Starting Gate

0 reviews for “Starting Gate”

1. This review is for a Tuesday comedy night.I went with a friend who said she had a great time the week before. Apparently the comics that night were worth the 2 drink minimum. Not so this night. None of the comics were good. They all had basically the same material (fat jokes, redneck humor, prison talk, how hard it is to get laid–one guy talked about a near death experience). It was either all cliche or just not origional. They all had moments but overall it was disappointing. The MC is just not a good comedian. I get that he shouldn’t upstage the talent and all, but he doesn’t even have a good sense of humor. Perpetual innuendo and the same basic joke over and over just doesn’t cut it. My opinion is neutral because I think the organizer has a big heart. The night I went he was collecting money for someone’s funeral. This show happens with rhe best of intentions but it really isnt executed well.My review is neutral.

2. Cruddy service. Actually, worse than that. I left after not even getting a nod from the bartender or a waitress. I can spend my money elsewhere. Shame too, cuz it’s within walking distance.

3. Great bar all around! Food is decent. Lots of stuff on the menu like pastas, burgers, salads, sandwiches, and finger foods. All were reasonably priced. Been here 3 times now and every time has been good! There is always something going on nightly like Comedy, music, and bikers. The waitresses and locals are super friendly, drinks are cheap! I think I found my own Cheers here! I recommend coming here for lunch or after work drink. Tons of flat screens to watch games and comfy seating!

4. DISCLAIMERTHIS RATING IS REPRESENTATIVE OF MY OWN PERSONAL THOUGHTS OF WHAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBILITY SHOULD BE. IT PROBABLY WILL NOT REFLECT YOUR EXPERIENCE AT THIS PLACE. I WILL PROVIDE AN ADDITIONAL RATING IN MY REVIEW.I RATE RESTAURANTS BASED ON WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBILITY, THEN ON FOOD AND GENERAL CUSTOMER SATISFACTION. MY PERSONALS VIEWS ON WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBILITY INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: ACCESSIBLE BATHROOMS, TABLE HEIGHT (PARTICULARLY IN BARS), ABILITY TO GET AROUND INSIDE WITHOUT TAKING ‘SIDE TRIPS.’ACCESSIBILITY REVIEWDefinitely NOT a place for someone in a wheelchair. Can’t even get in the bathroom stall. Suppose it’s a good way to stay sober if you care about your kidneys. It’s also a very tight squeeze between the tables next to the bathroom. This place also has about half low tables, and half high bar tables. It also has like a couch area that you have to step up, on to, similar to a strip club…not that I’ve ever been to one. hahaRESTAURANT REVIEWI had the chicken strips. It was good. I was there on karaoke night. I’m easily entertained by intentional bad karaoke. The service was pretty good. Overall, I’d give this place 3 out of 5 stars if it wasn’t for the wheelchair accessibility. Unfortunately, I won’t be going back here again, not because of the food, but because of the bathrooms.

5. Tuesday night is comedy night. La cochina, staff and the owner Joe is awesome. I like that the show had different comedians and the dj was keeping the crowd entertained. Very friendly staff.

6. Been coming here for a while. They have comedy shows some nights, breakfast in the mornings, sports with large TVs, dancing and live band at night – literally everything you can ask for in a entertainment setting for all types of occasions. The drinks are affordable and food is really good. Definitely my go to spot in OC 🙂

7. We dropped in and was pleasantly surprised by the band. Great Music and lots of people dancing on this Saturday nite. It was crowded but we found a table between the dance floor and the back bar. There were no negatives until I observed the action of the 3 hookers and their handler at the table next to us who were busy dancing together and working the single men at the back bar.

8. City closed this place down due to a rat infestation….enough said! Rat droppings found in the potatoes.

9. i’ve been there a few times now and feel that I can give it a obective review. It si a bit older crowd,which is fine because they leave you alone and don’t seem to look for trouble. We’ve been there on a Saturday night and a few mornings for breakfast/ lunch. There must be some regualrs because when we tehre in the evening, Ms KItty, who was our waitress seemed more nterested in chatting with them then getting us our drinks. She was nice enough when shem adeit over to us though, and the wait was no to terrible. I went there with a friend of mine yesterday afternoon and was attended to in a very friendly manner by Emily. Not too bar for a local hang out , I suppose. If you havea group outing, definitely call way ahead to reserve a section.

10. this place is the world’s greatest!! fun. comfy, divey, cheap….! old man grey sausage party but in a not-so-old-man-stenchy kinda way.. if that makes sense. reminds me of a really great fisherman sweater that you get for super cheap at a thrift store not worn out.. more like worn in… anyway, I’ve never been there on the weekend maybe it’s not as good.. but I like the comedy night and the biker night (weds?) the starting gate is right next to the place that does all my website work the walk In web store… (within stumbling distance of the gate)

11. Sooo. I love this place.. the drinks are stiff and the girls are awesome!! Beka the bartender is AWESOME.. she is super fast and her drinks are AHMAZING. . Ashlee the waitress is one of the best servers I’ve ever seen and Danielle is just so cute and nice and she also is an ahmazing server.. Lynette another bartender is super great too.. cheers to the gate.. I’m making this my weekly spot… plus the manager Karen is super dope!!

