To be honest, the ordering was the most stressful part of the evening, so much choice! Once done we sipped on our moreish cocktails whilst soaking up the ambience as plate after plate of deliciousness was delivered to the table – the food was infused, plated and cooked to perfection. The menu is vast, with so many incredible sounding dishes, so we decided to rely on our waiters food recommendations ordering a selection of small sharing plates of sushi rolls, dim sum, barbecue, yakitori and tempura dishes. It’s a feast for the senses!Īnyone who’s watched Sex and the City knows that these types of hyper-trendy restaurants can go two ways not being Instafamous we could have found ourselves in a forgotten corner, with a discourteous waiter, but we got the feeling that Tao Group aim to greet everyone equally so we were delighted to be settled at a central table, welcomed by our effervescent waiter who expertly looked after us for the evening. The décor is outstanding, not an inch of this vast venue hasn’t been thought about, yet the restaurant manages to create a sense of stepping back to a fabulously wealthy bygone era.

You finally reach the safety of the main dining floor where you face a floor-to-ceiling deity, the Quan Yin, with its 24 hands sitting atop a Koi pond as a 3D projector spectacularly brings the statue to life through various colourful moving patterns flowers blooming, waterfalls…it’s amazing!įor a dimly lit massive space you oddly feel connected. Descending the staircase, surrounded by banquettes, massive overhead lights and statues dotted everywhere, one tries to keep focused and not trip down them whilst you scan your fellow diners (and they have all eyes on each new arrival also). It instantly brought back memories of visiting Buddha Bar Paris in the noughties, not least because of the massive reclining Buddha that forms the restaurant lounge at the top of the 40-foot ‘Grand’ staircase. From entering its doors, walking down a long brick walled corridor that provides glimpses of the subterranean restaurant, before being greeted at reception then entering the main room, it takes your breath away as you try and get your head around the expansive multi-level space. The first thing that overwhelms you about Tao Downtown is the enormity of the venue. Tao Downtown is the latest and trendiest restaurant from the Tao group (Ell recalls visiting Tao Uptown just after it had opened many years ago), so we were lucky that they could squeeze us in amongst the cream of New York society. During our recent stay at The Maritime Hotel we found ourselves craving Pan-Asian food, thanks to the tempting room service menu from Tao Downtown, conveniently located underneath the hotel. Overall, TAO Uptown is the perfect spot for those looking for a unique dining experience with a touch of glamour and sophistication in the heart of New York City.New York is a melting pot of cuisines, and never more so than in the Meatpacking District where you can find a French café nestled next to a hot dog cart around the corner from a Mexican Taqueria. Whether you're looking to dance the night away or enjoy a conversation over dinner, TAO Uptown has something for everyone. The music at TAO Uptown is curated to match the energy of the crowd, with DJs spinning a mix of upbeat tracks that keep the party going all night long. The restaurant is also known for its extensive cocktail menu, which features classic drinks with a TAO twist. The highlights of the menu include the Crispy Rice Tuna, the Lobster Wontons, and the Wagyu Beef Tacos. The menu at TAO Uptown is a fusion of Asian-inspired dishes that are expertly crafted by the restaurant's skilled chefs.

The crowd is a diverse mix of professionals, foodies, and celebrities, all drawn in by the restaurant's impeccable reputation. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a towering 16-foot Buddha statue that sets the tone for the night ahead.Īs the evening progresses, the atmosphere at TAO Uptown transforms into a lively dining experience.

Located at 42 East 58th Street, TAO Uptown boasts an elegant ambiance that is perfect for a romantic dinner for two, a night out with friends, or a business lunch meeting. With its impeccable food, exceptional service, and stylish decor, this restaurant has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Nestled in the heart of New York City's bustling Midtown, TAO Uptown is a must-visit destination for those seeking a sophisticated, yet vibrant dining experience.

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