Amazing food
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
My husband and I decided to try Aria as a wedding anniversary treat, since it was rated by Citysearch as one of the best restaurants in 2008. I read the reviews and was uncertain how the experience would be. On one hand, this restaurant was rated as having the best food, and we really appreciate good food. And yet, there were a fair number of unpleasant experiences, such as some of the customers who had rude waitors, or were seated in an excessively noisy location, etc.
I have to say that we had a great time. The food was amazing, particularly the bread and appetizers. Very unique and simple but elegant presentation. I wasn't as excited by the entre (the trout - cooked well, but a bit mild in flavor compared to the crab cakes and prawns for appetizers), but after 2 appetizers, bread, and a glass of champagne, I wasn't too hungry. The wine list was extensive. Given this, there were drinks at every table, which probably resulted in the boisterous atmosphere, but we were able to have a nice conversation (of course, you may want alternative seating if you have known problems understanding speech in noisy rooms).
Every person we met was courteous, and the waitor was most accommodating. I had planned on an hour and 30 minutes for dinner, but it seems like they take time between serving the appetizers (each one individually) and mains. This is usually enjoyable in my opinion, but we had a plane to catch. After notifying the waitor of our time constraint after the 1st appetizer, and suggesting that we take the dessert to go, he simply told us, "that is not a problem, we'll make sure you're out of here by [the said time]." Very nice. I would definitely eat here again. Unforetunately, I will have to wait for another occassion because $100 for 2 is a bit steep for me to be a regular.
Nevertheless, the food was great - our compliments to the chef!
Pros: Great food (esp. bread and appetizers), extensive wine list
Cons: The price