When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Dao Kitchen
Why Dao Kitchen is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Dao Kitchen, located in the heart of New York City at 177 Madison Avenue, is a premier destination for those seeking authentic Hong Kong-style dim sum and Chinese cuisine. The restaurant is renowned for its dedication to traditional culinary techniques, brought to life by a chef with over 30 years of mastery in dim sum craftsmanship. This commitment ensures that every bite offers a rich and genuine taste of Hong Kong's vibrant food culture. Dao Kitchen offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it an excellent spot for friends to gather, share plates, and enjoy a leisurely meal. Beyond dim sum, the menu includes a variety of flavorful Chinese dishes prepared with the freshest ingredients. The establishment also offers catering services, making it a versatile option for events and celebrations. Its convenient Midtown Manhattan location and extensive meal hours—from lunch through dinner—add to its appeal as a welcoming social hub for both locals and visitors. Whether you are craving classic dim sum delicacies or innovative Chinese dishes, Dao Kitchen promises an experience that combines tradition, quality, and conviviality, ideal for memorable meet-ups with friends.
Here's what people think of Dao Kitchen
As of recent, Dao Kitchen holds a 4.4-star rating based on 445 reviews.
Customer feedback highlights Dao Kitchen’s excellence in delivering authentic flavors reminiscent of traditional Hong Kong dim sum, consistently earning high praise for the taste and quality of its dishes. Reviewers often commend the expertise of the kitchen, especially noting the precision and passion evident in each dish crafted by the experienced chef. The restaurant’s cozy ambiance and attentive service also contribute positively to the overall dining experience, creating a comfortable setting to enjoy with friends and family. Many positive reviews emphasize the freshness of the ingredients and the wide selection of dim sum options available. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional wait times and the competitiveness of seating during peak hours, which can affect the convenience for some patrons. A few reviews mention that while the food quality is consistently high, pricing might be on the higher side compared to other dim sum places in New York City. Overall, the majority of customers appreciate the authentic culinary journey and the value of enjoying expertly prepared dim sum in a central and welcoming venue. Dao Kitchen’s strong reputation and mostly favorable reviews affirm its status as a beloved spot for gathering over shared plates of classic and innovative Chinese cuisine.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mayra Deleon
Our group of 9 stopped here before heading back to California. As soon as we arrived we got seated right away. They did take like 5 to 10 minutes to give us menus, but also many of our group was using the restroom so I dont blame them. The menu had a lot of items that looked good and it was hard to decide what to get. Everyone ordered from the lunch special and we were happy we did because as you can see from the pictures it was a great amount of food. The Thai tea was great and strong how I like it. Both soups were amazing that some of us wanted more eventhough it was 108 outside. I got the sweet and sour pork and it had just the right amount of sauce and I loved the rice. The service was amazing and I will definitely stopped by when in the area.
Diamond
Dao Kitchen ~ A New Standard for Chinese Cuisine 🥠 From the moment you walk in, there's an inviting warmth that sets the tone. The service is attentive and friendly. The food is outstanding ✨️ The pepper steak here deserves a special mention. Hands down, the best I've ever had. The beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender with a rich, savory flavor that is perfectly balanced. It's clear they use high-quality meat and treat it with great care. The sesame chicken also impressed me ~ lightly crispy on the outside while staying unbelievably tender inside. The sauce strikes that delicate balance between sweet and savory. Not to be overlooked, the chicken egg roll was excellent ~ crisp, golden, and packed with flavorful filling. Even the noodles were memorable: perfectly cooked, with just the right amount of seasoning and a satisfying chew that made them irresistible. Dao Kitchen isn't just good ~ it raises the bar. Every dish I tried showed a respect for ingredients and a mastery of technique that's rare to find. It's the kind of place you find yourself thinking about long after the meal is over. Rating: 10/5 stars Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates great Chinese cuisine done right 🥠
Nicole Pryer
Dao Kitchen's recent remodel has made a great restaurant even better! It's nice to see a variety of clearly labeled vegan and vegetarian dishes. My personal favorite is the spicy kung pow cabbage – it's packed with flavor! The staff is also incredibly accommodating, preparing a delicious custom noodle and vegetable dish for my husband. The restaurant itself is sparkling clean, the service is always friendly and attentive, and the portions were very generous – if it wasn't so delicious we would have even had leftovers! There is plenty of parking and a convenient location in North Phoenix (an area that could use more good dining options), Dao Kitchen is a true gem. Highly recommend!
Cristal Rivera
This is one of the best Chinese restaurants in anthem. I simply adore this place! 💖💖💖 it’s right next to work and the food has a way of giving you a Homemade welcoming feel. Freshly prepared and oh so delicious! my go to is the pan fried pot stickers with the hot chili 🌶️ in oil. It’s like melted goodness in your mouth and next thkng you know your out of pot stickers. The food is extraordinary good that you forget about taking any photos!
