Reserve now:
Restaurant Reviews List >
San Antonio Restaurant Reviews >
San Antonio Restaurant Reviews >
Downtown Restaurant Reviews >
Latin American Restaurant Reviews
NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio Reviews List
NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
NAO, New World Flavors, at The Culinary Institute of America, San Antonio presents a culinary tapestry of Latin ingredients, traditions, and culture. A spectacular showcase for New World flavors, NAO's menu features Latin American dishes rooted in tradition and indigenous ingredients reinterpreted through the lens of modern perspectives and techniques. Diners enjoy fresh, seasonal plates that pay homage to the great cuisines of Latin America presented with contemporary, relevant style in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
See more NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio details
84 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4
/
5
Rating Breakdown 84 reviews
5 stars
(35)
4 stars
(30)
3 stars
(8)
2 stars
(9)
1 star
(2)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
3.9
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- fit for foodies(64)
- special occasion(40)
- good for groups(29)
- romantic(28)
- neighborhood gem(26)
- hot spot(23)
NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio Reviews List
Review 1 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Good food
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We ordered tile fish, the fish itself did not have much flavor, but it took on the sauce and the curry so the flavor was good. We liked the Cornish hen the best, has a lot of flavor! The sweetbread was delicious as well. Did not care too much about the pork chop, a bit disappointed. There isn't a kids menu so all kids ended up the steak and fries. The steak was very nice. The yucca fries were a bit too fancy for them. My son, who does not like beef, ate all of his portion of beef! Only thing about Nao that was lacking was showing a menu on the open table. Would have love to see the menu before visiting the restaurant."
Dined on 6/14/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 2 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Was better the first time
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Went back in February and the food was amazing! I just didn't think the menu was anywhere near as good this time.
I dont mind paying the high prices if the food is good, but this time it just sadly wasn't. I guess thats part of the risk with an ever changing menu. I'll probably try again after a while...once they change the menu up again.
Also not a fan of any "mandatory gratuity". It defeats the purpose. Cant complain about the service though!"
I dont mind paying the high prices if the food is good, but this time it just sadly wasn't. I guess thats part of the risk with an ever changing menu. I'll probably try again after a while...once they change the menu up again.
Also not a fan of any "mandatory gratuity". It defeats the purpose. Cant complain about the service though!"
Dined on 6/15/2013
2012
Special Features: special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 3 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Wow...what a meal!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"When the food and service is so exceptional on your first visit that you go back the next night to explore the menu further, you know you've found a gem. Having tried seven dishes over the two meals (not including tastes from my companion's plate), its fair to say there was nothing I wouldn't choose again. The students of the Culinary a institute of America, in their final weeks of study, staff both front and back of house, and provide great hope and promise for the next generation of American chefs. Can't wait to get back to San Antonio, and see what's new."
Dined on 6/12/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 4 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Interesting and innovative
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food and service is provided by students of the CIA. Food is Latin theme. Food was interesting and delicious. Service was friendly, knowledgeable and professional. Also, good value for price. Would definitely go here again"
Dined on 6/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 5 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
innovative food, student service
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"food combinations different (at least for SA), flavorful and good presentation. We like "small plates" restaurants but portion sizes are bit confusing - some are tapas, some are full size - so it would be helpful to be more consistent. CIA Student servers which we knew going in so don't expect fine dining service but very friendly. We need more restaurants like this is SA!"
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 6 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Excellent!! A bit pricy with a steep tip but it is for a good cause."
Dined on 5/31/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 7 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Interesting Small Plates
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I liked the format of the small plates at fixed prices, as it allowed us to taste different dishes. i did not care for the scallop creme brulée, which I found too sweet, but loved our other dishes, especially the cornish game hen with achiote. The service was friendly and helpful. My only complaint is that the wine list is short on sparkling wines, and we were in a mood to celebrate a birthday. There were 2 very odd Argentine sparklers that we did not care for. Fortunately, the waitress let us taste them before ordering a bottle, so we asked for something else."
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 8 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Sitting at the Food Bar
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Although we mis the cevichi sampler, the current shrimp cevichi has a nice kick. The crawfish type bisk has a deep rich texture.
The artichoke heart and beet salad was outstanding, especially the goat cheese slathered on the bottom."
The artichoke heart and beet salad was outstanding, especially the goat cheese slathered on the bottom."
Dined on 5/22/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 9 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Delicious
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Unique menu. Very interesting to chat with the servers since everyone that works here is in culinary school. Fun and delicious!"
