Tao Downtown Bottle Menu: A Culinary Delight in the Heart of Chelsea

When you step into Tao Downtown in Chelsea, you might not expect much from the exterior, but trust us, the experience is a whole different story. Our recent visit was a celebration of Jessica's birthday weekend in New York City, and we were eager to see what this iconic restaurant had in store for us.

As we perused the menu, I opted for the Crispy Thai pork as my main course, which turned out to be an enormous portion - so large that my chopsticks kept finding their way onto Jessica's plate! Meanwhile, Jessica stuck to her non-fish diet and chose a delicious alternative. But it was the octopus dishes that truly stole the show.

The freshness and tenderness of the octopus mixed with a savory sauce made for a rockstar dish that we couldn't get enough of. In fact, my favorite course of the evening was the octopus salad - a true highlight of our meal. While some of the other dishes were just so-so, several stood out as truly 'amazing'. The chirashi salad, unfortunately, fell short, with its bland and unremarkable flavor profile.

On the other hand, the crispy chicken didn't quite hit the mark either, although I believe it would have been a game-changer if served with something to wrap it in, like Peking duck style. Having visited Tao in Vegas before, we were curious to see how the New York outpost compared. And while it may not look like much from the outside, once you step inside, you're transported to a vibrant lounge-like atmosphere complete with high ceilings, funky tunes, and an eye-catching Buddha statue overlooking it all.

As we raised our glasses in a toast to Jessica's birthday, we both agreed that Tao Downtown had exceeded our expectations. Despite some minor missteps, the majority of the dishes were genuinely impressive, making for a memorable dining experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a unique culinary adventure, Tao Downtown is definitely worth a visit.

The Menu Highlights:

* Crispy Thai pork: A massive portion that's sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites.

* Octopus salad: Fresh, tender, and expertly mixed with a killer sauce, this dish is a must-try.

* Killer sauces: Add an extra layer of flavor to your meal with these savory condiments.

The Ambiance:

* High ceilings: A spacious atmosphere that's perfect for groups or special occasions.

* Funky tunes: Get ready to groove to the eclectic soundtrack that sets the tone for a lively evening.

* Buddha statue: A quirky touch that adds personality to the already-vibrant space.

Overall, Tao Downtown is a culinary gem in the heart of Chelsea, offering a unique blend of flavors and atmosphere that's sure to leave you wanting more. Whether you're a local or just visiting from out of town, this bottle menu is an absolute must-try.

Tao downtown bottle menu