When you work in the Atlanta food landscape, people constantly ask "what's your favorite restaurant?" It's a tough question, but if I have to narrow it down I'm always going with Aria. I would argue that it is the consistent favorite of savvy diners in Atlanta.
The AJC's John Kessler wrote in his recent review, "When this small Buckhead restaurant opened in 2000, it seemed so brash and flashy, a place for rich 40-something baby boomers to throw around their new money. Now it has matured into the last intimate dining room in Atlanta, its fabrics thick and cosseting, its artwork (including the famous chandelier) coming off as tasteful rather than outré. The food? Gerry Klaskala's visually striking dishes strike a tone of quiet seasonality and luxurious charm. You go here to get those foods you crave for your birthday dinner."
Need another reason to visit Aria for your next date night, celebration or Thursday night? We'll give you four:
1. The atmosphere
From the groovy chained curtain entrance to the dark to sexy red lit bar, you know when you arrive it's going to be a great night. The dining room is stark white with funky art and a large provocative light sculpture. This is a guaranteed conversation starter. The servers are dressed in casual, colorful button down shirts with khakis or jeans. They look put-together but not formal, a great contrast for a restaurant of this caliber.
2. The chef/owner
Gerry Klaskala is a powerhouse in the Atlanta dining scene, having touched several of Atlanta's top restaurants. He was one of the original chefs at Buckhead Diner and launched Canoe in Vinings, which he still owns. Recently he consulted with the development team at the hot new restaurant, Atlas, inside the St. Regis Hotel.
3. The menu
The seasonal menu is constantly changing but Klaskala doesn't disrupt the fan favorites. The thinly sliced Atlantic Salmon with capers, dill, red onion, creme fraiche and cripsy potatoes are a gourmet play on a bagel and cream cheese. Another stand out is their seasonal soup (yes, soup) which is served in an oversized contemporary bowl. And yes, you'll want to lick the bowl when you're finished. You can't go wrong with slow cooked meats like short rib or pork shoulder. Trust the great advice from wine director Andres Loaiza for wine pairings. He'll explain the extensive list with approachable charm.
4. The dessert
Atlanta pastry chef Kathryn King cut her teeth in sweets working her way up at Alon's Bakery over culinary school. Klaskala recognized her raw talent early on and gave her creative freedom. This has lead her to being one of the best pastry chefs in the city. Her innovative desserts will blow you away, especially the stand out warm cheesecake. For a crisper fruity finish, try any seasonal tarts with homemade ice cream on top. It's an excellent way to top off an extraordinary meal.
Hungry yet? Be sure to tune into Atlanta Eats every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. on Peachtree TV for more of our favorite Atlanta restaurants!
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