The Mint is okay. Not stellar, but okay if you are looking to spend twice too much for average food and service. Let's face it folks, small food on gigantic plates is not the only measure of culinary chic. Based on the hype, stellar is the expectation.\r
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We arrived for our reservation and were shown to the absolute worst table in the place, underneath the stairwell and next to the private dining room in a high traffic pattern. Think Harry Potter before his owl from Hogwart's arrived. We asked for alternative seating and were accommodated.\r
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At the new table, the flatware was soiled. I pointed this out to our waiter who whisked it away and returned with replacement utensil cuddled in a fresh linen napkin. For the atmosphere they try and project here, the waitstaff should insure impeccable tables. The menus were distributed, much ado was made over the choice of lap napkins (available in black for the ladies in dark attire) and the wine book presented. Our waiter described the flavors of the day and left. We're thinking, maybe a drink order would be nice while we're selecting our courses?\r
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The first course of salads and buffalo mozzarella was enjoyable. The entree course was a pleasing attempt at fine presentation. Big white plates for a canvas with food pleasantly arranged. Everyone felt a salt shaker on the table would help the otherwise bland seasoning. My tuna arrived very rare, not medium rare as requested. It was an average cut with some stringiness. For the cost, I anticipated sashimi-grade which it was not.\r
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Dessert, unfortunately, was a joke. Strawberry shortcake was 3 berries sliced in half, two mint leaves, a tablespoon of shortcake crumbs, a tablespoon of frozen mascarpone , dressed atop a round of sheet gelatin served on a 12-inch plate. The coconut cake was more traditional and better received.\r
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Atmosphere: Upscale, well done\r
Value for the price: Huhn-uh\r
Go back again: Nope\r
Best part: Free valet parking and extensive wine list
Pros: Free valet parking, wine list
Cons: Pretentious
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