Mary P
We ordered take out from Dao Kitchen from the lunch specials menu. The orange chicken was very good and it had a lot of sauce on it. It came with rice, a spring roll and and a crab puff. The black pepper fish was also very good. Price was very reasonable too. Definitely will be back!
How to reach Dao Kitchen
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Website: None
Why Dao Kitchen may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Dao Kitchen with your friends?
When considering the perfect place to gather with friends for a memorable and satisfying meal, Dao Kitchen stands out as an exceptional choice. Nestled in the vibrant North Gateway neighborhood of Phoenix, this cozy yet inviting Asian bistro offers more than just great food—it presents a communal dining experience that encourages sharing, conversation, and connection. The atmosphere at Dao Kitchen is welcoming and relaxed, making it an ideal backdrop for any casual meetup or celebration. The restaurant boasts a strong rating of 4.4 from over 445 reviews, reflecting consistent customer satisfaction in terms of food quality, service, and ambiance. Whether you and your friends are food enthusiasts eager to explore authentic Chinese flavors or simply looking for a comfortable spot to enjoy delicious meals together at a reasonable price, Dao Kitchen’s blend of flavorful dishes, friendly service, and convenient location makes it a go-to destination. Its recent remodeling has enhanced the dining environment, balancing a warm, intimate setting with enough space for groups to feel comfortable. Ultimately, Dao Kitchen offers a reliable, enjoyable experience where the focus remains on good eats and great company—perfect for rallying your friends for a meal and conversation that both nourish and delight.
What types of activities does Dao Kitchen offer for groups?
Dao Kitchen primarily excels as a culinary destination where friends and families come together to indulge in shared meals that highlight authentic Chinese cuisine with a modern touch. The main activity here revolves around dining—but with a group, dining at Dao Kitchen transforms into a social event. Menu offerings are broad yet thoughtfully crafted, featuring crowd-pleasers like the Spicy Kung Pow Cabbage—an addictively crunchy, flavorful dish—and the Orange Beef, renowned for its tender texture and bright, citrusy flair. These dishes encourage sharing, which helps foster interaction and collective enjoyment. Since the restaurant accommodates customizable dishes, including vegan and vegetarian options, every group member can find something suited to their dietary preferences without hassle. The generous portion sizes also mean you can order multiple dishes to taste, making it ideal for groups who enjoy sampling diverse flavors together. In addition, the restaurant supports both dine-in and takeout options, which means groups can choose to enjoy their meal in Dao Kitchen’s cozy setting or take the feast to a park or home gathering nearby. While the primary activity is dining, the space’s casual and comfortable vibe naturally invites lively conversations, making it a perfect hub for socializing.
Why is Dao Kitchen perfect for a group meetup?
Dao Kitchen’s appeal as a group meetup spot lies in several key factors that enhance the overall experience beyond just the food. Its location in Phoenix’s North Gateway area offers ample easy parking, making arrival and departure seamless for groups. The interior, recently updated, balances simplicity with warmth and cleanliness, providing both comfort and a pleasant ambiance conducive to extended social gatherings. The restaurant’s layout can accommodate varying group sizes—whether a small circle of close friends or larger family gatherings—without feeling cramped or noisy. Staff at Dao Kitchen are known for their courteous and attentive service, assisting groups in navigating the menu and catering to special requests, which adds a layer of hospitality that eases planning and enhances enjoyment. More importantly, prices at Dao Kitchen remain budget-friendly, striking a balance between quality and value that makes frequent meetups viable for groups. The generous portions and excitement around dishes like their authentic beef chop suey or walnut shrimp dishes add to why many diners repeatedly choose Dao Kitchen for their group get-togethers. This combination of practical, social, and culinary advantages ensures that friends and family groups feel welcomed, well fed, and satisfied.
What makes the food and menu at Dao Kitchen special for groups?
The extensive menu at Dao Kitchen has been crafted to cater to diverse tastes and preferences, making it ideal for group dining where people often want to try multiple dishes. Their emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients means food arrives vibrant and satisfying in flavor and texture. Signature dishes like Spicy Kung Pow Cabbage offer a unique twist on traditional fare with balanced spices, while the Orange Beef provides rich, juicy flavors complemented by a crunchy noodle base—both perfect for sharing. The menu also features classics such as beef chop suey and walnut shrimp that have won accolades for authenticity and consistent quality, making them reliable choices for any group. Since the restaurant is attentive to dietary needs, it enables vegans and vegetarians to dine alongside omnivores without compromise—a rare and appreciated feature for mixed groups. All these factors encourage ordering multiple plates, sharing them family-style, and sampling widely, which naturally turns dining into a collective experience. The variety and thoughtful preparation ensure that whether your group craves spicy bites or milder profiles, everyone leaves the table satisfied and eager to return.