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, late-night find, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 10 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Need some improvements
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I recently went to the Culinary Instutute of America in Napa Vally (Greystone), Food and atmosphere was ausome! So, I made reservations as it was my birthday, here in San Antonio where I live. Parking was very confusing. I did't know it was part of the Pearl Brewery, and all the parking was marked Pearl Brewery only! The restaurant is very nice The waiter was nice and helped us, but I have a two year old and they didn't have any plastic or non breakable cups for my son to use. (Safety issue) We ordered part of the Memorial day special menu which was three items. All looked very good once brought out but were very salty. The pork was only half cooked and was still red inside so my wife asked them to cook it more, so they did."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 11 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Increase the portion size
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food was very tasty but the portions were EXTREMELY small. I understand the small plate concept, but you shouldn't have to order 3 and 4 plates just to feel like you've had a meal. However, the dessert portions were perfect; they need to adjust the meal portions to match."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 12 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great place.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great place! We liked it a lot. Would come back again for sure. For sure."
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 13 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Slow night but great experience!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Went on a Wednesday and it was not busy at all. Very impressed with the thoroughness of the staff calling to confirm reservations even when changed. We were greeted warmly, and seated immediately. The menu is outside our comfort zone but the flavors and presentation were outstanding. The contrasting textures and colors of the food more than satisfied our mouths and our eyes. Service was attentive and timely. Dessert was mind blowing, specifically the concentration of flavors in the coconut quenelle, poached pineapple, and banana dish. Reasonably priced, and the 17% fee goes towards scholarships and awards instead of a tip. This restaurant clearly exceeded our expectations and we will definitely tell our friends. Thank you, NAO!"
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 14 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Don't like format of the new menu.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"As always the food is absolutely amazing, interesting and well done. One problem is that the new format of the menu does not really indicate where in the meal an item should be placed appetizer/entree. It also seems that several items were removed and that the menu is a bit sparse.
The above is not going to stop me from coming but I will need to interview the waiter more."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 15 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A new group of chefs
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Well a new group of chef and a wonderful night. The cefs were as energetic and excellent in their craft. Thank you for your attentiveness and execution of our experience!"
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 16 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Small/bland portions & Overpriced
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"It was overpriced for what it was, teeny tiny portions. It was also bland with no salt on the table. The best thing was the chocolate mousse but only that. Based on that, I would not return here. I would not have minded the price if the food were good enough to deserve it which it was not."
Dined on 04/26/2013
2013
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 17 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Jacqueline Kaiser
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"the March/Spring menu was fabulous. I love that the menu changes so you get to try a new culinary experience every time you dine. I chose this restaurant for a "girls night out" because I wanted a place to relax, enjoy amazing cuisine and even better company. We were not rushed, each of our courses were explained to us and the wine pairing was made SO very easy by Jerry, our waiter. Prices are exceptional and so is the service.
This is a MUST for anyone wishing to have a dining experience and not just a meal."
Dined on 04/24/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 18 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We enjoyed every moment. Thanks
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We enjoyed every moment. Thanks NAO.."
Dined on 04/20/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 19 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food and cocktails were great!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Food and cocktails were great! Knowledgeable and friendly wait staff. I had to push back time for reservation due to an emergency, and they were very accommodating. Pork chops and scallops were the best dishes out of five plates ordered."
Dined on 04/20/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 20 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Had heard amazing things about
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Had heard amazing things about this place and was frankly a little underwhelmed. Was told the menu would be small plates but it seems they recently got rid of the concept and are moving to more "tasting" portions. I wouldn't know exactly though because we had some of the worst service I have had in San Antonio - not what you would expect from a higher class place like this. Our waiter couldnt fully answer any of our questions and hovered over us awkwardly as we looked over the menu. After repeatedly saying we needed a little more time she moved and stood about three feet away looking at us. The food was decent but the service really took away from the experience. Would probably be willing to give it another try but not in any rush to."
Dined on 04/11/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 21 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Cool
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We were realy excited to visit Nao. We read about and we like a lot that area in San Antonio. Also knowing is a restaurant from the Institute. The hostess was realy friendly and made our welcome special. The food and the ambience was outstanding. Im Brazilian and I love that they serve cheese bread (pao de queijo) as appetizer and in a cool way mix many diverse cuisines."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 22 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We were on a weekend trip
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We were on a weekend trip to San Antonio and wanted to try a culinary institute restaurant. The food was excellent. Our waiter could have been more attentive. He never came to refill my water glass. We would definitely go back."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 23 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Small plates were great.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Small plates were great. Had almost all of them."
Dined on 03/30/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 24 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
SALT!! Everything was under
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"SALT!! Everything was under seasoned. Overall unimpressed with food."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2008
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 25 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Interesting food, great favors.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Interesting food, great favors. Service was a bit spotty on a busy Saturday night. We were seated next to two large groups which raised the decibel level way above our comfort zone. After the groups left the the noise level in the still busy restaurant became "energetic". Because of the noise level I couldn't rate Nao as romantic, however it's special menu and total package certainly are worthy of a celebration!"
