Aria

About Aria

Gerry Klaskala opened Aria on the corner of East Paces Ferry and Maple Drive in 2000 and ran it for twenty-five years before handing it on. The braised short rib of beef has been on the menu most of that time, slow-cooked until it gives way under a spoon, and the creamless celery soup finished with black truffle and Parmigiano is the dish regulars cross town for. Mains run about $44 to $78. Aria was a James Beard finalist for Outstanding Hospitality in both 2025 and 2026, the only Georgia restaurant on that list.

The Kitchen

Gerry Klaskala founded Aria in 2000 and built it into one of Atlanta's most durable fine-dining rooms, with a back-of-house reputation for treating guests as the point rather than the platform. He retired in 2025, handing ownership to Andres Loaiza, his longtime general manager and sommelier, with Joseph Harrison now leading the kitchen. The cooking has not lurched: the braised short rib of beef remains the signature, and the creamless celery soup with black truffle is still poured tableside.

The wine program is the other reason to come, a deep American and French list that Loaiza has overseen for years and pairs by the glass without upselling. Aria's back-to-back James Beard Outstanding Hospitality nominations in 2025 and 2026 are the dated proof that the service, not just the plates, is the draw. Compare it on our best Atlanta restaurants for date night, browse the best fine-dining restaurants worldwide, or start with the Atlanta dining guide.

The Room

Aria reads grown-up without trying to impress: low amber light, curved banquettes, a sculptural chandelier of suspended glass over the main room. Sound sits at an easy hum, the kind where a two-top can lean in and hear each other across a candle. Tables are spaced generously, the dress is smart, and the room seats roughly a hundred and ten across the dining room and a quieter mezzanine. It is the rare Buckhead room that flatters a date without feeling staged.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Aria in Atlanta worth it?

Yes, for a special occasion. Aria has anchored Buckhead fine dining since 2000 and earned James Beard Outstanding Hospitality nominations in both 2025 and 2026. The braised short rib and the black-truffle celery soup are the dishes to build a meal around, and the wine list is one of Atlanta's deepest. Mains run about $44 to $78, so plan for a full evening rather than a quick dinner.

How hard is it to book Aria?

Moderately hard on weekends. Aria takes reservations by phone and online, and prime Friday and Saturday slots between 7 and 8pm fill a week or two out. Weeknights open up a few days ahead. For a date or an anniversary, book early and ask for a banquette in the main room. Walk-ins can sometimes find a seat at the bar earlier in the evening.

What is the dress code at Aria?

Smart. Aria is a Buckhead fine-dining room, so think collared shirts, dresses, and jackets rather than shorts or athletic wear. There is no formal jacket requirement, but most guests dress up for the occasion. If you are marking an anniversary or impressing a client, lean dressy. The room is polished enough that you will feel more comfortable matching it.

Is Aria good for a first date?

Yes. Aria is one of Buckhead's most date-friendly rooms: warm low light, close banquette seating, and a sound level that stays at a hum so you can actually talk. The menu is approachable rather than a marathon tasting, which keeps the focus on conversation. Book a banquette, order the short rib to share, and let the sommelier guide two glasses of wine.