12. this might sound weird, but this divey racetrack bar has really good breakfasts! Dirt cheap of course. i think the combo special is about $2.75?

13. Interesting characters in this joint…just let loose have a couple drinks and head to the dance floor, you’ll have a great time!

14. Great spot. Fast service. Good food. Cheap drinks. Cool atmosphere. Cute bartenders.

15. BEST STEELERS BAR IN SO CAL! BEST STEELERS BAR IN SO CAL! BEST STEELERS BAR IN SO CAL! BEST STEELERS BAR IN SO CAL! BEST STEELERS BAR IN SO CAL! BEST STEELERS BAR IN SO CAL! BEST STEELERS BAR IN SO CAL! BEST STEELERS BAR IN SO CAL! BEST STEELERS BAR IN SO CAL! BEST STEELERS BAR IN SO CAL!Did you get that? My four star rating is strictly for coming here during FB season to watch steelers games. This place goes OFF! You have to come super early to get a seat. There’s tailgating in the parking lot the whole day of the game. Don’t ever come wearing the opposing team’s jersey – or you are in trouble. They have raffles and people are cheering in unison. If you are a steelers fan, you must check this place out during the games. I’ve never been if there isn’t a game on, so I cannot give a honest review on anything other than GAME DAY.

16. I came here with a friend, and it was definitely an interesting place. The crowd here is primarily the 30-55 crowd. There were no billiards tables, but they had a live band when I came, lots of seating areas, and everyone overall was friendly. The drinks were reasonably priced and not too bad.

17. This is based on our Saturday breakfast during the Memorial Day weekend. We hadn’t been to The Starting Gate for many years, but we recalled their breakfasts of the past (all were good except for the last one) & we decided to give it another go. This day was a good day to come back because they were just busy enough. We noticed that they remodeled portions of the large room but it still maintained the shaggy dog charm of a local hangout, which it most certainly is. We ordered different Mexican style breakfasts & both were a success! Portion, price, taste, all good. My boyfriend was happy with his Bloody Mary special. Coffee was strong & hot & our server was attentive with refills & checking back often. If you’re into Steelers Football, comedy & themes The Starting Gate is big on these. While we were there a sports trivia raffle was underway. We’ll go back for breakfast again. So far so good.

18. I always enjoy myself when I come to this place for some fun. The owner and his family are very welcoming and both of the security guards are awesome! The variety of music is always a plus and the bartenders are constantly making sure that you are good with drinks. It does get busy and the parking lot tends to always fill up, so that can get annoying. I’ve never really sat down to eat, so I’m not quite sure about the food besides a salad once. The comedy show they have on Tuesday nights is a lot of fun and I would definitely recommend it to everyone. You will have a blast. Simply hilarious! Lots of good vibes and laughs. If you’re in a dancing mood, this is the place to be!

19. New owners have done good job remodeling and freshing up this place.Now a younger crowd for sure. Its a Fun Spot and they are going to make it better

20. What a disappointment. Went to the Starting gate about a year ago. Had fun. Went again last night, it has certainly changed for the worse. It’s not even a dive anymore, it’s a dump. Music was okay, it was really about the low class clientele that now frequents this location. We stayed for one set and left. The waitress asked if this was our first time there. I shared we had been there a year ago, wow has it changed. She nodded yes. Won’t go back again. Don’t waste your time.

21. these reviews break my heart. I love the starting gate… ghetto dive bar, but not! Manny the k.j is sooo wonderful… and the cocktail servers once they get to know you are amazing as well… they have all the sports games there and the chairs are just fun. true you wont find a hot guy there , its all cowboys and horse jockeys and people over 40. but when your drunk it doesnt matter. this place was my monday night regular spot. Love it.

22. The good news is that The Starting Gate has an amazing breakfast special on Sundays. The bad news is that it is a dreaded Steelers bar so if you are from Cleveland, you will be better off attending a high tea in Bellflower during football season. On Sundays they also have both kinds of music in the afternoon, both Country and Western, so if you dislike C&W as much as I do get in before ten and clear out by noon. Other than these two technicalities, it’s become my go-to Sunday breakfast joint. PS, disregard anything you see here about crappy service, it’s very good.

23. Sooooooo much fun! Prices are reasonable, the comedians are so hilarious. Cochino is so annoying though. I didn’t think he was really funny at all just over all annoying. He was the host for the night and all I heard was him make poor jokes about fucking lol. Um the dance floor is huge, after they move the tables and stuff. The music is awesome! Play so much different music, a little for everyone. I definitely want to come back soon.

