Aria Wine Bar, located in the West Village, is one of the most popular bars in New York City to catch up with a friend over a glass of wine and a few classic Italian appetizers. Like all other restaurants with ‘Wine Bar’ in the name, I’ve avoided going to Aria for the last four years that I’ve lived in NYC. I stay away form wine because it’s rough on my stomach, and Italian crostinis and cheese platters aren’t conducive to my diet. Last week, I was convinced to go to Aria for my first time, and AMAZED to learn that Aria is much more than wine, bread, and cheese. Aria has a FULL bar with an incredible cocktail list, and an extensive menu filled with salads, charcuterie, meats, and my favorite vegetable apps. Complete with countertop seating and large, open windows, Aria is definitely the quintessential West Village restaurant.
Yes, nobread unapproved appetizers such as bruschetta and meatballs are favorites on the menu, but I was impressed to see how much of the menu is gluten free! All of the salumi and formaggi are GF, and the prosciutto with melon, grilled eggplant, sautéed artichokes, steamed asparagus, and sautéed shellfish options are delicious nobread approved favorites. My favorite section of the Aria menu is the salads. I ordered the lobster, avocado, and arugula salad and LOVED it, and I have my eye on the marinated mixed seafood salad and beet salad for my next visit. Aria is known for their pastas, too, and the menu features an extensive list of pasta choices. Not to worry… Aria has gluten free pasta! All of the pasta options can be prepared with the gluten free substitute except for dishes containing meatballs (breadcrumbs in the meatballs), the lasagna, and the stuffed noodles such as the gnocchi and ravioli. If you aren’t full yet, the salmon and branzino are very popular, and the list of sautéed vegetable sides includes all of my favorite veggies.
Aria Wine Bar is the perfect place for your next date night or place to catch up with a friend. The space is small, but I just learned Aria has a downstairs area with one of the best private party deals in New York, making the restaurant great for your next birthday party, too! Delicious cocktails, awesome food, and adorable West Village vibe; I will absolutely be back soon!