An evening of eating, dancing & drinks

Cravings

TAO

Story by Heidi Chackel

Photography provided by TAO Las Vegas

One of my absolute favorite places to visit in Las Vegas is TAO. It has so much to offer—whether I am looking for a lounge, a fantastic meal, some late night dancing, or a beach club during the warmer months—TAO has it all. And whether you are enjoying a cocktail tucked away in a corner or are dancing the night away, the vibe of all things TAO is superb.

From the moment you leave the crowded halls of The Venetian and step into TAO, you are transported into another world. A plethora of candles and bathtubs filled with rose petals line a dim entrance hallway that leads to the concierge on the bottom floor. The Asian décor features lush red velvets and silks, Buddha statues, century old stones, and even an infinity pool that is home to beautiful Japanese Koi. The ambiance is truly incredible. Every time I go, I feel tension release as I walk down the hall.

The bar and lounge on the bottom floor invite you for cocktails and a plethora of scrumptious food items, as does the restaurant which encompasses the rest of the bottom floor as well as the second floor. Every table in the 400-seat, two-level dining area is the best seat in the house under the watchful eyes of the 20-foot Buddha statue. I wonder if he’s checking my manners or how much I eat.

Corporate Executive Chef Ralph Scamardella has crafted an amazing menu that is full of culinary inspiration from China, Japan, and Thailand—ranging from the signature Chilean Sea Bass to sushi and sashimi, Dragon Tail Spare Ribs, filet mignon and their very special Fortune Cookie dessert. The menu is extensive, split into three categories. First you have the Sake & Cocktail menu that features sake by the glass by bottle, TAO specialty drinks, beer, and some fun non-alcoholic beverages. And then comes the large Dinner menu with sushi and sashimi, rolls, dim sum, small plates, soups, BBQ, tempura, noodles and rice, sides, and main dishes from the land, sky and sea. And last but not least the Dessert & Tea menu offers a variety of after-dinner teas and liqueurs as well as some delicious desserts.

While the restaurant is usually busy, it only enhances the experience and liveliness of TAO. The staff is amazing, catering to every whim, and the food is simply delicious. I never turn down an opportunity to enjoy dining at TAO, and often find myself staying longer through the night for an after dinner cocktail or a visit to the ever popular nightclub just upstairs.

During your visit you will see a variety of people enjoying TAO—from intimate couples celebrating an anniversary to bachelorette parties taking in a great meal before they head upstairs to dance the night away. The restaurant accommodates various sized groups, and packages are available that intertwine the restaurant and nightlife scene.

SIDEBAR

A small sample of what you will find while dining at TAO Asian Bistro

The Divine One: EFFEN Cucumber Vodka, Cointreau, sparkling wine, lemongrass nectar
58th Street: Paying homage to the birthplace of TAO in NYC this cocktail features Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Cinzano 1757 Sweet Vermouth, maple syrup, orange bitters
Sake Flights and Bombs
Yellowtail Sashimi with jalapeño and Ponzu sauce
Spicy shrimp, King crab and asparagus roll
Peking Duck spring roll with hoisin sauce
Chicken Wing Lollipops
Avocado tempura
Diver sea scallops with red curry and Thai basil
Chinese sausage fried rice with fried egg
XO Chinese long beans
Matcha green tea service
Yuzu sugar dusted doughnuts
Mochi tasting