have been wanting to try this place, and it was so cute and cozy especially in the rainy weather. I got an eggs benedict and my bf got a burger - both dishes were yummy and fresh, the fries were perfectly crispy. the service was good and fast, thanks to our server Allison!! read more

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My family went to visit San Diego for the day during this past memorial weekend. We had spent the afternoon at a playground with our kids by the beach and got hungry. My husband found this place and we decided to go and try it! As soon as we were greeted by the host, we knew we were in the right place. She was very kind and gentle mannered with my kids. Sweet girl! Our waitress was super nice and my kids felt comfortable enough to order their own meals! Usually our little 2 year old hide behind our shoulder if she feels off with a person. The Staff was very kind and ensured we were taken care of during our dinner. Ensured we had what we needed to enjoy our meals. We ordered the kids chicken tenders, and Mac and cheese while we ordered the BLT and Fish and Chips. My toddlers were pretty quiet because they were actually eating their meals and enjoying it! That's a huge win for us parents! I had the BLT and it was delicious!! The portion was huge but perfect at the same time because I was so hungry. The bread was toasted but soft enough to not have everything inside the sandwich fall out while taking a bite. The bread wasn't overly thick. It's the perfect bread/tomato/bacon/lettuce ratio. The clam chowder cup was really good! The cup is a good size if you're getting a meal next to it so you don't get too full. My husband enjoyed the Fish and Chips. I had a bite to try and it was so yummy! He was very happy with his choice in dinner. For dessert my husband ordered a kit-kat milkshake and he swore he was in heaven lol. The kids and I ordered a banana split (with no peanuts due to an allergy) and when the server brought it to the table, I swear my kids had seen a unicorn! I can tell you for sure they don't have that reaction when they see Mickey Mouse LOL. Amazing and delicious overall and we shared our experience with our family members as well! This will be our stop when we go down to San Diego or coming back home. Thank you again for making this experience a huge win! We will be back! read more

Studio Diner - Cup of Clam Chowder and an order of BLT sandwich with fries. At the top of the photo is an order of Fish and Chips. - American Near Me - San Diego, California

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My dog was being groomed nearby and I was looking for a place to have breakfast. I decided to check out Yelp and came across this place which is just a few miles from the groomer. It is located directly next door to Stu Segall Studios/Stu Segall Productions that used to produce Silk Stalkings and Renegade years ago. I pulled into the small parking lot (there is also street parking) and found a space close to the front door. When I walked in, I was pleasantly greeted and then seated at a table nearby. I placed an order for a "Porky's omelet" and in less than ten minutes, the food came out. It was by far one of the best omelets that I have ever had! If you like bacon, ham, and sausage, this is the one for you. The rye toast came out great and had just the right amount of butter on it. If you are looking for a place to eat in the Kearny Mesa area, this place is definitely worth trying. Look forward to returning for lunch or dinner one of these days! read more

Studio Diner - Porky's omelet with hash browns and rye toast. - American Near Me - San Diego, California

It's a cute diner with a lot of history. The food is good diner food. I had the patty melt with fries. The burger was cooked just right and was delicious. Service was okay at first and then it took way too long to get the check. The server got really grumpy when I called out to her for it. It was uncalled for to slam the check down on the table. I suggest that the check be delivered with the food so that customers don't have to deal with the wait and the repercussions of asking for the check. read more

Wanna take a step back in time? If so, then stop by Studio Diner. They offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu items all day every day. Have a burger, fries, and milkshake while you enjoy old classics. I ordered the Boob Sandwich and my boyfriend ordered the San Diego Burger. We ordered a Cobb Salad for my daughter to-go. The food was good and portions were big. I was only able to finish half of my sandwich and some extra crispy fries. I had a sip of their strawberry milkshake...good stuff! What's nice is they have extras in a cold cup. Service was quick and pleasant. read more

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Was in the area and looking for a nearby brunch place to go with my mom since she mentioned she had been here a few times. Sunday morning around noon was packed and it was a bit difficult finding parking in their small lot. The restaurant definitely has a vintage retro theme and seems like it hasn't changed or been maintained in decades. We waited about 10 min for a table. The food came out very quickly and our servers were friendly and courteous. The food itself was just fine. Nothing special or outstanding. I got the brisket Benny and the dish overall felt greasy and heavy. I would say the food quality is similar to Denny's or another diner-style chain. Considering the parking, cost, and the outdated rustic vibes, (especially the bathroom), I probably wouldn't go out of my way to come here again. read more

Service is always great. I almost never have to wait for table. Food is consistently good. My favorite is the breakfast burrito and boob sandwich (with wrap instead of bread). read more

Had the best patty melt I've ever had. Classic style diner that I've been going to for over a decade.

