Sydney's Aria prepares to shut its doors ahead of $5 million facelift

ONE of Sydney's most awarded restaurants is closing next week as owner and chef Matt Moran ups the ante on fine dining at his prestigious Sydney venue overlooking the Opera House.

Aria Sydney, which currently boasts two hats, will be redesigned by leading interior architect, George Livissianis.

Livissianis is one of the hottest names in restaurant design after winning plaudits for his minimalist design at The Apollo in Potts Point and its sister restaurant Cho Cho San.

But he has also been behind a revamp of the Surry Hills stalwart Longrain and Kylie Kwong's updated Billy Kwong, also in Potts Point. 

Moran and Aria co-owner Bruce Solomon said in a press release the Circular Quay venue would boast a new colour palette and a mix of travertines, leathers, bronzes and woods.

Moran said: "When we opened ARIA just before the Sydney Olympics, we made sure we had a design that was contemporary, cutting edge and would last. Bruce and I both feel now is the right time for a new look ARIA. That stunning view of Sydney taking in the harbour, bridge and Sydney Opera House will of course remain. I'm looking forward to getting back into the kitchen with the ARIA team. We won't be moving away from fine dining at all, if anything, we’ll be upping the ante."

In a press release they announced the 170 seat restaurant would be a showcase of the best of Australia with local artists and ceramicists taking centre stage. This means new furniture, plates and glassware.

Solomon said: "When ARIA opened in 1999, it was a leader in fine dining in this city. It still is and we've never been busier. We're investing significantly to ensure ARIA remains Australia's leading fine diner for the next 17 years."

Moran and Soloman also run Aria Brisbane, and the more affordable duo in Sydney's east Chiswick and Chiswick at the Gallery.

ARIA Sydney will close on August 21 and reopen in early November for lunch and dinner Monday to Sunday.