How does the atmosphere at Dao Kitchen support group meetups?
Although Dao Kitchen may not be flashy or overly styled, its atmosphere is one of genuine warmth and down-to-earth comfort—precisely the qualities that encourage relaxed, meaningful gatherings. The interior design post-remodel is neat, clean, and welcoming, avoiding distractions and letting the focus remain on food and conversation. The ambient music enhances rather than overwhelms the space, contributing to a peaceful yet lively dining environment. Staff friendliness plays a crucial role here, with a service style that balances attentiveness with unobtrusiveness, helping groups feel cared for without pressure or rush. Because the restaurant maintains a casual vibe, groups can linger over their meals, talk freely, and enjoy the moment without feeling the need to hurry. Additionally, Dao Kitchen’s reputation for quick service ensures that food arrives promptly, which keeps large group meetups smooth and enjoyable without excessive waiting. This combination of factors enables groups to savor not only their meals but the time spent together, making it a dependable spot for hosting any occasion where friends or family want to reconnect over food.
What practical advantages does Dao Kitchen offer for meetups with friends or family?
Beyond food and atmosphere, Dao Kitchen offers several logistical advantages that elevate the convenience of planning meetups there. Located at 34455 N 27th Dr in Phoenix, it is easy to find and reachable for most locals and visitors. Parking is plentiful and straightforward—an important consideration for group gatherings where multiple vehicles are involved. The menu’s affordability means groups can enjoy a full meal without suspecting the bill will be prohibitive, which is always appreciated when hosting friends or family regularly. Operating hours extend well enough into the evening to accommodate a wide range of schedules, allowing flexibility whether you meet for lunch, dinner, or a casual afternoon meal. The option to order takeout allows groups to start their reunion at Dao Kitchen and finish it elsewhere if preferred, such as a nearby park or home, supporting both dine-in and alternate settings. Finally, the inclusion of familiar and adventurous dishes means everyone can find something they like, reducing the risk of dining dissatisfaction that can sometimes frustrate group outings. All these practical features combine to make Dao Kitchen a dependable, user-friendly choice for hosting group meals and meetups.
What do customer reviews reveal about the group dining experience at Dao Kitchen?
Reviews from customers provide insightful, firsthand perspectives on what makes Dao Kitchen attractive for group dining. Many praise the authentic taste of the food, noting the freshness of ingredients and traditional cooking methods that deliver genuine Chinese flavors. Several reviewers highlight the restaurant’s accommodating and friendly staff, describing interactions that feel personalized and helpful—especially important when managing orders for larger groups or special dietary requests. Quick service times are frequently mentioned, an advantage that keeps group experiences smooth and frustration-free. While some note the simplicity of décor and atmosphere, most agree that the focus on quality food and attentive service outweighs any desire for flashier surroundings. A couple of reviewers mention the large portion sizes, which not only provide great value but also create a natural setting for sharing meals communally. Takeout volume is reportedly high, suggesting that the food is good enough to be sought after both inside and outside the restaurant, a testament to its consistency. In summary, customer feedback consistently supports Dao Kitchen as a reliable, enjoyable place for groups to rally around good food and friendly service.
How does Dao Kitchen cater to dietary preferences and special requests in groups?
Group dining often involves navigating different dietary needs and preferences, and Dao Kitchen demonstrates a strong capability to accommodate this. The restaurant provides a variety of options for vegans and vegetarians, which is especially notable in a cuisine often based on meat or seafood. Dishes like the Spicy Kung Pow Cabbage offer exciting flavor without animal products, while other menu items can be customized on request to avoid allergens or accommodate personal tastes. The staff’s willingness to modify dishes for spice level or ingredients further enhances the dining experience for mixed groups. This flexibility ensures no one feels limited and that everyone can enjoy their meal comfortably. Such adaptability reduces stress around ordering and keeps group members happy and included. By embracing inclusivity through its menu and service style, Dao Kitchen positions itself as a thoughtful and considerate choice for any gathering.
What is the overall value proposition of choosing Dao Kitchen for your next group meetup?
When weighing options for group dining in Phoenix, Dao Kitchen stands out by consistently providing a comprehensive blend of quality food, accommodating service, and inviting atmosphere—all at a moderate price point. Its reputation for fresh, authentic Chinese cuisine prepared with care means group members can look forward to satisfying and memorable meals. Friendly and efficient service ensures that large orders and special requests are handled smoothly without hassle, making organizing group outings easier. The comfortable, clean, and unpretentious environment encourages relaxed, extended meetups that facilitate bonding and enjoying good company. The restaurant’s attention to catering for various diets makes it inclusive and stress-free. Ultimately, this blend of features creates solid value for groups seeking not only a place to eat but a venue where they can connect, celebrate, and create lasting memories. Choosing Dao Kitchen for your next group meetup means selecting a dependable, community-focused restaurant where food and friendship come together seamlessly.