Studio Diner
Order Studio Diner Takeout or Delivery
Studio Diner Photos
Business Info
STUDIO DINER ATMOSPHERE
What's the vibe?
You might also consider
More like Studio Diner
Recommended Reviews - Studio Diner
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
It looks as if the diner is getting their act together. We hadn't been there in a while. We decided to give it another chance. Our service today was wonderful. Kaitlyn got the order right and brought things as we requested. Because of an allergy, she worked with me to find a solution. The food was good and prepared the way I wanted it. The ambiance hasn't changed and it is ok. But the fiber really needs to be refreshed.
I've been here a few times and every time I eat here, I just feel like the food is just ok considering the price. I feel like this place is more for novelty since it's a movie-themed diner situated on a former film soundstage. I ordered the chicken and waffles. I was hoping the chicken would be actual fried chicken like a thigh and leg but it was a breaded chicken tender. I also added Nutella for $1.50 and thought it would be incorporated into the waffle batter but they just gave me a side of Nutella which was underwhelming. Let me say the best part of the entree was the fresh fruit. My friend ordered the special pear salad with pecans and chicken and she said her food was just ok too. I think the only entrees that you can't go wrong with is this breakfast, but other than that, the dinner entrees have been mediocre at best.
Food was good. Service was super slow. Took over 10 minutes to even get recognized by our server. Then after another 10 he didn't even ask if we had any questions or offer to get drinks, just wanted our order. I got the patty melt. The fries are great. Patty melt is above average. Little too much bread to patty ratio.
Banana split was good enough to share with 3-4 people. Patty Melt was delicious along with the fries!! Our waitress was really accommodating and nice. The studio patio has nice views.
Haven't been here in years. Nice diner, great parking. The Lobster Bisque is delicious and a real delight.
I've been here multiple times now and I'm finally able to write my review this time. This time I ordered the omelette with gravy and instead of a toast I asked if they can offer a one slice of French toast instead, but they said no, but they offered one pancake instead and that was also the perfect compromised and combo. The pancake was fluffy with amazing texture and super delicious. The omelette was perfect portion with all the right mixes of veggies and the gravy gave it that extra character that I didn't know that could compliment an omelette so well. I ate everything because it was all so tasty! Oh and I can't forget their coffee, always one of the best coffees. Service was great as always and always helpful and on time. Ambiance was like any typical diner with little wait time and big smiles.
Studio diner was an alternative choice on a holiday brunch but turned out a great one. With a small parking lot it's better to come early but if you get a spot they have a cozy inside dining room with great decor. The staff were all very friendly and efficient. The food was just what you want from a diner, savory and delicious. It's a good choice if you're in the area.
Made another trip and met Kaitlyn the server and she was the top server amazing! Loved it so much and the food again amazing
Love this little Niche diner! PROs: After eating here many times over the years I'm writing a review. It's a very diverse menu for all 3 different meals. They offer beer, wine, and other beverage options. The diner is movie set themed due to the property next door being an old movie studio that's now used to train Military and Law Enforcement. The staff is always very attentive and courteous - today we had Allison and she was great. The new chilaquiles was also delicious. The place is very kid friendly as well. CONs: Parking can be a challenge at times and expect a wait during prime breakfast/brunch hours but the staff will work hard to get you seated in a timely manner.
Studio Diner offers a wide selection of classic diner food in an old school setting. Breakfast is served all day. The food was hot and fresh with good size portions. The corned beef, French fries, and onions rings were standout items. Guy Fieri's pick - the Sam's Son Steak Sandwich - was a bit disjointed, essentially being a beef stir fry on top of a roll. There is overflow parking in the office building lot next door. The back patio is dog friendly.
This is a great, quirky spot to check out in Kearny Mesa! It has been the set of quite a few movies, and they really lean into the theme. Movie posters and photos are everywhere and the menu items are named for the theme. They have mostly classic American food and all of my friends enjoyed their meals. My sandwich, comically called "The Boob," was delicious. All of the staff members were friendly when we arrived and our server was helpful and seemed to enjoy her job. I came here on my lunch break and service was quick, which worked well with my schedule. They also serve breakfast all day so there are plenty of choices! I recommend checking it out!
Great service, food was delivered quickly and was quite tasty! We tried the Jewish penicillin chicken soup - very good. Cheeseburger chopped salad was huge portion and delicious. The Rueben was really great as were the fries! We walked away stuffed. We chose this place to just try something new for my birthday. We are local in SD and never had been! Also had a nice happy birthday singing chorus from the staff that night with a great scoop of ice cream with sauce and sprinkles. Huge menu with lots of options (breakfast, plates, beers/cocktails) and just a different neat place. We will be back to try some other dishes!
