Tao Plays It Prim With an Upcoming Times Square Seafood Spot

Known for its roster of clubstaurants — Tao, Lavo, Vandal — Tao Group is supposedly reining it in a little with a new preposterously named seafood restaurant Legasea. The self-described brasserie is a part of Tao’s food and beverage takeover at the upcoming Moxy hotel in Times Square.

At 145 seats, Legasea is certainly smaller than the group’s other massive party spots, so perhaps it really is a serious attempt to dial back the beats. Here, executive chef Jason Hall (Craft, Gotham Bar & Grill) is hitting all the buzzwords — local, sustainable — for a menu with fish & chips, a clam bake, prime rib, and more. Hotel designer of choice Rockwell Group (Union Square Cafe, Nobu Downtown) is, obviously, going for a nautical look with colored tiles, polished copper, and leather accents.

Moxy Times Square [Official]

In addition to Legasea, Tao is also behind all food and beverage at the hotel. There will be an all-day sandwich shop, a bar, grab-and-go options, and a huge rooftop lounge with carousel seating, a garden, and miniature golf course.

Moxy and its restaurants are set to open in September. Stay tuned for more.