Appointment Trader
Search 
Sign In
Developers
How It Works
Get into Aria Restaurant Sydney! 🔥
Chat
Buyer Protection
Option to Cancel
Alias Check-In
Upload Your Reservation Now
8 users watching
Aria Restaurant Sydney Reviews
What a let-down to have dined here.
We had one night to dine in Sydney this trip and wanted to make it special. We were lured here by the hype and generally good reviews. Got to remember to read the reviews in detail next time. The best things to say about this restaurant are: location (on the pier and proximity to the Opera House), attractive setting, and mostly decorative presentation of the foods. Dinner is a choice of a very small selection of items from a four-course prix fixe menu @ AUS $225 ea. Still water @ $12 ea., four glasses of wine ($140), a side vegetable ($15) and three oysters ($27) and the total came to $656. Food was not nearly as flavorful as the presentation. Service was intermittent, and frequently non-existent. Needless to say, I cannot recommend this restaurant when so many others abound in the local area.
Flavours and experience characterise the evening
The experience at dining at Aria was very welcoming with all staff standing back to allow us entry and saying hello or welcome. I had ordered some wine ahead of the evening and it was nice to sit and enjoy that without being rushed. We ordered the tasting menu so choice was easy to explore flavours. The most pleasing dish was what should have been the wagyu, but both my wife’s portion and my own had a gristle piece that wasn’t visible to cut off. A very enjoyable evening though overall
Elegant eatery
An elegant high end restaurant with exquisite service and carefully prepared food. That could rate a 5 but some small issues. Price was extraordinary ( and not listed on menu). Extra for coffee and sparkling water at 4 course meal.Food well prepared and with fine, interesting flavors. Modest portions. Nice views of the harbor.
Wine at Aria
Having made a reservation a month before, we expected to have a table in the dining room, as advertised, but we were led to a corridor by the side. Upon request/protest however, they did move us to a better table... Our main concern was with the sommelier. After we ordered the wine, she showed the bottle to us and then took it away and brought back a carafe having it already uncorked and decantered. As we are not connoisseurs of Australian wines, we had no idea if it was actually the one we had ordered. We have eaten in many Michelin star restaurants and had never witnessed such a strange routine.
Outstanding food and views!
We were in Sydney for business and had heard about Aria. We had the tasting menu with Beluga caviar and matching wines. The food was absolutely amazing and we enjoyed all the dishes. The matching wines were quite thoughtful and were a mix of local and overseas wines. The view is another reason to dine here, when combined with the fine food you will enjoy an amazing evening. Highly recommended.
Servings too small. Charged for tap water in a bottle without asking.view nice.was first available dinner after covid shut down
Small servings, left hungry..was charged for bottled tap water ,took away the half empty bottle and brought a full one which we didn't need or ask for but got charged.we had a $300 gift voucher. Needed an extra $200 and left unsated, went home to eat. Nice view.
Excellent Restaurant On Sydney Harbour
We always love visiting Aria. The food is excellent, the view is spectacular, and the whole experience is brought together by the exceptional staff. A special thank you to Roxy for making our visit as special as it was.
A must go to when we are in Sydney,
We visit Aria every time we are in Sydney. As we live in England this isn’t as often as we would like. The welcome is great, the view of the harbour and opera house unrivalled. The quality and presentation of the food has been as good as our first visit in March 2020. A short menu of beautifully crafted dishes suits us perfectly. Service is attentive and the sommelier excellent. Highly recommend this restaurant.
They made us feel special
We came here for my husband’s birthday, right before attending an opera at the opera house. It is about a 5 minute walk to the box office, so very close if you are going to see a show there. The view of the opera house is extraordinary, I can’t imagine a better place to take in its beauty. If you like to people watch you will definitely get an eyeful from this vantage point. We did the pre show tasting menu and it was perfect. I recommend the duck! The flavor was a Michelin experience. The staff was dotting and gracious. They even served my husband an extra little dessert that added a special touch to the night.