24. The new owners are doing an amazing job!! They have new flat screens everywhere, and are replacing the 2 projectors with new projectors… They have new furniture, and they’re working on jazzing up the menu, repainting the place, and all kinds of great stuff…The staff is GREAT!! They’ve all been so happy and friendly, and are great at what they do… (Jenny and Linda are my favorites so far- ask for their section!!)When the Steelers play it’s so much fun there- so many “real” fans, and they do give-aways, raffle tickets, and specials. Definitely a must if you’re a Steelers fan!!

25. This place may have comedy shows but the staff is horrible. I’ve been to gas stations off a highway that had cleaner bathrooms, food is terrible. I’ve never written a negative review for any business but I was upset enough with this place to say something. I even called the manager to talk about my poor experience with this establishment and wrote an email and haven’t received any response. I have been to a lot of dive bars or as some say whole in the walls but never been to a place this bad. They have no interest in keeping customers coming back and I have no interest in ever showing up again. I bet they won’t even respond to this review because their appreciation for customers is non-existent.

26. This place is soooooo dead!!! They don’t have karaoke anymore because the peeps that came for karaoke didn’t order enough drinks so the owner couldn’t afford to pay the KJ! That’s what the bartender/waiter/server/janitor told us. Yup, it seemed like he was a 1-man show that night! There were a few loud, drunken people at the bar. We were like the only 2 peeps in the dining area, we were ready to leave which a few people did upon first walking in! We would’ve left but had a gift certificate so had to order a few appetizers. The nachos, zucchini and onion rings were pretty good. The dismal atmosphere just ruined though! This place totally needs a make-over! But, the way things are lookin’, they’ll probably be shutting their doors soon! Def. will not be back!

27. This place used to be kinda sketch but apparently they are under new ownership and now its kinda cool.On Tuesdays they serve $3 wells $3 beers and have a comedy show. When I went the entire back room was full of people and laughter, it was a lot of fun!I will definitely be back soon!

28. Something there to do all week..but I host the comedy show here for the last 5 years. #1 Tuesday comedy show in California. No cover! 2 for 1 drinks and DJ after the show.

29. We recently celebrated my dad’s 60th Birthday at the Starting Gate, figuring that it combines our two favorite things…. Karaoke And DANCING to a Live Band. Let me just say that this was the easiest party I have ever thrown. We reserved the banquet room and were able to decorate as we saw fit. I want to give a “SHOUT OF PRAISE” to Gustavo and his kitchen crew. I got so many compliments about the food quality and he made a couple helpful suggestions along the way that really made the process easy for me. Working with Danny & Carlos was incredible. Felt as if they really cared about my business. Only complaint was regarding the Karaoke guy being a little too uptight, but other than that we had a blast!

30. WOW….2nd time even better…

31. At Starting Gate to watch Steelers Football game. Place is packed but service is great. Food is above average but price is excellent. Had the breakfast special for $5. Fun atmosphere. Drinks were good.

32. Physically a nice place. The country band was competent though boring. Nice stage and lights… The staff was busy making and drinking shots for themselves… Drunk bartenders = crappy service…

33. Restaurant.com has deals for this place and that’s how I started coming here. Before 7:00 families can eat here. Tuesday they have a FREE Comedy show. Wednesday are Bike Night. Crowds on weekends are mixed culture & ages. Music is bands & DJ. Good music here! Great place !!!

34. LOVE THE STARTING GATE … great food, super friendly service, and just nice chill atmosphere … ask for Joaquin as your bartender!!! He’s a great bartender, super cute, and makes yummy drinks!

35. (Tuesday) Comedy at the Starting Gate is the best show in town….and the best part…it’s FREE! No cover with a 2 drink or food minimum. The drink and food specials change weekly but there is always something good. The show is 18 and over so the drinks can just be sodas and dollar tacos! The show is hosted by Cochino…..and he brings in a different lineup every Tuesday….I have never left disappointed ………….Be careful if your sensitive though because the comics equally discriminate EVERYONE! After the comedy show is over they open the dance floor and a DJ takes over….and lately the drink specials start after comedy have been 2 for 1.

36. STEELERSSSSSS!!Okay, maybe I’m going to be a little bias but you know, Starting Gate overall is a pretty awesome bar, even if you aren’t a Steelers fan.My buddies and I came here for lunch and beers midweek. (Whoop to taking random days off work!) Our waitress Jennifer was nothing but short of spectacular. Especially considering it was one of my friend’s bday and he was acting a little rambunctious. She was totally sweet and didn’t mind him at all, even when at times, I did! Their food is your basic bar fare. Wings and fries, chicken tenders and fries, cheeseburger and fries… etc. And to be honest, their food here is pretty good! Beer battered onion rings, my fav! Buffalo wings were nicely spiced and perfectly crispy. I stole some bites off my friend’s pastrami sandwich and that was pretty tasty too! Pitchers of beers for $8? Yes please! They have a ton of specials so check them out. Nice local divey bar vibe but its total spacious and definitely would be a great place to hang out with friends. Nice fun relaxed unpretentious atmosphere. I can’t wait to come back! Come on football season!

