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| - NAO was a wonderful exclamation point on a day full of meaningful meetings! The decor is emotively Asian yet edgy and cosmopolitan with a hint of aftershave. Huge red and black murals with evocative graphics emphasize the New yet echo the Old and therefore the name, NAO - New and Old. But all of this is secondary to just an amazing menu of delicious steaks, seafood, and; not to be missed, desserts. If you go and want to be social, sit downstairs near the bar (which is "wallpapered" with excellent whiskies). When I was there, the bar area was abundantly populated with attractive people and a solid buzz. If you're having a business dinner, as we were, choose the upstairs seating. There is a long impressive stairway (and no elevator so no fun on crutches!) but it's probably cheaper than a gym membership for the waitstaff as all the food comes up from the kitchen on the ground floor.
Service was impressive. TIm and our server, Tara, were informed, enthusiastic, and most importantly intentfully attentive. Each dish, each wine, and each amazing cocktail lovingly described. Even if the food had been pedestrian (which it is NOT!), I'd eat here just for the service!
While it was April, it was only 27F / -2C in balmy Toronto (too cold for this San Diegan), the patio out front wasn't open but I'll definitely be back as the weather warms. Surrounded by an artistic natural fence of bamboo, I'm sure it will be inviting soon.
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