Tao, a Sichuan-focused Chinese restaurant, quietly slipped into the North Austin dining mix this spring, taking over the former Mikado Ryotei space in a Research Boulevard shopping center. On the tables: Sichuan stalwarts like Chongqing spicy diced chicken, black pepper beef cubes, twice-cooked pork and kung pao chicken, plus dumplings, clay-pot meals and soups that cater to both heat-seekers and comfort-food fans. The crew began seating customers in late March, and the spot is already popping up in local dining roundups.
As reported by Community Impact, Tao took over the former Mikado Ryotei space at 9033 Research Blvd., Ste. 100, and opened in late March. The outlet highlights Sichuan staples such as spicy diced chicken, black pepper beef cubes, twice-cooked pork, kung pao chicken, and a spicy tripe-and-duck-blood stew among the menu offerings.
Menu, ordering and hours
The restaurant's online menu on Chowbus shows an extensive Sichuan-heavy lineup, including signature grilled fish, poached fish in spicy oil, dry-pot dishes, and a long dumpling and bao section. The page also lists the restaurant phone number and hours. While the Chowbus ordering page indicates online ordering may be toggled on or off by the restaurant, it still offers a handy look at prices and specialties for anyone planning a visit.
Local reaction and takeout
Food writers and locals have already started circling the place. The Infatuation included Tao on its Austin openings list and noted that the team behind Hunan Bistro is involved, with the Research Blvd outpost offering housemade dumplings. Tao is also listed for delivery on platforms like Uber Eats, signaling takeout and delivery options for nearby diners who would rather let the spice come to them.
Permits, ownership and what's next
On the paperwork side, public notices show the business moving to formalize operations. An Austin Chronicle public notice lists a Beer/Wine restaurant permit application filed by Taozi LLC, doing business as Tao Asian Restaurant, with Ning Wang named as manager for the Research Boulevard location. That filing suggests the team is aiming for a full-service footing at the site, in addition to takeout and delivery.
For North Austin diners, Tao adds a Sichuan-forward option to the Burnet/183 corridor and fills the space left by Mikado Ryotei. Expect a menu heavy on spicy, shareable plates, and check delivery platforms or the restaurant's posted hours before heading out.