37. This place is fun!!! and the security that is there makes sure it’s safe for everyone to enjoy there time there..

38. I really love going to this place only for their comedy nights.I’ve been coming here since I was under 21 and all they do to me is mark me so that I don’t order alcohol. They have Stand Up Comedy every Tuesday night from 9pm-11pm and there’s no coverage/entrance fee. The comedians are about as good as the ones in the Laugh Factory. It’s pretty much a hit or miss. Depends on what kind of jokes you’re into. So far it’s mostly been hilarious for me because I like their kind of jokes-perverted. But if you’re into more low key/innocent jokes then stay away from here or you’ll just be offended.warning!! If you don’t want to be picked on or you’re easily offended, then I suggest that you sit in the back tables cus most comedians will pick on the ones up front–and they don’t hold back.They claim that there’s a minimum of 2 drinks but you can always sub them for food. But most of the time, I end up not buying anything because the waitresses are soOoO slow and rarely/never get to me. Personally, this is a good thing because I can just enjoy a free show without having to pay for anything. However, if you actually do want to drink or eat, then I suggest you eat first before you go and bring an extra waterbottle with you so you don’t get parched from laughing. But they serve at an ok/fast pace if you order alcohol.If you do order anything, then I suggest that you come to the bar at the back and pay ahead of time before the show ends because they’re usually super slow about the bill and everyone is rushing to pay the bill at the end.It’s casual attire, so don’t worry about having to bring your clubbing outfit or something nice.There’s also a free parking lot right in front of the place so you don’t have to worry about your car.have fun!

39. Food was good. Had wings and fries. The service was horrible. After our waitress delivered our food she never came back. We had to go to bar and get our own drinks. We wanted to order more food but no one ever came. Their loss in profit.

40. My dad asked the bartender several times for a waitress to come take our order. She never came. Served everyone else. Horrible service. Will not go back.

41. Our waitress Emily makes our few hours there for bike night in Wednesday worth wild she is super friendly fast and accurate with her service very attentive burrito special is worth the $5 and the bikes are great to look at. Bike night has improved

42. This place is very decent great bartender…don’t know his name. The only thing that bothered us was we went for the steelers/broncos game today and they have a 50/50 raffle. … largest pot yet…. $1070….just so happens the people dealing out the tickets took the pot…..coincidence??? I think so. So if we do return we will never participate in this drawing again….. how convenient for them.!

43. I’ve been to the Gate a few times over the last eight years but it is really starting to grow on me. Dropped in on a Monday night and discovered “Movie Night.” They were showing “The Big Lebowski” and serving (you guessed it) white russians. A few caucasians later I have mentaly upgraded this place to “has potential.” Stella on tap and pitchers available plus the competent and friendly bar staff means I’ll be back — with friends.Update — No movie night, no consistency, new owner. Wait and see???

44. My husband got food poisoning from the starting gate and when i posted my complaint on facebook they 86 me from going. The manager didnt care that my husband got sick all she cared about was getting a bad review. That is not very good for business In my opinion. I think if the food was bad they should’ve inspected the kitchen not stopping customers from patronizing their establishment.

45. Let’s just say I didn’t drink much there hahaha

46. Went the second week in November to meet a group of friends (6) for lunch. We choose this place because over the many years we have dropped by at night and had a few. During the day it is quiet and we can get a table in the shadows and visit with no rush. We also loved the menu of home made items and the daily special. Well I see the “New owners” banner across the front and learn that a few months back it got new owners. Whats new?? Same nice quiet friendly place but a one page menu. A weak carnival food at best. Hot dogs, hamburger, chicken wings and so on. So very weak. Don’t know what happens at night here but lunch will be at another place next time. Too bad…………

47. This place SUCKS. I always believe you can tell the quality of the place by the condition of their restrooms. Their bathrooms are ATROCIOUS I ABOUT GAG EVERY TIME I GO THERE !! I wonder what their Kitchen is like ?? They have a motorcycle nite on wednesdays with all you can eat spagetti (spagetti only). They make you pay $1 extra ea for the meatballs and garlic bread, which wouldnt be a bad thing, but the meatballs are really small bout 1″ dia. (i think they get them from costco) and the bread is reqular slice of sandwich bread (wtf?) and everytime I tried it, it gives me the runs !! And now they are cutting the meatballs in half. The Service really sucks and your lucky to get a second serving if you wanted one. Some of the waitresses are RUDE and dont give an crap about the customer. I complained to the manager once and he was drunk !! He doesnt care about anything but the benjamins and if you dont buy any drinks your taking up space and losing him money. DONT EVER BRING FOOD IN !! I bought food next door at a burger place and I was told you want to eat their food go sit in their place !!! (wtf) Also they have country western on weekends. And if you want to go there while a steeler game is on FORGET ABOUT IT. They have Steeler Fans that come in and totally take over the place. Really not a place to sit. !!! They have remodelled the place alittle but the service is still the same, thanks to the management. They keep changing the brands of beer to whatever they can get the cheapest i think. The bands they get there are never very good. Its a locals bar and the only people in there are regulars who have no place else decent to go to. Ive tried this place about 10 times and its SUCKs every time.

