Yingtao: Reviewing NYC's Only Michelin-Starred Chinese Restaurant & $165 Tasting Menu

Yingtao: NYC's Michelin-Starred Chinese Dining

• 💡 Yingtao is currently the only Chinese restaurant in NYC with a Michelin star, making it a unique fine dining destination.
• 🚀 Opened at the end of 2023 and was awarded its Michelin star by the end of 2024, a significant achievement for first-time restaurateur Bolun Yao.
• 👨‍🍳 Initially led by Chef Jakub Baster, the restaurant later announced Emily Euan as its new executive chef.
• 📌 The name "Yingtao" means cherry in Mandarin and is a tribute to the owner's late grandmother.

The Dining Experience & Ambiance

• 📍 Located in the Hell's Kitchen neighborhood of New York City, Yingtao offers a sleek, modern aesthetic.
• 🍽️ Diners can enjoy a view of the open kitchen, contributing to the restaurant's dynamic atmosphere.
• ✨ A notable detail is the personalized name card at each table, making guests feel special and contributing to a memorable experience.
• 🎭 Despite being a fine dining establishment, Yingtao maintains a casual, laid-back, and fun feel.

Tasting Menu Highlights

• 💰 The restaurant serves an eight-course tasting menu for $165, with additional supplemental dishes available.
• 🥟 The jowzi with cordoba, corn, and black truffle was highlighted as a "spectacular" 10/10 dish, featuring rich broth and perfect dumplings.
• 🍞 A supplemental toast with mushroom jam, aged duck, and smoked yolks was described as "amazing" and highly recommended.
• 🐟 Other standout dishes included a crispy spring roll, an "incredible" sweet potato, truffle, and uni bao, and a perfectly cooked fluke with chili oil.
• 🥩 The American Wagyu short rib with hoisin, snow fungus, and pear offered tender beef and a blend of sweet and funky flavors.

Overall Impression & Value

• ✅ The total bill, including a drink, supplement, tax, and tip, amounted to approximately $261.
• 👏 The reviewer thoroughly enjoyed the meal, noting that the elevated Chinese cuisine made it stand out from other Michelin-starred experiences.
• 🌟 Praised the excellent service and the small, thoughtful details that enhanced the dining experience.
• 🎯 Yingtao is highly recommended as a must-visit restaurant, especially given its unique status as NYC's only Michelin-starred Chinese establishment.