2 months ago
I came here this past Sunday around 11 AM and was really impressed! They have both an indoor dining area and a covered outdoor patio. They're also dog friendly, which is awesome so we opted to sit outside with the pups. Just a heads-up: It gets extremely hot on the patio. They don't have a large fan or cooling system, but they do have window shades that can be pulled down to help block some of the sun and heat. The service was excellent. Our waitress was attentive, checked on us regularly, and kept us updated on when our food would be coming out. She was friendly and made sure we had everything we needed. I ordered the: Country Fried Steak: this was by far the best country fried steak I've had in San Diego! It was absolutely huge. I ended up taking half of it home for leftovers. It was also loaded with gravy, which I loved. I got the mashed potatoes and gravy and broccoli as my sides, and everything was delicious. They have a very extensive menu, and there are so many other things I want to come back and try. I honestly can't believe I've lived in San Diego for almost 10 years and am just now discovering this spot! Between the portions, prices, service, and quality of the food, this is definitely one of the best breakfast spots in San Diego. And the prices are awesome for what you get. I'll absolutely be back! read more
6 days ago
While running errands early Saturday morning, we were looking for a breakfast joint. Suddenly, I remembered an old haunt the studio diner. memories, of the good old days were brought back of working at the old TV Studios in a long forgotten era of TV and filmmaking in San Diego. Walking back into the diner was a thrill, clean, polished as if it was ready for a segment of a show to be filmed. The staff courteous dressed well and the chatter of people enjoying a meal. I highly recommend you take time to visit this place. they have specials throughout the week. It is a shame that the leadership of our fine city allowed this industry to die. They screwed up. read more
It looks as if the diner is getting their act together. We hadn't been there in a while. We decided to give it another chance. Our service today was wonderful. Kaitlyn got the order right and brought things as we requested. Because of an allergy, she worked with me to find a solution. The food was good and prepared the way I wanted it. The ambiance hasn't changed and it is ok. But the fiber really needs to be refreshed. read more
Business owner information
Art M.
Hi Janet, ohh goodness no! We’re so sorry for the poor service…
1 month ago
I've been here a few times and every time I eat here, I just feel like the food is just ok considering the price. I feel like this place is more for novelty since it's a movie-themed diner situated on a former film soundstage. I ordered the chicken and waffles. I was hoping the chicken would be actual fried chicken like a thigh and leg but it was a breaded chicken tender. I also added Nutella for $1.50 and thought it would be incorporated into the waffle batter but they just gave me a side of Nutella which was underwhelming. Let me say the best part of the entree was the fresh fruit. My friend ordered the special pear salad with pecans and chicken and she said her food was just ok too. I think the only entrees that you can't go wrong with is this breakfast, but other than that, the dinner entrees have been mediocre at best. read more
Food was good. Service was super slow. Took over 10 minutes to even get recognized by our server. Then after another 10 he didn't even ask if we had any questions or offer to get drinks, just wanted our order. I got the patty melt. The fries are great. Patty melt is above average. Little too much bread to patty ratio. read more
I've been here multiple times now and I'm finally able to write my review this time. This time I ordered the omelette with gravy and instead of a toast I asked if they can offer a one slice of French toast instead, but they said no, but they offered one pancake instead and that was also the perfect compromised and combo. The pancake was fluffy with amazing texture and super delicious. The omelette was perfect portion with all the right mixes of veggies and the gravy gave it that extra character that I didn't know that could compliment an omelette so well. I ate everything because it was all so tasty! Oh and I can't forget their coffee, always one of the best coffees. Service was great as always and always helpful and on time. Ambiance was like any typical diner with little wait time and big smiles. read more
8 days ago
Studio diner was an alternative choice on a holiday brunch but turned out a great one. With a small parking lot it's better to come early but if you get a spot they have a cozy inside dining room with great decor. The staff were all very friendly and efficient. The food was just what you want from a diner, savory and delicious. It's a good choice if you're in the area. read more
1 month ago
Made another trip and met Kaitlyn the server and she was the top server amazing! Loved it so much and the food again amazing read more