Dined on 04/06/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 26 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We finally got reservations
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We finally got reservations and were knocked out. This place rocks - decor, service, food all top notch. The biggest problem? what to eat and in what order. I finally got to taste huitlacoche (they call it corn truffle) in the risotto, the grilled octopus was flavorful and not chewy, my other dish was mahi-mahi ceviche. I was afraid that the dish would be too hot with serrano chili but the flavors were well blended . I found the wine list broad and priced right. If you have not been to NAO leave a little early, it is stuck in the back in an odd place.
PS we made reservations for our next visit at the restaurant during dessert. Oh and don't forget this place as a late night place on Saturday night they are open til 2am"
Dined on 04/03/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 27 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Best Food in San Antonio
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We were visiting the San Antonio area from Pennsylvania and our dinner at NAO was the highlight of the visit. Best food in the area hands down. We enjoyed the experience so much that we have already planned a trip to the CIA's Hyde Park campus to try out the restaurants there."
Dined on 03/01/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 28 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
A fun culinary adventure
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"For those looking for a culinary adventure, NAO is a must. The dishes and their presentation are so creative and visually appealing that we took a photo of one of them (four ceviches). The deliciousness of the Chocolate Encounter dessert cannot be described in words, it must be tated. Our server was a gem. He not only looked like an Aztec prince, he was also very accommodating and patient in explaining the different dishes and their ingredients. We took this trip to San Antonio from Houston with the express plan to visit NAO. We were not disappointed."
Dined on 03/30/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 29 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great food but very small
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great food but very small servings. A bit more expensive than I would have thought, especially considering the portion sizes. A few dishes were exceptional, most were very good and one or two were just OK."
Dined on 03/27/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 30 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
culinary delight
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Great place. Unique foods. The menu was a bit overwhelming at first, since most of the selections were so unusual. No matter what we ordered, though, it was all great. The cocktail menu was also eclectic--I ordered a mixed drink made with a Brazilian liqueur I had never heard of, and it started things off wonderfully. Wine menu also very imaginative. Go, dine, and enjoy."
Dined on 03/26/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 31 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
It's a teaching restaurant,
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"It's a teaching restaurant, so there's going to be inconsistency, but the dishes suffered from poor inspiration rather than execution. We ordered seven plates to share. Every dish read well on the menu and looked great, but ultimately tastes were muddy and heavy-handed, with a lack of complexity which was all the more disappointing for the obvious care which went into the selection of the ingredients and their plating. The big exception were the desserts. All four we tried were out-of-the-park home runs, suffering from none of the issues that plagued the mains. Great plating, well defined flavors, interesting ingredients."
Dined on 03/22/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 32 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Although only in San Antonio
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Although only in San Antonio for a couple of days, my experience at NAO has solidified it as a must have whenever I am in town."
Dined on 03/20/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 33 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
OpenTable Diner
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
Special Features: romantic
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 34 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great Place to Eat!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"I was in San Antonio for a conference and saw that there was a CIA in the area. I made reservations about two weeks before my arrival in order to get a table. Upon arrival I also noticed they had a bakery that I didn't get a chance to check out (bummer, maybe on my next visit). Every dish that my co-worker and I ordered was divine. They are small portions so be prepared to enjoy at least 3 plus dessert (which was heavenly). My only complaint was the Sweetbreads dish which was delicious but only about 2-3 bites compared to the other dishes. Our waiter was such a charming and entertaining young man who took the time to tell us about the dishes we were considering. He had so much enthusiasm! Thanks for making my experience so enjoyable!"
Dined on 03/11/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 35 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Wonderful tastes, great atmosphere
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Because of the portion size you can try three to four plates before getting comfortably full. We tried three ceviche dishes with the Coco and Mango dish coming out on top. The rock soup was very light, the risotto with corn truffles was decadent and the yucca fritters were excellent. The hanger steak was a little charred for our tastes, the scallop was good and the duck leg mole was out of this world. We'll definitely be back."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 36 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Timing is everything
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Service was poor. Our waiter had personal problems and should have been sent home.
The timing of the kitchen was off. To start my wife ordered a salad and I ordered a soup. The salad came and the soup came five minutes later, with many apologies. Same thing with the entrees. By the time my meal came, my wife's meal was cold.
I really wanted this evening to be a great experience, however I will not return.
Sorry CIA, this was a fail."