Ok…
Nice views with exceptional service. Staff were impeccably groomed and attentive. The decor seemed a bit “boardroom stuffy” but I’m guessing majority of the clientele are businessmen going to luncheons and dinners so it’s reflective of that. The food was average and some of the dishes were a little too heavily salted. It was ok but probably wouldn’t go back.
Lovely dinner with view of Sydney Opera House.
Excellent food, wine and service. The view of the opera house was also a plus. We appreciated the pre-theatre prix fix option.
Food was ok, not great.
The fish was good but the side of potatoes were floating in fat. Portions are small, which is not necessarily a bad thing as it was not that good. Quintesential tourist trap. Avoid!
Number 1 for Nouvelle Cuisine in Sydney
My wife and I had planned this lunch to celebrate our 40th Wedding Anniversary. We arrived at midday and chose the 4 course menu ($225 each). We had sparkling mineral water for the entirety of the meal. Also with our meal, my wife chose the Prelude Mocktail consisting of Yuzu and cloudy apple infused with lemon leaf and I chose a half bottle of 2018 Chateaux de Cedre Cahors (France), both were delightful. The meal commenced with the customary Amuse Bouche, including Chicken pate in a small tart and a soft cheese ball with pecorino cheese on top, a perfect start to the meal. The four course menu includes two entrees, a main and dessert. Hot bread arrived at the beginning of the meal served with an amazing Aria made butter infused with chicken broth and seaweed which was truly fabulous, as well as a Pepe Saya reduced salt butter. We really enjoyed our meals, especially the distinct flavours and freshness of the ingredients, and the aromas and the design of the food upon the plates. My meal included: An entrée of K'gari spanner crab with tomato, fermented chilli and green strawberries; a second entrée of coral prawn ravioli with tarragon, .lemon and espellete; the main of O'Connor grass fed Angus Beef Fillet; a lemon sorbet refresher; and a dessert of Caramelised banana soufflé with Yuzu sorbet, brown butter and Pecan. My wife's meal included: an entrée of Scallops with Yuzu, daikon and Tasmanian wasabi; a second entrée of Murray Cod with summer squash, zucchini and green tomato; the main of Maremma Duck with spigarello, witlof and cherries; a refresher of Lemon sorbet; and a dessert of mango, Jasmine and Lychee. We concluded the meal with well made, barista coffees. Our super efficient and friendly waiter Jack was amazing, as were all the staff, including the Sommelier who provided his expertise to my choice of wine. A meal at this amazing restaurant is highly recommended
The BEST restaurant in Australia in, sublime food, amazing staff and spectacular view (Harbour Bridge & Opera House)
We have been to Aria 3 times in the past 12 months, the food is always spectacular! Every mouthful is a burst of flavour in your mouth, it really is the best restaurant we have ever been to.
Service was a real let down for a special occasion
Had a disappointing dinner for 4 at Aria on 30th December. Seated in one of the function areas at the back, which I can understand given the time of year but certainly lacks the wow factor of the main dining room. This was a special occasion and we we hosting 2 older non-Sydney family members who enjoy good food. The service was terrible. Rushed through several courses at breakneck speed. Bizarrely, 1.40 hours after sitting down - and before we were even served the main course - the waiter asked if we could eat our deserts in the bar as they wanted our table back for another party. Refused and were then reassured we could stay but it was all a bit cringey for a restaurant like Aria, especially at $290 a head for a degustation menu. I complained to the manager and she was certainly professional to speak with but did little to offer an explanation for the service mistakes. Food was good - not great - and a couple of dishes would have benefited from a pinch of salt (IMHO). Sorry Aria - not good enough and we won’t be returning any time soon.