Love this little Niche diner! PROs: After eating here many times over the years I'm writing a review. It's a very diverse menu for all 3 different meals. They offer beer, wine, and other beverage options. The diner is movie set themed due to the property next door being an old movie studio that's now used to train Military and Law Enforcement. The staff is always very attentive and courteous - today we had Allison and she was great. The new chilaquiles was also delicious. The place is very kid friendly as well. CONs: Parking can be a challenge at times and expect a wait during prime breakfast/brunch hours but the staff will work hard to get you seated in a timely manner. read more
Studio Diner offers a wide selection of classic diner food in an old school setting. Breakfast is served all day. The food was hot and fresh with good size portions. The corned beef, French fries, and onions rings were standout items. Guy Fieri's pick - the Sam's Son Steak Sandwich - was a bit disjointed, essentially being a beef stir fry on top of a roll. There is overflow parking in the office building lot next door. The back patio is dog friendly. read more
19 days ago
Food was delicious, my son and husband enjoyed there county fried steak breakfast and biscuits and gravy. Definitely coming back. I had Banana pancakes so moist. Thank you, service was awsome. read more
1 year ago
This is a great, quirky spot to check out in Kearny Mesa! It has been the set of quite a few movies, and they really lean into the theme. Movie posters and photos are everywhere and the menu items are named for the theme. They have mostly classic American food and all of my friends enjoyed their meals. My sandwich, comically called "The Boob," was delicious. All of the staff members were friendly when we arrived and our server was helpful and seemed to enjoy her job. I came here on my lunch break and service was quick, which worked well with my schedule. They also serve breakfast all day so there are plenty of choices! I recommend checking it out! read more
1 year ago
Great service, food was delivered quickly and was quite tasty! We tried the Jewish penicillin chicken soup - very good. Cheeseburger chopped salad was huge portion and delicious. The Rueben was really great as were the fries! We walked away stuffed. We chose this place to just try something new for my birthday. We are local in SD and never had been! Also had a nice happy birthday singing chorus from the staff that night with a great scoop of ice cream with sauce and sprinkles. Huge menu with lots of options (breakfast, plates, beers/cocktails) and just a different neat place. We will be back to try some other dishes! read more
We came in on a Saturday and it wasn't packed. The parking lot wasn't packed as well. We got seated immediately. I ordered the Caesar wrap and my fiance got the sliders. The Caesar wrap was mid. My fiance had a side of grilled onions for his sliders. I put some on my wrap and it made it better. The sliders were ok. The patty needed more seasoning. The fries however 10/10. Id come here just to get a basket of fries. They're super warm and crispy even 20 minutes after being served to us. read more
6 months ago
This was our first time at Studio diner and certainly not the last. There were 5 others in the birthday celebration round table, and it seemed each person had a slight change or "alteration" to the menu items - which, by the way were quite varied. As I looked around the back porch where we were sitting, there was another table of "seasoned diners" who also seemed as "particular" with their food selections. Our waitress, "Jay" was literally running from table to table with more butters, an extra order of salsa, refills of coffee, etc, etc. What impressed me as much as the food, was our server's attention to detail without skipping a beat. She came to our table no less than 4 times to make sure we had everything we needed. Speaking of beats, the whole place had a great vibe with movie figures and statues as the restaurant's decor. read more
I'm not really a diner food fan, so take my review with a grain of salt (yes, and lots of fried food and cholesterol nightmare!), but I went for a friend's birthday luncheon and my friend was very happy. The portions are large and decadent. The atmosphere is fun and lots of choices, but not many healthy choices. The staff is friendly and helpful. The decors is definitely worth coming at least once and the back patio is fun. If you're into old movie posters and diners, this place is for you. read more
The food here is pretty great. We had the San Diego burger $18.95 with avocado and bacon. It was really great. And we had the onion rings which I think are the best in San Diego. Karen is our server she is very efficient and thought our food to us immediately. The Away is very cute like a 50s diner. read more
9 months ago
I did not like this place at all. The food is extremely over priced and taste really basic. The service wasn't good. The girl that serviced me was acting like me being there was interrupting her job. She didn't seem to know how to juggle mulitple things. I've seen an overwhelmed person stressed out giving better service then what I got here. Parking isn't great. I would not recommend this place. read more
Business owner information
Luis A.
