Chef/Owner Craig Solomon graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in 1999. Gaining experience in the kitchens of high profile restaurants in Manhattan under well-known chefs Iron Chef Bobby Flay and Larry Forgione, Craig developed a passion for the new and exciting flavors of American Regional fare, and wanted to introduce those experiences to Kosher dining. Craig successfully opened two kosher restaurants in Manhattan, Makor Café and Avi and Davids, but his dream was to have a neighborhood restaurant where families can experience unique kosher cooking. After he and his family moved to Englewood, Craig knew this was the neighborhood he was looking for to showcase his knowledge.
At Ariel's, Craig has expanded the previously limited Kosher options, blending Classic International favorites with the bold, zesty fare of the Southwest to create a diverse menu to please both simple and refined palates, young and old. He uses only the freshest ingredients, brought in daily from local markets, preparing every item on the menu from scratch, including smoking the salmon on site, to ensure the highest quality that Ariel's patrons expect and deserve. With our locally sourced ingredients, you can feel great about the quality of the dishes served to you and your family.
Craig is also a devoted family man. In fact, Ariel's is named after his daughter whose greatest love is cooking with her daddy and tasting his latest creative recipes. He understands the joy and importance of sharing family meals, designing the environment of Ariel's to reflect a warm, comfortable, neighborhood feeling that is welcoming to families with kids of all ages.