By Jeanni Ritchie
I traveled to Vernon Parish to check out the popular Starlite Grill in Leesville — a spot I’d been hearing about for more than a year. It had been sitting on my “restaurants to try” list, but since it’s a solid hour from my house, I had to wait for the right occasion.
A random Wednesday in the middle of a heavy writing week with my foodie friend Anh was the perfect time! Anh, who’s been schooling me in all things international cuisine — from Indian to Vietnamese — joined me for my first real taste of Korean food.
We ordered from the Korean Special Menu: Bulgogi Beef with Fried Rice and Wontons, part of their weekday lunch special (Monday–Friday, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.). The beef was tender and flavorful, the wontons perfectly crisp, and the portion size more than generous. One of us needed a to-go box. (It wasn’t me!)
Anh declared the meal authentic Korean — high praise from someone who knows the difference between international and Americanized versions of popular dishes.
Other menu items include Bibimbap, Cashew Chicken, Egg Foo Young, Pepper Steak, Sweet and Sour Chicken or Pork, Spicy Beef, Chicken, or Pork, and Korean favorites like Jjamppong (shrimp imported from India), Jajangmyeon, and Tteokbokki (offered in original or cheese versions). Sides range from Yaki Mandu and Egg Rolls to three types of kimchi — radish, cabbage, and cucumber.
Starlite Grill feels like a step back in time — simple décor, friendly faces, and handwritten menus. It’s cash-only, so be sure to hit the ATM before you go. They’re open 10 a.m.–8 p.m. Monday–Thursday, 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and closed Sunday.
I genuinely enjoyed my food — and maybe even more so, my willingness to keep expanding my “Sam I Am” culinary adventures. I now try it all … well, most of it anyway.
Starlite Grill
1001 S. 5th Street, Leesville, LA 71446
(337) 238-1023
