 |
 |
| Northwest Wine Fan Visits Ariana |
| Ambience: Located in a craftsman style home Ariana's decor is rich classic dark toned woods with burgundy colored walls and hardwood floors. Complete with a cozy fireplace it makes you immediately feel comfortable. In the center of the room is a counter with seating for four or so people, for those who might not have reservations, or would just like to enjoy an appetizer and a glass of wine. Service: Upon entering the restaurant we were greeted and were told our table was being prepared for us. Being seated I noticed that there did not seem to be enough waitstaff for a busy Saturday night. That is until I watched them in action. They seemed to flow around the room giving what I would call "Perfectly Timed Service." There was never a time we felt ignored or un-served and in contrast we did not feel accosted (too much service). It was just right, from staff that knew the menu and made recommendations with confidence. The Food: The Ariana menu fits onto one page, but oh the choices! We started with an appetizer of Beef Carpaccio with Scallions, Truffle Oil, Parmesan and Horseradish Cream served with a plate of crostini. It was a delicate and delightful dish. For our starters we chose the always winning Ariana Salad as well as a Roasted Red Tomato Bisque topped with chives. We paired these dishes with a Dr. Loosen Saint M Riesling from the wine menu. This along with the Ariana bread basket which includes their must try Rosemary Focaccia. Our entree's included Ariana's signature dish of Braised Lamb Shank over Creamy Parmesan Polenta and Roasted Root Vegetables. Beautiful! The Parmesan Polenta was to die for and the Lamb was some of the best I have eaten. Other entrees we ordered included the Duck Two Ways - Seared Duck Breast and Confit Duck over Parmesan Rissotto and the special of the evening: Cassoulet, a combination of White Beans, Maple Bacon, Homemade Sausage with a crumb topping. All this with a Confit Duck Leg served on top created a truly magnificent dish. For our entrees we brought a bottle of 2001 Sineann Pinot Noir Reed and Reynolds which paired wonderfully with our meals. Wine Menu: The wine menu at Ariana is adequate with a good selection of Northwest and California wines and a smattering of International offerings. Glasses of wine range from $4 to $7 with bottles ranging from $15 to $75. The Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon at $67 and the Ridge Sonoma Zinfandel at $32 are attractively priced. Wine Service: Ariana is a wine lover's restaurant! The stemware is a cut above what we are used to seeing around. Of the three times we have dined here (parties of 2, 5 and 10) the wine service has been exceptional, even if you are bringing your own wine (which we have done a couple of times). When switching from whites to reds the stemware has been automatically changed without ever asking. I appreciate it when an establishment treats your wine enjoyment seriously and Ariana is up to the task. Overall Impression: Three times there, three memorable dining experiences. Highly recommended. |
 |
| Ariana Restaurant Fine Mediterranean Dining Inspired by French, Italian & Spanish Cuisines 1304 NW Galveston Bend, OR 97701 541-330-5539 Serving Lunch and Dinner Tuesday thru Saturday Lunch Hours: 11:30 - 2:00 Dinner Hours: 5:00 - Close Chefs: Ariana Asti and Andres Fernandez Food Prices: Moderate Wine Prices: Value to Moderate Corkage: $10 Reviewed by Tim and Carolyn Sinniger March, 2006 |
| Talk To The Cellarmaster: |
| Tim Sinniger |
| Name: |
| Email: |
|
 |
 |
 |
|
|
|
|
|