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oChef » Star India – San Francisco
Star India - San Francisco
Photo from Star India
Star India at a glance
San Francisco Jordan Park
- 🍛 Indian Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $31–$40
mentioned by 103 of the guests
#609 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#29 Indian Restaurant out of 63 in San Francisco
Good
8 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
583
Reviews
84.2%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Attentive service
- Flavorful cuisine
Frequently criticized
- Inconsistent quality
- Limited buffet
The restaurant Star India in San Francisco’s charming Jordan Park neighborhood invites you to experience authentic Indian cuisine. You’ll find a cozy atmosphere perfect for a casual meal, offering a wide array of healthy, vegan, and vegetarian options.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely dinner, this spot caters to your preferences with its diverse menu and welcoming ambiance.
Overview: Introducting Star India
Star India offers a generally positive dining experience, often praised for its flavorful preparations and attentive staff. Many appreciate the generous buffet options and the willingness of the team to accommodate preferences, making for a comfortable visit.
However, some diners have noted inconsistencies in food quality, particularly with certain dishes, and occasional lapses in service. The overall value proposition, especially for the buffet, also sees mixed reactions, with some finding the selection limited for the price.
Good
8
out of 10
583
Reviews
84.2%
Satisfaction
84
negative
8
neutral
491
positive
Star India achieves a solid 8 out of 10 for its overall performance, reflecting a generally positive reception. Customer satisfaction stands at a commendable 84.2%, indicating that most patrons leave content.
This assessment is drawn from a substantial 583 customer observations, with 491 positive remarks outweighing 84 negative ones. Digging deeper, Service shines brightly with an 8.9, often described as attentive and friendly.
Ambience also contributes positively, scoring 8.2 for its clean and welcoming atmosphere. While Food scores a respectable 7.8, it’s the most discussed aspect, showing some variability.
Value (6.8) is perceived as more average, with some finding the offerings less compelling for the cost.
What people like
- Attentive, friendly service
- Flavorful Indian cuisine
- Welcoming atmosphere
What people don't like
- Inconsistent food quality
- Limited buffet options
- Questionable cleanliness
Star India presents a mixed but generally positive experience. If you prioritize warm, attentive service and a pleasant setting for your Indian meal, it’s certainly worth considering.
The buffet can be a convenient option, though its selection might not always meet expectations for the price. With a Recommendation Score of 8.1, Star India leans towards being a solid choice, especially if you’re seeking a comfortable meal with good hospitality.
Just be mindful that food quality can vary, so managing expectations on specific dishes might lead to a more satisfying visit.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Star India
Food (7.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 98% of the guests
When it comes to the food, this spot generally hits the mark! With a solid score of 7.8 and customer satisfaction at a strong 81.3%, many rave about the delicious, authentic Indian flavors. Out of 348 comments, 283 highlight the fresh ingredients, wide variety, and well-seasoned dishes, making it a go-to for many.
However, not every dish is a winner. Around 59 comments mention concerns about food being cold, bland, or overly oily. Some found the selection limited, with a few dishes described as stale or not made well, occasionally leading to disappointment.
Food
348
Reviews
81%
Satisfaction
59
negative
6
neutral
283
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Authentic Indian flavors
- Delicious, fresh food
- Great buffet variety
What people don't like
- Food sometimes cold
- Limited buffet options
- Can be oily/bland
Often praised
- foodI indulged in the buffet, trying everything from starters to main courses and desserts, along with a mango lassi. Every item was super tasty and of high quality. I especially want to thank manager Sue; she was super sweet and attentive, making me feel right at home.
- naanIt's a perfect place to eat an Indian Buffet, conveniently located near the Indian Consulate. The lunch buffet spread was good, featuring delicious options like lamb gravy, chicken butter masala, and chicken tandoori, alongside vegetarian favorites such as jeera rice and naan. Sukh, who served me, provided awesome food and was very courteous and friendly.
- Indian foodIndian food like this should be eaten hot
- buffetgetting so many options is really good
- lunch buffetMy experience at this restaurant was amazing! I visited for the lunch buffet and found it to be one of the best Indian food restaurants in the city. Everything was always fresh!
- FoodI always eat here and am never disappointed. I love how they cook! Thank you 🙏
- mango lassiThe coconut curry was absolutely divine—rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced
- Indian buffetNot many Indian buffets anymore but this place does!
- chicken tikka masalaDelicious and authentic Indian cuisine! Highly recommend the chicken tika masala
- garlic naanstuffed cheese naan, all very flavorful and satisfying
Frequently criticized
- foodEven the tea was too milky and light, not at all refreshing. Overall, the food quality was very poor.
