On my recent trip to Manhattan, wanted to indulge in some fine cuisine so on Saturday we made reservations at Tao. Like everyone else has pretty much said, the wait is extended, not sure that it's because they want you to rack up a big bar tab, but probably just because they are booked solid and probably overbook the tables. No worries, we were anticipating a wait, and squeezed into the lounge/bar area at the front of the restaurant for some cocktails which were great. Again, like any Manhattan hot spot, it was full of gorgeous people and some pretentious individuals, but met some good people and had some fun conversations.
The atmosphere is dimly lit, asian over the top decor and high energy club-like music. They have a DJ on hand spinning which was a nice added touch to the feel.
After about a 45 minute wait past our reservation, we were taken to our table on the 2nd floor. Surprisingly it wasn't tight seating quarters (like STK was), and the waitstaff was prompt and very attentive. I had ordered the Chilean Seabass which was fantastic, small portion but very good. I tried my buddy's pad thai and it was exceptionally good as well.
The one thing I didn't really like at Tao was that they were definitely hustling you to get in and out. Our food came out in a matter of 15 minutes after we placed our order, and check came out almost immediately as the plates were empty. I'm sure if we wanted to stick around and get a couple drinks, it wouldn't have been a big deal, but drinking at the table isn't as fun as the lounge.
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