. One thing I do when trying new restaurants is to check the menu out before hand and have my order ready to place once the waiter/waitress approaches the table. What we ordered Honey BBQ Wings: Crispy and right amount of sauce. Not drenched or soggy but the perfect amount and was delicious BBQ Bacon Smash Burger: Seasoned very well and the bacon was crispy. The burger was smaller than expected and the fries were really salty. Overall a great place to checkout and come with friends. Nice chill spot to enjoy a meal and has great music. There was a dj there as well that made the atmosphere fun.

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Mothership - Amazing decor

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4.3(994 reviews)
1.9 mi•South Park, Golden Hill, North Park
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This was such a cool bar with very nice staff…read more It's easy to find, street parking was a nonissue, and they have a huge selection of cocktails with a decent selection of mocktails as well. I love their menu design. It gives a lot of attention to each drink with a clear description breakdown along with the level of alcohol meter. A lot of the drinks are STRONG and their presentations are magnificent.

We had such a great experience at this space themed bar! One thing that I would make a note of is…read morethat we did make a reservation for 10 pm on a Saturday night, but still had to wait in a very long line out the door for a good 15 minutes. We were confused, along with many other folks in line. I think they were just preparing their tables way longer than expected. Other than that inconvenience, the bar itself was beautifully decorated and very on-theme. The drinks were very much giving "tiki bar but in space" and were veryyyy strong. They have an alcohol strength spectrum on their menu so you can guide yourself through the drinks. We got drinks that weren't even on the strong side of the scale and they were still pretty strong. This would be a great place for a pregame for sure! They even have some food and seasonal soft serve other than their normal drinks. Overall, great service, strong drinks, and fun vibes. Perfect place for a pregame!

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Moxy San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter

4.5(80 reviews)
0.2 mi•Gaslamp, Core, East Village
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Awesome bar that matches the vibe of the Moxy. Great spot to kick it and enjoy some drinks and…read moregames! Had friends in town and they were staying at the Moxy. Our original plan was to grab some drinks at this bar downstairs then head out around the night life of our fine city.... But we ended up staying at the bar most of the night! They have large Jenga, shuffle board, connect four, and a bunch of other card and board games. The drink menu is pretty good too! I feel like we tried nearly the whole menu and I was a fan of everything I tried. Love the location too. We did also go to Coin-op just a few yards away but still ended up coming back to end the night back at Bar Moxy. The vibe was go great my gf and I are thinking about staying at the Moxy for a staycation!

After leaving Saint James Diner we popped in to see a friend at the Moxy bar. Unfortunately, she…read morewasn't working, but we still stayed for a happy hour beverage. The bar/lobby was fanciful, the beer was cold, and our bartender David was great. He was informative, friendly, and attentive-5/5 for David's customer service. They have a great little happy hour M-F 4pm-6pm that includes $5 craft beers from the likes of Bay City and Ballast Point, $6 wines, and $8 wells and coctails. They also have some interesting looking $8 flatbreads if you're feeling munchy. Why not 5 stars you ask. Well, unfortunately Moxy adds an automatic 18% gratuity on everything. While I'd tip $1 on a $5 beer, 20%, it just feels grimey to automatically "sneak in" 18% to every tab. While I agree that the staff deserves it, and probably more, automatic payments should come from their employer, not their customers. Respetfully. Thanks to David and The Moxy!

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Serano-infused tequila

Moxy San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter - Chicken wings- crisp and just right.

Chicken wings- crisp and just right.

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4.5(1.9k reviews)
0.1 mi•East Village, Core
•$$

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.

Drinks are hit and miss. No menu bar is more gimmicky than anything…read more I'm sure there's some set menu that the bartenders just play off of and quality of the drinks really really just depends on who's your bartender. First round was great, not exactly what we ordered but still quality cocoktail. Second round was not good at all. And especially not what we ordered lol The wait on off days can be 5-10 minutes. Busy days it can be 1-2 hours. Drinks: 5/10 Service: 6/10 Atmosphere: 7/10 Value: 4/10

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Cowboy Star - steak - Updated October 2026

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