by Ezra Dadlani on Never have I had to walk out on a restaurant before! Yes, Tao is beautiful and yes the quality of food and service were what made me want to have my Birthday dinner at this venue, but all the hype about this restaurant has made them I think have awful customer service. Based on previous reviews I was aware that they would have you wait about 15-20 minutes past your reservation time and was not looking forward to that but thought it would be bearable. Well I was wrong about that! After 35 minutes of waiting for their buzzer to light up/vibrate my patience wore extremely thin. They told me that the dinner menu was available at the bar like I looked like I came to Tao to chill at the bar and eat my dinner, how ridiculous? After I realized that the hostess' were just lying to hold us off I took my Party of 12 elsewhere and left Tao, it's huge Budda and loud bee buzzing noise behind. I was highly disappointed but I did not let that ruin my night.
by Adam H. on TAO knows exactly what it is, which is why I give it a five instead of a four. Everything it aims to accomplish, greatly succeeds. The overwhelming volume in the dining room is definitely a CON. But the cuisine, the service, the restrooms and design of the main floor are major PROS. The fish is some of the freshest I've had, outside of Japan. The SEA BASS is worth dying for. The desserts are also excellent. I've been 3 times and will undoubtedly return. Definitely a place to take friends who are visiting the city and eager to eat well in an exciting atmostphere.
by Guillermo Elzy on I've passed by this place for over a year now since I moved down the street, and after only one attempt to check them out only to find them closed, the reviews here finally inspired me to go back. I like the vibe of the place and it feels totally out of location once you walk in....It was kind of dark and unsuspecting and the guy behind the counter was very friendly and respectful. I ordered a take out sandwich, chips, and a chocolate chip cookie for good measure since I saw others blowing them up here. I went outside to make a phone call while waiting on my order, and was surprised when the guy behind the counter popped out of nowhere to bring me my order in just a few minutes flat....nice, I love customer service. I still had to go back inside anyway since I left my drink, chips and cookie on the table inside, but hey, he didnt know that and its the thought that counts. Once home, I devoured the sandwich like it was nothing.....staring down at the cookie the whole time in anticipation since thats really what I wanted. The sandwich was very tasty and I look forward to going back and getting another one to venture the menu a bit....I did not get sourdough which I totally forgot to try since im a fan. Sadly, the cookie wasnt anything special like I was hoping. I've never met a cookie I didnt like, and this one was definetly more then acceptable....I guess high expectations killed the deal, but its not like I wont be getting another when I go back.
