ARIAEveryone in Beijing is singing the praises of this new restaurantBy Veronica LeeShaping up to be the talk-of-the-town, is China World Hotel's new restaurant ARIA. Named after an operatic aria, it will epitomize entertainment in every respect - in the enjoyment of good cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients, fine wines, a range of live musical entertainment, and generally, a place where one would like to see and be seen at. A place where dining, wining and having a memorable time will come at a reasonable price. Introducing a back-to-basics style of preparing western cuisine, a style which is being adapted by renowned chefs the world over, Aria's open kitchen and rotisserie will be the central focus for grilled food items, including a fresh choice of seafood. It is also known for its wine bar with a difference. Accessible directly from the front of the hotel, where car park space is allocated for its guests, ARIA is spread out over two levels of the China World Hotel. Mural-sized artworks of famous European artists highlighted by strategic lighting by night and natural light from roof skylights by day, line the corridor leading into the comfortably-appointed seating areas, bar counter and wine bar area. Designed by Chris von Eckartsberg of BCV Architects in San Francisco, the interior decor comprises stylized design elements complemented with rich fabrics. The unpretentious ambiance of ARIA, reflected in the attire of the service staff and their unobtrusive service style, means the casual, smart casual as well as the formally-dressed guests to feel equally at ease. Bathed in a healthy dose of natural light by day, the lower level has a seating capacity of 100, with a bar counter that caters to the elbow-bender crowd while cozy seating arrangements allow for more privacy. Nestled on the other side of the room is a wine bar. Here, guests will be able to savor the taste of new wines in a range of sampler sizes, while enjoying a t�te-�-t�te with friends or business colleagues. Walking up the impressive spiral staircase to the upper level and to the main dining area with two private rooms, one will be greeted by a virtual show-time of chefs in action, cheerfully preparing delectable dishes and interacting with guests.. The creative force behind the cuisine will be Chef Adam Levin, who originates from the Southwest United States. Adam's favorite pastime in Beijing is checking out fresh produce in the markets on a bicycle or on foot. China World Hotel Beijing SHANGRI-LA HOTELS -Updated 10-28-98-
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