Vibrant Asian fusion spot w/ a club-like scene. Known for its energetic vibe & good times, plus a decent dessert platter.
Will Hartman reviews Tao Sushi, a Midtown NYC spot known for its poke bowls. He praises their SP2 poke bowl for its generous portions of fresh salmon and tuna, satisfying the craving for a hearty meal within Madison Square Garden.
This Asian fusion hotspot is known for its energetic ambiance and vibrant scene, often described as a place with a great vibe that transitions into a club. While some mention it might have been more popular in the past, it still offers a fun experience with good food, including a notable dessert platter. It's recommended for those seeking a lively atmosphere and a good time.
The food at Tao Downtown is generally considered decent, with mentions of a good dessert platter. However, some reviews suggest that the food quality may not be its strongest suit, with a few opinions stating it's 'mid' or not as good as other establishments.
"While specific dishes are not heavily emphasized, the dessert platter has received positive mentions. The overall experience seems to be more about the ambiance and 'vibe' than specific culinary highlights."
Customer feedback is mixed, with some noting it feels dated and frequented by an older crowd, while others highlight its energetic atmosphere and enjoyable food, especially for group celebrations.
Important Note
The restaurant may feel dated to some, and its popularity has waned since its peak. It also transitions into a club, which may not appeal to everyone.
"The user expresses love for the food at Tao."
Neutral"The user suggests Tao Group spots and offers to connect the original poster with contacts."
Neutral"Tao was listed as a top vibe place, confirming its suitability for the user's request."
Positive"Tao was suggested as a place with a good vibe."
Positive"Recommends Tao, with both its uptown and downtown locations, as a place with a similar vibe to Buddakan."
Positive"States that food from Tao Group restaurants is considered head and shoulders above Buddakan's current quality."
Positive"Considers Tao as not having good food."
Negative"Food at Buddakan was much worse than Tao."
Negative"Heard Tao may be too rowdy with bachelor party vibes."
Negative"Did it feel like 2012? Yes. Was the food (including dessert platter) pretty good and did everyone have a blast? Absolutely."
Positive"The club is completely separate, so if you want nothing to do with it, you will have nothing to do with it."
Neutral"The club is separate, there’s a wall in between the two, you have to leave the restaurant and go through a separate entrance to get into the club. Eating at the restaurant doesn’t guarantee you entry to the club, though if you are spending at dinner or are just a really cool table, and get on your servers good side, the manager can totally put you on the list. There’s definitely an energy in the restaurant too though."
Neutral"Might have been good for a bachelor party in 2014"
Negative"Tao was big like 15 years ago and are now frequented by an older Long Island and Jersey crowd."
Negative"Recommend Tao Group."
Neutral"Tao is a recommendation"
Neutral"Go to Tao after Drai's to avoid Tao's food."
Negative