Old and New: A new addition to Lan Kwai Fong’s dining options, Aria offers up a blend of traditional and modern Italian cuisine done with upscale, creative touches.

Look & Feel: Set on the 24th floor of California Tower, Aria takes over the space that was the restaurant floor of the former Ce La Vi. In its current incarnation, the space is bright and regal, featuring elegant, high-end fixtures such as crown molding, detailed doors, marble tabletops, and well-upholstered chairs. This is Versailles-style opulence in the heart of Hong Kong.

On the Menu: Aria’s menu features dishes from throughout Italy, incorporating international elements that draw on executive chef Andrea Zamboni’s experiences, both at home and throughout the world. The a la carte menu offers plenty of traditional Italian comfort food and childhood favorites while the daily specials and Chef’s Table menu are innovative, modern takes on Italian cuisine. We sampled plenty of off-menu items, including a surprising parma ham and melon sorbet pizza, and the incredibly decadent foie gras and scampi dish that won Zamboni Michelin star attention in 2018.

But, the dishes off the a la carte menu that we tried also perfectly showcased Zamboni’s creativity and homage to Italian cuisine. Start with Zamboni’s signature tagliatelle with Garda spicy tomato sauce with blue lobster and bagna-cauda fondue ($268); Milanese-style 1 year aged Carnaroli rice risotto with D.O.P. taleggio and Franciacorta Metodo Classico ($268); then sate your appetite on the Italian Milk-fed Veal Cutlet Milanese Style with Tomatoes and Celery Relish and Sicilian Lemon ($428). You’ll find that each dish is simple yet elegant and plated with sophistication.

Zamboni brings his creativity to the dessert menu, too – the off-menu “Truffleberry” was a great combination of truffle and berries, but the widely available Mamma and Papa is inspired by Zamboni’s parents and features chocolate with liquorice cream and powder, mint gel and tuile, chocolate Herbert, and ganache with chocolate soil. Of course, there’s tiramisu available, too.

Meet the Chef: Formerly of 8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana, executive chef Andrea Zamboni hails from northwest Italy and boasts over 20 years of experience at Michelin-starred establishments in both Italy and Hong Kong.

Great For: A fancy date night. or celebratory occasion.

FYI: There’s a lovely little terrace that would be the perfect spot for an intimate dinner when the weather’s good.

Check out Hong Kong’s newest restaurants and bars here.

This writeup is a news piece and was not based on a restaurant visit. The Loop HK will update this post once we’ve visited in person.