Having dined at Tao twice before, we were looking forward to our third visit. The wait (despite reservation) was 35 minutes (in an over-crowded bar) no apologies whatsoever. Seated by a moody hostess and presented a menu that included live food-samples. Everything was rushed to the table (coffee/tea spoons literally thrown to us). Taste remained unchanged although attention to detail was gone. Filet was returned to the kitchen (full of sinew) again no apology. Attractive decor although the music was far too loud to facilitate normal conversation.
The Tao food-factory remained consistent after the evenings lousy start. No apologies for obvious missteps and the filet showed up on the tab anyhow. Over-crowded - table-turnover obviously reigns - and apparent that Tao switched to cashing in on its (ever-continuing-although misplaced) popularity. Plenty of other places in NYC which (still) have the quality and appeal that Tao used to have.
Pros: Decor
Cons: Too crowded, Loud music, Lousy service
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