The timing of the kitchen was off. To start my wife ordered a salad and I ordered a soup. The salad came and the soup came five minutes later, with many apologies. Same thing with the entrees. By the time my meal came, my wife's meal was cold.
I really wanted this evening to be a great experience, however I will not return.
Sorry CIA, this was a fail."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2012
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 37 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Another Exceptional Experience!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This has been my fourth trip to Nao, and it was just as great an experience as all the previous ones! At this visit as in the last one, I sat at the kitchen counter so I could see the goings on and chat with the chefs. They are all more than eager to explain the food they are preparing. Our waiter, Jaime, was exceptional in recommending and describing the dishes on the menu and paired them with a fabulous Argentinian Malbec. This restaurant is truly a local gem that doesn't disappoint in food and service."
Dined on 03/15/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 38 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Not as good as first...
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Second visit to NAO disappointed in food and service. First visit, every bite a treat this visit about 40%."
Dined on 03/09/2013
2006
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 39 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Bob, the front of house, Parker,
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Bob, the front of house, Parker, the student/waitstaff, and Chef Geronimo were amazing. Every dish was a new surprise and delight. The hanger's steak, risotto, escolar, ceviche sampler, the cocktails were amazing!!!!!"
Dined on 03/09/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 40 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Well Worth a Visit
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Atmosphere at Nao was warm and welcoming. The real winner at Nao is the bar and Johnny, a highly personable guy who makes some of the best cocktails our group has ever had. Nao has a relatively small menu and the taste results were mostly positive. Three of started with a ceviche and all found them to be okay at best. Nothing stellar. Mains were much better, with the hangar steak just plain divine, though its accompanying salad was dressed with an overly aggressive chili-based dressing. One surprise for the night was the risotto. While it wasn't pretty to look at, the depth of flavor was amazing. It's a bit sad that the rest of the Pearl complex remains so underdeveloped; it has a great deal of potential."
Dined on 03/09/2013
2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 41 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Only our second time dining
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Only our second time dining here when it wasn't a guest chef event. Definitive menu is very good, even if price creep has set it from the original "everything is $9" that we loved. Great bar scene, but table service has never reached the level of other SA fine dining venues. Will definitely return, as no one else is even attempting a similiar concept in this town."
Dined on 03/09/2013
2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 42 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Our selections were amazing!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Our selections were amazing! Flavor safari! We sat ate grill and were able to talk to the upcoming graduating chefs. Inspiring. Our waiters are also chefs to be and very interactive and proud of their purpose."
Dined on 03/06/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 43 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food and ambiance are outstanding.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Food and ambiance are outstanding. Wine service was a bit sloppy (overpour of glass & dribling down the sides on each occasion), however it must be noted that these are chef students - not seasoned waiters. Overall a great experience, and we will return."
Dined on 03/01/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 44 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We will return in the future.
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We will return in the future. Since our son attended and graduated from the CIA in New York, we were prepared for student prep, cooking and service. It is like any school---the students need to practice on someone. We make it a practice to visit CIA restaurants when we are in the area as we are all foodies and love to watch the newbies at work. We live in Houston, Texas which has great restaurants and chefs so we are not new to fine dining. We were seated by the bar. I would have loved to have been seated in the area near the windows since we were the first ones in the dining room at 5 p.m."
Dined on 02/22/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 45 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Food was very good; service
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food was very good; service was friendly (waiter) but maitre d brought out our entrees before we were even half way through our appetizers.... he seemed pretty clueless, honestly. Margarita was "meh"--pretty weak. Alas... Really liked the location of the restaurant and would like to explore it a bit more."
Dined on 02/15/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 46 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Love this place. The food
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Love this place. The food is so delicious, and the drinks are great."
Dined on 02/13/2013
2011
Special Features: late-night find, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 47 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Give your review a title (optional)
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"First time we ate here, the food and service were both excellent. The last time the offerings on the menu were reduced, and there was not a good selection of offerings. The food itself was average, not worth the price at all.
Our server was terrible, he was inattentive and not very knowledgeable about the food or
drink offerings. That we had to pay an automatic 17% tip for this type of service is
not something that should be forced on the customer (we were a party of 2.)
drink offerings. That we had to pay an automatic 17% tip for this type of service is
not something that should be forced on the customer (we were a party of 2.)
I would definitely not go here again, and would not recommend this restaurant to anyone."
Dined on 02/14/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 48 for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great place for a romantic
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great place for a romantic mood. Next time we will sit at the chefs table. We had the valentines menu and it was great. I'm sure the regular dinner menu is just as good."
Dined on 02/14/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Ratings-Only Reviews for NAO at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio
Based on the average of (36) ratings-only reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
8 out of 8 recommend this product
Food
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
3.9
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic