Don’t you simply like the sound of that already?
Jhamshikel, in the recent years, has seen a mushrooming of restaurants. But if you think Mint Leaf Lounge is just another one of the eateries in the bustling area, then you’re in for a surprise. If you’re looking for basic good foods, look no further than Mint Leaf Lounge. [break]
The restaurant’s mood is sophisticated but at the same time almost homey, making wining and dining at Mint Leaf Lounge a very pleasant experience. The décor is elegantly modern, and the atmosphere is just perfect – with a choice of indoor and outdoor dining. Whether you’re in the mood to bask in the sun or want to catch up with your friends in a comfy niche, the place has just the right settings to cater to both those needs.
Photos courtesy: Prianka Rauniyar
The menu is as basic as it gets with just two distinctly different types of cuisines – Newar and Indian. There’s not much variety but there’s an array of mouthwatering light snacks to choose from. The foods are excellent, starting with a fascinating array of small or large appetizers (the aloo tikka are especially good) that can be shared or just eaten in lieu of a main course.
From starters that include stuffed potatoes to tandoori chicken to main course meals that include biryani and rotis, every item on the menu is simply delightful (though we felt the biryani could have been slightly better.) The mixed Chatamari is definitely something that’ll have you marveling at the chef’s talents. The succulent taste of egg and chicken that come wrapped in a thinly rolled roti will have you ordering another plateful when you finish one off in a matter of minutes.
Just when you think you can’t eat anymore, they offer delicious desserts. For instance, a plateful of Shahi Tukra which is deep fried bread pieces dipped in sugar syrup and topped with khuwa and chopped almonds that will make you swoon.
Fast facts:
Opening hours: 2 to 10 pm
Budget: Rs 500–Rs 1,000 for a meal for two
Parking: Ample space for motorbikes
For reservation, call Abhishek Shrestha @ 9841335025
The music isn’t intrusive, and the team of six staffs is conversant and helpful. Prices are remotely modest, especially given the quality. The foods are slightly on the spicy side which is to be expected given they serve Newar and Indian delicaies only, both of which are heavy on spices.
The drink list is well thought out, includes a nice range of choices that complement the foods, and is very reasonably priced as well.
Abhishek Shrestha, one of the owners of this medium-sized, innovatively decorated restaurant who also attends to the bar at the moment, mentioned that they are still working on the drink menu, so there will be better concoctions to look forward to in the near future.
The mark of a good restaurant is not necessarily its size but the quality of its foods and the generosity of its staff, and Mint Leaf Lounge is quite a special restaurant in these regards, and most definitely worth trying – again and again!
The Week recommends that you try the Nepali-style fried chicken and Shahi Tukra.
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