The Mint On Camelback

by Mandi Pimental

Walk into The Mint and you are in the presence of money. Literally. Now an expansive, ornate, seven-thousand square foot restaurant and ultra-lounge, it was once home to a traditional bank, hence earning the lavish establishment its current moniker. 

Keeping true to its history and having been designed around the banks original vault, the space evokes an old Hollywood feel. Rich, dark woods and fireplaces are placed throughout, set off by a well-planned lighting set-up that changes the ambiance from dinner to nightclub in the right spaces throughout the evening. Pop and house music by resident DJ, DJ Design, bring the lounge to life.

One of the most interesting pieces of design to note was not the beautiful and expansive thirty-foot bar that is situated inside the nightclub, although impressive, it was the more talked about champagne bar that sits inside the co-ed bathroom. So if any of the ladies or gentleman need a drink refresher while mingling in the long line for the bathroom you need to look no further than the champagne bar. A truly interesting idea, the original, refreshing touches such as these keep a jewel like the Mint on the radar.

Having just celebrated its one-year anniversary with their clever “Heist” party on June twenty-second, this popular hotspot was in full swing. Patrons could pose with classic photos of Marilyn Monroe on the red carpet and additional touches of old Hollywood were highlighted throughout the evening and DJ Design provided the music until close. Having earned its title as one of the hottest, and most glamorous, lounges in Scottsdale, The Mint is in full swing at any event that is happening inside, and outside, their doors. The expansive patio is one of the largest for a nightlife venue. Having previous success with his former endeavors, Sandbar and RnR, Dean Slover is a conceptual genius when it comes to placing the right additions in town that Scottsdale partygoers are looking for.

If a fantastic meal is what you are seeing, look no further than The Mint. The restaurants elegant menu, by master chef Johnny Chu, is Asian inspired and offers mouth-watering options from appetizers to dessert. An appetizer, such as the traditional edamame, is a dish that is taken to the next level by being paired perfectly with truffle butter and sea salt. Entrees include Chu’s Sugar Cane Pork, marinated in a pineapple ginger sauce, and the Spicy Saigon vegetarian dish for the herbivores who dine. The dessert menu offerings are equally delectable, showcasing the Japanese Green Tea Cheesecake and Goat Cheese Wontons, keeping with the menus theme. For a truly special experience, indulge in the Sunday Brunch from noon until four on Sunday afternoons. Appropriately titled the 24K Bruch, it features items such as Crème Brulee Oatmeal that can be paired with a fresh white peach Bellini, or their divine Nutella French Toast.

If the perfect cocktail is what you have in mind, the drink menu cleverly ties into the bank theme showcasing drinks such as the Dirty Money martini and Liquid Gold cocktail options.

If you are just simply looking for an exceptional dining or nightlife experience, make plans to visit the Mint. That is advice you can take to the bank. 

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