DOG FRIENDLY patio so a plus for us. Especially since we just came from adopting a dog from the San Diego Humane Society-El Cajon Campus, who we named Cashew. We had the best experiences the 1st couple times here, but the last time we met friends here, it wasn't great...just ok. This time it was hit & miss too, sadly. Nice clean inside and patio. Always great & friendly service. Good mimosas. I got the Eggs Benedict and it was great. My wife got eggs & bacon with the Monte Cristo and the Cristo was so overcooked, it was even hard to cut into (kind of surprised the waitress would even bring it instead of telling the kitchen to do a re-do). It was terrible! But we were starving so she didn't want to wait to get another one cooked. The raspberry jam that comes with it is so good! read more

If I could give this place 6 stars, I would. I love a good diner! Whether you are coming for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it will not disappoint. It feels so cozy, like you're visiting family for a home cooked meal. My family and I have been coming here for years and have never had bad service. Always greeted with a smile and checked on to make sure we have everything we need. We were most recently served by a young woman, I think her name was Katelynn. She took great care of us and was such a sweetheart. I always believe in giving credit where it is due, and with the service she provided she deserves some recognition! This will always be a staple in our family. Highly recommend the breakfast burrito and their movie reel pancakes! read more

My husband got country fried steak to go at dinner time for me on 8/17. I ate some of it and got food poisoning-- upset stomach and running to the bathroom nonstop by midnight. Hubby took the rest of the food back for them to investigate, maybe bad ingredients or bad oil? The service staff took his number and said the GM will call him tomorrow. We never hear from them. I guess they just don't care about the customers. Edit 8/28/2025: After the manager's reply, we check the phone record and there are no voicemails. The manager implied in the yelp response that we might have stored or handled the food incorrectly but that is not the case. Once my husband picked up the food, he brought it straight home which is 5 minutes away. We had dinner right away- I ate directly from the takeout container. read more

Good food and service First time for my friends and they liked it Such a historical place read more

Pros: Food, Service, Cleanliness, atmosphere, and Time Cons: None Came here and ordered the bbq chicken wings and the monte cristo sandwich and fish and chips and also a side of fruits. Food was delicious, everything was hot and fresh. Definitely will come back read more

Great little greasy spoon spot! We will be back and bring the kids next time. Portions are large so recommend splitting unless you like leftovers! Service was quick for a Saturday morning. Parking is a bit tight but you can park on the street just north of the restaurant. read more

My boyfriend really wanted to go to a diner and we were happy to find this place! Both the interior and exterior were cool looking, and the bathroom had old movie posters on the walls. The omelet and hashbrowns were really good. Server was nice. The parking lot is small though, but at least there's ample street parking. read more

Studio Diner - Half eaten veggie omelet with no mushroom or tomato - American Near Me - San Diego, California

I write this diner as five out of five stars compared to other diners. The staff is friendly and the food is good and the service is efficient. The restaurant is clean. I thought I would like pancakes as the server's shirts tout the pancakes. So I asked for a short stack. My server had no idea what a short stack of pancakes was. So, I ordered eggs. He probably could use some training on that point. read more

Our server Jay was on point! Part of the Monte Cristo had a small blowout and got a little greasy, but hey.... Monte Cristo for the win! Rings were for sure overdone. Still love the diner! Nothings perfect! The Cristo comes with a local raspberry jam, "Jackie's Jams" I always get an extra! Great lunch. read more

Studio Diner - Monte Cristo with Beer Battered Onion Rings - American Near Me - San Diego, California

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Hoping new owners would be an improvement but turned out to be the worst Reuben sandwich ever on many levels. Greasy soggy Bread with too too much Russian dressing that over saturated and ruined the ratio of the other ingredients. Pastrami was a Salty and tough and nothing like real deli pastrami. The fries were cooked in old oil that gave a bitter oily taste. Got it to go or would have sent it back . No second chance here and I recommend stay away unless low quality ill prepared food at high prices is your thing read more