48. OMG Michael the security guard is so awesome! He made sure our taxi arrived to retrieve us!!Just don’t ask him about Walmart!Lmao

49. My friends and I always come here whenever we’re lucky enough to get out on a Friday or Saturday. It’s always fun, good music, good atmosphere, attentive waitresses and the owners are awesome. It’s cozy enough that you don’t have to dress up, but you’re not over-dressed if you do. Do call a couple days ahead if you want a table, ’cause it fills up fast. No matter what the occasion you’ll have a good time here.

50. Been here a couple of times, never had a problem. Breakfast was very good! Tough to decide how this place wants the atmosphere, has so many different things going on.

51. I’ve frequented Starting Gate for mostly non-alcoholic reasons — I like their breakfasts. I usually phone in my order for their omelettes and they typically don’t disappoint. They are on the greasy side so the health conscious should mind this place and if you are, then you already know.As for the alcohol, I haven’t come here enough to get my drink on, but the most memorable time I did come they had a very inexperienced bartender who did not know how to make most drinks. It became a game as we were telling the bartender how to make drinks. Normally this would be a big negative (started at 3 then -2 for drinks, +1 for breakfasts) but we had fun and ended up getting hammered on poorly-mixed drinks.

52. This place is great for people watching-and by people watching, I mean middle aged people gettin’/ their grind on! A male bartender there, I neglected to ask his name, made THE BEST bloody mary I’ve ever had! The crowd is always great; it’s usually packed. Granted it’s a bit of an older crowd, but who cares! Everyone’s nice and friendly! Prices are reasonable and music is ok. Some bands are better than others, but the dancefloor’s always poppin’!

53. Went Friday night,the 29 th@ 9:00 and never got served for 1 hour (We left).I went to the bar and got my drinks,but my date waited because she wanted to order food also.The waitress completely ignored us while serving everyone else except for another Asian couple. I’ve been coming here since 1988 and had two of the best birthday parties in my life here. She must be new or something,they were not really that busy when we got there. Who ever is running this place needs to either hire more help(Good help) or sell the place to someone who has control of his newer young waitresses.

54. With the average age of patrons being 42 on a Friday and Saturday, one knows the clientele that that the owners are going for. Good selection of beers, if one is a Steelers fan, this is the bar to go to on a Sunday to watch the games.

55. I came in the other day for a Salsa Dancing class. I waited and no one showed up for the class. Therefore, call and confirm before arriving.

56. The Starting Gate, hereafter referred to as SG, suffers from multiple-personality-disorder and in this case, it’s a GOOD thing. Each night offers something different for everybody. The semi-new owners have put in some work into this place and it still appears to be a work-in-progress. And it shows. It looks a lot nicer than the old digs.Here’s how I can sum up SG on a Saturday night when the live band is playing (DJ plays when the band takes a break): the band was Downtight this particular evening and they were rocking it. I’m on the dance floor with my lady friend and to my right is an Asian man dancing with two Asian women, to my left there is a Latino veterano in suspenders, a fedora, and a nicely pressed white short-sleeved shirt dancing with his woman, to my one there are 3 sisters dancing their booties off, and on my six is this couple, old enough to be my grandparents, tearing up the dance floor.That’s why I’ve come to love the SG. Variety. Sure, you’ve got your regulars here, but there are always people that come in that I’ve never seen before. For the most part, people are really chill here, the security keeps that stuff in check. The only fight I ever saw was outside and the guys were really drunk, so I don’t count that! Hahaha.The majority of the time the bartenders are attentive and as long as you’re polite, you’re going to get good service. The drinks are easily half the price of most of the LA clubs I go to and the no cover charge is nice too. If you like listening to live music from the 70s, 80s, 90s, and even some more modern stuff and like to get on the dance floor, then this your place to go to on a Friday or Saturday night.A few weeks ago I came here for the first time on a Tuesday night to watch the Cochino Comedy show. OMFG!!! It was hilarious. They had some great talent. Only a two drink minimum? Sign me up! The show starts at nine but all the tables were taken when we got there, so make sure you go a lot earlier if you want seating for the comedy show on Tuesday nights.Maybe I’ll come here on Salsa night next…….

57. A fun spirited bar. They have good snacks. Nice drinks. People here are friendly. Management is great. This place has a great atmosphere.

