Aria, one of Atlanta’s top fine-dining destinations, is excited to welcome James Beard semifinalist Joseph Harrison as its new executive chef starting June 18. Owner Andrés Loaiza tapped Harrison, formerly of Savannah’s acclaimed Common Thread, to carry on the restaurant’s 25-year legacy under founding chef Gerry Klaskala’s recent retirement.
From Savannah’s Common Thread to Aria’s Buckhead Kitchen
Harrison first caught Klaskala’s eye and heart when he helmed Mystic Grill in Conyers and later made waves at Cooks & Soldiers, Lazy Betty and Mujo.
After steering Common Thread’s launch in 2021 to national acclaim (and earning that James Beard nod for Best Chef: Southeast alongside Brandon Carter), Harrison jumped at Loaiza’s offer to join Aria.
“Working with Gerry Klaskala is a dream,” Harrison says. “Andrés and I share the same passion for hospitality, front and back of house alike.”
A New Chapter—Elevating Aria’s Experience
Beyond the food revamp imagine redfish with jalapeño emulsion and North Carolina flounder with berbere spice Aria will be introducing internal and external improvements on June 18: new glassware, china, landscaping, and more understated design elements to complement Harrison’s heightened vision.
Continuing a Legacy of Excellence
Aria was just named a 2025 James Beard Award finalist for Outstanding Hospitality. Harrison sees his appointment not as a departure but a partnership in Aria’s story:
“I’m humbled to uphold what Gerry built, and excited to evolve it.”
Visit Aria
Aria is located at 490 East Paces Ferry in Buckhead. Dinner is served Tuesday through Saturday beginning at 5:30 p.m. For more information, call 404-233-7673 or visit aria-atl.com.
