Aria owner Andrés Loaiza welcomes the return of Austin Goetzman as the restaurant’s new executive chef, marking a new chapter for one of Atlanta’s most enduring dining destinations and a homecoming for the chef. Following a thoughtful and extensive search, Goetzman emerged as a natural fit to help guide Aria forward while preserving the spirit, hospitality, and standard of excellence that have defined the restaurant for more than two decades.

Goetzman joins Aria following experience in some of the country’s most respected kitchens, including Thomas Keller’s The French Laundry in Napa Valley, as well as EL Ideas and Acadia in Chicago. Most recently, he spent several years at Atlanta’s Lazy Betty, where he was part of the restaurant’s MICHELIN-starred culinary team.

For Loaiza, Goetzman stood apart not only for his technical expertise but also for his understanding of the culture and philosophy that have shaped Aria over the years.

“This was an extremely important decision for us,” says Loaiza. “We spent a great deal of time thinking carefully about what Aria needs in its next leader — someone who respects what has made this restaurant meaningful to so many people, while also bringing the discipline, creativity, and perspective to help us continue growing thoughtfully. Austin embodies all of those qualities.”

For Goetzman, the role also represents a meaningful return. Early in his career, he worked in the Aria kitchen under founding chef-owner Gerry Klaskala after earning his culinary arts degree from The Art Institute of Atlanta.

“There’s something unique about Aria,” says Goetzman. “It’s one of those rare restaurants that has remained deeply respected while continuing to evolve. So many people in Atlanta’s dining community have passed through these doors in some way, and there’s a responsibility that comes with being part of its next chapter. I’m incredibly honored to return.”

Growing up in Alabama, Goetzman discovered his passion for cooking at an early age and later began working in restaurants while still in high school, including time at acclaimed chef Frank Stitt’s Highlands Bar & Grill in Birmingham.

“What first drew me to cooking was the idea of transformation,” says Goetzman. “Taking great ingredients and, through technique and attention, creating something that feels both refined and deeply comforting.”

“Aria already has such a strong identity and sense of place,” he says. “The goal is to preserve the essence of what makes the restaurant special while allowing it to evolve naturally over time. I’m excited to contribute to that legacy thoughtfully and help ensure Aria remains just as meaningful for guests for years to come.”

Opened in 2000, Aria has become one of Atlanta’s most beloved and respected dining destinations. The restaurant is now led by owner Andrés Loaiza, who first joined Aria in 2007. Aria was named a James Beard Award finalist for Outstanding Hospitality in both 2025 and 2026. Its modern American cuisine and acclaimed wine program have earned recognition from Wine Enthusiast magazine, Esquire, and Atlanta magazine, while the Atlanta Journal-Constitution has called it one of the city’s finest time-tested restaurants.

Aria is located at 490 East Paces Ferry Road NE in Buckhead. Dinner is served Monday through Saturday beginning at 5:30 p.m. For more information, call 404-233-7673 or visit aria-atl.com.