Anniversary Dinner at Aura Restaurant & Lounge in Clive: A Gluten-Friendly Experience with Extra Thoughtful Touches

When it comes to celebrating special occasions, choosing the right restaurant makes all the difference. For our anniversary this year, my husband and I decided to dine at Aura Restaurant & Lounge in Clive — and it turned out to be one of the most memorable dinners we’ve ever had. Not only was the food outstanding (and impressively gluten-friendly), but Aura went above and beyond to make the night truly unforgettable.

A Warm, Elegant Atmosphere
Aura has a modern yet welcoming vibe that feels celebratory the moment you walk in. Soft lighting, stylish décor, and an energy that balances sophistication with comfort set the perfect tone for our evening. And right away, the staff made us feel like more than just guests — they made us feel celebrated. Waiting at our table were menus personalized with “Happy Anniversary Jason & Tarra” printed across the top. It was such a thoughtful, unexpected touch that immediately set the evening apart.

A Gluten-Friendly Menu Without Sacrifice
As someone with celiac disease, dining out can often be tricky. But Aura has taken the guesswork out of it: almost everything on their menu is or can be made gluten free. Many dishes are marked GF (gluten free) or GFM (gluten free with modification), and the staff was both knowledgeable and accommodating. It was such a relief to know I could enjoy the food fully without hesitation.

The Meal
We started with the Truffled Frites, golden fries tossed with truffle oil and parmesan, paired with roasted garlic aioli. They were indulgent, crispy, and absolutely delicious. I sipped a Raspberry Lemon Drop alongside them — bright, refreshing, and the perfect start to the night.

For my main course, I chose the Steak DeBurgo with garlic mashed potatoes. The steak was tender and juicy, cooked to perfection with a rich, savory pan sauce, while the mashed potatoes were creamy and flavorful. Every bite was comforting yet elevated. This paired really well for me with their Conundrum Red Blend, Napa 2020.

My husband ordered the 10 oz New York Strip Steak, with the option to add shrimp — which he did. The steak was perfectly seared, hearty, and flavorful, and the shrimp added just the right touch of surf-and-turf luxury. It was a generous and satisfying plate, beautifully presented.

To pair with his meal, he ordered Noah’s Smoked Old Fashioned. It was poured with dramatic flair right at the table, complete with a smoky finish. What made it even more impressive were the details: the orange peel and even the ice cube were stamped with the word AURA — a small but striking touch that elevated the entire experience. And instead of a traditional dessert, I closed the meal with an Espresso Martini — smooth, bold, and just the right amount of sweetness to finish things off.

An Extra Touch of Celebration
As if the personalized menus weren’t enough, Aura surprised us with fresh-cut flowers, brought to our table by our host. At the end of the night, they were beautifully wrapped for us to take home. It was such a thoughtful, elegant gesture that made the night feel uniquely ours. It wasn’t just dinner; it was an experience designed to celebrate us.

Why Aura is Perfect for Special Occasions
- Personalized service: From custom menus to flowers, Aura knows how to make milestones feel unforgettable.
- Gluten-friendly dining: Nearly everything is gluten-free or can be modified — without sacrificing creativity or flavor.
- Ambience that feels special: Whether it’s a date night, anniversary, or night out with friends, the atmosphere is equal parts polished and inviting.

Final Thoughts
Our anniversary dinner at Aura Restaurant in Clive was more than just a meal — it was a memory. Between the incredible food, the gluten-friendly options, and the personalized touches that made us feel celebrated, it’s safe to say we’ll be back for
future milestones. Aura is the kind of place that reminds you how special dining out can be.