The Aerie — Restaurant in Cottonwood Heights

Eating at The Aerie was a disheartening experience. The restaurant itself was gorgeous, but sitting down to a sticky table was the first of many signs that the Aerie, like The 71, is more interested in making things look good than making things that actually ARE good. It seems the staff are aware the food is bad, as we were dissuaded from several menu options by our server, including the only vegetarian entrée. I really appreciate the candor, but it was clear menu planning and execution are not indicative of a fine dining experience. I want to be very, very clear, our server was excellent, the issue is in the kitchen.

We ordered the fondue, which arrived cold, and the small tealight under the dish wasn't powerful enough to warm it. As we had been advised against most entrées, we decided to make a meal of appetizers. We had the lobster tail cocktail, which was quite rubbery and served with a tarar sauce that tasted like a citrus candle, and the Lily Oscar Lump Crab that was more than a little reminiscent of canned tuna. The highlight of the meal was the poached asparagus UNDER the crab.

As locals, the quality of the food in the Cliff Lodge wholly surprised us. Salt Lake and Park City have been establishing themselves as foodie towns for years, and there are so many talented chefs and restaurant staff in the area. We spent over $200 on very disappointing food at the Aerie, and for the same amount (or less!) we could have had a spectacular meal in the city or surrounding areas (Pago, Table X, Cafe Molissé).

I mentioned this in my review of The 71(also at the Cliff Lodge) but it bears repeating; I don't mind paying a premium for high quality food, but The Aerie doesn't even hit mid quality. I don't think you could pay ME to eat there again. What you're paying for essentially is convenience. We really do love the resort, and it's such a shame they totally bungled the food. Next time we stay, we will probably book a room with a kitchen and make...

I'm not sure how they can say "The Aerie is for those who love the art of fine dining" because it is anything but fine dining!

My husband and I decided to have a quick staycation at The Cliff Lodge and spend a day getting a massage, enjoying the spa amenities, hanging out by the pool, and then finishing the day with a nice meal at the resort. So we made a reservation at The Aerie.

The service wasn't great. We were sat for 15 minutes, before we were greeted by the server's assistant asking about our water preference. After that, the service was just sub-par. We were one of 5 tables in the restaurant at the time.

We started with two apps. First, the "Lily Oscar" (lump crab and poached asparagus - $32). The asparagus was great (and probably the highlight of the entire meal)! The lump crab tasted like tuna salad - there was way too much mayo and there wasn't much for "lump" either since it was all mushed together. Second, was the ceasar salad ($17). For the sliver of romaine I got, it was extremely overpriced. Also, I understand that some people don't like anchovies (then don't get a ceasar salad?), but to serve two pieces of anchovy in a separate dish on the plate, just seemed odd. The dressing was just ok.

I ordered the "Roasted Scottish Salmon" ($48). The béarnaise sauce seemed like it was poured out of the Reese Bearnaise Sauce jar without even being warmed up at all. The sweet peas weren't what I expected, since they looked more like a snow pea to me. My husband ordered the "Duck Confit" ($45). It was super crispy and extremely dry overall (odd for a confit, right?). The slaw tasted ok, but was not visually appealing/appetizing.

I ordered the "Rosemary Gimlet" ($13.50). It was decent, but was too heavy on the lime juice so the only rosemary you got in the cocktial was the sprig garnish. It is extremely difficult to find a good cocktail in Utah - and it's not here.

Fine dining? No. Would I...

I recently dined at The Aerie Restaurant at Snowbird, and the experience was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm hospitality and exceptional service that set the tone for the evening. The food at The Aerie was incredible, a true feast for the senses. Each dish was meticulously prepared, showcasing a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The appetizers were a perfect start, but the main courses were the highlight — perfectly cooked fish and fresh, flavorful vegetables that were as visually appealing as they were delicious. The desserts were a decadent finish, leaving us thoroughly impressed with the culinary prowess on display. The service was equally outstanding. The staff was attentive without being intrusive, knowledgeable about the menu, and eager to ensure our dining experience was perfect. Every need was anticipated and met with a smile, making us feel truly pampered. A special mention must go to the General Manager, whose presence and dedication were evident throughout our visit. Their attention to detail and commitment to excellence were clear in every aspect of the restaurant's operation. They made a point to check in with guests personally, adding a personal touch that elevated the entire experience. Overall, dining at The Aerie Restaurant was an unforgettable experience, thanks to the incredible food, impeccable service, and the exceptional leadership of the General Manager. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a remarkable meal in a...