Aria Restaurant

Eyrie Vineyards Wine Dinner

2012-02-15T06:23:00.000-08:00

It’s time for our first wine dinner of the year, and we’re pleased to feature Eyrie Vineyards on February 22 at 7 p.m.

After earning a degree in viticulture and enology from U.C. Davis, 25 year old David “Papa Pinot” Lett planted the first Pinot Noir vines in the Willamette Valley back in 1965. Since 1970, Eyrie Vineyards has been producing wonderfully classic wines, all based on the philosophy of trying to interfere as little as possible with what nature had in mind.

We’re proud to have David’s son, Jason Lett, joining us for this wine dinner. Jason took over his father’s role as winemaker and vineyard manager in 2005, and we look forward to hearing firsthand about his family’s legacy.

Featured wines include:

- Pinot Blanc, Estate, Dundee Hills 2009
- Pinot Gris, Estate, Dundee Hills 2009
- Chardonnay, Original Vines Reserve, Willamette Valley 2009
- Pinot Noir, Original Vines Reserve, Dundee Hills 2009
- Pinot Noir, La Luz, Oregon NV
- Continuum of Time v2 (A blend of 40 vintages of Chardonnay)

Chef Gerry is pairing five special courses with these fantastic wines.
Dinner will be $100.00 (excluding tax and gratuity). Call us at 404-233-7673 for more details or to make your reservation.

Hope to see you then!

Aria - Bravo, February!

2012-02-02T09:12:00.000-08:00

Hope to see you this month at Aria!

From the Cellar: Chateau Pradeaux, Bandol Rouge 2005

2012-02-01T13:39:00.000-08:00

From one of the oldest and most traditional wine estates in Bandol (which is itself one of the oldest growing regions in France) comes this week’s highlight from Aria’s wine list.

Offered on half bottle (375mL), this bottling from Pradeaux is made almost entirely from Mouvedre, and from vines which have been under the careful watch of the Portalis family since before the French revolution.

The wine has a core of ripe fruit, tempered with smoked meat under tones and firm tannin. Fantastic with Chef Gerry’s braised beef short ribs. Cheers!

andrés loaiza – certified sommelier
aria wine team

From the Cellar: Au Bon Climat "Hildegard" 2007

2012-01-26T08:05:00.000-08:00

From Santa Maria Valley, in California's Central Coast, comes this bold and delicious blend of Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and Aligoté.

Au Bon Climat's winemaker, the legendary Jim Clendenen, uses Burgundian-inspired techniques to produce this 'chardonnay alternative' which we now offer by the glass at Aria.

Toasty, mineral and fresh, 'Hildegard" is extremely versatile with food. Cheers!

andrés loaiza - certified sommelier
aria wine team

From our Cellar: Giaconda Estate Chardonnay 2008

2012-01-19T15:02:00.000-08:00

Giaconda is quite possibly my favorite wine producer in Australia; winemaker Rick Kinzbrunner has been producing wine in the tiny little region of Beechworth Australia in northern Victoria since 1985.

Before returning to the land down under, Rick studied enology at UC Davis and during the 1970’s helped make wine at Stag’s Leap, Matanzas Creek, and for Bordeaux legend Christian Moueix of Chateau Petrus fame.

The 2008 Giaconda Chardonnay is a beautiful wine that bursts with apple and tree fruit and shows an amazing minerality and sense of place. The wine is tasting great now, but has a longevity that will allow it to age for a decade or longer.

jacob gragg - certified sommelier
aria wine team

From our Cellar: Clos de Ursules 2007

2012-01-13T14:21:00.000-08:00

We are really excited to have a few Magnums of 2007 Domaine des Heritiers Louis Jadot 1er Cru 'Clos de Ursules'. The 2007 vintage of 'Clos de Ursules' marks the 150th anniversary of the Jadot's sole ownership of the historic walled vineyard and the entire production from 2007 was bottled solely in Magnum in celebration. Planted in the 17th century by the Ursuline Convent, 'Clos de Ursules' is one of my favorite Vineyards in all of Burgundy, producing rich deeply colored Pinot Noir with ripe succulent red cherry and fresh raspberry notes with great acidity year after year. The wine is a versatile match for the lighter fare on Chef Gerry's ever changing menu.

jacob gragg - certified sommelier
aria wine team

Happy Holidays from all of us at aria

2011-12-21T06:05:00.000-08:00

Hirsch Vineyards Wine Dinner

2011-10-11T14:35:00.000-07:00

From the extreme Sonoma Coast, high above the Pacific Ocean, we are pleased to announce our next wine dinner at Aria on Tuesday, October 18th at 7 p.m. with Hirsch Vineyards.

Hirsch Vineyards was founded in 1980 by our very special dinner guest David Hirsch. Since then, the Hirsch Family and their team have focused on growing fruit (Pinot Noir and Chardonnay) with profound respect for vineyard site and vintage character.

Our wine dinner guests will enjoy five courses prepared by Chef Gerry Klaskala, to pair with each of Hirsch Vineyard’s wines. Cost will be $110.00 per person (includes tax and gratuity). To reserve your spot or find out more, please call the restaurant at 404-233-7673.

Dinner Menu

Chilled Maine Lobster
fennel, green apples, creamy lime tarragon vinaigrette
Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast 09

Lasagnette
chanterelle mushrooms, jerusalem artichokes, veal ragu
Pinot Noir, Bohan Dillon, Sonoma Coast 09

Carolina Quail
duck confit stuffed savoy cabbage
Pinot Noir, “M”, Sonoma Coast 08

Twelve Hour Brisket of Beef
slow cooked baby collards, smoked tomatoes, tobacco onions
Pinot Noir, San Andreas Fault, Sonoma Coast 09

Red Bartlett Pear Tart
puff pastry, orange cream, vanilla iceam
Gewurstraminer/Sauvignon Blanc, Lemon’s Folly by Littorai Vineyards, Sonoma Coast 08

**All wines will be available for purchase that evening via Perrine's Wine Shop

August at Aria: Groth Vineyards Wine Dinner

2011-08-14T17:30:00.000-07:00

August is here and it’s time again for another wonderful wine dinner here at Aria. This time, we are excited to welcome Groth Vineyards on Wednesday, August 24 at 7 p.m.

Located in the heart of Oakville in Napa Valley, Groth Vineyards is a family owned winery with a real understanding of how sustainable farming can translate into world-class wine, both now and for our future. We’re pleased to have Marco Esposito as our guest from the winery to tell us more about Groth Vineyard’s 27-year history.

Our wine dinner guests will enjoy five courses and four wines from Groth, including:

Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley 2010
Chardonnay, Napa Valley 2009
Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, Napa Valley 2008
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, Napa Valley 2007

$120.00 per person (includes tax and gratuity)

For more details and to make your reservation, please call 404-233-7673.

The Attack Is Back !!!

2011-07-08T11:20:00.000-07:00

Last summer’s Attack of the Killer Tomato Festival was a moment of reigning glory as Chef Gerry walked away with the title of 'Best Taste'. This year’s competition will be as fierce as ever, with many of Atlanta’s best chefs coming up with their most tempting tomato creations and libations for all to sample.