58. This place has serious potential. It’s huge, has good drinks, good prices, and plenty of dancing room. It’s the best kept secret in the Cypress/Los Alamitos area.The only reason it isn’t getting a five star rating is because of the crowd. It’s full of older people and gives it that cougar den feeling. I strongly suspect there’s a secret swingers presence among the crowd there too. It’s really a shame the younger crowd doesn’t know about this place. That doesn’t stop me from having fun with my friends though.The other reason it’s not getting a star is because the comedian on Tues nights. We avoid it on Tuesdays now because of him. He’s a drunk @$$hole and felt the need to heckle us (kind of backwards, i know) when we were all so messed up it was time to leave.

59. I’ve been here on several occasions in the last year. Even though there is a menu, I would not eat here. They have a good bar and they make good drinks! What I do like about it, is they have some really good bands and a large dance floor and I love to dance! They need a decent cover charge to keep the sleazy, creepy ‘hitting on you’ morons out. I was there with my boyfriend and got hit on 5x when he or I went to the rest room.It is somewhat of a dive, but for most part the clientele is mixed age and types. Good place to people watch. They have a huge screen TV with the game on and the service can be really good or bad depending on the waitress.The restrooms are clean, but are a joke and should be redesigned, the partitions have to be no higher than 5’6. There ADA bathroom is almost as long as the bar!If they could eliminate 10% of the riff raff male clientele, I’d give it an extra star. I would not go there without a date!

60. This place has been going down hill for a long time. Service is slow and menu limited. Food barely warm. Entertainment has slipped dramatically. We used to frequent this place weekly now it’s every couple of months.

61. The Starting Gate is the quintessential dive bar. We are regulars on a Sunday afternoon. If you are going here for the first time, this is what you can expect: dark décor, vinyl seating, good food, great country music, friendly service and an awesomely diverse crowd. Yes, if you don’t like country music or the Steelers you may not be a fan of this place but if you can have an open mind about these two issues and just enjoy The Starting Gate for what it is than you are bound to have a great experience.

62. I just recently found out that this place opens at 9am. I work the midnight shift, so mornings are my night time and it’s great to find a bar that’s open when I get off work. On top of that, the prices (at least in the morning) are phenomenal! $2 draft beers, and a $5 breakfast that includes bacon, sausage, ham, eggs, hashed browns, biscuits and gravy? That’s not a either/or, it includes all of those! Most mornings that I have been here, Haeley has been the bartender and is always on top of things. Friendly, fast, and good looking. The trifecta of bartenders. All in all, I’d recommend this place to anybody. I’ve only been here in the morning so that’s all my recommendation is good for, but for those of you night shifters or morning drinkers out there, this place is a must-try.

63. Had breakfast here this Saturday. Food was good and came out quickly. New face at waitress, her name was Corri. Great service and friendly smile! She’s a breath of fresh air for here!

64. Hey owner, look up at your ceiling. See all that dust and dirt built up over 10 years on all your fixtures. It looks terrible and speaks to the culture you create. I can’t even imagine how bad your kitchen looks.

65. Worst service ever, and I am grading on a curve comparing to other dive bars. Arrived at 6:00 left at 7:00, was offered one drink while the regulars were brought drinks till they were falling off their chairs, literally. The seat next to me was occupied by a dirty dinner plate which stayed there the whole time I was there. This place did not have the character of a true dive but it is not the cool place to hang out that it tries to be. It is just kinda….there. a little bleech.

66. Yes one more bar. Still a good place just not for me tonight. So goes the search. This place holds many events. and the bands they have had are really good as well. Large dance floor and plenty of tables makes this a good place for everyone

67. Wish this place was closer to home. Cold Beer, good food, and good service. Lynette was super nice.

68. How could you not have a great time at the Starting Gate ?Great drinks ,awesome bands, fun and friendly people. You could not ask for a better staff between the drink mixers,the waitress’ and even the door people. Joe the owner is usually always there with a smile mixing through the crown being very friendly. The thing I like best is the people that go there are there for a good time and not looking for drama. On Tuesday nites they have one of the best comedy shows that I have ever gone to. You will leave there holding your side from laughing so hard. The rateings will only let you give the highest rate of 5 stars ,I think it should have a 10 star rateing.

69. New Year’s Eve sucked at this so called club! We paid $80 For two people, and not once did a waitress come to our table. we had to go to the bar to buy our drinks that was also disappointing, they had a waitress mixing the drinks and a trainee. Also the oldest waitress there is very rude and you can’t complain cause she’s family to the owners. which sucks cause she’s racist and they never do anything about her when customers have complained. well that’s going to make customers not want to come back, the band and dj’s are cool. But never again will I come back!…this place sucks!!!

70. Been here a couple of times before and all times at night. I like the dance floor. the servers are alright but they tend to forget orders so i don’t messed with them and just got to the bar. The atmosphere is always great and always had a fun time.

