T.O.A. Asian Fusion opens in Merrick
Pork buns at T.O.A. Asian Fusion in Melville. Credit: Joann Vaglica
The sixth location of T.O.A. Asian Fusion — which stands for "Taste of Asia" — has arrived. On the heels of opening of its East Islip restaurant, the chain takes over the Merrick space that previously housed George Martin's Grillfire.
It was in 2015 that the first T.O.A. opened in Huntington; Farmingdale (2017), Sayville (2018) and Melville (2022) followed, with East Islip opening in May 2025. Merrick is the second in Nassau for the growing brand. Evan Chen, who owns the T.O.A. chain with Eric Lin, confirmed a full renovation of the space. The new spot features a larger, more modern design, a full-service bar and a private dining room. "We wanted to create a restaurant that feels equally comfortable for a casual dinner, a family celebration, or a night out with friends," Chen said of the new location.
Like other T.O.A. restaurants, the menu blends Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Thai, Malaysian and Vietnamese flavors. As Chen explained, the appeal of the concept is its range: "If a family is going out and one person likes Chinese, another likes Thai, another likes sushi — they can all have what they want."
T.O.A. Asian Fusion, 33 Sunrise Hwy., Merrick, 516-895-6666, toaasianfusion.com; Open Monday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 9:45 p.m., Friday 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Saturday noon to 10:30 p.m., Sunday from noon to 9:45 p.m.
A global freelancer who has checked her suitcase to raise her young daughter on her native Long Island, Marie Elena will always make time for good mezcal, even better tacos and killer conversation. Preferably, in a corner bar seat. She can be found on Instagram at @mariesworldeats.
