EVE

Question: What is Aria?
A. Italian for air
B. An opera performance
C. A new venue in Toronto
Answer: All of the above

The Venue
Aria Ristorante is a newer venue in Maple Leaf Square, steps away from Union Station and a welcome addition to the event scene. Muted shades of grays and whites give a calming ambiance against the outside view of the massive screen showing sporting events and activities at the Air Canada Centre.

My Experience
Recently I attended a reception held in the bar area, which was an excellent spot to meet acquaintances old and new as well as to discover the venue. Passed hors d’oeuvres were one-bite only; perfect to nibble on while continuing to network. Service was also above par, with the staff remembering what our group favoured and whisking away used dishware quietly and efficiently.

My Feedback
The planner in me cautions that events in the bar area are not necessarily private. Other patrons must walk through the bar area to access the restaurant and washrooms which are not inside Aria but located outside of the venue on the ground floor of the office building.

Overall, it’s a great venue for a short reception prior to a game at the Air Canada Centre or an event at Le Germain, Maple Leaf Square. Leaving the restaurant to use the washroom can hinder the guest experience for longer events.