Tao's Curries: A Billings Gem Worth Discovering

I recently found myself near Billings, Montana, using a long weekend to catch up with an old friend and tackle a few errands that required a bigger selection than my local shops offered. We made a detour to Pictograph Cave State Park, admiring the ancient rock paintings before the afternoon heat really kicked in. On the way back, hunger struck, and I remembered hearing about Tao | New Asian. I'm always up for trying new spots, and the promise of Asian fusion sounded intriguing.

Tao has a stylish, modern feel – exactly as their tagline suggests. It's the kind of place where you feel comfortable whether you're dressed up or down, which is a definite plus after a day spent exploring. The menu is vast, maybe a little overwhelming at first, but I quickly zeroed in on the curry section. After all, a good curry can tell you a lot about a kitchen.

I decided to start with the Red Curry with chicken ($19.00). The aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water – a fragrant blend of coconut milk, basil, and that distinctive red curry spice. The chicken was tender, the vegetables perfectly cooked, and the sauce had a depth of flavor that spoke of careful preparation. It wasn't just heat for heat's sake; there was a layered complexity that kept me coming back for more. My friend opted for the Thai Pineapple Fried Rice ($19.00), and I stole a bite (or two!). The combination of chicken and shrimp with fresh pineapple and cashews was a delightful sweet and savory experience. It's a generously portioned dish, too.

Looking over the menu, I was impressed by the variety of options. The Seafood Combo Curry ($30.00), featuring lobster, sea scallops, and jumbo shrimp, is definitely on my list for the next visit. I also noticed several vegetarian options, like the Tofu Hot Bean Sauce and Buddha Delight, which I'm sure would satisfy any vegetarian palate. The various fried rice options are also impressive, ranging from classic choices to more adventurous combinations like the Coconut Mango Fried Rice ($17.00).

What I appreciate most about Tao is their attention to detail. The ingredients are fresh, the sauces are clearly made with care, and the presentation is thoughtful. It's evident that they're not just churning out generic Asian-inspired dishes; they're putting effort into creating something special. It's the kind of place that makes you want to linger over your meal and soak in the atmosphere.

Before heading back, we considered a quick trip to Lava Island, but decided to save it for another day. Maybe a hike around Four Dances Recreation Area, followed by another visit to Tao for dinner? If you find yourself in Billings, whether you're just passing through or exploring the area, Tao | New Asian is absolutely worth a stop. It's a comforting and reliably tasty choice, and I suspect it will become a regular spot for me whenever I'm in town.