71. The actual owner of the bar is wearing the opposite teams colors and jersey. What a smack in the face to the customers that come in every weekend and eat and drink to support him. NO Class…

72. The Starting Gate keeps looking better and better. The new world floor near the bar and the new carpet under the tables look great. We love the Sunday afternoon country music. They always have a dance floor full of dancers moving to their outstanding country bands. Their food is pretty good too, and not overpriced like many live venues. There is usually a 2 drink minimum during live entertainment, but you don’t have to drink anything alcoholic. It’s also a sports bar, with many different screens showing a variety of sports. It’s sad that the motorcycle bike night has been discontinued. It was fun seeing all the beautiful bikes.

73. I have to say I’m a FAN of starting gate. I met my husband there almost 2 years ago. I went there with my friends to just listen to the band, hang out & avoiding annoying pushy guys in a club scene…. little did I know I met the love of my life at starting gate. Drinks are not so expensive, ok dive bar/lounge people are friendly, they leave you alone and you can have fun alone.

74. NO COVER CHARGE! Need I say more? This is a very relaxed, relatively clean-for-a-dive bar with a great layout, great dance floor, good music, and decent drink prices especially for not charging a cover. You can buy two drinks for $12 and dance the night away. Seriously, two movie tickets will cost you double that and you just stare at flickering screen for two hours. Fellas, take your lady out dancing and enjoy a real night out! The waitresses are warm and polite, drinks come relatively quickly, and the whole experience is great. The building’s outside seems a bit dodgy, but once inside it’s totally cool.Thursday night = salsa dancing! No cover. They have a “live” band of three older Spanish guys who play percussion and vocals over canned music. The crowd is older but very low key and lots of people are dancing. Not many jerk show-offs and the band does a good job of mixing up the salsa, cha cha, merengue, cumbia, etc. There are supposedly beginner and intermediate lessons at 8PM but I haven’t personally made it there in time to partake.Sunday afternoon = country dancing! No cover. They label it a line dancing night which had me hesitant but only half the dance floor was taken by the line crowd and there were plenty of people two-stepping or west coast swing dancing. Again, crowd is a little older but everyone is there to have a good time. This time the band is a full live band. They border more on the “rock” end of the country spectrum, but they do a good job and I’ll take live music over a DJ any day. There are a LOT of Pittsburgh steeler fans in the joint, but the layout is large enough that they have their side and the dancers/band/ballroom have their end. Everyone seems to get along which is really saying something for steeler fans. ;)2nd Saturday afternoon = west coast swing! No cover. I haven’t personally been to this event yet but I plan on it. I’m glad Starting Gate is open to all the various dancing nights!

75. I went here last night with a few of my girlfriends for the comedy show. The seats were comfortable and the staff was friendly. Especially our hot waitress.. Lol she always checked on us and made sure we always had drinks. I will definitely be back!By the way…there was no cover to get in and there was lots of parking. Also there’s a liquor store conveniently located next to the bar in case you want to get munchies or some gum or in my case a shot of whiskey before the show! Lol

76. Not the cleanest place I’ve ever been but as far as dives go, this is in the upper exhelon. They have a full bar, Megatouch, decent food, TVs and TONS of entertainment. Drawback is the bartenders are not super attentive. Usually have to flag them down for service, remind them for napkins and nag them for silverware.

77. Came here on a Tuesday night for their comedy lineup and laughed my ass off. Starting Gate is a bit divey but not in a creepy/dirty way. There was no cover, but a 2 drink/$8 minimum during the show. Not bad considering they had drink specials. They do have food, but don’t expect anything gourmet. The service okay. It’s a busy night and our gal spaced on getting me my whiskey sour.After the show they open up the dance floor, offer BOGO free on drinks, so don’t be afraid to double fist it! The music was a mix of old school hip hop and zumba songs… which is actually quite fitting if you think about where you are. Nary a country song was heard.Their comedy lineup was strong, diverse, and raunchy. I loved it. Apparently, Starting Gate lives up to its name because this is where a bunch of comedians got their start (i.e. Jo Koy). The guy who organized the show even came to hang out with our group for a while. Talked stories and made us feel welcome. I’ll definitely be coming back.The Good: Solid comedy and drink specials.The Bad: Service was spotty.The Ugly: Some of the visuals the comedians give you… Nipple eyelashes.

78. What a great turn out to my event ~RuMbLe At ThE GaTe~. Everyone had so much fun! The line up was spectacular. Duke from Mad Max & The Wild Ones did a duet with our GrEaSeToWn brother Eddie of “Relentless”! Duke rocked the house w/ his Harmonica. Cole did a HeLla of a SoLo on his drumz and received a standing ovation. HoLla at Pops Mad Max for a great job! Much thankz to Danny Dean & The Draggerton Beat for it’s awesome performance. Rockabilly Ray worked his ink in the back room and we set up a Barber Shop in the back as well. It was off the hoOk! Bo Huff had a ten hour flight to join us last nite. Bo took the mic and said, ” A word or two”. I really love the wooden dance floor at this location to show off ones dance moves. There are also 3 Full Bars which makes it super nice as well. The Cocktail Severs wore very professional and attentive to everyone there. The bartender Chris was super friendly. The ladies room was clean threw the nite, which is always a blessing to have. I was impressed! The Starting Gate is roomy for live bands and does not get stuffy. It sure was a HeLla of NiTe! Much Love! BaByGiRl DeMoRnAiE

79. This is our Sunday Fun-day hang out with some really great friends. Some good, some not so good live country music but still a lot of fun and DJ. Great fun afterwards with karaoke. Been through 2 different owners. Have become good friends with current owners.