Simply the best! Everything is perfection at Aria- from
Simply the best! Everything is perfection at Aria- from service, to the view, to the incredible food. The perfect start before seeing an opera. The elegant dining room overlooks the harbor and the opera house. We did the pre- theater menu which allowed us to taste the best Aria had to offer and make our show without feeling rushed. Our martinis were the perfect start paired with bread service - artisan bread with Australia's incredible butter... and chicken butter! Amazing!! The amuse bouche was the perfect starter of foi Gras mousse and a light ceviche. My starter was the yellowfin tuna with smoked dashi broth and radish. Possibly the best tuna I've had outside of Tokyo. My partner had the Rangers beef tartare with smoked eel served in a sweet potato crust. For the main course my partner enjoyed the O'Conner fillet of beef over Jerusalem artichokes. I had the maremma duck- two ways- perfectly cooked breast and confit. Incredible!! And of course we had to get the royal blue brown butter potatoes- life changing goodness. Mains were followed by a refreshing intermezzo. Dessert was Australian cheese and a light airy caramelized banana soufflé. The entire meal was like an Aria- perfection!
We went there for a special night out.
For such a highly rated restaurant I was disappointed. I chose the tasting menu. One of the courses was inedible. I couldn't even cut the lamb. I told the waiter and his response was that he could take it back and have them cook it more. When paying $300 for a meal you shouldn't have to send back food to be "cooked". I would think twice before going here.
Aria never disappoints - fantastic seasonal produce and fantastic staff
Aria never disappoints. Fabulous seasonal food and amazing outlook. I opted for tasting menu and cocktails as the smoked margarita is phenomenal. Before the food started I ordered a Cherry lamington old fashioned which was lovely. The food’s arrival was well timed - I had time to have my drink and take in the view of the Opera House and then a cabbage tart and kind prawn dumpling arrived. Both were lovely. Bless them, bread and butter was then delivered before the main food arrived. The bread is lovely a slightly warm and served with a beautiful cultured butter and - the star - a kombu and chicken jus butter which is so amazing they should sell it. The food started with a beetroot dish with various treatments of beetroot, buffalo milk curd, pesto and olives which was lovely. The next dish was the scallops with leek, peas with a beautiful dressing (kombu I think?). More bread cake which was much appreciated. A waiter recommended a new cocktail, the Calderon which was mezcal, mandarin and something with force carbonation - stunning. Next up was the duck dumpling with duck consommé which was just amazing - so much flavour for such a light looking dish. Then came the Guinea fowl, with farrow, carrot and a macadamia crumb - amazing. Lamb was next with cavolo Nero and beluga lentils. That was just sublime - then lentil were amazing and the sauce on them was silky. The desserts were next - plum sorbet with foam and macadamia crumble-lovely and familiar while being special. Then came and main dessert - chocolate tart with dulce de ledge and honeycomb layers - fantastic. The palate cleanser was two tiny lemon madelaines which were a perfect way to finish up.
Fabulous restaurant with stunning views and first class food
Decided to treat ourselves on our last night in Sydney. The food and service were excellent and the outlook spectacular. Not the cheapest but great value and highly recommended
Well worth it!
The food is exceptional. Obviously, there has been lots of time developing the menu using seasonal food. Each dish has its own flavours that work so well together. The little tasters between each course is a true delight for the tastebuds! Top effort to the chefs and to staff for the great service! And of course, what a few!!
Simply stunning
Menu was superb. hard to make a decision on what to order. Great quality ingredients. alot of food and some great surprises
Dinner next to the Sydney Opera Hoyse
Very professionally run restaurant, staff fun with deliciously well presented food. We had the four course menu, Crab very tasty and beautifully presented. Scallops cooked to perfection. Snapper again well presented and a great mixture of blended flavours. Soufflé an experience not to be missed, Cheeses ripened to express the flavours to complement a great glass of red wine. I would highly recommend a visit but beware the wines are very expensive.
Best place, by far, to eat in Circular Quay
This restaurant has it all. Great food, great service, and spectacular views. The four course tastinbg menu is delicious - tuna and scallop starters were excellent, the main course - duck was delicious, and a wonderful cherry souffle to finish things off. We try and make Aria our destination for the first and last evenings of our stays in Australia. Many memorable evenings spent here.
Well deserving of its place in the top tier. Special occasion for sure!
