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TAO Uptown
Master Critic Review
TAO Uptown
8.5
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Group Dining Gatherings
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Trendy Table Hotspots
Massive Pan-Asian restaurant anchored by a dramatic 16-foot Buddha statue overlooking a koi pond, serving Hong Kong-style Chinese alongside Japanese and Thai dishes. The theatrical space draws tourists, celebrities, and midtown professionals with its consistently executed dim sum and scene-y atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Rice Tuna, Peking Duck, Lobster Wontons
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 8
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 9.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Cathedral-sized dining room with 16-foot Buddha creates unforgettable theatrical ambiance
Who should go: Groups celebrating and visitors seeking the NYC experience
When to visit: Weeknight dinner or weekend late-night
What to order: Dim sum platter, Peking duck, satay skewers
Insider tip: The lunch prix fixe at $29.95 offers excellent value for signature dishes
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, difficult in Midtown East; nearby garages $30-50; subway to 59th St most practical
Dress code: Smart casual to upscale trendy - jeans acceptable but dress them up, blazer optional
Noise level: Loud to very loud - DJ plays nightly, conversation difficult at peak times, feels club-like after 8pm
Weekend wait: 30-60+ min even with reservation at peak hours (7-9pm)
Weekday lunch: Seated promptly with reservation, 10-15 min without
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple options including veggie dumplings, tofu dishes, vegetable fried rice, veggie chow fun
Vegan options: Yes - edamame, salads, tofu dishes, vegetables clearly marked on menu
Gluten-free options: Marked on menu - uses GF soy sauce, but not dedicated kitchen; cross-contamination possible
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Impressive setting but very loud after 7pm - book 5:30-6pm for conversation, or request upstairs/Skybox for quieter seating. Better for confident daters who want scene over intimacy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch yes, dinner risky. Friday-Saturday without a reservation expect 60-90 min wait. Bar/lounge seating more accessible for walk-ins during happy hour (5-7pm M-F).
Is it kid-friendly? Older kids and teens work well - families do celebrate here. No kids menu but shareable plates suit all ages. Request early seating (5pm) and first-floor table; after 8pm becomes clubby and inappropriate for young children.
Best For
Better for: Group celebrations, birthdays, impressing out-of-towners, Instagram moments, and the full NYC spectacle experience over intimate dining
Skip if: You want quiet conversation, an intimate date night, or are sensitive to noise and crowds - try Mr Chow or Philippe for upscale Chinese with calmer vibes