Ali Mousavi will open Stella in a heritage-listed building on the corner of Chapel and Grosvenor streets.

John Park (ex-Vue de Monde, 400 Gradi) has come on as executive chef, with Paul Mitchell (Grossi Florentino, 400 Gradi) stepping in as venue manager.

“Stella, named after my daughter, will be a destination that combines Italian hospitality and culture with a modern Australian take,” Mousavi said.

“We will be the neighbourhood local: familiar, welcoming and known for dishing up delicious Italian fare, with something for everyone.”

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Stella is an ode to Mousavi’s dad, who ran Italian restaurants for more than four decades.

Think a private events space in the wine cellar basement, a ground floor dining area with heaving pizza oven, plush first-floor bar space with comfy velvet seats and a warming fireplace, and a rooftop with a lush vertical garden and knockout views.

Pastas and the pizza dough will be made in house, with Italian classics filling out the food menu.

A long list of local and Italian pours round out the drinks list. Cocktails will also be a big focus.

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