Tao at the Venetian Resort Hotel Casino transports diners to a hip, twenty-first century, Asian experience. This is fusion of Chinese, Japanese and Thai influences on a massive scale, measuring over 40,000 square feet and features not just a destination restaurant, but also a nightclub, a lounge and what is considered the largest banquet facility in Las Vegas. The ambiance envelops the senses, featuring waterfalls, an antique opium pipe wall, a 9,000-pound Quan Yin statue as well as a hand-carved, 20-foot-high Buddha that floats above an infinity pool. Tao is about taking your expectations and infusing them with vibrancy and sophistication. Their menu fulfills this mantra. Starting with appetizers, Chef Sam Hazen offers traditional fare fused with new ideas. His menu is meant for sharing between friends and families and small plates accompany all the selections. While diners can order a fresh and traditional selection of sushi and sashimi from both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, they can also order new interpretations of old favorites. Seaweed salad is replaced by Mango and Truffle Salad with Wasabi Caviar. Egg Rolls give way to Spicy Lobster Rolls with Shiso and Black Caviar. The extensive entrees cover oceans, sky and terra firma. Some highlights include: Grilled Rare Yellowfin Tuna with Flash Cooked Bean Sprouts and Scallions, Hoisin Explosion Chicken for two and twelve-ounce Grilled Kobe Ribeye with Yuzu Cilantro Butter.

Tao Information:

• Pan-Asian menu. Dinner. Bar. Business casual attire. Reservations recommended. Valet parking.