Yao The Ultimate Destination for Modern Chinese Delights
Welcome to Yao, where Cantonese cuisine gets a modern makeover and your taste buds embark on a flavorful modern Chinese delights 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.
Embark on a dining odyssey complemented by a meticulously curated wine list, promising to enhance your adventure.
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.
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.
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.
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. This ingenious technique ensures a velvety, homogeneous texture that gracefully envelops each snow pea leaf.
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.
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.
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. 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.
