In the kitchen at
The team at Stella brings together the experienced group behind Glen Ellen Star, combining years of expertise in culinary arts, hospitality, and restaurant management. United by a shared passion for exceptional dining, they focus on community, creativity, and the finest local ingredients. With seasoned leadership in both the kitchen and front-of-house, this dedicated team ensures every guest enjoys a warm, memorable experience, making Stella a standout destination for California-Italian cuisine in the heart of Sonoma Wine Country.
Ari Weiswasser
Chef/Proprietor
A 2025 James Beard Award Semifinalist, Ari spent his formative culinary years in numerous fine-dining establishments in New York City and Philadelphia, mastering the fundamentals of elevated cuisine and service before moving to California and deciding to do things differently at Glen Ellen Star. He then spent two years at Thomas Keller’s The French Laundry in Yountville before opening Glen Ellen Star in 2012 across the street from his wife’s family’s Benziger Family Winery, planting gardens in the vineyard to provide much of the kitchen’s produce. Weiswasser also owns and operates the restaurant’s private party operations, under the name Park Avenue Catering.
Bryant Minuche
Chef de Cuisine
Bryant started at a young age in his family’s restaurant. After graduating with a Bachelors in Culinary Arts Management and a concentration in American Food Studies of Farm to Table, Minuche had major stints in Three Michelin-starred restaurants such as Eleven Madison Park and Le Bernardin. Minuche moved back to California and helped open Ninebark in Napa, working alongside Chef Matthew Lightner. After Ninebark, Minuche went on to be the Executive Chef at Ciccio in Yountville, learning traditional Italian flavors. Minuche incorporated everything he has learned along his culinary journey, and brought his own twist on things when he joined Glen Ellen Star’s team in 2022. Now he leads the team at Stella in Kenwood, bringing all his passion and skill for Italian cuisine.
Spencer Waite
Managing Partner
Spencer is an accomplished hospitality professional with over 15 years of experience in high-end service and restaurant management. As Managing Partner at Glen Ellen Star and Stella, Spencer oversees operations and ensures exceptional dining experiences at both establishments. In addition to his leadership role, Spencer curates the wine portfolios for both restaurants, sourcing hard-to-find, boutique, and small-production wines from the surrounding counties. Prior to Glen Ellen Star and Stella, Spencer refined his skills at The Capital Grille, focusing on upscale dining service, and gained valuable experience at The Inn at Hastings Park, a Relais & Châteaux property in Lexington, MA, where he worked in boutique hospitality. With a career in restaurant management dating back to 2009, Spencer’s commitment to excellence, passion for wine, and dedication to supporting local producers have made him a respected leader in the industry.
Ashley Waite
Event & Marketing Manager
Ashley is the event & marketing manager for both Glen Ellen Star and Stella, bringing nearly 15 years of experience in the restaurant industry. She oversees all marketing and event efforts while coordinating large group reservations, ensuring every gathering is seamless and memorable. With a background at The Capital Grille and other esteemed East Coast establishments, Ashley has honed her expertise in hospitality management, guest relations, and event coordination. Her passion for crafting exceptional dining experiences and strategic approach to branding make her an integral part of both restaurants. If you’re looking to book your next large group reservation, Ashley is the one to connect with.
Steve Gledhill
General Manager
Steve brings a wealth of hospitality expertise to wine country from Boston, Massachusetts. A seasoned professional with extensive experience managing high-end restaurants, Steve has held leadership roles at renowned establishments such as Menton, The Capital Grille, and Smith & Wollensky. Beyond his dedication to operational excellence and top-tier service, Steve possesses a deep and detailed knowledge of wine, which he will use to train our team on Stella’s unique program. His refined approach to hospitality, combined with his passion for wine education, ensures an exceptional experience for both guests and staff alike.
Erinn Benziger
Managing Partner
More info coming soon!