The Bottom Line
Dining at Tao is a unique and fun experience. The Asian-inspired setting is beautifully designed with a 16-foot-tall Buddha, fountains, and a koi pond. The food is good, if not exceptional, with a menu offering something for everyone.
Pros
- Stunning multi-level setting
- Giant Buddha
- Good food
Cons
- Crowded
- Reservations can be hard to come by
- Long wait times during peak dining hours
Description
- Tao: 42 East 58th St. near Madison Ave.
- Directions to Tao: Take the 4,5,6 or N,R,W to 59th St.
- For Reservations: Call 212-888-2288 or book through Open Table
Guide Review - Tao Restaurant Review
Tao offers a unique Asian dining experience. With over-the-top, Asian-inspired decor and good food, it's not surprising that Tao is packed every night.
During a recent visit, we found the service to be exceptionally good, with the maitre'd going out of his way to resolve a reservation mix-up.
The multi-level space provided a unique setting for our meal. We sat overlooking the giant Buddha from the second level. Though the atmosphere is fun, the tables are tightly packed. Be prepared to get to know your neighbors well if you're seated at one of the banquette tables.
Standouts on the menu included the delicious Peking duck spring rolls and the soy-ginger glazed salmon. Other items, including the bamboo-steamed vegetable dumplings and the wok-seared New York sirloin, were good, though not exceptional.
During a recent visit, we found the service to be exceptionally good, with the maitre'd going out of his way to resolve a reservation mix-up.
The multi-level space provided a unique setting for our meal. We sat overlooking the giant Buddha from the second level. Though the atmosphere is fun, the tables are tightly packed. Be prepared to get to know your neighbors well if you're seated at one of the banquette tables.
Standouts on the menu included the delicious Peking duck spring rolls and the soy-ginger glazed salmon. Other items, including the bamboo-steamed vegetable dumplings and the wok-seared New York sirloin, were good, though not exceptional.