Came here for a holiday leadership lunch, and I concur with everyone that it's just ok. I've been here about 5 years ago for another leadership breakfast, and I don't remember being impressed even back then. Pros: Cute retro vibe, definitely has the 50s diner feel to it. Breakfast is served all day. Some old movie posters and props throughout. Funny names for some of the menu items. Cons: Ordered the chicken sandwich, and it was just okay. The chicken was dry and barely seasoned. I think I ate the fries more, and it reminded me of the seasoned frozen fries you can get at the grocery store :(. My coworker got the fried clams and fries. They were strips of breading with a taste of clam but didn't see any clam. We wondered, how are the fried clams in strips? That's a headscratcher right there. My boss ordered the hamburger salad, which was the last thing to arrive. It basically is a hamburger patty, chopped up, and thrown on top of a mound of iceberg lettuce. It didn't look too appetizing to me, unfortunately. We were disappointed but we enjoyed each other's company nonetheless. Agreed that there's no need to make your way out here to check it out. read more

Studio Diner - Inside of diner - American Near Me - San Diego, California

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Excellent service and excellent food! The menu is great! The servers are friendly and efficient. read more

Diner food Customers sounds get loud Friendly service Restrooms Small parking lot Next to old San Diego studios Old school photos all over the walls Feels like your in a metal bus Quick service American food Vegetarian options Breakfast, brunch, and dinner Hardy food Flash to the past read more

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Went here spur of the moment because there was a nearby appointment my husband had. I didn't know that San Diego really used to have a film studio, it was really cool to learn that. The restaurant sticks to that theme and has different film posters and other things like props all around decorating the place. It was a really rainy windy day and for some reason the place was freezing cold... I run hot so if it was cold for me then you know it was cold... That said the waitress we had noticed and turned on the heater or asked for it to be turned up because she was also freezing. I got corned beef with over-easy eggs (which were perfectly cooked) cheesy hashbrowns and a pancake that I dug into before I took a pick. I got weirdly roasted on Reddit for how I cut my pancake but everyone agreed on R/FoodSanDiego that Studio Diner has amazing service and eats. My husband got chili fries and a big bbq burger. He liked it even though we were surprised by the intensely chunky chili. This place apparently gets mad busy so be prepared, we went in the middle of the afternoon on a rainy Saturday, I think luck was on our side for that fluke to happen. read more

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Food was juicy. The San Diego hamburger was perfect I'm so happy with the onions ring. Delicious. The carrot cake for desert was fresh and tasty. The waitress was friendly and sweet. I would recommend this diner. read more

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Love the ambiance with all the movie decor! The food was decent, they have a wide variety of options. The service was good too, Jay is on top of things and will make sure you get everything you want and quickly too! We've been back a couple times and each time we have had a great experience! read more

I thought this was a cute little spot that I wanted to try and support, especially as someone who enjoys checking out small diners. However, my experience was disappointing from the moment I walked in. The host greeted me with a very flat "How can I help you?" and once I said I needed a table for one, he simply told me to follow him. After being seated, I waited for about 15 minutes without anyone acknowledging me. No menu brought over, no offer of water, no "I'll be right with you" -- nothing. I watched one server stand and chat with a friend while I sat there completely ignored. Normally, I am very understanding and I do not rush to leave reviews like this, but I was dining alone and visibly the only Black customer in the restaurant at the time. I am not saying I know the reason for the lack of service, but it did make me feel uncomfortable and singled out. At the very least, a basic greeting or check-in would have gone a long way. I really wanted to like this place, but the lack of customer service made it clear I will not be returning. read more

I so wanted to love this place, especially after the demise of Buddy's Diner in PB. The food was fine, but we ordered a Cookies and Cream milk shake To Go. It was really runny, hugely disappointing. But we were already in the car when we tasted it and didn't have time to go back. Earlier, my friend was in the restroom at the same time as our server Jocelyn (Josslyn?). She used the bathroom but left without washing her hands. Eww. Gross! Once was enough for me.... read more

Fish and chips was awesome! Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Tartar sauce is delicious! Want to come back and try the clam chowder (it's not available until after 11:30) read more

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3.5 stars... We are trying new places every week now, and my wife found this joint... Pulled up to a polished chrome building with a tiny parking lot, but easily found street parking and slid right into a booth. Such a varied menu, but the turkey sandwich caught my eye, and surprisingly close to Thanksgiving I couldn't let it go... juicy turkey topped with gravy on top of a toasted Texas bread... I'm not sure the potatoes were the real deal, but everything else was... beans were buttered garlic, stuffing was legit, and while the portion of cranberries was a bit small for my liking the flavor and texture was just right. An old type place like this is sure to have a good sundae, so we wrapped up the meal with the hot fudge...which quickly disappeared! Ambiance is roadside airstream, service was prompt and helpful, and prices were slightly above expectation. read more

