Having been a StarFish regular for years, my take is a bit different on the conversion to Pearl Diver.
As an oyster fiend and aficionado - I'm never disappointed with this joint's selection. I held a business dinner there a couple of weeks ago and everyone was impressed. Good selection, knowledgeable server and very well shucked oysters. We had the seafood tower with a couple of extra oyster plates which provided some nice variety. Loved the shrimp as well.
The rest of the evening was a bit hit and miss. Our server sort of vanished after our entries came out and we had to flag him down via bussers. He had to be reminded to bring water, and even to bring more wine. Not sure how busy the rest of the restaurant was, but it didn't seem like we were his top priority.
Entrees were solid; but nothing to scream home about.
The weird thing for me was the run down feel of this place. I understand that Patrick tired to 'Pub-ify' this place on the heels of the Leslieville joint's success, but it seems a bit disingenuous. Almost like they knew they would have to reno starfish, and elected to run it down but still charge high prices for food under the guise of 'Pub Experience'.
Anyway... Might still be back for the oysters, just won't bring a business crowd here.