- biryaniThe Garlic Naan was soft, buttery, and well-cooked. The biryani tasted more like pulao, with oversized onion slices dominating the dish. Overall, it was not a satisfying experience, and I would not visit again.
- buffetMy recent experience at this restaurant was extremely average, prompting me to lower my ratings. The food quality has declined significantly, particularly with the buffet, which I no longer recommend. Cleanliness is questionable, and the service quality is poor.
- food qualityfood quality has declined significantly
- riceThe rice was also not cooked properly
- tandoori chickentandoori chicken - was colored(light pinkish ?????)
- FoodFood:2
- Gobhi ManchurianGobhi Manchurian was more like a regular sabzi — not crispy or coated well
- Indian foodThe worst Indian food I’ve ever had
- bhaturaone plate bhatura was fully oil loaded
If you're craving authentic Indian flavors and a good variety, especially from the buffet, this place is definitely worth a try. Just be mindful that some experiences mention issues with food temperature or consistency, so it might be a mixed bag on occasion.
Service (8.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 74% of the guests
When it comes to service, this place truly shines, boasting an excellent 8.9 score and an equally impressive 93.3% customer satisfaction. Out of 119 total remarks, a whopping 111 rave about the staff, highlighting their friendly staff, attentive service, and the owner’s hospitality. Guests consistently praise the excellent customer service, feeling genuinely welcomed and well-cared for throughout their visit.
However, its not entirely without its minor bumps, with 8 comments noting poor service or an unhelpful server. A few experiences mentioned waiting order for too long or staff being not professional, suggesting there might be occasional off days where the service doesnt quite hit the usual high notes.
Service
119
Reviews
93%
Satisfaction
8
negative
0
neutral
111
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Exceptional hospitality
- Speedy service
What people don't like
- Unhelpful server
- Slow service
Often praised
- serviceMy go-to order is their Paneer Bhurji paired with Garlic Naan — the flavors are always spot on, and it’s easily one of the best I’ve had. One thing I really appreciate is how accommodating they are to personal taste preferences. Whether you want your food extra spicy or mild, they’re happy to adjust it just the way you like.
- staffI especially loved the chicken tikka masala and lamb, which was cooked to perfection. The attention to detail in both the food and service made this an unforgettable evening. I can’t wait to return and try more of their amazing dishes.
- hospitalityThe great classical Indian music perfectly complemented the amazing food. The hospitality and attention to customers were outstanding. I can't wait to go back for that mouthwatering paneer burji and more ✌️💜.
- ServiceThe employee working was friendly
- attentive serviceSue is so friendly and welcoming
- awesome servicewhat a lovely waitress we had
- customer serviceasking for customer feedback
- employeesstaff good service good
- experienceThe owner was very attentive and helpful
- HostessMy experience at Star India was always delicious. The delivery is speedy and free, making it incredibly convenient. It's my favorite Indian food in SF, so much so that a friend in the Mission travels to the Richmond just to eat at this location!
Frequently criticized
- service3 star service, had to ask 3 times for naan, napkins, and beverages
- dish recommendationsI went for dinner with friends, but the experience wasn’t great. The service was poor; the server was unhelpful and dismissive when asked for dish recommendations, simply stating “everything is good” without any real input. We ordered Gobhi Manchurian, Goat Curry, Chicken Pasanda, chicken biryani, and Garlic Naan.
- professionalismnot professional
- serverThe server was also a bit rude
- service qualitythe service quality is poor
- waiting orderwaiting order for 1 hr
If youre looking for a place where youll feel genuinely welcomed and well-cared for, the service here is overwhelmingly a highlight. While there are rare reports of minor hiccups, the vast majority of diners experience top-notch hospitality that makes a real difference.
Ambience (8.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 55% of the guests
The restaurant's ambience generally hits the mark, earning a good score of 8.2 and a good customer satisfaction of 88.4%. Many guests, accounting for 76 positive remarks out of 86 total, frequently praised the atmosphere, music, cozy place, and clean environment, highlighting a warm, inviting, and comfortable dining experience with a distinct Indian vibe. However, not all experiences were perfect.
A handful of 9 negative comments pointed to issues like an odd smell, music that loops abruptly, and questionable cleanliness. Some even noted explicit decor and, concerningly, rats, suggesting there might be some significant inconsistencies in maintaining the desired atmosphere.
Ambience
86
Reviews
88%
Satisfaction
9
negative
1
neutral
76
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Warm inviting atmosphere
- Good music selection
- Clean comfortable environment
What people don't like
- Odd smell present
- Rats sighted
- Explicit decor noted
Often praised
- atmosphereMy experience at this restaurant was wonderful. The atmosphere was clean and peaceful, complemented by soothing music. The server, Sue, was incredibly friendly and went out of her way to prepare egg bhurji, which wasn't on the menu, upon my request.