Studio Diner - Hot Open Faced Turkey Sandwich - American Near Me - San Diego, California

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I ordered fish and chips. The fish was a healthy portion that dominated the plate. Very good texture with crispy outside and flaky inside. Wasn't dry at all...however the fries seem a bit boring. They would have received a 5 star rating if they had crinkle cut or steak fries...just a personal preference. Slaw was above average, wasn't watery like other places. All in all it's a decent little spot, prices are fair...looking forward to return and try something else. read more

Studio Diner - Fish and chips - American Near Me - San Diego, California

Delicious banana split! With caramelized bananas instead. Karen was so sweet! All the sauces tasted homemade. The place is so iconic read more

Studio Diner - Had the most delicious banana split! With caramalizef bananas instead and Karen was so sweet such a great service! - American Near Me - San Diego, California

Always a good comfort meal here. Was not feeling like cooking so wanted a good "home cooked" dinner. Studio diner never disappoints. read more

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The food was amazing the employees are very nice and I would eat at this place again we have a mixer

We went on a Friday during their happy hour/s. Seated in their patio, service was friendly and attentive. We brought our small dog, their patio is dog friendly. Menu had so many delicious dishes to choose from. This time around, we ordered their mozzarella sticks, fried pickles (yum!), chicken & waffles, and their half sandwich and soup. Food came out fairly quick and fresh! Each dish was delicious and their chicken/waffle is 100% a top menu item for me! Our waitress was kind and courteous, as well as the other staff on the floor. We will definitely return soon! read more

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Food was hot and fresh. Service from Jay was impeccable. It is cute inside. Although we could hear music from two places, the oldies and perhaps from the kitchen? Bathrooms were clean. Food was hot and fresh. We will be back! read more

Came here after looking for a brunch spot to eat at. First off, the decor was amazing inside. It is very much a studio decorated diner. Service was fast, no complaints there. The food portions were massive. But, pertinent to its name, the food came out extremely greasy. It is a diner after all. A great place to come for a themed breakfast. read more

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Had a lunch with some work colleagues on a Wednesday. Not too busy, but a steady flow of happy customers. This was my 1st visit, and could not be happier. Our waitress was friendly and excellent. I forgot her name but her name tag said "The Breakfast Club." She explained they all get to pick their favorite movie. Very cute. The food is really good, and very large portions for the price. Almost all of us had to take to-go boxes. I had the Improv omelet, where you pick what you want. Others had the Club sandwich, big enough to feed 4 people, open face turkey, and the patty melt. Everyone enjoyed their food. I will add this to my list of restaurants with great food, and exceptional service. read more

10/10. Stopped for breakfast after leaving the airport. Pleasantly surprised. Food was delicious. Jay, our server, was very attentive and answered all our questions. I also really liked the aesthetics of the establishment. read more

I haven't been there yet just picked up someone there. Will try get there in the future People I know enjoy eating there read more

My husband and I are from Oklahoma and have trouble finding places that feel like home here in San Diego but Studio Diner blew us away with their country fried steak and biscuits. The gravy tasted like home and we were extremely satisfied. The service was great, we were seated immediately with food on our table in a timely manner. And the overall vibe of the Diner was comforting and very chill. We will definitely be returning! read more

Unique old fashion diner in Kearny Mesa serving traditional American diner food. Their portions are HUGE and they have creative flares on some traditional dishes. I ordered the Count of Monte Cristo thinking that it would be a traditional club sandwich with turkey and ham, but I end up with one of the most "'Murica'" dishes ever. Imagine your traditional club sandwich but triple breaded and deep fried where you get this massive doughy heart attack fried sandwich gnocchi of a sandwich . The oil drips out of every bite and let's just say after taking off the fried breading, my heart did not thank me for the gluttonous meal afterwards. Their clam chowder bowl is so big, it's like plate-bowl than a traditional bowl. It was delicious though with every bite filled with clams. The service was fantastic and their house coffee comes in GIANT mugs. Ambiance wise, it feels like you are in a 1970s trailer truck. It's definitely a unique dining experience. Now that I know what to expect at this diner, I do look forward to coming back and try their other menu items. read more

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