We go regularly to restaurants in Raleigh on our way to NC Symphony Concerts, often with friends. Four of us went to the Mint tonight, and the evening was superb. To cut to the chase, this is one of the two or three best restaurants in the Triangle (with Magnolia Grill and Fearrington House). We were seated promptly. The amuse bouche was a tiny cube of Tasmanian salmon and mushroom. The tastes were surprisingly complex. The wine list is superb, particularly since we love Oregon & California Pinot Noirs and they have roughly 40 available. The sommelier was friendly and helpful - he knows his stuff. Two of us had crab cakes and they were much more interesting that usual, mostly due to the spices. Our main course was duck (and yes, it was perfect with the Shea Vineyard Pinot), with parsnips, and a pear with a gorganzola based filling. The person who had lamb and risotto was also very impressed. Desserts were fine, not quite a match to the wine list, appetizers, and entrees, but fine. Service - uniformly excellent. Setting - quietly elegant. A place for special occasions? Absolutely. We'll be back. Expensive, but worth it.
Pros: Food. Lengthy & well chosen wine list. Ambience.
Cons: It's expensive....
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