The festival is held at JCT. Kitchen on Atlanta’s Westside and proceeds go to to support Georgia Organics. The event is July 17 and tickets are going fast, so be sure to get yours online soon!

Ruinart Interpretation Dinner

2011-07-06T06:24:00.000-07:00

When the summer heat is as scalding as this July’s, our palates dictate that we reach for something a little lighter and perhaps on the bubbly side when it’s time to imbibe. Just in time for July’s worst, come refresh your palate with champagne at Aria with our Ruinart Interpretation Dinner, in partnership with Perrine’s Wine Shop on Thursday, July 14 at 7 pm. Perrine will also be our speaker for the evening.

All guests will receive a Ruinart Interpretation Kit and then enjoy a four-course menu paired with Ruinart Blanc de Blancs and Ruinart Brut Rosé.
We will start the evening with a refreshing first course of Georgia Peaches with San Danielle prosciutto, arugula and white balsamic vinaigrette, lightly paired with Ruinart, Blanc de Blancs, Reims NV. Enjoy a second course of Roasted Maine Lobster with snowpeas, lemongrass and cilantro along with Ruinart, Blanc de Blancs, Reims NV, followed by an entrée of Oak Grilled Poulet Rouge with ginger, sweet garlic and roasted fingerlings and Ruinart, Blanc de Blancs, Reims NV. We’ll end the night on a sweet note with raspberries, vanilla cream and puff pastry, perfectly paired with Ruinart, Brut Rosé, Reims NV.

About Ruinart Interpretation: "With Interpretation, Ruinart invites you to discover a new and innovative way of tasting Ruinart Blanc de Blancs. The Chef de Caves has identified the 8 main aromas of Ruinart Blanc de Blancs, which are to be discovered one by one in a unique tasting experience.
Ruinart Interpretation is a moment of pleasure to share with friends".

Dinner will be $100 including tax and gratuity, and reservations can be made through Perrine’s Wine Shop by calling 404 254 5077 or emailing perrine@perrineswine.com.

See What’s Cooking with Chef Gerry at the Peachtree Road Farmers Market on 6/25

2011-06-22T08:57:00.000-07:00

Chef demos can be seen every Saturday at the Peachtree Road Farmers Market, but this upcoming Saturday, June 25 is the only day you will be able to see our very own Chef Gerry Klaskala there in action. Set the alarm and grab your basket, because the market opens at 8:30 a.m. and Chef Gerry will be sharing culinary tips at his demo at 10 a.m. While you’re grabbing all your in-season fruits and veggies, don’t forget to stop by!

Have to miss out on the Farmers Market? Catch Chef Gerry again at the Attack of the Killer Tomato Festival on July 17. Last year, Chef Gerry won “Best Taste”, so you never know what he’ll win this year…

A Shining Night Out at Summer in the City

2011-06-18T12:38:00.000-07:00

Gorgeous setting, delicious food and an amazing cause… there is a lot to love about the upcoming Summer in the City – A Night of Epicurean Delights! Aria is pleased to be taking part in this event on Wednesday, June 22nd from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. to support Shepherd Center’s Military Patient Program and its Adolescent Patient Program.

Show your support for the Shepherd Center’s important work by joining us at Greystone in historic Piedmont Park! There will be fine food at chef stations from many of the best restaurants in Atlanta, wine pairings to savor, a mixology station, live music and more. Put on your favorite summer casual attire and head into the night for a good time.

Tickets are $80 each, with sponsorship beginning at $250 per couple. For more information, visit the event page online.

Vidalia Onion Dinner: A Sweet Success

2011-06-06T12:08:00.000-07:00

all photos by George Sanchez

Food lovers across Georgia and the South enjoyed taking part in Atlanta Food & Wine Festival this past month! Our own Vidalia Onion Dinner was a sweet success as part of the festival, too. We were joined by the talented duo of Jeffrey Buben of Vidalia in DC, and Daniel Lindley of St. John's and Meeting Place in Chattanooga and created a delicious dinner devoted to the Vidalia Onion.

If you weren’t able to join us, fear not! The Atlanta Journal-Constitution published a wonderful article about the special qualities of Vidalia Onions that featured our own Chef Gerry Klaskala last month – and it included quite a few of his delicious recipes featuring Georgia’s sweet onion crop.

Columbia River Salmon

braised radishes, sugar snap peas, charred Vidalia onions, morel mushroom puree
Chef Daniel Lindley

BobWhite Quail

stuffed with foie gras mousseline, ramps, Vidalia onion soubise and rhubarb

Chef Jeffrey Buben

Roasted Rack Chop of Colorado Lamb

slow cooked Vidalia onion, tarragon shallot sauce, arugula endive vinaigrette
Chef Gerry Klaskala

Georgia Strawberry Tart

lemon cream and chantilly
Chef Kathryn King

Read more online, including information about the brand new Vidalia Onion Museum -- and try your hand at creating Chef Gerry’s dishes including Georgia Peach and Vidalia Onion Salad With White Balsamic Vinaigrette and Caramelized Vidalia Onion Bread Pudding With Sweetgrass Dairy Fresh Goat Cheese. You can also view more pictures of our Vidalia Onion Dinner on Flickr.

Ponzi Vineyards Wine Dinner

2011-05-22T14:13:00.000-07:00

Take a little trip to the lush Willamette Valley with our Ponzi Vineyards Wine Dinner!
Reserve your spot at Aria for this special event on Wednesday, June 1 at 7 p.m.

Ponzi’s fine wines have been internationally acclaimed since the winery was founded in 1970, and now produces exceptional Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and Riesling among others. The evening will feature a special menu from Chef Gerry, perfectly paired with Ponzi's Pinot Gris, Reserve Chardonnay, Willamette Valley Pinor Noir, Reserve Pinot Noir and Late Harvest Riesling.

We not only love Ponzi’s wines, but we also love that all 120 acres of the vineyard are LIVE Certified Sustainable, the world's highest standard for sustainable viticulture.

Dick and Nancy Ponzi were pioneers in Oregon’s Willamette Valley and their passion and philosophies are practiced today by the family’s second generation. Maria Ponzi Fogelstrom will be our special guest at ARIA on the evening of June 1st to tell us more about the wines and the region.

Dinner will be $100 ( includes tax and gratuity)
Reservations can be made by calling us at (404) 233-7673. We look forward to seeing you.

It Is Atlanta Food & Wine Time!!!!!

2011-05-10T14:31:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone, It is time to let it be known!!
The South's next great event is happening in a week and a half. The 1st Annual Atlanta Food & Wine Festival has too many chefs to count. Be a part of tasting some of the most delicious offerings from the South's most talented. You probably missed the first Super Bowl, don't miss the First Atlanta Food & Wine Festival. Hope to see you all there.

Sincerely, Gerry

A Sweet Day! ARIA's Gerry Klaskala at Vidalia Onion Museum

2011-05-03T13:26:00.000-07:00

What a sweet day! A great time was had by all at the Grand Opening of the Vidalia Onion Museum in Vidalia, Georgia last Friday and Chef Gerry was proud to take part. Take a look at Chef Gerry and the festivities in the slideshow and plan your visit to learn more about Georgia’s sweet onion crop.