We chose Aria for a special treat and it was exactly what we hoped for. The food was delicious and well-presented, the waitstaff friendly, and the surroundings hit just the right note of elegance without pretention. The menu was sufficient for choice and each dish good. We were delighted to be back! Special kudos to the reservation team that worked hard to move dates and times to get what we sought. The only reason it's a 4 this time is that the service was a bit ragged -- slow to take orders, didn't keep track of who ordered what, and actually got one dessert order wrong. But hey, it's still post-Covid and we had a wonderful meal and experience.
Exquisite!
The best of the best. First class service for arrival to departure. Professional and friendly greeting as you are shown to your table. No matter where you are seated, the view is amazing with dress circle seating looking straight out over the harbour to 2 of Sydney's icons. It doesn't get much better. The menu is diverse and showcases some of the country's best produce. Extensive wine list for pairing if you wish. The serving team is knowledgeable, courteous, and friendly and will provide guidance regarding the menu. Aria is well suited to intimate dinners and special event celebrations. Reservations are essential .
Disappointing visit this time
I took two guests after a SSO performance, such a great location Entre of spanner crab excellent if a bit on the stingy side Main of duck, lacked flavour..needed a good French sauce and a little tough Desert of souffle..not perfect as was very moist towards base. Top was excellent and light and fluffy as should be My espresso coffee served in large cup instead of propper small cup Service excellent and professional. Wine list excellent and of course very expensive
Great view, nice food and slightly rude service
I went to Aria for the pre-theatre menu. This was my second time doing the pre-theatre. I have to say both times I felt rushed. One of the wait staff spoke to us so loudly. It was almost rude. We felt really rushed. I couldn’t make my mind up as to what type of wine to have. I asked for a taste of two wines. And the sommelier said she couldn’t because it was a Saturday night. I get that it was a limited seating from a time perspective but why have it when you make you customers feel second rate. I liked the food but most of the experience was tainted by the service sadly.
No Michelin stars for this restaurant? Beggars belief.
One of the best dining experiences I have ever had. Everything ( except for the pea dish which was merely good) was fabulous. From cocktails to dessert it was a meal to remember.
We made our reservation 5 weeks in advance.
When we arrived 10 minutes early, we were shuffled off to a bar area to await our table. The two men behind the bar never even gave us eye contact, let alone a drink. At 5 PM others began to arrive and they were whisked past us directly to their tables. When I asked what had happened to us, a man with a bun on top of his head and horn rimmed glasses (I did not get his name), ushered us to a table by a post, three rows back from windows with the views of the Opera House and Bridge, in spite of the fact that there were empty tables in the second row, and at the window. I declined the table, and he rushed off to consult with someone. When he came back, he grudgingly moved us to the second row. I asked him what the seating criteria were, and he said it was based on how early the reservation had been made. I pointed out our reservation had been made 5 weeks earlier, and that we arrived early as well. He admitted that others in the rows ahead may not have met the advance criteria.Both my wife and I were dressed appropriately for dinner and the opera. Then the man began to drill us: "What part of United States were we from?" I advised that we are Canadians. Then he started to name provinces, not satisfied until we advised that our province is Alberta. He was rude, arrogant, and had pegged us as "Americans".We asked for a wine list and made our choice: a $26 per glass Cabernet Sauvignon. When our Asian Wine Steward arrived with the bottle in hand, she just summarily poured wine directly into my glass and began to do the same with my wife's glass. I asked whether it was not appropriate to at least allow me to taste the wine to ensure that it was good, and more importantly, that I liked it. She just responded: "the wine is good -- I don't offer an advance tasting because it is by the glass". I have never encountered a more ignorant response from a wine server in all of our world travels.The food portions, while small, were very tasty in spite of some ingredients which I did not recognize. The dessert, a chocolate egg with cream inside was outstanding. This is in comparison with the food on the luxurious Regent Seven Seas Explorer from which we had just disembarked.My bottom line is that I have never been made to feel as tawdry as some of the wait staff did, being pegged as an American which seemed undesirable by this restaurant.If you are North American, I suggest you steer clear of Aria.
