ARIA continues to thrive as tourists and locals line up for authentic Italian dishes
Picture yourself indulging in the delectable embrace of a crispy, yet tender prosciutto pizza slice, oozing with cheesy richness, freshly baked within the confines of a wood-fired brick oven, expertly crafted by none other than an Italian Chef. With each bite, tantalizing strands of melted cheese gracefully part ways, while the vibrant flavors of Italy dance upon your taste buds. Casting your gaze upon the panoramic vista of glistening azure seas from the serene perch of a second-floor dining balcony, you relish the sensation of fine, powdery sand beneath your feet as you step outside. No longer a mere figment of imagination, this exquisite experience awaits you at ARIA Cucina Italiana.
Since its inception in 2003 on the illustrious shores of Boracay island, this 21-year-old beachfront establishment has remained a steadfast beacon of culinary excellence, boasting authentic cuisine meticulously curated by entrepreneurs Juan Elizalde and Paolo Occhionero. Guided by the adept hand of Italian Executive Chef Salvatore Vincentis, ARIA continues to captivate discerning palates worldwide with its exquisite offerings. Chef Vincentis’ commitment to culinary mastery is unwavering, evident in his stringent standards for ingredient freshness and quality; some ingredients are even sourced directly from Italy to uphold the integrity of their delectable Italian fare. ARIA’s thoughtfully curated menu stands as the most comprehensive on the island, catering to an array of tastes and preferences, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience for every guest.
Beyond their premium ingredients, it’s the wood-fired brick oven that elevates ARIA’s pizzas to unparalleled levels of deliciousness. This traditional method imparts an unparalleled depth of flavor, harnessing the intense heat to swiftly cook the pizza, resulting in a crisp crust while preserving moisture and enhancing taste. The wood infusion lends a distinctive smokiness that sets these pizzas apart, evoking a flavor profile unattainable through other cooking techniques. Moreover, these ovens, steeped in centuries-old tradition, not only maintain authenticity but also encapsulate the essence of Italian culinary heritage. The legacy and artistry associated with these ovens imbue the pizza-making process at ARIA with an undeniable authenticity that resonates deeply with their discerning guests.
Prepare to be impressed by ARIA’s extensive array of 26 pizza varieties, each drawing inspiration from different regions of Italy. For those craving versatility, inquire about their secret menu for half-and-half options, or opt for the “La Famiglia” size to accommodate larger groups. Beyond pizza, tantalize your taste buds with appetizers like the Fritto di Calamari con Maionese Elle Erbe and Prosciutto e Mango, widely acclaimed as among the island’s best starters. For a refreshing salad choice, look no further than the Cocomero Salad, a perennial favorite. Pasta aficionados will delight in the special black fettuccine dishes, featuring the Fettuccine Nere and Al Nero. Meanwhile, the Chicken Parmigiana, baked to perfection in ARIA’s brick oven, remains a beloved crowd-pleaser. For a culinary adventure, don’t miss out on the underrated delight of Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, also known as potato dumplings. Quench your thirst with Italian cocktails and peruse their extensive wine list, perfectly complementing the mouthwatering dishes. Conclude your dining experience on a sweet note with ARIA’s Tris di Dolci or indulge in their impeccably creamy ARIA Gelato, boasting a selection of 18 flavors made fresh daily with imported ingredients. With every gelato flavor crafted daily, ARIA offers the ultimate ice cream dessert experience in Boracay.
In the face of adversity, ARIA Cucina Italiana remains a stalwart icon among Boracay’s dining scene, overcoming challenges stemming from the island’s closures for rehabilitation in 2018 and subsequent pandemic woes in 2020. Opting to remain operational to support their staff, ARIA adeptly pivoted to embrace digital solutions, implementing an online ordering and delivery system with seamless efficiency. This swift adaptation has proven fruitful, with their online orders continuing to thrive. Through it all, their dedicated core and front-of-house team have remained steadfast in their commitment to excellence, ensuring that diners consistently enjoy satisfying experiences. With a rich history spanning 21 years of delivering authentic Italian cuisine without compromise on taste or quality, coupled with glowing reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor and Google, ARIA Cucina Italiana stands poised to write many more chapters of culinary success in the years to come.
Visit ARIA Cucina Italiana at D’Mall, Station 2, Boracay Island.
Follow them on Instagram @ariacucinaitaliana.
See the menu here. Order via Viber: +63 998 482 8490
