Aria, 1 Eagle Street Pier, BRISBANE QLD 4000
Ok, so let me start with a short introduction – I am the 'other' bunny and I have been given the task of a guest review for a lunch date that both my parents, my bunny and I had the other week at ARIA Brisbane.
Any ventures by Australian food favourites (such as Matt Moran) often result in critical reviews by all those that 'know' food but I must say that from the second that you enter the heavy wood and glass door at this Eagle Street restaurant you know your in for a classy dining experience.
Now, I thought that fine dining in Brisbane may have died away some years ago in exchange for a more casual, relaxed and innovative feel that's more suited for Brisbanites but ARIA seems to hit just the right mix of both.
We were greeted at the door by our enthusiastic waiter who quickly showed us to our table situated in the centre of the restaurant where we were seated and the menu was explained to us. Now, I like the fact that 2 courses at ARIA come for the fixed price of $55 at lunch which means that everyone is comfortable enough to be a little daring with their food choices. Two of us chose to start with entrees and we both agreed that they would be the twice cooked Pork Belly (a small serve but exquisitely soft in the centre and crispy skinned). Before this however we all received a pleasant green pea soup appetiser that was well received. For mains, we decided to test the menu ordering, the house speciality Duck Pie, Seared King Salmon and my favourite the Beef Spare Ribs. I was a little disappointed with the presentation of the duck pie but this was only by comparison with the beautifully presented Salmon and Ribs (with the entire plates being filled with tasty little morsels). Sides of steamed Broccolini and Potato Gratin were our way of being sure that the hungry amongst us were not left wanting more but ultimately they were not finished. The Chocolate Black forest and Espresso Souffle desserts rounded out the lunch with a couple of glasses of Joseph Chromy Riesling (at $16 per glass) to allow us all to finish on a sweet note (complementary chocolates being an unexpected nice touch). The food came quickly, the waitress was knowledgable and fun and the atmosphere was great. All in all, a great food experience which is definitely worth the price if you can find the time for lunch.
Ok, that all for me but if you enjoyed the post let Bunny 1 know by posting a comment and I might even be allow back in the future.
So hungry after reading this post!!!!!!!!
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