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| - It took me a long time to get to The Mint in Scottsdale (it opened more than a year and a half ago), but I finally checked it out recently when I went there for dinner. The bar and restaurant, which seems to have a much bigger crowd during later hours judging by the people spilling onto the patio, is can't-miss from Camelback Road-brightly colored lights glow from the spot, with the spacious patio overlooking the road. The spot is one of the prettiest lounges I've seen, with a Swarovski crystal ball hanging in the entrance and vintage-style portraits adorning the walls. The bar area is huge, with televisions that don't take away from the rest of the striking ambiance, and there are comfy rounded booth seats one of the attractive staff members will seat you at.
The Asian-inspired menu is sparse, but The Mint isn't as much about the food as it is about chilling in a sexy atmosphere. It's a place to see and be seen, and the lounge also includes a room for private parties. Be sure to check out the unisex bathrooms-those are always an interesting surprise.
When I was there, I ordered the Sizzling Udon ($8), one of the spiciest dishes I've ever had with noodles, carrots, cauliflower and onion in a spicy garlic sauce with basil. My mouth was on fire while I ate it, but it had really great flavors that made it mighty tasty. My only complaint would be that it took forever (at least 20 minutes) to come out, even though the restaurant wasn't packed.
My pal got the Sweet Soya ($8), sliced chicken breast with a sweet dipping sauce. He said he enjoyed it, but the portion seemed more like an appetizer than a meal. Know that with most of the menu items-to make a full meal, pair items with a side of rice or a salad.
For dessert, we shared the meager Goat Cheese Wontons ($5), a sparse offering that came with a peach puree and powdered sugar. I absolutely loved this dessert-it's probably my favorite dessert I've ever had an Asian restaurant-but the portion was tiny. I'd rather be charged a few bucks more for a bigger portion, because this seemed sad. But I loved every bite of them!
I probably wouldn't go back to The Mint for dinner because I thought the menu was pricey for what you get, but I'd stop back for a happy hour. From 3-7 p.m. daily, their menu is $2 off, and drinks are half-price. And for a more buzzing atmosphere, head there on a Friday or Saturday night, where it has always appeared busy to me. If you're into a chic scene with an Asian menu, I'd also suggest trying Geisha A Go Go.
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