Aria

An aria, an expressive melody. Aria, the restaurant where Matt Moran composes a dining symphony for its audience. Little wonder it’s rated so highly by so many.

So the first movement in Moran’s piece, the stunning entrance, the classic, restrained elegance of the interior. Not to mention the gorgeous view of the Sydney Opera House with sun setting in the background (http://www.ariarestaurant.com/main/about.htm - seated on the middle table).

Then, playing to your palate, the orchestra of flavours in your mouth begins. The second movement: entrees of the Peking Duck Consomme with dumplings, abalone and mushrooms and Twice Cooked Kurobuta Sweet Pork Belly, (thin crackling - perfect). In his third, mains of Braised Kingfish with spiced carrot puree (like a crescendo, subtle followed by the explosion of spices) and Braised Veal with madeira (a fortified wine made in the Maderia Islands) and mushroom. Each note is to be savoured. I wanted more, no time for the desserts unfortunately but I’m sure it would have been a satisfying climax. Bravo Mr. Moran, bravo.

4 / 5 yums!

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Where? Aria, 1 Macquarie St, Circular Quay
What? Pre-Theatre Meal, 2 courses - $60

Left to Right : Peking Duck Consomme, Twice Cooked Kurobuta Sweet Pork Belly, Braised Veal, Braised Kingfish