80. Worst service ever!! The waitresses spent more time walking around kissing old men which obviously lived there and don’t actually hold a J-O-B since they appear as though a fresh pair of clothes and a shower has eluded them. I came here to watch the basketball finals, a simple request to turn up the volume was laughed at until more people began to show up and ONLY then the volume was magically turned up from being muted. At one point the waitresses & bartenders outnumbered the patrons in the bar!! But did anyone walk up to offer me another beer which had been gone for quite some time? Nope, that’s because they were all walking around chatting it up with their friends who are obviously more important than a paying customer. Oh…and what year is it?? Yep, 2015 WHO THE EFF DOESNT HAVE AN AIR CONDITIONER IN THIS DAY & AGE? It was unbearably hot in here.NEVER AGAIN!!! I’d rather watch the game at home than waste money to be tortured and have horrible service.

81. Good live bands and dancing on the weekends, but it’s definitely an older crowd. Make sure you check out comedy night on Tuesday nights. No cover (2 drink minimum) and they have good food and drink specials.

82. Go for comedy tuesdays plus $1tacos (good)!!!!

83. This place sucks. Worst service ever. We came in to eat lunch and asked for the menu. A lady resembling a waitress refuses to give us menus, she had glasses and looked like she hated her life.I had a bottled drink in my hand that I was still working on and the lady very rudely says you can’t have that in here. At first I didn’t know what she was talking about, because judging from her harsh tone you thought I brought a wild animal or a firearm inside.I told her I would order a drink and we’re there to eat and to not worry about it because I will just keep it on the table. But she gets super pushy and snarls that I need to throw it out or leave. All 3 of us left because that waitress made us lose our appetites and that cost them paying customers!Stay away from that negative waitress, she will make your food taste bad! Yuk.

84. Wow, after going to this place for over 40 years. Sunday after noon stopped to have a few drinks and dance. The server came over real quick and wanted my order. I told her not just right now. She got huffy and said had to order for there was a two drink minimum at the place and had to order. again said not right now. She said she was telling the manager. He came right over and got in my face about the two drinks or at least a order of $10.00. Again told him also was not ready to order right now for I never know what am going to drink. He kindly said to order or leave. and not come back.Guess the 60 buck spend the Sunday before doesn’t count or the amount spent there Friday night doesn’t count and a forty year customer doesn’t mean anything. Guess the younger generation of management don’t know that repeat customers make the business. There loss.June 8 2014

85. Great bartenders! This place always has tasty food. Great low priced breakfast deals on the weekends, the best deal around! The food is great quality and you never know what to expect here. I have had birthday parties here along with friends and we always have a great time! Thanks Kitty! Also Mariana and Joaquin are the best!

86. If possible I would give this place a negative zillion … had the worst possible service by a rude and nasty waitress named Danielle … took forever to place an order and even longer to get it … then the btch charged everyone at our table multiple times … probably wanted to make sure she got a tip … she ran my card for someone else’s check and when I asked to have that one voided she said oh I have your card … I now have 3 charges on my cc … you bet I will dispute those … they had a huge event today for bikers and breast cancer.. over 100 people and 2 servers … the food was so greasy we were gonna change our oil with it … it’s dirty and a friend recently got food poisoning there. .. BIKERS and everyone else BEWARE … manager was no better … oh and if you order a soda be prepared to pay for a refill … which by the way they don’t tell you … $2.50 each .UPDATE … MY GUY GOT SICK FROM THE GREASY NACHOS

87. This is a Pitsburgh Steelers bar. So I immediately love this place. Staff was friendly and food is good.

88. STEELER FANS UNITE!!!What an improvement!! This place has needed a inner face lift for longer then Ive been going! The TV upgrades make watching my Steelers here fun again. The new owner says hes working on the menu & Im looking forward to see what is added…something along lines of an Italian hoagie that can be found in Pittsburgh would be great! Game specials should include decent beer..not just the watered down Coors/Bud that every other place offers (some of us are a bit more discerning). Just because Im across from the track dont make me feel like Im AT the track!The staff is friendly & quick…many regulars continue to flock here on game day & Wed is “bike night”.Stay tuned…this place has potential again.

89. Great place. Good food. Good bartenders. Marianna rocks on Sunday Funday. Country Sundays are awesome.