About Star House Family Restaurant
Star House Family Restaurant is a well-loved Chinese family restaurant located in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan (www.starhousefamilyrestaurant.com ) (www.starhousefamilyrestaurant.com ). It specializes in Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine and is famous for its all-you-can-eat buffet (lunch and dinner) of authentic dishes (www.starhousefamilyrestaurant.com ). In addition to classic Chinese entrees, the menu even features some Canadian and Western favourites (like steak, Greek ribs, and burgers) to appeal to every appetite (www.starhousefamilyrestaurant.com ). The restaurant proudly advertises that it has been “serving so many different families and individuals since we first opened over 25 years ago” (www.starhousefamilyrestaurant.com ), and it was voted Prince Albert’s “Best Chinese Food” in the 2020-2021 Prairie Dog and PA Now Best-Of-The-Best awards (www.starhousefamilyrestaurant.com ).
• Licensed and family-friendly: Star House is licensed (open late 7 days/week (
www.yellowpages.ca )) and fully wheelchair accessible (
www.tripadvisor.co.za ). The decor is warm and casual, featuring vibrant Chinese motifs and comfortable seating. This makes it notable as one of Prince Albert’s largest and most established Chinese dining venues, offering huge buffet spreads under one roof. With banquet halls on-site, it’s both a popular family eatery and an event space, standing out in the local dining scene (
www.starhousefamilyrestaurant.com ). Its longevity and awards highlight its place as a cultural fixture – generations of Prince Albert families have celebrated milestones here.
Events and Programming
Star House isn’t just a regular restaurant – it doubles as an event venue. The facility includes multiple banquet halls that can accommodate anywhere from 10 up to 130 guests at once (www.starhousefamilyrestaurant.com ). These halls are frequently booked for private events such as birthday parties, wedding receptions, anniversaries, corporate dinners, family reunions, and community celebrations. Event bookings come with full catering from Star House’s menu, so you can have hot buffets or chosen entrees served at your gathering (www.starhousefamilyrestaurant.com ). Although there isn’t a public event calendar (it’s not a concert theatre), some nights feature communal activities. For example, the restaurant sometimes hosts live music or karaoke evenings and holiday specials – many locals enjoy coming out on weekends or festive occasions to dine and listen to entertainment while they feast. Because the venue is large and outfitted for events, it has been known to host rehearsal dinners, graduation banquets, fundraisers, and club meetings.
• Notable past events: While specific acts aren’t listed online, the award-winning buffet and banquet halls have made Star House a go-to spot for local groups. For instance, community associations and cultural clubs often hold New Year’s banquets or anniversary parties here, drawn by the family-friendly atmosphere. Recurring themes include holiday buffets on Chinese New Year, Valentine’s Day, or Christmas when families and buffet-lovers come for the special menu. All guests, whether dining solo or as part of a big group, enjoy the sense that they’re “part of the family” (as the restaurant notes all guests are) (
www.starhousefamilyrestaurant.com ).
Tickets and Booking
No tickets are needed for regular dining at Star House – it operates like a restaurant. Dine-in seating is generally first-come, first-served, but because of its popularity you may want to reserve a table for large parties or weekend dinners. Reservations and banquet bookings can be made by phone (call 306-764-6700 (www.starhousefamilyrestaurant.com )) or through the restaurant’s website (via a contact form or reservation request). Group events and weddings typically require advance booking; management will arrange menu options (buffet, plated dinner, etc.) and any room rental details. There’s no separate box office or online ticketing for the restaurant venue – order of seating and buffet access is handled in-house.
• Pricing: Standard dining prices include a fixed buffet rate (for example, around $17 for the unlimited lunch or dinner buffet), plus menu items priced individually. Special event pricing (weddings or banquets) is arranged per contract or catering quote. Tip: check local newspapers or community bulletin boards for occasional promotions (they’ve been known to offer discounted buffet coupons or special holiday pricing). Also, if a big concert or community show were ever held here, tickets would be sold through the event promoter, but currently Star House itself does not sell event tickets. For the best shows and peak times (like holiday evenings), call 306-764-6700 early to secure your reservation, especially if you have a large table or group.
