61 Osteria: An Upscale Italian Experience in Fort Worth, Texas

In the heart of Fort Worth, Texas, 61 Osteria has emerged as a premier destination for those seeking an upscale Italian dining experience. Established in 2023 by restaurateur Dain "Adam" Jones and chef Blaine Staniford, this restaurant seamlessly blends traditional Italian culinary techniques with the rich flavors of Texan ingredients.

Chef Staniford's innovative approach is evident in dishes like the venison osso bucco, which pairs tender venison with saffron Acquerello risotto and vegetable giardiniera. This fusion showcases his commitment to integrating locally sourced Texas produce into classic Italian recipes, offering diners a unique and adventurous culinary journey.

The restaurant's ambiance pays homage to its location in the historic 1961 Building, also known as First on 7th. The main dining area features custom art by Jones's wife, artist Joey Lancaster, and expansive windows that provide a panoramic view of downtown Fort Worth, creating an elegant and inviting atmosphere.

Hospitality is at the core of 61 Osteria's ethos. Co-owner Adam Jones is known for his hands-on approach, often greeting guests personally and ensuring that each visitor feels like a regular. This dedication to exceptional service enhances the overall dining experience, making patrons feel valued and welcomed.

The menu at 61 Osteria is both diverse and refined. From house-made rosemary focaccia to tagliatelle bolognese crafted with brisket, each dish reflects a meticulous attention to detail. The branzino, served with Brussels sprouts and a sweet-and-sour apple cider reduction, exemplifies the restaurant's commitment to reimagining traditional dishes with a contemporary twist.

In recognition of its outstanding contributions to the culinary scene, 61 Osteria was honored with the Best New Restaurant award at the 2024 Eater Dallas Awards. This accolade underscores the restaurant's dedication to excellence and its innovative approach to Italian cuisine. Originally, back in 2023, I learned of this spot when we went to celebrate the birthdays of two family members, and it was a wonderful experience. From my first meal, I found the restaurant had a charming atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly helpful, especially with our kids. The food was beautifully presented and absolutely delicious. The serpente pasta struck a chord with me as a must-recommend to my family and friends. Everything we ordered was scrumptious and I knew I would be back.

During my second visit, my business partner made reservations for both of our families on a lovely Sunday evening. And once again, it was splendid. Relaxing atmosphere, knowledgeable service and freshly made meals! We enjoyed the Maine Lobster Gnocchi as well as the Halibut Piccata. There were a few other items we tried but these stood out to us, the most. We also enjoyed a sweet treat which is featured in this review. They call it the Texas Olive Oil Cake. It was baked fresh and served warm! Another delicious addition to our anniversary dinner. But beyond its culinary offerings, 61 Osteria serves as a testament to the vibrant dining culture of Fort Worth. By seamlessly integrating local Texan elements into Italian traditions, the restaurant provides a dining experience that is both familiar and novel, appealing to a wide range of palates.

For those seeking a memorable meal in an upscale setting, 61 Osteria stands out as a beacon of culinary artistry in Fort Worth. Its harmonious blend of Texan and Italian flavors, combined with impeccable service and a sophisticated ambiance, ensures that diners leave with a lasting impression.

Before drafting my first rendering of this blog post, I paid 61 Osteria a final visit to ensure my first four experiences weren't just luck. And once again, it was the best Italian meal we've had so far in two years! The entire experience was stellar all-around - from making a reservation through validating parking and every element in between. This spot has a very strong customer focus, welcoming dining room with great energy on a Saturday night and every dish is a delight. You'll find a suitable parking garage directly across the street to make things even easier. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to Fort Worth, a visit to 61 Osteria promises an exceptional dining experience that celebrates both the rich heritage of Italian cuisine and the bold flavors of Texas.

500 W 7th St, Fort Worth, TX 76102

(817) 953-3271

www.61osteria.com