Aria Brisbane: Restaurant review

One of Brisbane's gun chefs, Ben Russell has led a team delivering a pitch-perfect rendition of fine dining for almost a decade now, and appears to only be getting better with age. The performance unfolds in an impressive space, with a curved floor-to-ceiling window framing a killer view of the river and Story Bridge. Plush carpet, crisp white linen napery and warm timber tones add to the sense of occasion, as do old-school accoutrements including a selection of bread, petits fours and take-home macarons "for the ladies". It's clear all the cast and crew know the score well; service is poised and the food precise. Seared scallops and thinly sliced radish are smartly paired with golden beets and orange dressing. Cobia fillet has serious crunch in the skin, its accompanying brown-butter purée resembling a little chocolate chip cookie dotted with tiny capers. Blueberry cheesecake soufflé stands tall and proud above the edges of its polished copper pot. Tickets to this show aren't cheap, but it's definitely a class act.

Phone:
(07) 3233 2555

Website:
ariarestaurant.com

Bookings:
Bookings recommended

Features:

• Licensed
• Bar
• Private room

Accepted card types:

• American Express
• Diners Club
• Eftpos
• MasterCard
• Visa

Chef(s):
Matt Moran & Ben Russell

This review was made independently for the Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide. The guide's reviewers visit unannounced and pay their way.