Seating and Layout
The venue consists of a large open dining hall with a Chinese buffet line, plus separate banquet rooms. Tables are arranged in rows around the buffet station, accommodating small and large groups. Seating is generally at round or rectangular banquet tables (seats 6–10 per table), allowing you to see and be seen by the entertainment or fellow diners. There isn’t theater-style fixed seating; it’s more like a large community hall. One buffet line runs along one side of the room, so tables closest to that line have quickest access to fresh food.
• Best seats: For general dining, tables near the front or center give a good view of any festivities (for example, toasting at a wedding or a singer on a temporary stage). If you’re hosting a party, the head table is often placed at the front wall of the hall. Booths are not a feature here; all seating is at movable tables. Acoustics: The high-ceilinged hall can be lively, especially during events. Ask for a table away from the kitchen door if you prefer a quieter spot. There may be raised floor or stage area for ceremonies or presentations – if planning an event, clarify with staff where any speaker podium or audio equipment will be. Because it’s primarily a dining hall, the “best seats” depend on your goals: near the buffet for quick service, near the action for party atmosphere, or near an exit for easy restroom access.
Getting There and Parking
Star House Family Restaurant is located at 3433 2nd Avenue West in Prince Albert (www.starhousefamilyrestaurant.com ). This is on the western side of Prince Albert, just off 2nd Ave W (Highway 3), making it easy to reach by car. It’s adjacent to the Lakeland Ford dealership and not far from the Royal University Hospital, so it’s a well-known area. Driving is the most direct option: if coming from downtown Prince Albert, head west on 2nd Ave W toward the suburbs (about a 5–10 minute drive from the City Hall area).
• Parking: The restaurant has an on-site parking lot for guests (with spaces behind and in front of the building). Parking is free. On busy nights you might find the paved lot filling up, but there is usually overflow parking along 2nd Ave W in front of the building. Nearby businesses (like auto dealerships) also have large lots, so parking is generally convenient. Street parking is ample on 2nd Ave W, but read signs (some areas may be reserved during certain hours). Because Star House closes late (open until 1:00 AM most days (
www.yellowpages.ca )), the lot is usually lit and organized for evening arrivals, and there are often staff helping guests with directions to available spots.
• Public Transit: Prince Albert Transit (PAT) has routes that serve the west side of town. Route maps (posted on the City of Prince Albert website (
www.citypa.ca )) show buses running along 2nd Avenue. You can take any westbound PA Transit bus that stops on 2nd Avenue (for example, routes labeled “West” on schedules). The nearest bus stops would be those along 2nd Ave W near 34th or 37th Street, one block from the restaurant. Consult the PAT schedules for current route numbers and times. The downtown Central Transfer Point is about 2 kilometers east – if coming from downtown, transfer to a west-side route. Service is hourly on most routes, so plan accordingly. For late-night returns (after 9 PM), service is limited; taxis or ride-shares may be more reliable. (Uber/Lyft may not operate in Prince Albert, so local taxi companies are a sure bet.)
Inside the Venue
Stepping inside Star House, you enter a bright, busy dining room. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly – expect lively chatter, clinking of plates, and the aroma of hot Asian spices. The main door leads directly to the host station or the buffet line, depending on time of day. For dinner service, a staff member or hostess will show you to your table. If you have reserved a banquet room for a private event, there will typically be a sign at the entrance directing you to that space.
• Food and Drink: The centerpiece is the buffet – a long heated counter with sections for soup, appetizers (like spring rolls and won-ton soup), main dishes (sweet-and-sour chicken, beef with vegetables, shrimp dishes, etc.), fried rice, noodles, and a salad counter. Everything is self-serve. Staff circulate through the dining area to refill drinks and assist with any refill requests. Beverages offered usually include fountain pop (soda in cups), iced tea, and basic coffee/tea. Note: they do not offer unlimited refills on soft drinks, so order carefully (
canadareviewers.com ) (some patrons suggest sticking to water or tea for value). If you prefer a menu item (for example, a specialty chicken dish not on the buffet), you can order it à la carte from the waiter.
