What can I say about Tao the restaurant...? Its trendy...its spendy...its a mad frenzy...and its probably the best spot to have "dinnertainment" (thats right Yelpers...I invent words!) in Vegas. The spectacle of the huge Buddha seemingly floating above the koi fish pool is unreal (makes you wonder how they got that big bastard in the building) and awe-inspiring. The lounge and bar are like a social scene all in itself. The multiple dining areas (downstairs, sushi bar, upstairs) all have their own vibe about them meaning you get a different experience everytime you dine there. The food...well its just goes without saying that its f&*^^in great. The sushi, the thai, the chinese...everything is as tasty as can be. And hell yes its expensive...but your in Vegas...so deal with it. You can to have fun, dine and party like a rockstar, so do it and enjoy. The service is absolutely top caliber and just adds even more to the experience. For a non-Vegas person, I eat here and party here everytime Im out there (I should be a spokesperson for the freakin place) and will continue to do so as long as its there.
PS...Reservations definitely the way to go unless you have the Vegas Passport (know someone that works here).