Tao Happy Hour: Everything You Need to Know (June 17, 2025)
Tao is not just a restaurant. It’s a full experience. Known for its dramatic design, bold Asian flavors, and celebrity guests, Tao delivers a high-end vibe. But what many don’t know is that Tao happy hour offers the same luxury — at budget-friendly prices. Let’s explore everything about it.
What is Tao Happy Hour?
Tao happy hour is a time-limited offer that brings you discounts on food and drinks. It’s held in the early evening and lets you enjoy Tao’s rich menu for much less. Happy hour is usually hosted in the lounge or bar section.
You get high-end bites, stylish cocktails, and the full Tao experience without a large bill. It’s perfect for a quick visit or a fun start to your evening.
Happy Hour Timings by Location
Tao has popular locations across major U.S. cities. Each has a slightly different schedule. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Location | Days | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Tao Downtown NYC | Monday–Friday | 5 PM–8 PM |
| Tao Uptown NYC | Monday–Friday | 4 PM–7 PM |
| Tao Los Angeles | Monday–Thursday | 5 PM–7 PM |
| Tao Chicago | Sunday–Thursday | 5 PM–8 PM |
Note: Happy hour is often limited to the lounge or bar, not the dining room. Arrive early because seating is first come, first served.
The Menu: Small Price, Big Taste
Tao happy hour offers a limited but exciting menu. You can try signature Tao items and stylish drinks without spending a fortune. The menu varies slightly by location but usually includes the following:
| Item Type | Examples | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Dumplings | Chicken gyoza, Pork potstickers | $1 each |
| Small Plates | Edamame, Crispy Rice, Shishito Peppers | $5–$7 |
| Wings | Peking Duck Wings | $1 each |
| Cocktails | Tao-Tini, Lychee Martini, Bali Beach Club | $9 |
| Beers/Wine | House red, white, and selected beers | $5–$9 |
Everything is freshly made and beautifully presented. The portion sizes are generous for the price.
Best Cocktails During Tao Happy Hour
Tao’s cocktails are creative and refreshing. They’re crafted with care and served in stylish glassware. Here are some popular options:
| Drink Name | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Tao-Tini | Vodka, cranberry, triple sec | Crisp, fruity |
| Lychee Martini | Vodka, lychee puree, citrus | Floral, sweet |
| Bali Beach Club | Rum, pineapple, lime | Tropical, smooth |
| Green Tea Mojito | Green tea, mint, rum | Fresh, balanced |
You normally pay $15+ for these, but during happy hour, you get them for $9 or less.
Why Tao Happy Hour is So Loved
People visit Tao for its cool setting and bold food. But happy hour adds even more reasons to go. You can relax after work, have a first date, or hang out with friends.
Tao happy hour gives you the atmosphere of a luxury restaurant with the value of a casual bar. Guests enjoy the dramatic lighting, music, and upscale crowd — all while sipping drinks and sharing plates.
Lounge Seating Tips
The happy hour deals are usually only available in the lounge. You can’t reserve in advance, so timing matters. Here’s how to get the most out of your visit:
| Tip | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Arrive at opening time | Secures best seats and short wait |
| Go with a small group | Easier to find space |
| Check the location menu | Each spot has slight variations |
| Dress nicely | Tao follows an upscale dress code |
Planning ahead means a better experience, more food options, and less waiting.
Celebrating with Tao Happy Hour
Tao is a great place to mark a special moment. During happy hour, many guests celebrate birthdays, work wins, and reunions. The lounge gives just enough room to mingle while keeping things stylish.
You don’t need to rent a space or spend big. Just gather your group, arrive early, and enjoy the vibes. Servers are friendly and help guide you through menu options.
Even without a reservation, staff might help arrange extra seating for larger groups. It’s ideal for informal but memorable celebrations.
Tao Locations: Unique Yet Consistent
While the Tao brand is consistent, each location offers its own spin. Let’s compare some key differences:
| City | Vibe | Lounge Size | Notable Menu Items |
|---|---|---|---|
| NYC Downtown | Nightclub-inspired | Large | Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice |
| NYC Uptown | Sophisticated & sleek | Medium | Chicken Lettuce Wraps |
| Los Angeles | Modern & sunny | Large | Thai Shrimp Dumplings |
| Chicago | Artsy & lively | Medium | Tempura Cauliflower |
Menus may change, but each spot keeps the Tao flavor — fresh, bold, and beautifully served.
Tao Happy Hour vs. Other Restaurants
Tao isn’t the only place with happy hour, but few match its mix of style, taste, and energy. Here’s how it compares with other upscale lounges:
| Feature | Tao Happy Hour | Typical Lounge Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Drink Quality | Premium & bold | Often simple & basic |
| Crowd & Ambiance | Upscale & social | Quiet or rowdy |
| Price Point | Fair for luxury | Similar or higher |
| Menu Creativity | Asian fusion, vibrant | Mostly American snacks |
Tao happy hour wins for those wanting flavor and style without spending too much.
Also Read: 54th Street Happy Hour: Food, Drinks, and Timings
Social Media Buzz
People love sharing their Tao moments online. Just search Instagram or TikTok for Tao and you’ll see thousands of photos and videos.
The glowing cocktails, sleek lounge decor, and plated dumplings are perfect for your story. Some influencers even rank Tao happy hour as one of the top food and drink deals in New York and LA.
Many guests dress up just for the chance to capture the ambiance. You may even spot celebrities or models hanging out during peak times.
Also Read: TGI Fridays Happy Hour: Guide to Drinks, Deals, and Dining Fun
Extra Notes for First-Timers
If you’ve never been to Tao before, here’s what you should know before heading to happy hour:
- There’s a dress code: No athletic wear, flip-flops, or tank tops.
- Tips are not included in happy hour prices, so don’t forget to tip your server.
- Items sell out: Get there early if you want the top menu picks.
- Not all items are discounted. Ask for the happy hour menu first.
You don’t need to dine formally. Tao happy hour is fun, flexible, and fancy all in one.
Also Read: The Banc Restaurant Menu: A Flavorful Turkish Dining Journey
More Ways to Enjoy Tao Happy Hour
Tao happy hour is not just about food and drinks. It’s about moments. Take someone you love. Celebrate a small victory. Try something new on the menu each time.
For those working nearby, it becomes a regular evening stop. For travelers, it offers a fun taste of the local scene. It’s even common to see professionals networking over lychee martinis.
If you visit often, staff start to recognize you. They might even recommend off-menu items or special seasonal offerings only shared with regulars.
Tao also hosts seasonal happy hour events. During holidays or fashion week, they might feature limited-edition cocktails or themed dishes. If you’re lucky, you might catch live DJ sets or sponsored drink nights.
Also Read: Fleming’s Happy Hour: A Luxurious Dining Experience for Less
Final Words
Tao knows how to bring flavor, design, and value together. During Tao happy hour, that luxury becomes affordable and approachable. With generous portions, refreshing drinks, and a cool vibe, this might become your new favorite hangout.
Try the $1 dumplings. Sip a Lychee Martini. Snap a few photos. Then smile — because you just enjoyed one of the best happy hours in town.
Next time you crave something special without spending a lot, head to Tao happy hour. You won’t be disappointed.
Also Read: Islands Happy Hour: Your Ultimate Guide to a Relaxing Time
