Michigan used to have a number of large psychiatric hospitals; when they were closed, few were re-purposed. Traverse City was unique in that their psychiatric hospital has been adapted with shops, restaurants and office space, and Trattoria Stella is in the basement. The food is delightful and the service is excellent!

Great place in the old State Mental Hospital grounds and building...it's down in the basement (like most shops there), and it's a bit upscale! But the owner/manager has instilled a sense of importance, regale and service in all the waitstaff, and it comes across in a healthy "respect" so it's well received. The food was excellent, although a bit outlandish... More

This was our second trip to Stella's. Both times were beyond incredible. Tried the boar, the chicken galantina, chilled potato and fava bean soup, arugula salad, and the chocolate torte at our table. Every single course was amazing. I've been to many nice restaurants throughout the U.S., and this is hands down the best. The service was also amazing. The... More

I disovered this restaurant by mistake while making a u-turn. What a wonderful surprise. The waitstff is first rate. Knowledge of food and wine is outstanding.

Stella's has never let me down. If I want to have a quiet celebration with my wife and know that the food and the service will be good, I go to Trattoria Stella and stroll around the grounds of the old State Hospital after dinner.

Want to try something new in a meal....not just fried foods? Trattoria Stella in the Traverse City Commons near the Munsing Medical Centre is an experience in eating. Give yourself some time to visit the many unique shops down the halls of the building next to the restaurant.

My first trip to Traverse City and my first visit to Stella's. I came with my niece who lives in Farmington Hills, MI with her family. She had told me the story of the former location where Stella's is located which added to the charm and ambiance of the restaurant. I loved every bite and every sip of the locally... More

This restaurant delivered on every level. We arrived on the dot for our 7pm reservations and was not seated until nearly 8:30 - but not a single person in our 10 person party was upset with this. As many have noted, this is the kind of restaurant in which people take their time and enjoy their evening - we certainly... More

This little hidden restaurant is a very cool place for several reasons. First, the food was simply delicious. There were 5 of us and we all had something different and we all loved our choices. The menu is a little discombobulating but if you can figure it out there is good stuff. Second, they owners try and use only Michigan... More