• Alcohol: There is a full-service bar at Star House. While the primary draw is the buffet, you can also order beer, wine, cocktails, or special Chinese beer (ask the server for brand selection). Alcohol service hours comply with Saskatchewan regulations – typically until 1:00 AM on most nights. It’s common for event parties to enjoy drinks alongside the Chinese buffet specialties.
• Services: Upon entry, there is usually a coat rack or designated area to leave jackets (no formal coat check). Restrooms are located at the back; there is at least one accessible stall in the washrooms (
www.tripadvisor.co.za ). The dining room and banquet halls are wheelchair accessible, including ramped entrances. Highchairs for children are available. There is free Iceberg or SaskTel cellphone service inside; professional Wi-Fi is not advertised (most diners use mobile data).
• Atmosphere: The setting is warm and decorated with traditional elements (Chinese lanterns, wall art of landscapes or dragons). Music from a PA system can be heard (usually world or pop instrumental music quietly in the background). On event nights, lighting may dim and focus on a head table or any performers. Photography is welcome (people often take family photos at celebrations). Staff are generally friendly and English-speaking; you may also hear a little Mandarin or Cantonese from kitchen talk, but orders and menus are in English. The vibe is welcoming to families, groups of friends, or solo diners. Dress code is casual – most people come as they are (no suit required, but keep it neat). Security is minimal, as it’s not a club – you simply pay at your table when finished.
Nearby Amenities
The restaurant sits in a mixed commercial area, so there are several conveniences nearby. If you are here early or want to explore after, the following amenities are within a few blocks:
Restaurants/Web: Across the street from Star House is a Montreal-style bakery (for pastries, light meals). A couple of self-serve salad/poke places and pizzerias (like Boston Pizza at 3250 2nd Ave W (bostonpizza.com )) are close by. For coffee or dessert, a Tim Hortons and a coffee shop are on 33rd St (just south). If you’re hungry for something else, a typical mall area (a short drive east) has Subway, McDonald’s, and Chinese fast food. Downtown Prince Albert (2 km away) has diverse dining: steakhouses, pubs like the Irish Bush, a local brewery pub (Prince Albert Brewing Company), and takeout places.Bars & Pubs: For drinks before or after your meal, check out nearby pub options. Mulligan’s Sports Bar (just a block away) offers draft beer and pub fare. Downtown has Irish Bush Pub & Grill and Retro Bar and Grill, popular spots to continue the evening. (Remember that as a restaurant, Star House also serves alcohol, so you can simply have drinks with your meal here if you prefer.)Hotels: If you’re visiting or planning a multi-day trip, several hotels are nearby. A Travelodge by Wyndham (2332 – 118th St W) and a Super 8 motel (3210 8th St E) are within a short drive. The nearby Coronet Hotel (3551 2nd Ave W) actually sits just down the street (www.tripadvisor.com ). Downtown Prince Albert (10 minutes away) has larger hotels like Best Western Plus and Holiday Inn with amenities. Taxis or shuttle vans from these hotels can easily drop you at Star House.Shopping and Services: The restaurant is near a medical district (Mystery Lake Hospital is a block north) and has pharmacies and grocery stores around (think Sobeys or Safeway on 2nd Ave). Banks, gas stations, and a mall (Crossroads Mall) are all within walking distance along 2nd Avenue, making it convenient to pick up essentials or do errands before a big dinner.Local Transit Hub: The main Transit Center (bus hub) is downtown, but some routes service the west side directly. If you need a taxi after hours, popular local companies include PA Taxi and Citizen’s City Cab (they can usually come from downtown or airport to collect you after dinner).
What Makes This Venue Special
Star House Family Restaurant stands out for its blend of hearty food and homey hospitality. Architecturally, it isn’t a fancy glass-encased theater – it’s a large, functional banquet hall with classic interior: polished wood paneling, decorative columns, and brightly colored drapes. But its charm lies in the vibe: Chinese restaurants of this size are rare in small Canadian cities. Locals recall generations gathering here – many community leaders have been toasted here at fundraisers or wedding nights. Its long history (over two decades) means it’s woven into local traditions; elders often dote that “our kids grew up eating Han’s won-ton soup” or “our wedding was catered here (
www.starhousefamilyrestaurant.com ).”
