Aya is widely described as a refined Lebanese restaurant in the West Island with an elegant decor, a strong wine program, and a warm, inviting atmosphere suited to dates, business dinners, and celebrations. The menu features flavorful, well presented dishes and includes standout items such as grilled octopus, kebbe, hummus, fattoush, sea bass, and beef options, with a tasting menu and a range of dips and salads that guests frequently praise, while the Lebanese wine recommendations from a sommelier are noted as elevating the experience. Service is generally attentive and knowledgeable, though a few reviews mention occasional staff shortages during busy times, and the dining room is described as spacious yet intimate with a vibe that can be lively for large groups or quiet on slower nights. Pricing is often described as on the higher side for the area, but many feel the quality, presentation, and hospitality justify the cost, making Aya a go to for celebrations, office events, and romantic evenings. Overall Aya is viewed as a standout Lebanese option in the area, delivering solid flavors, refined ambiance, and reliable hospitality, with guests returning for the diverse menu and memorable experiences.
Aya Experience was a terrific choice for a Friday-night business dinner (2 pax).
We shared several appetizers - grilled octopus, hummus, fattoush, & arnabeet - all in generous portions, beautifully presented, & full of flavour. The sommelier elevated the experience by sharing thoughtful insights into the Lebanese wine industry & guiding us to delicious glasses of Cabernet Sauvignon, while our attentive & knowledgeable waiter offered spot-on recommendations throughout.
The vibe & atmosphere were warm & inviting, ideal for conversation & connection. We'll gladly return - next time to explore the main courses.
The restaurant is beautiful & food is very fresh & tasty. Unfortunately it was a dead friday night, not much atmosphere...poor woman singing no one was really clapping.
But thats fine.. it was quiet & its not the resto's fault.
We got there at 8... place is supposed to close at 11. At 100$ person, I do not expect to be rushed in anyway. We ordered the full 3 course experience cockails & wine. We got cocktails after our appetizers.. we told the waiter about a nut allergie.. we got walnuts & pistachios in our dishes. At 10pm we were told the kitchen was closing so they wanted to bring the desserts right away with my meat on the table, we took it to go! Bill came right after... I dont mind dropping 400$ on a dinner when the experience comes with it.... but this place fell short of that. Great food... but don't seem to really want you to have an memorable experience.
When you walk into the venue, the interior design is breathtaking! The arrangement of tables allow for an intimate dining experience. Definitely a first date restaurant. The four rambunctious children at the next table were almost bearable at the distance from our table. Had it been anywhere else, we would have asked for another table or left. Our waiter was very professional (Gibbys should send some of their waiters here for training). The food was beautifully presented but not stellar. My Bass arrived 10 minutes after my husband's meal had arrived. Our wonderful Waiter gave a detailed description of the Bass that I could almost visualize the Fisherman reeling it in from the Mediterranean. I was extremely disappointed on what I had received. One portion was rubbery, lukewarm, & spongy. The other portion was mediocre. I was expecting the fish to be grilled & I even asked if the filets had been frozen. I ate the fresh one & even pointed out the difference between the skins/flesh of the fish. I was not expecting any reduction of price but for the time difference in main meal arrivals & elevated price I would have expected a manager to apologize for the delay (10 minutes is excessive) or an explanation/inquiry on why I thought the quality of the fish was not appreciated.
The beautiful waitress with the curly hair (i really wish i got her name!) was amazing from start to end. She was SO sweet, so caring & the best waitress i've ever had. I left so happy because of her 🩷
Really beautiful restaurant, amazing food, great atmosphere & staff. The food is truly delicious!! Wether for an event, office gathering, or to enjoy a nice romantic evening, you will have a lovely time.
Where do I start!? Ambiance 5 star with beautiful kitchen wonderful atmosphere. Now the food traditional Lebanese cuisine im not kidding when I say quality quality quality! The food was to die for perfection with simplicity. I have some pictures attached. I tried to stop myself from eating but was just too good , everything was perfect. The best restaurant I've been to in a very long time! Oh did I mention the beautiful terrace. Thank you for a wonderful experience & great cuisine!
Jun 25, 2023
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I love this place! Food is always great (not the largest portions buy always delicious). The decor is beautiful & elegant & the service is second to none. Ricky is the best host/waiter/friend you could ask for. He makes our visits so special which is one of the main reasons we keep going back.
