Yao: Modern Chinese Where All Your Wants are Met

Welcome to Yao, where Cantonese cuisine gets a modern makeover and your taste buds embark on a flavorful adventure. Tucked away in the heart of the Financial District, Yao offers an unparalleled modern Cantonese dining experience that delights even the most discerning palates; and the decor rivals the elegance of the Met on a first date and you’re in for a truly sumptuous meal.

At Yao, step into a realm where sophistication meets culinary mastery, offering both à la carte options and tantalizing tasting menus starting at $138 per person. Embark on a dining odyssey complemented by a meticulously curated wine list, promising to enhance your adventure. Whether you choose to revel in the vibrant ambiance of the spacious dining hall or opt for the intimacy of one of three private dining rooms, every experience at Yao is one worth savoring.

Co-founder Thomas Tang, steeped in a lifelong commitment to hospitality, joined forces with the visionary Chef Kenny Leung in 2015 to establish August Gatherings, igniting a culinary phenomenon that continues to captivate gastronomes. Chef Kenny’s culinary journey began at a tender age, rooted in classical Cantonese training. He now features international inspirations, crafting dishes that transcend time with their tantalizing innovation.

Picture yourself greeted by a steaming bowl of Wensi Tofu Soup at Yao—an illusion of vermicelli noodles adrift in a flavorful bone broth. Yet, upon closer inspection, those “noodles” unveil themselves as meticulously sliced tofu, resembling pasta—a culinary gem originating from 18th-century Jiangsu, rarely found in the bustling metropolis of New York City. Each bowl is an epitome of Chef Kenny’s mastery, demanding around 10,000 knife strokes and yielding a silky, noodle-like texture that envelops each spoonful in a velvety embrace. If you opt for the tasting menu, the Wensi Tofu Soup receives regal treatment with the addition of Alaskan king crab, infusing the savory broth with a whisper of oceanic sweetness—an exquisite prelude to the culinary voyage ahead.

For those exploring the à la carte offerings, prehap begin your gastronomic journey with a delicate portion of Marinated Jellyfish with Sesame or savor the succulent Grilled Berkshire Pork, a visual delight with its tender, cloud-like texture—a testimony to Chef Kenny’s culinary finesse. Then, do not miss the signature Traditional Chinese Salt-Baked Free-Range Chicken, both tender and flavorful, accompanied by a generous heap of scallions enhancing its savory allure. Let the Angus short ribs steal the spotlight with their tender succulence bathed in a rich, dark sauce that marries sweetness with savory sophistication.

Prepare to be pleasantly surprised by the Assorted Organic Mushrooms in a Hot Stone Pot, a vegetarian delight defying expectations with its tantalizing blend of flavors and textures. Served piping hot, the rice and five-mushroom medley continue to cook, infusing the dish with a delightful crispiness that contrasts harmoniously with the tender rice—a testament to Yao’s dedication to innovation.

Explore the menu a bit further with the Fresh Whole Sea Perch with Bones, an adventurous treasure hunt amidst a sea of flavors, or succumb to the fiery allure of Mapo Tofu with Lobster, where silky tofu meets crunchy lobster in a delectably spicy union. Experience the comforting flavors of the Beef Brisket with Turnip in Clear Broth, which may taste like reminiscing on cozy Friday evenings with loved ones.

For a verdant dream come true, indulge in Snow Pea Leaves with Chanterelle, a vibrant fusion of crisp leaves and earthy mushrooms. Indulge your palate with the tantalizing allure of Snow Pea Leaves accompanied by Chanterelle mushrooms. For the vegetable enthusiasts among us, this dish beckons with its enticing aroma and vibrant presentation. Imagine a grandiose bowl brimming with tender, cooked greens, delicately nestled in a cloud-like, whitish broth. Atop this verdant canvas, golden-brown Chanterelle mushrooms bestow their earthy richness, elevating the dish to new heights of culinary excellence. The secret behind this masterpiece is the broth, reminiscent of congee, it exudes a comforting essence akin to a starchy porridge crafted from meticulously powdered rice. This ingenious technique ensures a velvety, homogeneous texture that gracefully envelops each snow pea leaf. As you savor every spoonful, relish in the symphony of flavors and textures— the sticky, starchy liquid seamlessly binding the elements together, transforming humble greens into a sublime and satisfying culinary delight.

Next, the Fusilli with Wild Octopus and Bone Marrow may seem like an unexpected delight on a Cantonese restaurant’s menu. However, this dish, renowned from Chef Leung’s tenure at August Gatherings, showcases his skill in crafting unconventional culinary marriages. The brilliance lies in his adeptness at seamlessly substituting ingredients with similar ones from diverse global cuisines. Lastly, revel in the classic charm of Stir-Fried String Bean with Minced Pork and Kale Borecole, each dish a testament to Yao’s dedication to excellence.

Save room for dessert as Yao unveils a tantalizing array of delights. From the luscious Pumpkin Cake to the classic Sesame Ball with Red Bean Paste, each offering promises a sensory delight. Conclude your culinary sojourn with the Portuguese Egg Custard Tart, a crowning glory, and a fitting end to a gastronomic voyage.

Don’t let any doubts about “elevated” Chinese cuisine hold you back from experiencing Yao. While this style of cooking sometimes prioritizes presentation over taste, Yao proves that it’s possible to achieve both. Its gorgeously modern dining experience doesn’t compromise on flavor. The ambiance alone is enchanting, creating the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable meal. Tucked away inconspicuously on the second floor of a Courtyard by Marriott hotel, Yao offers a charming view of the lively street below. The dining room itself is bright and elegantly adorned, blending traditional Chinese elements with a contemporary flair. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or hosting a special gathering with friends, Yao’s several private rooms and large round tables make it the ideal venue. Its aesthetic allure leaves a lasting impression, ensuring it remains a top choice for future dining experiences. Be sure to make reservations in advance through Resy for a care-free dining experience.