Worst fine dining experience you will ever experience.
Borderline racist!We are on a family vacation visiting Sydney and obviously not caucasian. First off, I have never been to a restaurant, yet fine dining restaurant, where the staff did not say Thank You on the way out of the restaurant. When I say didn't say, I mean none of the staff. Yet I heard the staff said thank you to every other caucasian guests walking out. I dont know if it's because my family doesn't all speak english, but it does not justify the experience I had. Second, I have booked a table at Aria 3 months in advance specifically requesting the Opera House view. However, the staff told us, sorry the request is not guarantee. Therefore, we got the habour view with the sun setting right in my face. Third, the food is not that great. I will admit it is okay (on the better end for just to savory course) but the dessert was overly sweet.I also told the receptionist that it is my mom's birthday. There was nothing special and our waiter didnt even say happy birthday to my mom. Overall, this is a terrible experience, but my parents were happy that I took them just because I have been planning to take them to this restaurant for the past 3 months.In conclusion, if you want a fine dining experience in Sydney, save yourself a trip and go somewhere else
Terrible experience.
Be prepared to spend a minimum $300 a head and be rushed through your meal. The rushed service overshadowed the view and the food. We were having desert and they repeatedly pressured us to pay the check while we were still eating. We asked to take the desert to go and were denied and shamed for asking. Can't even comment on the quality food because the staff was only focused on us leaving. When we brought this up with staff they were defensive and unapologetic. Very expensive and very disappointing- save your money and go somewhere else.
Connect with users posting reservations for Aria Restaurant Sydney
AppointmentTrader is a community-driven platform where users can exchange their reservations or leverage their personal relationships with Aria Restaurant Sydney. Buyers can make informed decisions using automated seller ratings, which reflect past transactions and reliability.
Each posting on AppointmentTrader shows you which user submitted it and along with that provides a trackrecord of that user which indicates how much experience
the user has and how many percent of their transactions resulted in them issuing a refund.
If there is no user posting that fits your schedule, you can bid on your preferred time.
Let's say Peter has a great morning and decides to take his three friends to Aria Restaurant Sydney at 6 PM the same day.
He checks the restaurant's website and sees that no reservations are available. He then looks at the Aria Restaurant Sydney page on AppointmentTrader, but finds that there are no user postings either.
That's where the community-driven bid process comes in.
Peter can place a bid on AppointmentTrader, which serves as a reward for any community member who chooses to work on securing the reservation. AT then notifies experienced users who may be able to help.
Step-by-Step Process
1.) Setting a Reward (Bid)
* AppointmentTrader uses historical data to recommend a reasonable reward amount for securing a reservation - let's say $100.
* Peter really wants to go, so he increases the bid (or reward) to $200.
* At this stage, the reservation does not exist yet.
2.) A Community User Picks Up the Bid
* ElaborateHouse74, an experienced AT user, has a strong track record of successfully securing reservations and low refund requests, they receive a notification about Peter's bid.
* ElaborateHouse74 picks up the bid, meaning they will now work on securing the reservation.
* Peter can now talk to ElaborateHouse74 for any questions Peter may have as ElaborateHouse74 user fills the bid.
3.) Finding the Reservation
* ElaborateHouse74 now uses their connections at Aria Restaurant Sydney to secure the table.
* If they successfully get the 6 PM table for four, Peter receives a confirmation that the reservation has been secured.
* If ElaborateHouse74 fails to secure the reservation, the bid is returned to the pool so another user can try.
4.) Payment & Protection
* Once the reservation is secured, ElaborateHouse74 receives the $200 reward which is credited to ElaborateHouse74's AT balance, where users manage their own funds and can withdraw via available payout options such as bank transfer, PayPal, or Zelle.
* Peter can now enjoy the dinner with his friends at Aria Restaurant Sydney!
* As with all transactions on AT, disputes and no-show fees are handled through the platform's community-driven resolution system. Users with a strong track record are incentivized to fulfill bids successfully, and community members can report issues to maintain trust in the marketplace.
