TAO Downtown Nightclub
Whitsundays
At a glance
TAO Downtown is an Asian bistro and nightclub in Chelsea, New York, combining dining, drinks and late-night entertainment within one designed venue. Located at 369 W 16th St, the space is subterranean and arranged across multiple levels, giving the restaurant and nightclub a distinct sense of arrival.
The design draws on an atmospheric interpretation of an old, recently uncovered setting. A long entrance corridor features a dragon-scale patterned screen, Chinese calligraphy murals and weathered brick walls. These details establish a dramatic visual character before the main dining and nightlife areas begin. The setting is suited to occasions where the surroundings matter as much as the meal or music.
The restaurant serves Asian bistro cuisine with a menu intended for sharing. The dining programme includes group-oriented offerings, an extensive brunch service on Sundays and a bar and lounge period with specially priced cocktails and selected menu items. Wine is also part of the restaurant experience, adding a broader drinks focus alongside cocktails.
TAO Downtown also operates as a dedicated nightclub, with event programming, tickets and VIP reservations. The nightclub is designed for groups celebrating together, with dedicated spaces available within the club. Private events can range from smaller dinners to larger venue takeovers, making the site suitable for social gatherings, celebrations and organised functions.
The overall atmosphere combines restaurant dining with a club setting rather than presenting as a casual neighbourhood café or conventional family restaurant. The subterranean layout, layered interiors and Chinese-inspired decorative elements give the venue a strong sense of place, while the combination of food, cocktails and nightlife allows different parts of an evening to take place under one roof.
For visitors from the Whitsundays planning a New York night out, TAO Downtown offers a Chelsea address with an Asian dining style, a visually considered interior and a separate nightclub experience. Reservations, nightclub tickets, VIP bookings and private-event enquiries are handled through the venue.