- ambienceThe whole ambience and the restaurant theme was so nice
- musicThe food was delicious, offering a real Indian taste. The staff were friendly, contributing to a great dining experience. I will surely visit again!
- ambiancethe walls had these lovely murals
- cleanlinessMy experience at this restaurant was very positive. It's a cozy place with good ambiance and great service. I enjoyed the Madrasi Chicken, which was incredibly creamy and spicy.
- AtmosphereThe atmosphere of the restaurant feels very welcoming
- cleanClean quiet charming.
- interiorMy experience at this restaurant was marked by a friendly host and a cozy environment. The service was impressively speedy, with my food arriving just 15 minutes after I entered.
- Indian vibesvery clean
- aromaloved the aroma and ambiance of the restaurant
Frequently criticized
- atmosphereThe food selection was extremely limited, with just 5 or 6 items, and the prices were far too high for what was offered. The atmosphere was equally disappointing, with dull background music that added to a depressing vibe. If you're looking for good food and value for your money, it's best to avoid this place.
- CleanlinessCleanliness is questionable
- background musicThe food selection was extremely limited, with just 5 or 6 items, and the prices were far too high for what was offered. The atmosphere was equally disappointing, with dull background music that added to a depressing vibe. If you're looking for good food and value for your money, it's best to avoid this place.
- food areafood area is up a 45 degree ramp
- musicThe music has one song that loops and abruptly cuts off
- odd smellThere’s also an odd smell
- parkingSomewhat difficult to find parking
- ratssaw rats going in and around
If you're looking for a place with a generally warm, clean, and culturally rich atmosphere, this spot often delivers. However, be aware that some guests have encountered concerning issues like cleanliness problems and an odd smell, which could impact your overall experience.
Value (6.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 23% of the guests
It seems like the value here is generally a pleasant surprise for many! With a good 70% customer satisfaction and a solid 6.8 score, many diners found the experience to be quite affordable and worth it. Based on 30 opinions, with 21 positive remarks, terms like reasonable price and great deal frequently popped up, especially for their buffet options.
However, not everyone agrees, with 8 negative opinions highlighting concerns about high prices and not worth the cost. Some felt the food portion was too small for the price, or that the limited options didn't justify the expense, suggesting a mixed bag for overall value.
Value
30
Reviews
70%
Satisfaction
8
negative
1
neutral
21
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Very affordable pricing
- Buffet offers great value
- Often considered worth it
What people don't like
- High cost for quality
- Limited options for price
- Portions too small
Often praised
- priceIt's a lovely little place where we were very well received. I recommend this restaurant which offers an all-you-can-eat formula for a very affordable price. I would return with great pleasure on my next trip to San Francisco.
- Price per personThe $25 mixed platter and naan is enough for two people
- affordableaffordable for all you can eat buffet
- worth itDefinitely worth it for the next visit
- 25 dollarsIn 25 dollars getting so many options is really good
- buffet pricedBUFFET PRICED SO AFFORDABLE
- genuine pricevery genuine price
- great dealauthentic and great deal in the neighborhood
- greatest dealsone of the greatest deals in the city
- pricesthe prices are surprisingly affordable
Frequently criticized
- pricefewer options than you’d expect at a buffet priced at $22 per person
- Indian placesnew scam that indian place are running
- costCleanliness is questionable, and the service quality is poor. Additionally, the food quality does not justify the cost. I hope they make improvements, as it used to be a good place.
- food portionFood portion was less for the price
- pricesDuring my vacation, I tried the Indian buffet at this restaurant, and it was the worst dining experience I've ever had. The food selection was extremely limited, with just 5 or 6 items, and the prices were far too high for what was offered. The atmosphere was equally disappointing, with dull background music that added to a depressing vibe.
- value for moneyThe atmosphere was equally disappointing, with dull background music that added to a depressing vibe. If you're looking for good food and value for your money, it's best to avoid this place.
If youre looking for an "affordable" and "worth it" experience, especially for a buffet or platter, this spot often delivers good value. However, be mindful that some find the prices steep for whats offered, so manage your expectations regarding portion sizes and selection.
How are the prices at Star India?
You’re looking at roughly 32 per person – reported by 103 diners. That puts it in the $31–$40 category. For an Indian Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
While 32 is the average, the pricing isn’t super tight; we see a good spread, with many guests spending a bit less in the $21–$30 range, and others opting for a more premium experience.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 103 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value for money stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
Considering it’s an Indian Restaurant in San Francisco, we think the pricing feels quite fair. It offers a good balance, allowing for both a casual meal and a slightly more indulgent experience without breaking the bank.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Star India
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
10
Exceptional Indian Buffet Experience!
