Aria Tuscan Grill Awards

Aria Tuscan Grill Restaurant Review:

Aria Tuscan Grill's art-filled interior supplies a warmly lit yet sophisticated atmosphere. Whether enjoying a three-course meal or tapas-style dishes from the bar bites menu, guests will find much to like. For a warm starter, opt for the kale minestrone, or go the traditional route with the heirloom tomato caprese. For a must-try classic, we suggest the orecchiette with sausage, toasted garlic, broccoli rabe and chile, and such entrées as braised pork osso buco served with wild mushroom pappardelle, slow-roasted onions and a Marsala sauce. For dessert, try the chocolate hazelnut cake or classic tiramisu. Finish with a caffé corretto, "corrected" with a shot of grappa, or get your grappa on the side. A wall of wine highlights the 125-label list that combines value and high-end selections. From the former, try the Sella e Mosca Cannonau (Grenache) Riserva 2007 for $30, or for a splurge, the Tenuta dell'Ornellaia Masseto 2005, a grand vintage in a Super Tuscan, that goes for $500. In between are plenty of good choices, with many under $50 a bottle. Ask about the "Nose to Tail" feast, a five-course celebration of the pig for $75 per person, plus $30 for paired wines for a minimum of six persons; or pasta-tasting event at the impressive chef's table (advance reservation only).