• Unique Features: The all-day buffet itself is almost legendary (“Hot & Fresh Buffet 7 Days a Week” is their motto (
www.starhousefamilyrestaurant.com )). It’s one of Prince Albert’s only restaurants serving authentic Szechuan hot dishes. The multi-room layout allows separate private space – weddings can get a dedicated hall, while large groups can get set apart from casual diners. Technically, it’s not a concert hall; however, many local musicians and karaoke DJs have set up on its small stage for birthdays or club dances. So it has a bit of that “community center” feel. In 2021, it earned the Prince Albert Now Best-of-the-Best award, reflecting its status: “Prince Albert’s place for Chinese cuisine” (
www.starhousefamilyrestaurant.com ).
• Community Impact: Economically, Star House employs many local workers – from cooks to servers to event staff – making it an important local business. Culturally, it brings a taste of Asia to northern Saskatchewan. It often sponsors local sports teams (year-end banquets are held here) and participates in city festivals by providing authentic food. Moreover, its longevity and stability have made it a meeting point across cultural lines. For example, non-Chinese residents who prefer buffet dining or event spaces still choose Star House repeatedly, meaning it plays a role beyond just the Chinese community.
Visitor Tips and Information
Hours & Timing: Star House is open late: typically 11:30 AM until about 12–1 AM (Midnight Sundays, 1 AM other days) (www.yellowpages.ca ) (www.orderstarhouse.com ). The buffet lines start fresh at 11:30 AM and are popular at lunchtime, so arriving right at opening can mean very short lines. Evenings are busiest (especially Friday/Saturday nights), so arrive early or have a reservation for a large group. The buffet closes around 9 PM, but the kitchen may still serve dinner menu items until closing.Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible (www.tripadvisor.co.za ), with a ramp at the entrance and accessible restrooms. If you have mobility needs, indicate when you book, and the staff will accommodate you near an entrance or restroom. High chairs are available for toddlers. Service animals should be welcome (as per Canadian restaurant laws).What to bring/not to bring: There is no formal coat check, but hangers are provided. For events, you might bring your own decorations if allowed (confirm with management). Photography and moderate videography are fine, but professional filming might require prior consent. Outside food or drink is not permitted. Dress is casual, but wear comfortable clothing – you’ll likely fill your plate to the brim, so stretchy pants or a relaxed outfit are wise!Age/policy: All ages are welcome. The family-friendly buffet means kids will find plenty to eat (from sweet-and-sour chicken to chow mein). If attending an event, check if there’s a dress code mentioned for that occasion (events like proms might suggest semi-formal, but casual wear is common). There is no cover charge for ordinary dining. Smoking is not allowed inside (provincial law); there may be an outdoor smoking area in the parking lot.Payment and gratuity: Cash and major credit cards are accepted (including Visa, Mastercard). It’s customary to leave 15–20% tip in Canada if you enjoyed the service. Note: the buffet price is per person; bevies and tax are extra. Check your bill to ensure the correct number of people and any event fees, as big groups sometimes have packaged deals (double-check details before payment).Common mistakes to avoid: A frequent newcomer mistake is underestimating the buffet: come hungry and leave space for dessert (there’s often a selection of ice cream, fruit, and cake). Another tip: sit with friends or family, because the bustling atmosphere is best enjoyed with others – solo diners might find the large hall a bit loud. Also, since lunch and dinner buffets reset around 4–5 PM, try to come a little before closing to sample any late-added items. If you just want quick service, consider ordering from the menu (e.g. appetizers or noodle bowls) – the wait might be faster than the buffet queue during peak hours.Insider tip: Many regulars have favorite dishes (look for the chicken meatballs or pork spare ribs – they often circulate these on request (www.starhousefamilyrestaurant.com )). If you’re new, ask what the specialty of the day is; sometimes chefs add a spicy house special not on the label. And don’t forget to try the wonton soup – it’s as popular as the buffet itself. Finally, as a family restaurant, it’s common to receive a take-home fortune cookie or a pack of chopsticks as a souvenir for kids; it’s a small, fun bonus for families dining with young ones.
