Edward S.
Yelp
The name says it all. When you see "authentic," and find "fungus," "tripe," "pig ear," and "dragon fruit" on the menu, you're in for an amazing culinary experience. Dao definitely delivers.
The interior is beautifully decorated and well lit. You're greeted at the door with a warm smile and shown to your choice of either a booth or table. The menu is extensive and, yes, they do have English titles and descriptions for the menu items. Spend a couple of minutes to read it (no one is rushing you) and you'll soon find something to satisfy your tastes. They even have "Americanized" (General Tso, Sweet & Sour, et al) dishes for those who are not feeling that adventurous.
We chose the stir fried lamb and peppers along with the crispy chicken rice bowl. While we wait, they bring you a small bowl of spiced peanuts. Tasty with just a little tingle of spiciness, but nothing that would keep you from wanting more. Okay, great start.
The meals come quick, HOT and beautifully presented. Each entree comes with a healthy-sized bowl of steamed rice. The lamb! Oh my! You don't even need TEETH, it is that tender - "melts in your mouth" does not do it justice. The flavors were out of this world delicious! I'm glad I asked for "medium spice" (and, yes, the waitress understood me) because it had some good kick to it. Just the right amount of red Japones and jalapeño peppers. I'm going to be dreaming about this dish all night - so glad I brought some home for lunch tomorrow.
The crispy chicken was just that. Crispy, tasty, Panko-crusted chicken breast pieces served with black fungus and a shredded potato "slaw" (you HAVE to try this to get your mind blown!). It also comes with a bowl of egg drop soup that makes you never want to go to another buffet again. The whole plate was stunning and oh-so-good!
Service is, as previously hinted, top-drawer. Nothing but smiles, help with menu choices, careful attention to tea cups and glasses. They'll place everything you want to take home in a container right there at your table. No one can complain one bit about the service.
Likewise the prices! VERY reasonable for the generous portions and diversity of the menu! I'm coming back for that duck next! ....maybe tomorrow?