My experience at this Indian restaurant was truly impressive, especially with their buffet. I was delighted by the excellent food selection, which offered a wonderful variety of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, all bursting with authentic flavor. The biryani, butter chicken, and paneer curry were particularly delicious, and I appreciated that everything was fresh and nicely presented.
The restaurant itself provided a clean and comfortable atmosphere, complemented by quick and attentive service. A standout was the manager, Sue, who was exceptionally friendly and ensured guests felt welcome, even checking in personally. Overall, it was a great dining experience with amazing food and warm hospitality, and I will definitely be returning and recommending it.
- food selection10
- authentic flavor10
- biryani10
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Delicious Indian Food with Great Atmosphere
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The atmosphere was great, complemented by the music and overall ambience. The staff were comforting and made me feel very welcome.
I enjoyed the lamb tikki masala and lamb biryani, both of which had the perfect amount of spice. The portion size was generous, more than I expected! While many opt for delivery, dining in is just as wonderful.
I'm looking forward to returning for the lunch buffet special!
- atmosphere9
- staff9
- lamb tikki masala9
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Authentic Indian Flavors, Great Value
My experience at Star India in San Francisco was truly enjoyable. The ambience was warm and welcoming, creating a pleasant atmosphere. The food was excellent, with authentic flavors and good portion sizes.
I particularly enjoyed the chicken korma, garlic naan, and stuffed cheese naan, all of which were very flavorful and satisfying. The gulab jamun, served warm, was a perfect dessert. The service was attentive and friendly, enhancing the overall experience.
Considering the prices are surprisingly affordable for San Francisco, this is a spot definitely worth checking out if you're craving Indian food without wanting to overspend. Highly recommend.
- ambience8
- food9
- portion sizes7
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
Wait Time
- Moderate (16–30 min.)
2
Underwhelming Indian Buffet Experience
I recently visited this Indian buffet for lunch and left feeling underwhelmed. While the food itself tasted fine, the overall experience fell short. The selection was quite limited, with far fewer options than expected for a buffet priced at $22 per person.
They also ran out of staples like tandoori chicken, and it took some time before they were replenished. The naan is made fresh per table but also took a while before we could get seconds. I would probably not come back anytime soon.
FYI - the food area is up a 45-degree ramp, which I would not recommend for anyone with a disability.
- food5
- selection2
- tandoori chicken3
- naan4
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
9
Exceptional Biryani and Service!
My experience at the restaurant was fantastic! I tried the pakora, which were good, and the tandoori, which was juicy and sizzling hot. The highlight of the meal was the chicken biryani, which was exceptional.
The service was also exceptional, complementing the outstanding food.
- pakora7
- tandoori9
- chicken biryani10
What Star India offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Transgender safespace
- Tourists
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Family-friendly
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Kids' menu
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Free Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
- Restroom
Offerings
- Healthy options
- Vegan options
- All you can eat
- Quick bite
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Organic dishes
- Halal food
- Vegetarian options
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Catering
- Brunch
- Counter service
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Delivery
- No-contact delivery
- Takeout
- Curbside pickup
- Dine-in
- Outdoor seating
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
- Quiet
FAQs
What dining options and atmosphere can you expect at Star India?
At Star India, you can enjoy a cozy, casual, and quiet atmosphere perfect for various dining occasions. They offer lunch, dinner, brunch, and dessert, with both table service and seating available for your comfort. You can also opt for counter service if you prefer a quicker experience.
Does Star India cater to specific dietary needs and offer diverse service options?
Yes, Star India provides a range of dietary choices including healthy options, vegan options, vegetarian options, organic dishes, and halal food. For your convenience, they offer delivery, no-contact delivery, takeout, curbside pickup, dine-in, and outdoor seating, ensuring flexibility for your dining experience.
What is the overall dining experience like at Star India?
Star India generally offers a good dining experience, with an overall Restaurant Score of **8** out of 10. Customers particularly appreciate the **Service** (8.9) and **Ambience** (8.2), while **Food** (7.8) is considered good but can be inconsistent, and **Value** (6.8) is seen as average.
Do customers find the buffet at Star India to be a good option?
Many customers appreciate the buffet for its affordability and the variety of options it provides. However, some opinions suggest that the selection can be limited for the price, and food quality on the buffet has occasionally been noted as inconsistent.
How is the service at Star India perceived by diners?
The service at Star India is frequently highlighted as a strong point, with staff often described as attentive, friendly, and accommodating to personal taste preferences. There are occasional reports of slow or unhelpful service, but positive feedback on hospitality is prevalent.