Peter Michael Winery Dinner

2011-04-11T18:30:00.000-07:00

Our Second wine dinner in partnership with The Fine Wine Connection is Peter Michael Winery on April 20th at 6.30pm. We will feature new releases of their award-wining Chardonnays as well as their acclaimed Bordeaux style blends “Les Pavots” and “L’esprit des Pavots”

Reception

Champagne Pierre Morlet, France NV

First Course

East Coast Halibut Fillet

vidalia spring onion & yukon gold gratin, pea shoots

2009 Chardonnay Belle Cote, Knights Valley, Sonoma County

2009 Chardonnay La Carriere, Knights Valley, Sonoma County

Second Course

Breast of South Carolina Squab

baby spinach, golden oak mushrooms, sweet garlic

2006 L’Esprit de Pavots, Knights Valley, Sonoma County

2007 L’Esprit de Pavots, Knights Valley, Sonoma County

Entree

Roasted 1st Chop of Spring Lamb

fava beans, babette carrots, leeks

2007 Les Pavots, Knights Valley, Sonoma County

2008 Les Pavots, Knights Valley, Sonoma County

Dessert

Valrhona Chocolate Hazelnut Cake

crisped chocolate and drambuie crème anglaise

Please keep in mind that all availability and payments are handled directly by Chris Soluri at The Fine Wine Connection.

$190.00 per person (includes tax and gratuity).
For further information and reservation, please contact Chris at 770.984.9663

Atlanta Food & Wine Festival: ARIA's Vidalia Onion Dinner

2011-04-05T17:45:00.000-07:00

Atlanta is beaming with excitement and pride for the upcoming Atlanta Food & Wine Festival this May!

Our Executive Chef Gerry Klaskala is a member of the founding council and ARIA is pleased to be hosting a Vidalia Onion Dinner on May 20 at 7:30 p.m. Those attending will find Chef Gerry collaborating with Chef Jeffrey Buben of Washington D.C.’s Bistro Bis & Vidalia, as well as Chef Daniel Lindley of Chattanooga’s St. John’s Restaurant & Meeting Place. The three will pay homage to America’s favorite sweet onion, which has been inspiring chefs since its discovery in southeast Georgia in the 1930’s.

For tickets and information about all festival activities, please visit atlfoodandwinefestival.com

ARIA's Vidalia Onion Dinner is now sold out.

TABLAS CREEK WINERY DINNER

2011-03-28T05:18:00.000-07:00

It’s time again to mark the calendar for another great wine dinner at Aria!

Join us on April 6th at 7 p.m. for our Tablas Creek Winery Dinner. We’ll be joined by the Tablas resident foodie, Tommy Oldre, who will tell us more about these organic, award-winning wines, all of which are 100% estate grown and bottled on their 120 acre property in California. Chef Gerry will be preparing a delicious menu to perfectly pair with each vintage from Tablas Creek.

Wines featured include:

-Patelin de Tablas Blanc 2010
-Esprit de Beaucastel Blanc 2009
-Cotes de Tablas Red 2008
-Esprit de Beaucastel Red 2008
-Vin de Paille “Quintessence” 2006

$100 per person (includes tax and gratuity)
Please call 404-233-7673 to reserve your spot for the evening!

Update:

Dinner Menu

Amuse

Chilled White Asparagus Soup

soft whipped cream, sevruga caviar

First Course

Seared Sea Scallop

cumin roasted celeriac , carrots, avocado, fennel vinaigrette

2010 Patelin de Tablas Blanc

Second Course

Shallot Roasted Maine Lobster

spring peas, pea shoots, preserved tomato

2008 Esprit de Beaucastel Blanc

Third Course

Cold Smoked & Then Roasted Breast of Duck

red cabbage, applewood smoked bacon, ginger lemongrass

2009 Côtes de Tablas

Entree

Braised Shank of Colorado Spring Lamb

parsnip puree, fava beans, royal black trumpets, natural jus

2008 Esprit de Beaucastel

Dessert

Black Plum Tart

ginger brown butter

lemon ice cream

2006 Vin de Paille, Quintessence

LORING WINE MAKER DINNER

2011-02-07T11:46:00.000-08:00

Our second wine dinner of the year is one for Pinot Noir lovers.

On February the 23rd we will welcome Brian Loring of the Loring Wine Company and we will focus on Pinot Noirs from Santa Lucia Highlands and Russian River Valley from the 2009 vintage.

Brian is a self-diagnosed Pinor Noir obsessed and he has been making wine from the top vineyards in California and Oregon since 2000; his Pinots are made in a style similar to those of his mentor Adam Lee of Siduri; softly structured, fruit forward and supple.

Reception starts at 6.30pm promptly followed by dinner at 7pm. $130 per person (includes tax and gratuity)

This wine dinner is a partnership with Chris Soluri, proprietor of Fine Wine Connection; for all reservation please call Chris directly at 770-984-9663.
Hope to see you on the 23rd.

Cheers!

Reception

Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon , Château Guiraud, Bordeaux 09

Dinner

Amuse

Ginger Prawn
madras curry aioli and pickled radish

First Course

Warm Smoked Breast of Duck
chicories, toasted walnuts, pecorino toscano
Russian River Valley 09
Santa Lucia Highlands 09

Second Course

Slow Braised Shoulder of Veal
cipollini, sweet red peppers, parsnips
Durell Vineyard, Sonoma Coast 09
Graham Family Vineyard, Green Valley of Russian River Valley 09

Entree

Cervena Venison Chop
black trumpets, hedgehogs & oyster mushrooms
yellow finn and sweet potato gratin
Rosella's Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands 09
Keefer Ranch Vineyard, Green Valley of Russian River 09

Dessert

Arborio Rice Pudding
caramelized mango, coconut ice cream

Upcoming Wine Dinners - IL POGGIONE

2011-01-25T10:00:00.000-08:00

We are happy to announce that our first wine dinner of 2011 is almost upon us, with the second one coming up not far behind this February! From Italy to California, there is much to explore about both of the wineries coming to visit, and we hope you can join us.

IL POGGIONE

February 2 at 7 p.m. marks the first wine dinner of the year, with our featured winery Il Poggione coming to Aria all the way from the village of Sant’Angelo in Tuscany, Italy.
We are honored to have Alessandro Bindocci join us to tell us more about the wonderful history of this legendary winery in the heart of Tuscany.

'Il Poggione owns approximately 250 acres of vineyards in the Brunello di Montalcino zone, with 118 acres producing the Brunello Riserva and Brunello wines. The remaining 132 acres are planted to Sangiovese for Rosso, Cabernet Sauvignon and several white varietals'

Enjoy five courses paired with four wines from Il Poggione, including Rosso di MOntalcino, Mazzoni (Sangiovese-Merlot blend), Brunello di MOntalcino and Brunello Riserva. $100 per person (includes tax and gratuity)

You can reserve your spot by calling us at 404-233-7673.
All featured wines will also be available for purchase through Perrine's Wine Shop

SAVE THE DATE
We’ll be revealing more details about our second February wine dinner very soon, but for now please save the date for February 23! The wine dinner, focusing on all single vineyard Pinot Noirs from Santa Lucia Highlands and Russian River Valley, is in partnership with Chris Soluri of Fine Wine Connection. We are excited that Brian Loring of Loring Wine Company, who has a self-diagnosed obsession with Pinot Noir, is joining us for this wine dinner from California to tell us more about each wine.