Thank you for sharing your feedback. We’re sorry to hear that your…
The restaurant was clean and inviting. Katelyn, our server, was friendly and attentive. I had the Meatloaf Melt and fries. It was very tasty and the fries were fresh and crispy. The restaurant motif is oriented. The diner is next door to a movie studio in San Diego. This is a great place for locals and tourists alike. read more
4 months ago
Absolutely AMAZING, tasty, delicious food!! Friendly, fast service in a charming atmosphere. All in all, can't say enough good things about this cute little restaurant. Plenty of parking in the lot adjacent to the restaurant, too! read more
1 month ago
I was looking forward to having biscuits and gravy this morning. I remembered ordering this many times many years ago. This morning's order was a disappointment. The gravy was very thin and runny, the biscuits consisted of one slice of biscuit and a slice of some sort of flatbread that does not match any biscuit I've seen. Aside from the hash brown, the bread was very greasy. I brought this to the server's attention. Instead of him asking if there was anything else I would like, he just took away my plate. I would always recommend this place to family and friends but not sure about that now. Suck a disappointment Merry Christmas Eve! Bah humbug! read more
4 months ago
We came in on a holiday morning for breakfast. We were seated immediately and had coffee to the table fast. The service was friendly and efficient. The decor was fun and a great way to reminisce about favorite movies! I loved my sandwich and the fries were great too. read more
Saturday, August 2, 2025: We stopped here after visiting 32nd Street NEX. We can always count on tasty comfort food served hot and quick! We received tremendous customer service from sweet Allison. It's definitely a family favorite that never disappoints! read more
I've always wanted to check this place out. They've been used in a few movies. Love the nostalgia feel of an old school diner. The waitress was nice to everyone. I heard the portions were big and they weren't kidding. Came here after daughter's basketball game with a few players. I had the King of Clubs and it did not disappoint. I could only eat half. They have limited parking so we just parked on the street. They also have an outdoor that faces east and has a nice little view.? read more
11 months ago
Finally trying this place out. Plenty of parking and has this old school diner feel. They have indoor and outdoor and dogs are allowed in their back patio. Real cool decor and the staff is very nice. They have plenty of tables and a dine up bar seating. They serve breakfast and lunch, dinner. A must try. read more
2 months ago
5 months ago
2 months ago
18 days ago
1 year ago
This place was really good. Only a ten minute walk from where my boyfriend lives. We were already out running errands so we decided to stop by on the way home. Parking is limited especially when it is busy but there is some street parking further down. The diner gibe is so surreal especially because i feel like we don't have many out here in SD. The pickles are really good here and the onion rings but they don't give you too many with your order. Prices vary but tend to be on the expensiveish side which is like the rest of SD. Will be coming back here. Service was quick and nice. Really cool that it is a set for movies as well. read more
11 months ago
Great food, great staff, awesome atmosphere. Really hard not to visit everyday due to my new jobsite being across the street. read more
Hey I will tell you what. If you want big portions, this is your place. They don't mess around on the size of these plates. Pretty cool history to the diner as well. The food is very average diner food but hey it's quick, it gets the job done, and the service is decent. If you need a quick bite and you're in the area, not a bad spot to check out. Cheers! read more
2 years ago
02/16/25 - Late post. We came here to celebrate a birthday, and they were able to seat us in the back patio. There were 15 people in our party. It was very spacious and the weather was perfect for it. Our host's name was Allison. She was very attentive and catered to all of our requests. She even gave the celebrants ice cream and helped us sing happy birthday. I ordered the King of Clubs with fries and let me just tell you... IT WAS HUGE!!! I could only eat 1/4 of it and shared some with other people. It was so good, packed with turkey, crispy bacon and fresh veggies. It was perfect. I actually picked some up yesterday for lunch at work. Please see attached pictures for most of the items we ordered. The only item that was not that great was the fish and chips. It came in one complete block and had a lot of batter which made it not cook all through out. I didn't hear anything else about the other items. It's been a while since I've been here and it was a nice reminder to go here again. This place was featured in Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. Highly recommend. P.S. They have some parking spots in the lot beside the restaurant. read more
Page 1 of 58
More info about Studio Diner
4701 Ruffin Rd
San Diego, CA 92123
Kearny Mesa
Directions
(858) 384-6297
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
Start Order
Visit Website
http://www.studiodinersd.com
Hours
Payment methods
Food & Alcohol
Indoor Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
Other Amenities
From the Business
More Info
Special Hours, Health Score
Studio Diner Reviews in Other Languages
Ask the Community - Studio Diner
Is it true they know have a requirement that you cannot be there over 90 minutes?!!!
From what I understand not a hardfast rule but a polite request if they're very busy which seems reasonable. I love sitting on the outdoor patio as its not busy and very quiet !
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are not allowed, but I've seen service dogs occasionally on the back patio/porch.
Did Studio Diner change ownership while it was closed?
Studio Diner has been purchased by local restaurateurs and longtime business partners Salvatore Ercolano and Gilbert Frank. Last year, the pair purchased The Butcher Shop steakhouse in Kearny Mesa. Ercolano also owns Flora Bar & Kitchen within The…
Are they open?
Yes ... as of the 7th. Basically the same menu, but done upgrades. Major office increase ... server uniforms a touch different. Been going there 4-6 times per week since it first opened. Unclear if we'll continue. I think they porked the pooch…
Can breakfast be ordered all day?
They are not opened 24/7, so breakfast is technically served at all times during the hours of operation. -09/11/2019
Am I allowed to order food and sit around and study for a while?
I order a meal and then do legal work for about two hours. I tend to go about 4:30 p.m. mid week, so it is not busy.
What year did it open?
Hi Angie, We opened for business June 2003...although, 1-2 people still working next door say it was Memorial weekend (Last weekend in May) 2003. But we usually celebrate the…
You might also consider
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
150 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
18 years ago
15 years ago
2 years ago
16 years ago
4 years ago
2 years ago
10 years ago
15 years ago
17 years ago
5 years ago
9 years ago
13 years ago
12 years ago
10 years ago
17 years ago
14 years ago
15 years ago
10 years ago
