Restaurant Ambush Revisited: Faded Star at Starlite Restaurant and Pizza
In the new-season premiere of Restaurant: Impossible, Robert Irvine and his Ambush team gave one New Jersey restaurant owner the shock of her life when they showed up with an offer to renovate her West Orange, N.J., eatery, Starlite Restaurant and Pizza. Patty's son reached out to Robert after noticing his mom's struggles, and only after arriving did Robert see for himself the filth that had accumulated in the kitchen, as well as the stubborn staff and sorry financials. Read on below to hear from Patty to find out how her business has fared since Robert and his team overhauled her restaurant and gave it the second chance for success it deserved.
In the months since Robert and his team completed their renovation, Starlite has seen a 50 percent increase in business, according to Patty. "All elements are working," she adds of the updated decor in her restaurant. "Customers are extremely receptive and have expressed the feeling that they are eating at home."
As for Starlite's menu, Patty notes, it's now a mix of what Robert created and some original items. "We added back staples that customers requested," she explains. "New menu items which are best-sellers include Spaghetti Rustica, Tagliatelle Bolognese and, of course, pizza."
Patty says she's taken on an "oversight and executive-level role" at her restaurant now, though she adds that she's receiving help from Ralph. "I have a completely different outlook on restaurant management and have been influenced by Robert Irvine's insight," she says.
Looking ahead to the future of Starlite, Patty notes: "Immediate plans are to continue the path that Robert Irvine has set. Long term is to hopefully continue to grow with the knowledge and guidance of Chef Irvine."