Stay tuned for more details to come!

Cheers!

A recipe from the files of Gerry Klaskala

2010-11-24T07:56:00.000-08:00

The Holiday Season is quickly approaching, and we here at Aria would like to wish you and your families a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving. Although we will be closed Thursday evening, we will reopen Friday with regular business hours and we look forward to seeing you.

-Bring a bit of Aria to your Thanksgiving table this year with Chef Gerry’s Warm Wilted Arugula, Chanterelle, and Cranberry Salad recipe.

Enjoy!

Do we smell Smoke ?

2010-09-23T14:28:00.000-07:00

Usually here at Aria, the only thing getting roasted is whatever culinary creation Chef Gerry Klaskala might be whipping up in our kitchen.

But come this November 1, the tables will turn as Chef Gerry gets roasted himself at the Legends of Atlanta Roast, along with two other hospitality legends of Atlanta, Anne Quatrano and Kevin Rathbun! It’s all in the name of both good fun and fundraising for the Atlanta Community Food Bank.

The industrial warehouse space of ACFB will be magically transformed into a red-carpet environment for guests to enjoy a cocktail reception at 6 p.m., as well as a three course meal and dessert reception, which will be prepared by each honorees’ restaurant.

This will definitely be a night to remember! For more information and tickets, please visit http://www.acfb.org/ROAST

MARTINELLI WINERY DINNER - Wednesday September 22 @ 7pm

2010-09-10T08:59:00.000-07:00

Summer of 2010 has brought some of our favorite wineries to Aria for our wine dinners – with featured winemakers from Susana Balbo, Pio Cesare and Hugel & Fils gracing our tables.

We’re excited to kick off fall with our next wine dinner, in partnership with Perrine’s Wine Shop, featuring Martinelli Winery. This event will be held on September 22nd at 7 p.m. and we hope you can join us!

Juliana Martinelli will be our special guest at Aria as we feature several of Martinelli Estate’s finest wines. The Martinelli family has being producing wine in Sonoma County since 1896, through five generations; and their wines are legendary.

We look forward to a great evening of delicious food and wine as we learn more about Martinelli’s winemaking techniques and the legacy the family has created.

Some of the featured wines include:

Chardonnay, Zio Tony Ranch, Russian River Valley
Pinot Noir, Moonshine Ranch, Russian River Valley
Syrah, Terra Felice, Russian River Valley
Zinfandel, Giuseppe & Luisa, Russian River Valley
Muscat Alexandria, Jackass Hill, Russian River Valley

Five courses/Five Wines, $100 per person (includes tax and gratuity)

Please call us at 404-233-7673 for reservations; we look forward to seeing you!

Skillet Roasted Okra with Eastern Spices and Lime / Peachtree Farmers Market

2010-08-31T13:50:00.000-07:00

It wouldn’t be summer without Atlanta farmers markets, and it wouldn’t be a farmers market without a chef demo! Chef Gerry Klaskala loves demonstrating cooking techniques with the freshest local ingredients possible to the market crowd.

Here’s one of Chef Gerry’s recipes from his summer chef demo at Peachtree Road Farmers Market that adds a twist to traditional summer okra. Enjoy!

Skillet Roasted Okra with Eastern Spices and Lime

Ingredients

Spice Mix

2 Tbl. Kosher Salt

1 Tbl. Ground Indian Cayenne Pepper

1 tsp. Ground Coriander

1 tsp. Mango Powder

½ tsp. Ground Cumin

½ tsp. Ground Cardamom Seeds

¼ tsp. Ground Black Pepper

Okra, cut in half length wise

Grape Seed Oil

Lime

Chives, minced

Preparation

1.) Thoroughly mix spices and set aside

2.) Heat a heavy bottom skillet until smoking; add 2 tsp. of grape seed oil. Place okra cut side down. Cook until okra is quite dark and caramelized. Briefly turn over.

3.) Place on a platter cut side up. Season with spices and a squeeze of lime. Sprinkle with chives and serve.

SUSANA BALBO WINE MAKER DINNER (Updated)

2010-08-11T08:11:00.000-07:00

Join us on August 24 at 7 p.m. for a very special wine dinner as we welcome by the legendary Susana Balbo from Argentina! After working more than 25 years as a winemaker consultant for domestic and international wine companies, Susana Balbo struck out on her own to make her winery dreams come true in Luján de Cuyo, in Mendoza.
Now those dreams have sprung to life with Dominio del Plata, which now exports to more than 36 countries all over the world, mostly here in the United States.

By focusing on a philosophy that includes sustainable agriculture, precision viticulture, superior winemaking skills as well as love and passion for the craft, she has been able to produce a variety of amazing high quality, high end wines. Susana Balbo is currently the most recognized and famous female enologist in Argentina and it will be a great opportunity to learn more about her experience with both the wine industry and these special wines that she has crafted.

Six Wines / Five Courses $100.00 per person (includes tax and gratuity)

Call us for more information and reservations at (404) 233-7673.

Menu Update: from the evening of September 24th

Amuse

Sashimi of Fluke

mango, jalapeno, cilantro

First

Coconut Roasted Maine Lobster

green onion, ginger, sweet red pepper

Torrontes, Crios de Susana Balbo, Cafayate-Salta 09

Second

Fillet of Columbia River Sturgeon

applewood smoked bacon, field peas, leeks

Chardonnay, Crios de Susana Balbo, Mendoza 09

Third

Summerfield Farms Veal Ragu

pappardelle, basil, reggiano parmigiano

Malbec, Susana Balbo, Mendoza 08

Fourth

Roasted Georgia Quail

sausage, green grapes, pinenuts

Cabernet Sauvignon, Susana Balbo, Mendoza 06

Entree

Mashima Ranch Wagyu Petite Filet Mignon

lobster mushrooms, rosated shallots

Expresivo (Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah), Ben Marco, Mendoza 06

Dessert

Chocolate Hazelnut Praline Cake

Virtuoso (late Harvest Malbec), Susana Balbo, Mendoza 07

HUGEL & FILS WINERY DINNER (Monday July 19, 7 p.m)

2010-07-12T19:01:00.000-07:00

Aria continues its summer of global wine dinners with another special event in partnership with Atlantic Wines this month.
Please join us on July 19 at 7 pm as we feature the wonderful wines of France’s Hugel & Fils. We will be joined by Ettiene Hugel from the winery, who will share first-hand the history of this winemaking family and the wines they create in the Alsace region of France. With winegrowing ancestors dating back to the early 1600s, there is a dynamic and noble story to both the region and to the family's development in the local wine industry.

