Tolo

- 28 Canal St, New York, NY 10002

In the vibrant and ever-evolving culinary landscape of New York City, a restaurant that manages to be both trendy and deeply authentic is a rare find. Tolo, a "small but classy Chinese restaurant" tucked away in the heart of Chinatown, is one such place. It offers a fresh and creative take on familiar Chinese dishes, earning it a reputation as one of the most exciting new restaurants in the area. Tolo is not just a place to eat; it's a destination for a thoughtful and elevated dining experience. The ambiance is praised as "trendy yet humble," creating a comfortable and inviting space that feels both of-the-moment and timeless. From its well-seasoned, creative menu to its fast and friendly service, Tolo has quickly become a favorite for both locals and tourists looking for a memorable meal. This article will explore what makes Tolo a true gem in the New York dining scene, providing a comprehensive overview of its unique features and what sets it apart from the rest.

Tolo stands out for its commitment to both culinary excellence and a welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant identifies as an Asian-owned and LGBTQ+ owned business, fostering a community-centric environment that is family-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, and a transgender safe space. This focus on inclusivity and acceptance is a core part of its identity, making it a comfortable and welcoming spot for a diverse crowd. The service is consistently noted as "helpful and fast," ensuring that despite its popularity and compact size, diners feel well taken care of. The menu is designed for "mixing and matching dishes to share," encouraging a communal and interactive dining experience. This approach allows guests to try a variety of flavors and textures, from the perfectly stir-fried green beans with minced pork to the popular cold "mouthwatering" chicken. The interior, with its open kitchen and well-designed space, contributes to a vibe that is both casual and chic. The combination of a trendy ambiance, fast service, and a truly delicious and creative menu is a powerful recipe for success that has earned Tolo a loyal following.

The culinary offerings at Tolo are a true delight for the senses. The menu features a curated selection of starters and mains that showcase a creative and well-seasoned approach to Chinese cuisine. For those who enjoy sharing, the small plates are a must-try. Customer favorites include the "slightly charred rice rolls," also known as Sticky Rice W Chinese Sausage & Shiitake, and the perfectly stir-fried String Beans With Minced Pork. The restaurant also shines with its vegetarian options, such as the Bamboo Shoot Salad with Chili Crisp and the Cucumber & Woodear, a dish noted for its refreshing, crunchy texture. The Mains menu includes impressive dishes like the Mala Dry Pot, Sweet & Sour Fish, and the popular Crab Fried Rice. Tolo is also a great spot for drinks, offering a selection of beer and wine to complement the meal. The focus on fresh ingredients and well-balanced flavors is evident in every dish, with a commitment to providing options for various dietary needs, including Halal, vegan, and vegetarian choices. This versatility makes Tolo an excellent choice for groups with diverse palates.

Located at 28 Canal St, New York, NY 10002, USA, Tolo is perfectly situated in the vibrant heart of Chinatown. This location makes it easily accessible for locals and tourists alike, with convenient access to various public transportation options, including subway stations and bus stops. The restaurant is a great spot to meet up with friends before or after exploring the bustling streets of Chinatown and the Lower East Side. The business has also made a conscious effort to ensure accessibility for all patrons, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating. Parking is available, with options for both free and paid street parking, which is a rare and valuable amenity in this part of the city. The restaurant's position on Canal Street, a major thoroughfare, ensures it's easy to find and a visible part of the neighborhood's dynamic food scene. Tolo's ability to provide a serene and intimate dining experience in such a high-energy area is a testament to its thoughtful design and planning.

Tolo offers a variety of services to accommodate its patrons, from a relaxed dine-in experience to convenient takeout and delivery options. The restaurant's service model is designed for flexibility and efficiency, ensuring that every customer can enjoy their food in a way that suits their schedule. The availability of outdoor seating is a significant plus, especially on pleasant days when diners want to soak in the lively atmosphere of the neighborhood. The option for no-contact delivery and regular delivery also makes Tolo a great choice for a quiet night in. The restaurant accepts reservations, which is a great feature for those planning a dinner out, especially for groups, as the dining room is on the smaller side. The amenities, including gender-neutral restrooms, high chairs for children, and the allowance of dogs in the outdoor seating area, further highlight Tolo's inclusive and welcoming nature. This attention to detail in service and amenities is a key factor in its positive reputation.

• Outdoor seating: A perfect option for enjoying your meal outside while taking in the neighborhood's vibe.
• Takeout & Delivery: Provides a convenient way to enjoy the menu from the comfort of your home.
• Dine-in: Offers a casual and trendy setting with table service for a full dining experience.
• Catering: A service option for larger events or gatherings.
• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, making it easier to plan a visit and avoid a wait, especially during peak hours.

Tolo’s unique features and highlights are what truly make it stand out as a top-tier Chinese restaurant in New York City. These aspects contribute to the overall quality and character of the dining experience, making it a compelling choice for a variety of occasions. The restaurant has successfully blended traditional flavors with a creative, modern approach, earning praise from customers for its "well-seasoned, creative, and light" food. The highlights also showcase its commitment to being a welcoming and safe space for all members of the community, which is a significant factor for many diners. The presence of a variety of offerings, including alcohol, wine, and vegan options, ensures that the menu can cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The accolades it has received, such as being identified in the Michelin Guide, further solidify its status as a must-visit destination.

• Fast Service: The service is noted as being fast and efficient, which is a great feature for a bustling city restaurant.
• Diverse Offerings: The menu includes a variety of options, from comforting classics to creative new dishes, and caters to various dietary needs including Halal, vegan, and vegetarian options.
• LGBTQ+ & Asian-Owned: The business identifies as both LGBTQ+ owned and Asian-owned, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment.
• Trendy & Humble Atmosphere: The vibe is praised for being a perfect blend of trendy and casual, making it an ideal spot for a date or a small gathering.

For more information or to plan your visit, you can visit the restaurant at its physical location. Tolo is located at 28 Canal St, New York, NY 10002, USA. While the provided information does not include a phone number, the address is a clear and easily findable point of contact for anyone wishing to visit. The restaurant's strong online presence and its policy of accepting reservations via platforms like OpenTable further enhance its accessibility for potential customers. The location in a vibrant, well-trafficked area of the city, coupled with a visible storefront, ensures it's easy to find for both walk-in guests and those with planned visits. The restaurant’s professional approach to service and planning, even without a phone number listed, is a testament to its modern and efficient operations.

So, what is worth choosing about Tolo in a city with an abundance of Chinese restaurants? It's the perfect combination of a high-quality, creative menu and a genuinely inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant provides a fresh take on Chinese cuisine, offering dishes that are both comforting and exciting, with a focus on fresh vegetables and well-balanced flavors. The ambiance is both stylish and comfortable, making it a great spot for a variety of occasions, from a casual solo meal to a celebratory dinner with friends. The restaurant's commitment to being an LGBTQ+ safe space and an Asian-owned business is a significant draw for many customers who value supporting businesses that align with their values. For anyone in New York looking for a Chinese dining experience that is both modern and authentic, Tolo provides a compelling and delicious option. It’s a true hidden gem that offers great food, a great vibe, and a great experience, making it a beloved spot in the heart of Chinatown.

Tolo

28 Canal St, New York, NY 10002, USA