REVIEW:
Located at the bottom end of Haymarket in London’s trendy West End is Mint Leaf. It’s a gem of a place situated in the basement of an office building, but there’s nothing ordinary about this Indian restaurant and bar.

After a £2million investment Mint Leaf finally opened its doors in June. Think of a more opulent Hakkasan, with modern Indian cuisine and a cocktail list to die for, and you will have a small idea of what Mint Leaf is about. The design is “sexy” and “relaxing” with a grand bar stretching down the side of the restaurant and a private dining area, alongside a design in the main restaurant which allows diners ambiance, yet an intimate dining experience.

The menu is modern Indian fusion with a real emphasis on quality ingredients. The “black dhal” has been described as the “best outside New Delhi”. Lunch for 2 cost around £85.00, so although a great taste experience, maybe not an everyday occasion. Do not ask for a Chicken Tikka Masala at this restaurant as you will offend Head Chef K.K Annand whose talents and creativity go way beyond that typically English dish! Annand brings his expert touch from the Cinnamon Club, another great Indian restaurant If you need another opinion then Gordon Ramsey has been spotted eating there during the first month so that is a seal of approval if ever you needed one!

What makes Mint Leaf not just a fantastic destination restaurant is the trendy bar. The excellent cocktails are to die for. The cocktail list reflects the dinner menu, with drinks such as lassis featuring heavily and lots of fresh exotic fruits being used in the Stolichnaya cocktails. There is something for everyone, with the cost of buying in the range of spirits on the back bar rumoured to be in the region of £25K. The best of all spirits are represented, with Glenfiddich Solera Reserve as the house malt whisky. The bar team are made up of Mark and Danny from “Che” (now closed down), who are well known and respected in the industry, and a team of great mixologists who will create you inspiring cocktails from a fantastic list. The head bar man has won several awards including “Barman of the year”.

Celebrities are always looking for the coolest place in town to hangout, and Mint Leaf has already had its share of celebrity parties. The recent launch party of Mathew Perry and Minnie Driver’s “Sexual Perversity in Chicago” was a huge success and lots more parties are planned (although the manager is sworn to secrecy of who will be attending).

What else is there to say about Mint Leaf? They have brought the luxury of true Indian dining to London’s West End and will definitely be famous for their cocktails as well as their food.

So if you are looking for outstanding food, a trendy bar/ atmosphere, funky music and a chance to mix with some top celebrities then try to get a booking at Mint Leaf. (Already mission impossible!).