Alsace, known as the driest wine region of France, has learned to deal with its complex geology and multiple soil types to create some of the finest vineyards of the country. Etienne Hugel and his generation have been challenged to faithfully implement the principles their ancestors have taught them as they strive to maintain Alsace wine’s prominence as the great white wine producer of our century. We look forward to experiencing the wines of Hugel & Fils with our guests with a five course meal.

$100 (includes five course menu, wine pairings, tax and gratuity)

To attend, please call Aria for reservations at 404.233.7673.

First

Butter Braised Lobster

snowpeas, ginger, leeks

Gentil, 2008

Second

Roasted Prawn

baby spinach, roasted tomato, cilantro, madras curry

Riesling, Jubilee, 2004

Third

Clay Pot Berkshire Pork

jasmine rice, green onion

Gewurztraminer, Jubilee, 2006

Entree

Grilled Kobe Coulotte Steak

grilled eggplant, arugula, cipollini, natural jus

Pinot Noir, Jubilee, 2005

Dessert

Ruby Plum Cake

vanilla roasted plums, lemon cream

Riesling, Vendange Tardive, 2001

PIO CESARE WINERY DINNER - Updated (July 8 at 7:00 p.m.)

2010-06-23T09:38:00.000-07:00

A taste of Italy will be venturing to Aria on July 8 as we welcome Pio Boffa of Pio Cesare Winery from Alba, Italy for our next wine dinner.

Pio Boffa is the great-grandson of winery founder Cesare Pio, who began producing traditional Piemontese wines five generations ago in 1881 in their ancient cellars. They combine modern winemaking techniques along with the traditional regional methods, ageing in large casks and barriques of different French oaks and bottle-aged before their release.

We are thrilled to experience these high quality wines with Pio Boffa present – it will be a pleasure to learn both about the legacy and philosophy that is behind the creation of these great Italian wines. The Cesare Winery Dinner will begin at 7 p.m. and feature 6 wines paired with 5 courses. The dinner will be $100 (includes tax and gratuity) and reservations can be made by calling us at (404) 233-7673.

Reception: Cortese di Gavi DOCG, 2009

Amuse
Summer Black Truffle Deviled Egg

First
Seared New Bedford Jumbo Sea Scallop
lady peas, heirloom tomatoes, tarragon
Chardonnay, L’Altro, Piemonte DOC 2007

Second
Warm Capon Salad
black mission figs, thin beans, roasted red peppers, basil
Barbera d’Alba DOC, Fides, 2006

Third
Breast of Duck
wild rice, bacon, toasted almonds, georgia blackberries
Barbaresco DOCG, 2005

Entree
Roasted Rack of Lamb
ragu of eggplant, celery, cipollini, natural jus
Barolo DOCG, 2005

Dessert
Georgia Peach Tart
ginger brown butter and peach ice cream
Moscato D’Asti DOCG, 2007

- Next on our calendar: Ettiene Hugel from Alsace (July 19th at 7pm) and Susana Balbo from Argentina (August 24th at 7pm)

ST. INNOCENT WINE MAKER DINNER (Updated)

2010-04-08T15:23:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendar - April 22nd will bring another very special wine dinner to Aria!
This time, winemaker Mark Vlossak of St. Innocent Winery in Oregon will be joining us with a selection of Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir from terrific vineyards in the Willamette Valley.

Vlossak’s love for wine began as a young man, when he learned to taste and enjoy wines daily with his father, a wine importer. He started St. Innocent Winery in 1988 and has been producing small lot, handmade wines in the southeast corner of the Eola Hills in Salem, Oregon ever since.

St. Innocent’s philosophy is that the primary function of wine is to complement and extend the pleasure of a meal – a principle we couldn’t agree with more! Many of their wines tend toward higher acid levels with diverse and balanced flavors to enhance different food and flavor combinations, and we are excited to taste Chef Gerry Klaskala’s pairings with each one.

The St. Innocent Wine Dinner will begin at 7pm on April 22nd and will be $85 per person, five courses with wine pairings excluding tax and gratuity. Reservations can be made by calling 404-233-7673.

Menu Update: from the evening of April 22nd

Pacific Oysters

served warm with buttery leeks, lemon and chives

Pinot Gris, Vitae Springs Vineyard, Willamette 07

Pan Roasted Columbia River King Salmon

spring peas and beans, guanciale and thyme

Pinot Noir, Zenith Vineyard, Eola-Amity Hills 07

Pappardelle with Niman Ranch Pork Bolognese

reggiano parmigiano

Pinot Noir, Temperance Hill Vineyard, Eola-Amity Hills 07

Painted Hills 10 Hour Brisket of Beef

young collard greens, black truffle polenta

Pinot Noir, Momtazi Vineyard, McMinnville 07

Oregon Hazelnut Chocolate Cake

chocolate sauce and crispy chocolate

Oregon Hazelnut Shortbread

HAWKES WINE MAKER DINNER

2010-03-12T20:53:00.000-08:00

On March 24th at 7pm, Aria will be opening its doors to Jake Hawkes of Hawkes Winery. Hailing from Alexander Valley (Healdsburg, CA), Hawkes is known for world class estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon.

For Jake's second visit to Aria, Chef Gerry Klaskala will be preparing a five-course dinner to complement the fantastic wines that Jake is bringing to the table. Specifically, the menu will feature three preparations centered around a whole spring lamb that Chef Klaskala is bringing in just for this event. Each of the three lamb courses, in turn, will be paired with a special '05 single vineyard Hawkes Cabernet brought to Georgia by Jake himself - again, only for this event. Along with dessert, we will taste a barrel sample of Jake's botrytis semillon.

Don't miss out on this perfect dovetailing of food and wine.
Call 404.233.7673 to make reservations - availability is limited!

Five courses with wine pairings: $90 per person (excludes tax and gratuity).

ARIA Wine Maker Dinner Series 2010

2010-03-02T18:45:00.000-08:00

We kicked off our monthly wine maker dinners this year with the visit of a good friend; Alex Sokol Blosser. His wines showed beautifully and we were particularly fond of the Dundee Hills Estate Pinot Noir 2007. Thanks to Alex and all those who attended, we look forward to seeing you again soon.
In March we will welcome Jake Hawkes from Hawkes Winery in Alexander Valley and in April Mark Vlossak of St. Innocent Winery in Oregon.

Here is a quick recap of our Sokol Blosser dinner menu:
All photography thanks to George Sanchez

Faux Gras Terrine
apple gelee, green apple salad

Evolution NV, American White

Thyme Roasted Prawns
endive, red grapefruit, tarragon

2008 Pinot Gris, Dundee Hills, Oregon

Crisped Breast of Naturally Raised Veal
roasted sweet red peppers, sugar snap peas, natural jus

2006 Pinot Noir, Dundee Hills, Oregon
2007 Pinot Noir, Estate Cuvee, Dundee Hills, Oregon

Roasted Tenderloin of Cervena Venison
oyster mushrooms, roasted shallots, celery & potato gratin

Meditrina NV, American Red

Bayley Hazen Blue
baby arugula, truffle vinaigrette

Red Bartlett Pear Tart
orange vanilla sauce

2007 Late Harvest Riesling, Columbia Valley

DINNER WITH ALEX SOKOL BLOSSER

2010-01-25T20:48:00.000-08:00

Aria is excited to welcome Alex Sokol Blosser for an intimate wine dinner on February 18th, featuring wines from his family’s Sokol Blosser Winery in Oregon.

