Frequently Asked Questions

What type of food does Osteria Stella serve?

Osteria Stella serves regional Italian cuisine with a Northern Italian, Milanese-rooted point of view. The menu was originally designed by consulting Milanese chef Amalia Brusati and is executed today by Culinary Director John Hasentufel. All pasta, bread, and desserts are made fresh in-house, and the wine list draws from all 20 of Italy’s wine regions.

Is Osteria Stella considered fine dining?

We’d call it upscale but unpretentious — an osteria in the true Italian sense. Expect a romantic, intimate dining room, polished service, a sommelier-led wine program, and house-made everything, without the formality or stiffness of a traditional fine-dining room. It’s a place for a special night that still feels warm and relaxed.

Does Osteria Stella take reservations?

Yes. Reservations are available through Resy, and we strongly recommend booking ahead, especially on weekends. The dining room is small, and our booths are generally reserved for parties of three or more. Walk-ins are welcome when space allows.

What are the most popular dishes at Osteria Stella?

Guest favorites include our house-made pastas — the lasagna and gnocchi are perennial requests — along with risotto, osso buco, and the veal. Save room for dessert: the tiramisu and cannoli are made in-house and are among the most-ordered items on the menu.

Is Osteria Stella good for date nights?

Absolutely. The dining room is candlelit, intimate, and quiet enough for real conversation, and our team loves helping mark anniversaries and special occasions. Many couples start with an aperitivo next door at Brother Wolf before dinner — the two are connected, so it’s an easy evening in one place.

Does Osteria Stella have vegetarian options?

Yes. Our menu always includes vegetarian antipasti, pastas, and risotti. Let your server know about any dietary needs and we’ll happily point you to the best options.

Does Osteria Stella offer gluten-free options?

Yes. We offer gluten-free pasta imported from Italy as a substitution on nearly every pasta dish (the lasagna is the exception). Several risotto and secondi dishes are naturally gluten-free as well. Just let your server know when you order. Please note our kitchen is not a dedicated gluten-free facility.

What wines pair best with Osteria Stella's menu?

Italian wines — that’s the whole idea. Our list of roughly 200 bottles spans all 20 Italian wine regions, with an emphasis on native grape varieties and sustainably farmed producers, so there’s a natural pairing for every dish. A few starting points: Nebbiolo (Barolo, Barbaresco, Alto Piemonte) with braised meats and risotto, Sangiovese with tomato-based pastas, Etna Rosso or Chianti Classico with the lasagna, and crisp whites like Verdicchio, Soave, or Alto Adige Pinot Bianco with seafood and lighter antipasti. Our sommelier team is always happy to build a pairing for your table.

Where is Osteria Stella located in downtown Knoxville?

Osteria Stella is at 108 W. Jackson Avenue in Knoxville’s Old City, just off Gay Street. Paid parking is available directly across the street and at the Jackson Avenue Lot (400 W. Jackson Ave.), and free parking is available two blocks east at Old City Public Parking (298 E. Jackson Ave.).

Is Osteria Stella suitable for private events and celebrations?

Yes. We host rehearsal dinners, wedding celebrations, birthdays, corporate dinners, and wine dinners, with custom menus and sommelier-selected pairings available. Our dining room is intimate, so larger parties and buyouts are limited — contact us early to check availability. Email reservations@osteriastella.com to make an inquiry.

Do you have a sommelier on staff who can assist with wine selections?

Yes. Our wine program is led by owner and Wine Director Aaron Thompson and Lead Sommelier Casey Clarke, and our floor team is trained on the list. Whether you want a $60 bottle that overdelivers or a rare Barolo, just ask — we love this part.