Visiting the exceptional Aria restaurant is always a personal highlight for me. The restaurant with its recently reimagined take on the theme of “The Secret Garden,” never ceases to spark the imagination.
Having visited the restaurant on a few occasions now, I still find myself quietly taking in the hints of green foliage, the white palatial 30 foot columns, the trees adorned with star lights and the tasteful table decorations. Overhead, large windows contribute to the sheer space and spectacle of the lounge and dining area. All is tasteful and with a touch of theatre! It simply just has to be seen in person to be properly appreciated.
Starter
For starters, I chose the Thin Sliced Salmon at £12.50. This included a delicious Shallot and Caper Dressing, grated Hen’s Egg and Toasted Sourdough. The fresh salmon was well supported by the fresh and cleansing notes of the well-balanced dressing. The hen’s egg was well prepared as not to be too dry. With this first course we were well off to a great start!
Main
On to the main course – I elected for the 8oz Beef Fillet at £36. The dish was served with sauté new potatoes; courgette; carrots, parsnip crisps and peppercorn sauce. Typically for the Aria, this was a generous offering. All the elements of this wonderful main were very well put together. The succulent beef was well rested, yet still sufficiently hot to plate. The sweet of the soft carrots complemented the gravy and the crunchy texture of the parsnips. An excellent dish in many ways.
Dessert
For the close of this exceptional meal I chose the White Chocolate and Pistachio Tart at £9.50. A white chocolate and ganache filling, with pistachio brittle and edible flowers. The tart filling was of the perfect consistency to be not over firm, whilst brimming with flavour. The sweet and sharp notes were lifted equally throughout each and every spoonful.
Once again the Aria restaurant delivered an exceptionally well-conceived, prepared and executed dining experience. There is much to be lauded here: from the palatial, inspired, yet homely surroundings.
The entire Hyatt team including the recently appointed Director of Food and beverages Tim Browne and colleagues Becky Jukes, Jade Wilkes, Tamsin and Taz Hussain, should be hugely congratulated and they are.
Thank you and I hope to see you all soon.
Review by Andre
Review: Aria Restaurant, Hyatt Regency Hotel, Birmingham