Since the family planted their first grapevines there in 1971, they’ve become one of the pioneering wineries in the region and continue to play a key role in shaping the Oregon wine industry.

Sokol Blosser has set strong standards in keeping their wine making program green; including farming organically and building an underground cellar to US Green Building Council standards. That made them the first winery in the country to earn the prestigious LEED certification!

Sokol Blosser produces Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Evolution (a proprietary white wine blend of nine varieties) and Meditrina (proprietary red blend), along with small quantities of Single Block Pinot Noirs in selected vintages. We are thrilled to welcome Alex and his excellent wines to Aria.

Six Wines/Six Courses $80.00 per person (excludes tax and gratuity).

FOOD TO WARM THE HEART

2010-01-22T14:05:00.000-08:00

Valentine’s Day is almost upon us, and it’s not too late to make plans to treat your loved one to a special dinner here at Aria!

We will be offering a special four-course prix-fixe menu for $85 per person (excludes tax and gratuity). A draft of the menu is available here and the final copy will be available the week of Feb 8th.

For reservations, please call 404.233.7673, See you then!

New Year's Eve at ARIA

2009-12-30T15:46:00.000-08:00

Our NYE menu is ready and we are busy preparing for a great evening.
We look forward to seeing everyone!

For reservations, call us at 404-233-7673

Early December brought two wonderful events to Aria:

2009-12-14T21:23:00.000-08:00

Contributor: Aidan Mirisola-Sullivan
Photography from George Sanchez

On December 2nd, there were two phenomenal chefs in the Aria kitchen - our own Gerry Klaskala, of course, and the talented Chris Hastings, executive chef of The Hot and Hot Fish Club in Birmingham, AL. Together, the two cooked inspired Southern fare from Chef Hastings's new cookbook “THE HOT and HOT FISH CLUB COOKBOOK: A Celebration of Food, Family and Tradition”. Combined with Andres Loaiza's masterful wine pairings from the Vineyard Brands portfolio, the evening was a resounding success. Thanks, Chef Hastings, for bringing your creativity and passion to Aria, even if it was for just one night.

Pan-Seared Flounder with Shaved Fennel Salad
Picholine Olives and Satsuma Oranges
Hamilton Russell, Chardonnay, Hemel-En-Aarde, South Africa 07

Fudge Farms Pork and Beans with Braised Greens
Cracklin’ Cornbread and Chow Chow
Perrin et Fils, Vinsobres, Rhone 07

Chocolate Pot de Crème with Chocolate-Cardamom Cookie
Candied Peanuts
Domaine du Mas Blanc, Banyuls 07

------------------------------------------------

Having the opportunity to cook with another chef is a lot like having the chance to cook with a unique ingredient. Both can inspire, lead to new preparations, or add that extra something to a traditional dish. The day after Chef Hastings left our kitchen, a new visitor arrived: fresh black truffles. Working with this luxurious and coveted ingredient, Chef Klaskala created a sumptuous five course menu. In looking to pair wine with this menu, Andrés sought out Avant Partir's Nick Montigelli. With their combined knowledge and palettes, the black truffles had perhaps the only thing that could make them any more delicious: good wine.

A special thanks to Nick and Avant Partir for helping to make the Truffle Dinner on December 3rd such a fantastic evening.

Truffled Farm Egg
Billecart-Salmon Brut Reserve NV

Lobster with Celery Root, Fine Herbs and Truffled Lobster Jus
Peter Dipoli, Voglar, Sauvignon Blanc, Alto Adige 04

Breast of Pheasant, Haricot Vert, Arugula and Truffle Xeres Vinaigrette
Rocche dei Manzoni "Sorito Masconi" Barbera d’Alba 98

Chocolate Truffle with Caramelized Honey Cognac Ice Cream
Fortetto della Luja Moscato Passito, Loazzolo 03

Celebrate New Year’s Eve

2009-12-14T14:07:00.000-08:00

Join us to ring-in the New Year and celebrate 2010 at Aria. We’ll be serving a four-course prix fixe menu for $85 per person and wine pairings will also be available. When our menu is available, we will be post it here.

For reservations, call us at 404-233-7673.

Christmas Eve Dinner

2009-12-10T14:38:00.000-08:00

On Christmas Eve, leave the cooking to us and enjoy a relaxing night out celebrating the holidays. Dinner will be served from 6 to 10 p.m. We look forward to spending the evening with you!

Holiday Gift Cards

2009-12-09T14:31:00.000-08:00

Whether it’s for family members, friends, clients or co-workers, an Aria gift card makes the perfect holiday gift. A gift card allows your loved ones to enjoy their favorite menu items off of Executive Chef Gerry Klaskala’s sophisticated menu. Please visit the restaurant, our website or call 404-233-7673 to purchase a gift card.

TRUFFLES AND CHADDERDON

2009-11-16T15:27:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, December 2 at 7 p.m.

What better way to salute the winter than with a five-course, all truffle menu paired with wines imported by the esteemed Robert Chadderdon? Join us at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, December 2, for an intimate dinner of lavish dishes carefully prepared and complemented by our favorite wines from Chadderdon’s portfolio.

Featured wines will include: Billecart-Salmon Brut; Peter Dipoli Sauvignon Blanc; Rocche dei Manzoni "Sorrito Masconi" Barbera; Bovio "Vigna Gattera" Barolo ; Rocche dei Manzoni "Quatr Nas"; and Fortetto della Luja Moscato Passito.
The cost is $125.00 per person, excluding tax and gratuity.

Seats are limited; Please Email Andres or call us at 404-233-7673 to make reservations

DINNER WITH CHRIS HASTINGS OF BIRMINGHAM’S THE HOT AND HOT FISH CLUB AT ARIA

2009-11-16T12:42:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, December 1 at 7 p.m.

Start the holiday season with dinner with Chris Hastings, author of "The Hot and Hot Fish Club Cookbook, A Celebration of Food, Family and Traditions" and Chef/Owner of The Hot and Hot Fish Club, Birmingham, Alabama’s fine dining “hot” spot. Hastings’ passion for Southern cuisine and local, seasonal ingredients is contagious!

Join us and Chef Hastings for dinner at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, December 1, at Aria as Owner/Executive Chef Gerry Klaskala prepares a four-course menu using recipes from the book and wine pairings provided by renowned wine importer Vineyard Brands. Cost is $125 per person, including a signed copy of Hastings’ cookbook, or $100 for dinner only (both prices include tax and gratuity).

Please call 404.233.7673 or email andres@aria-atl.com for reservation; we look forward to seeing you.

