YAO NYC is a new modern Cantonese restaurant in the Financial District of Manhattan.
This journalist had the chance to review YAO on Saturday, March 2nd for lunch on a rainy day.
Kenny Leung serves as the executive chef of YAO with Thomas Tang as co-founder and partner.
In the Chinese language “Jia Yan,” translates to a “family banquet.”
Appetizers
For appetizers, one ought to try their “Fried Calamari,” which was crispy accompanied with green and red peppers on the side. This dish is a must for seafood fans.
Their “Dim Sum” platter was very colorful, appetizing, and highly eclectic.
Their “Roasted Duck with Dried Plum Sauce” was succulent and it went well with a side of Jasmine rice.
An added treat was their Chili oil, which was spicy and infused with seafood. It went well with every dish due to its pungent nature.
Vegetables
A solid vegetable option is their “Chinese cauliflower with preserved meats.” It is the quintessential balance of healthy, salty, marinated, and spicy.
Chicken
As a main course and for people that enjoy poultry, they should try YAO’s “House Signature Free-Range Chicken,” which is topped with scallions, nicely marinated, and mildly spicy.
Noodles and Rice
Patrons that like noodles and rice in general should give YAO’s “Fried Rice with Diced Angus Short Rib” more than just a passing glance. It is freshly seasoned and savory.
Desserts
While dining at any restaurant in New York City, one should make room for dessert.
Their “Custard Pastry in a Swan Shape” was a true work of pastry art in the areas of taste, creativity, and presentation.
While their “Durian Puff Pastry” was mediocre at best (due to its slightly bitter taste), their “Pumpkin Cake” was scrumptious and more than made up for it.
Speaking of the pumpkin cake, it melted in your mouth and since its presentation depicted actual pumpkins, it made one feel as if it were Halloween or Thanksgiving all over again.
“The food at YAO was delicious,” patron Dar Dowling said. “The atmosphere is Zen and beautiful. Everything here was divine.”
Conclusion
Overall, YAO NYC is a pleasant new eatery in Manhattan, which offers modern Cantonese dishes.
YAO is a neat way to explore the different flavors, tastes, ingredients, and seasonings of the contemporary Cantonese cuisine and culture in an ambient setting.
Their goal is to not only provide a culinary experience for patrons, but also a time to foster bonding with family and friends. It is safe to say that the staff and owners of YAO are achieving this objective.
While it is modern, it also stays true to its traditional roots. The service was swift, and the wait staff was courteous and attentive.
It is recommended that one pays YAO NYC a visit next time they are in the Financial District of the Big Apple. They will not be disappointed. YAO NYC garners 4.5 out of 5 stars.
For more information on YAO NYC, check out its official homepage, and follow the eatery on Instagram.
