Tao - New York City
Simply Sizzling!
"Originally a 19th century stable for the Vanderbuilt family and then a balconied movie theater, Tao was tranformed into a majestic Asian "temple'".
A cavernous space, Tao's focal point is a towering 16-foot tall gold Buddha that "floats" above a reflecting pool complete with Japanese carp. We dined late, approximately 10:00pm, enjoying delicious jumbo martinis before dinner. The clientel here is ultra-chic Manhattanites packing the bar and 300-plus tables, making reservations (up to a month in advance) a must. The trendy club/asian/lounge decor is enhanced by a live dj spinning up-to-date loungy/dance music. A sax player was overlaying improv jazz-licks through the restaurant's impressive sound system, making the overall atmosphere tingle with energy.
The food here is nothing short of masterful, surely even the famed Iron Chefs would be challenged by these culinary pan-Asian delights. Tao specializes in Hong Kong Chinese, Japanese & Thai cuisines. I ordered the Filet Mignon w/Wasabi dipping sauce($24), which you cook on a hot river-stone at your table. The Kobe Beef version(6oz) of this dish runs an astounding $72! (our waiter explained the cow is massaged by hand before butchering) Sliced thinnly and dripping in flavor, this is perhaps the best beef dish I have ever tasted. The sushi and desserts continued to delight our palettes even further. The Giant Fortune Cookie, filled with white and dark chocalate mousse, comes complete with a giant printed fortune. Our serving team was knowledgable and never had us waiting.
Service: 9/10
Food Taste: 10/10
Food Presentation: 9/10
Atmosphere: 10/10
TOTAL: 38/40
posted by Ryan White at 12:58 PM
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