The team behind the Dallas Arts District restaurant La Stella Cucina Verace has expanded its culinary legacy with the opening of La Stella Italian Steakhouse and Music Lounge — an all-new dining destination that debuted Friday, Nov. 28, at 14655 Dallas Parkway in North Dallas.
Set in the former home of Lawry’s The Prime Rib, La Stella’s new flagship location ushers in a new era of Italian sophistication. Designed by Italian architect Daniele Venenzoni, known for his work with the Qatar royal family, the space blends timeless elegance with cinematic flair. The design pays homage to Sophia Loren, the legendary Italian actress born in Naples, mirroring the heritage of the restaurant’s owners. Combining Old World Italian vintage style with the sultry allure of Art Deco Hollywood, the new location offers a refined experience where fine dining, live music and effortless luxury intertwine.
At the heart of this 11,000-square-foot multi-dimensional concept lies La Stella Music Lounge, a 21+ venue where the rhythm of live performances meets the elegance of fine champagne and craft cocktails. Beyond the lounge, the main dining hall and private rooms offer a more intimate expression of the brand’s spirit. Like its Dallas Arts District sister restaurant, this new location features beloved signature dishes from grilled octopus to agnolotti pizzicati paired with Casa Piccinini–selected wines and premium organic extra virgin olive oil. Guided by the family traditions of Nonna and Nonno, every dish reflects the family’s enduring commitment to authenticity, craftsmanship and quality — the true soul of the La Stella experience.
“Bringing another groundbreaking restaurant to the former Lawry’s space is both an honor and a responsibility,” said Giuseppe ‘JP’ Piccinini, CEO of Vesuvius Holdings and investor in La Stella in a statement. “This building represents the decades of Dallas history, and we’re proud to carry that legacy forward with our authentic Italian roots. We’ve created a truly one-of-a-kind destination — a space that will stand among North Texas’ premier dining experiences, perfect for family celebrations, business gatherings, elevated date nights and any occasion worth savoring.”
La Stella Italian Steakhouse and Music Lounge accommodates more than 400 guests across three private dining rooms, an expansive bar and flexible indoor and outdoor spaces built to host everything from intimate dinners to large-scale celebrations.
The interiors are a study in sophistication with their seamless blend of Italian craftsmanship and Hollywood glamour. Rare Ginori gold-painted china and imported marble set an elegant foundation, while Murano glass chandeliers illuminate vintage Italian furnishings from the 18th to early 20th centuries. From the restored 1880 host stand to the Art Deco gilt doors from the 1920s Hollywood era, each accent has been chosen to evoke a sense of enduring beauty. Portraits of actress Sophia Loren as “La Stella” embody the spirit of the space, elevated by weekly floral installations from Alexandra Beswerchij, a private event coordinator, founder of The Flower Atelier and wife of Mr. Piccinini, whose artistry brings fresh elegance to every corner of the restaurant.
Every detail at La Stella is designed to transport guests to Old Italy –– from the first sip of champagne in La Stella Lounge to the final course at the table. It is more than a restaurant; it’s a celebration of flavor, beauty, craft and la dolce vita — a destination where any evening feels timeless.
La Stella Italian Steakhouse and Music Lounge is open seven days a week from 4 p.m. to midnight, featuring live music and entertainment from 5:30 p.m. to 12 a.m. The lineup rotates monthly, offering guests a fresh and dynamic experience with each visit. Lunch service will be introduced at a later date.
