Situated about a mile and a half off of the 210 freeway in Pasadena, is an unassuming building with a sign reading “Mint Leaf Indian Cuisine”. The building has a large parking lot so parking is essentially stress-free (something that can’t be said about most restaurants in Los Angeles!). Upon walking into the establishment, I was pleasantly surprised at how beautiful the inside decor is. There is a stark difference between the outside and the inside of this restaurant – but aren’t we always told that it’s what inside that matters? This definitely applies to Mint Leaf.
As someone who is just now diving headfirst into Indian cuisine, I am still a bit confused as to what each dish on the menu is. Anything and everything I’ve ever had at an Indian restaurant is typically delicious but I normally need quite a bit of help during the ordering process. Luckily, for an Indian food newbie like me, the staff here was incredibly knowledgable on each of the dishes on their extensive menu.The best way to come here is with a large group of friends in order to be able to try a large variety of apps, entrees & desserts. And if you like spicy food as much as I do, this place will blow your socks off. They’ve perfected the balancing act of savory with just the right amount of kick.
WHAT TO ORDER – The Highlights:
Appetizers:
– Onion Bhajis – Fried onion fritters battered in garbanzo bean flour
– Chicken Pakoras
– Achari Tandoori Mushrooms
Entrees:
– Lamb Coconut Curry (My Favorite!)
– Classic Chicken Tikka
– Matter Paneer
Sides:
– Vegetable Biryani
– An assortment of naan – mozzarella + basil & feta cheese + olive
Dessert:
– Gulab Jamun – These remind me of moist and puffy donut holes tossed in a sweet sugar glaze
Drink:
Mango Lassi-Colada – essentially a mango yogurt smoothie with a shot of rum
Mint Leaf Pasadena | 2535 E Washington Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91107 |