Hors d’Oeuvres
•Seared Foie Gras on Brioche with Persimmon Jam
•Oyster Shooters
•Bloody Orange Martinis
•Roasted Chestnuts with Red Mountain Honey
Mohua, Pinot Gris, Central Otago, New Zealand

Amuse
•Smoked and Grilled Quail with Roasted Vegetables and White BBQ Sauce (breast half only)

First Course
•Hearts of Palm Salad with Pink Grapefruit, Avocado and Herb Vinaigrette
Domaine Vincent Delaporte, Sancerre

Second Course
•Pan-Seared Flounder with Shaved Fennel Salad, Picholine Olives, and Satsuma Oranges
Hamilton Russell, Chardonnay, Hemel-En-Aarde , South Africa

Third Course
•Fudge Farms Pork and Beans with Braised Greens, Cracklin’ Cornbread and Chow Chow
Perrin et Fils, Vinsobres, Rhone

Fourth Course
•Chocolate Pot de Crème with Chocolate-Cardamom Cookie and Candied Peanuts
Domaine du Mas Blanc, Banyuls

Miner Family Vineyards SB @ ARIA

2009-10-16T22:36:00.000-07:00

It's been a month now since Andrés returned from his California trip and we're starting to see some of those contacts pay off here at ARIA. Our newest addition to the by-the-glass list is a wine that can't be found at any store in Atlanta, let alone any store in the US. It's Miner Family Vineyards' Sauvignon Blanc, a wine normally only sold in their tasting room in Napa. Andrés, a long time Miner fan, tasted this juice, and insisted we get some for ARIA. A few weeks later and blam, here it is:

Miner Family Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2008, Napa Valley, all from their Oakville property. Bright citrus nose with a little dried herb, fresh, clean, and zippy in the mouth, a simple but classic SB style. Please come in and try this great wine, especially while we are still serving Roast Halibut from Maine (sushi grade stuff) with poblanos.

Contributor: George Kientzy III

Robert Sinskey Wine Dinner

2009-09-10T13:55:00.000-07:00

Join us Thursday, September 17, for an intimate dinner with great wines from Robert Sinskey Vineyards. The reception begins at 7 p.m. and dinner is served at 7:30 p.m.

We have selected some of our favorite wines to be paired with an inspired seasonal menu. All Robert Sinskey wines are organically grown and most of them are farmed under biodynamic practices.

Featured wines include:

Abraxas, Vin de Terroir, Los Carneros 07
Pinot Blanc, Los Carneros 08
Pinot Noir, Three Amigos Vineyard,
Los Carneros, Napa Valley 04
Merlot, Los Carneros, Napa Valley 05
Point of View, Napa Valley 05
Pinot Gris Late, A Late Harvest Gris,
Los Carneros 06

Dinner is $85 per person, plus tax and gratuity. For reservations call 404.233.7673.

We look forward to seeing you!

Peter Michael on ARIA's wine list

2009-08-18T20:10:00.000-07:00

We are excited to be one of the lucky few to have added two wines from the legendary Peter Michael Winery to our Cellar list.
As one of the best run wineries in the world, Sir Peter Michael employs Nicolas Morlet as winemaker and Javier Avina as vineyard manager, both famous for their meticulous work.

'Les Pavots' 2006 is Peter Michael's flagship Bordeaux blend known for a very Pomerol-like mouth feel, very lush, full bodied and opulent.
'Belle Cote' 2007, a single vineyard estate Chardonnay famous for being ultrarich and concentrated, but still graceful with a crisp natural acidity.

For those of us who love great Napa Valley wines, this is an exciting time to be part of Atlanta's burgeoning wine scene as wines of the caliber of Peter Michael become more readily available.
Please come visit us at ARIA and celebrate these wines along with a terrific meal

Contributor: George Kientzy III

Schug Wine Maker Dinner

2009-08-17T08:06:00.000-07:00

On Monday, August 31 at 7 p.m., enjoy with us the wines of esteemed Schug Winery from Carneros in Sonoma. Axel Schug, son of winemaker Walter Schug, will join us for a five-course menu of Gerry's delicious seasonal cooking.
The dinner is $85 per person (plus tax and gratuity).

Featured wines include:

2008 Sonoma Coast Sauvignon Blanc

2007 Carneros Chardonnay

2007 Carneros Pinot Noir

2005 Sonoma Coast Merlot

2005 Heritage Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

Seats are limited. Email Andres or call us at 404-233-7673 to make advance reservations.

Attack of the Killer Tomato Fest!

2009-08-07T07:48:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, August 9, Gerry will join several of Atlanta’s well-known chefs at JCT. Kitchen & Bar's Attack of the Killer Tomato Festival. Chefs will be teaming up with local farmers making creative tomato dishes to benefit Georgia Organics. Gerry will be making “Tomatoes on the Half Shell”:
Ice cold, freshly shucked middleneck clams with an heirloom
tomato bloody mary mignonette, featuring tomatoes, freshly
picked by Charlotte & Wes of Riverview Farms.

Killer Tomatoes on the Loose

Guests of the event will get to sample dishes with cocktails crafted by featured mixologists. High-profile judges including Restaurant Editor Andrew Knowlton of Bon Appetit, Restaurant Editor Kate Krader of Food + Wine, Senior Food Writer Donna Florio of Southern Living and Danny Bonvissuto, freelance food writer for Food + Wine, will be choosing the best dish and best beverage, and an award will also be given to the chef with the best table decorations. For more information click here.

Pahlmeyer Wine Maker Dinner Recap

2009-08-05T21:58:00.000-07:00

Special thanks, again, to Paige Pahlmeyer! What a pleasure and honor it was to have you with us last Wednesday night. Thanks also to everyone that joined us for dinner; I have a feeling you had as much fun as we did.

*All photos courtesy of Mike and Nancy Ellsworth.

Amuse: seared yellow fin tuna, avocado

Roasted Wild Sockeye Salmon
zipper peas, golden oak mushrooms, applewood bacon
Pinot Noir, Jayson, Sonoma Coast 06

Australian Winter Truffle Risotto
carnaroli and reggiano parmigiano
Merlot, Pahlmeyer, Napa Valley 05

Gerry shaving truffles table-side

American Bison Ribeye
silver queen corn, heirloom red peppers, fingerlings
Proprietary Red, Pahlmeyer, Napa Valley 05

Black Plum Tart
ginger brown butter and vanilla bean ice cream

Kudos to Kathryn

2009-07-31T13:33:00.000-07:00

In the current issue of The Atlantan, you will find our very own Kathryn King sharing the lastest trends in desserts. Along with Kirk Parks of Rathbun's and Jonathan St. Hilaire of Concentrics Restaurants, she shares her favorite dessert trend, guilty sugar pleasures and the most unusual dessert she's ever made. You can see the whole article by clicking here.

Pahlmeyer Wine Maker Dinner

2009-07-11T13:58:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday July 29th at 7 p.m. we will welcome Paige Pahlmeyer and a fantastic line up of highly allocated wines to ARIA for a night of great food, wine and conversation.

Our Chef Gerry Klaskala will prepare a five-course menu to pair with these wines and highlight their extraordinary “power, personality and finesse.”

Featured wines include:

- Chardonnay, Jayson, Napa Valley 06
- Chardonnay, Pahlmeyer, Napa Valley 06
- Pinot Noir, Jayson, Sonoma Coast 06
- Merlot, Pahlmeyer, Napa Valley 05
- Proprietary Red, Pahlmeyer, Napa Valley 05

Please join us to share in this rare opportunity to taste and toast to the great Pahlmeyer wines.

Reception beings at 7 p.m., dinner starts at 7:30 p.m.

$120 per person (plus tax and gratuity)
Reservations are required and seats are limited

We look forward to seeing you!

See Dinner Menu

Neil Ellis' “The Left Bank” & other wines by the glass

2009-06-22T12:09:00.000-07:00

Our wine list is updated nightly just like our dinner menu, and you are sure to find something you enjoy with 17 wines served by the glass that are constantly changing. Here are two recent additions:

The Left Bank, Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz blend
This great little red comes from Western Cape in South Africa. Made by renowned wine maker Neil Ellis from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, the wine carries flavors of plum, blackberry and a touch of cedar; smoky and spicy with gentle soft tannins.

Kurt Angerer, Kies, Grüner Veltliner
The Angerer family has made wine in the Kamptal region of Austria since the 1800s and this wine is a very good example of the classic style of the house. Mid body with citrus tones, underlying minerality and a little peppery edge; great for drinking this time of the year.

Aria's wines by the glass
Champagne, Louis Roederer, Brut Premier, Reims
Sparkling, Schramsberg Brut Rosé, Mirabelle, North Coast NV
Prosecco di Conegliano, Collalto, Brut, Veneto NV

Riesling Kabinett, Gysler, Rheinhessen, Germany 07
Alsatian Blend, Albert Boxler, Edelzwicker, Alsace, France 06
Grüner Veltliner, Kurt Angerer, Kies, Kamptal, Austria 08
Sauvignon Blanc, Vincent Delaporte, Sancerre, France 06
Chardonnay, Saintsbury, Unfiltered, Carneros, Sonoma 07
Chardonnay, Scarbolo, Friuli, Italy 06
Rosé of Grenache, Domaine Ott, Les Domaniers, Provence, France 07

Gamay, Potel-Aviron, Beaujolais Villages, France 07
Pinot Noir, Belle Glos, Meiomi, Sonoma Coast 07
Cabernet Franc, Lang & Reed, North Coast, CA 07
Sangiovese/Cabernet/Merlot, Querciabella, Mongrana, Tuscany 07
Zinfandel Blend, Ridge Vineyards, Lytton Springs, California 06
Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz, Neil Ellis, Left Bank, South Africa 07
Cabernet Sauvignon, Lariat, Napa Valley 05

A new seasonal dish on ARIA's menu

2009-06-09T11:15:00.000-07:00

Fresh hazelnut crusted Blue Ridge Mountain Trout with crab smashed potatoes, slow roasted tomatoes, fresh artichokes and English peas.
A seasonal dish from our Chef Gerry Klaskala

Cellar 13 Wine Dinner Recap

2009-05-28T21:28:00.000-07:00

Thanks again to John Passman at Cellar13 for a great selection of wines; they were the perfect starting point for Gerry and Kat to deliver a delicious menu. Some photos follow:

Tour of France wine dinner menu

Featured Wines

Roasted rack and braised shoulder of Colorado lamb with

eggplant & fennel ragout, tarragon shallot sauce

Fuji apple tart with
ginger brown butter and caramel ice cream

Strawberries have arrived!

2009-05-28T20:55:00.000-07:00

Photography by George Sanchez

Fat, shiny, local and delicious strawberries, a light biscuit, creamy lemon ice cream.
A new dessert from Kathryn King with strawberries from River View Farm in Ranger, GA

Check out our newsletter this coming week for a recipe using strawberries from Kathryn.

Cellar 13 Wine Dinner

2009-05-07T19:39:00.000-07:00

We are looking forward to Wednesday May 27 when John Passman from Cellar 13 will join us for a Grand Tour of France wine dinner.
Gerry has prepared a multi-course menu to pair with wines John has picked from the great selection at his shop. These wines represent some of the finest examples from major regions of France.

Champagne reception starts at 7pm.
$175/per person inclusive
Please RSVP with Cellar 13 at 404.816.4071 or jpassman@cellar13.com

Here is the menu:

Reception
Champagne Deutz 2002 Brut Rosé

First Course
Roasted sea scallops with black truffle and Serrano ham
Marc Colin 2004 Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru “Les Champs Gains”

Second Course
Foie gras stuffed Guinea hen with English peas and herbs
Domaine Harmand-Geoffroy 2006 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru “La Perrière”

Third Course
Crespelle of duck confit with soy duck jus, crème fraîche and crisp parsley
Château Magdelaine 1998 Saint-Émilion Grand Cru

Fourth Course
Roasted rack and braised shoulder of Colorado lamb with eggplant and fennel ragout and tarragon shallot sauce
Domaine Marc Sorrel 2005 Hermitage “Le Gréal”

Dessert
Fuji apple tart with ginger brown butter and Ccramel ice cream
Domaine des Baumard 2004 Quarts de Chaume

- - - - - - - - - -

Unfamiliar with Cellar13 Wine Merchant?
Check them out at 3765 Roswell Rd in Buckhead,
next door to Johnny's Hideaway.

Ridge Vineyards Wine Dinner Recap

2009-04-28T19:19:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone that attended our wine dinner; special thanks go to David Gates and Michael Torino from Ridge Vineyards for joining us and making the evening even more fun.

Here is the complete menu and a few photos of the delicious dishes. I am sorry Kathryn, I promise I'll take a photo of dessert next time!

Pan roasted bison eye of the ribeye steak with basquaise red pepper, sweet onion and tomato piperade

Tenderloin of Naturally Raised Veal with prosciutto, fava beans, young carrots and peas

Spinach Gnocchi with savory duck and mushroom ragout

Wine Dinner Series - Log

2009-04-07T21:35:00.000-07:00

Starting with our upcoming Ridge Vineyards dinner on April 23, we will post food photos and comments from our guests. For now, here is a log of our most recent wine dinners and other details. We hope to see you at the restaurant soon

Cheers !

Fiddlehead Cellars - 03.25.09
Kathy Joseph winemaker.owner - PDF Menu - Sold Out

Tres Sabores Winery - 02.11.09
Julie Johnson winemaker.owner - PDF Menu - Sold Out

Freeman Winery - 01.21.09
Ken Freeman owner - PDF Menu - Sold Out

Chappellet Winery - 10.29.08
Cyril and Blakesley Chappellet owners - PDF Menu - Sold Out

Hawkes Winery - 09.11.08
Jake Hawkes winemaker.owner - PDF Menu - Sold Out

Patz & Hall - 03.27.08
Donald Patz owner - PDF Menu - Sold Out

$39 in '09!

2009-03-10T08:27:00.000-07:00

Join us for a truly creative culinary experience in 2009 with Aria’s new $39 Three-Course Chef’s Tasting Menu. Chef Gerry Klaskala’s seasonal tasting menu will feature two versions including a three-course menu of classic Aria dishes for guests to indulge in and the lighter three-course menu filled with healthful palate-pleasing dishes. Aria Restaurant’s $39 menu will give patrons a taste of Klaskala’s inventive cuisine for an approachable price. This spring, join Chef Klaskala and the staff at Aria for a this very special menu, served in conjunction with the regular dinner menu.