Red Mint

LOCATION
Close to Darling Harbour and Star City Casino. Catch the light rail or the monorail.

PROFILED BY DEGROOTS MEDIA
Red Mint is a charming little find that side-steps the gaudiness of Darling Harbour while still being conveniently close to the city. Inside, the dining room is laid out beautifully with sultry, crimson lighting, candles placed on sophisticated table settings and a funky bar to one side. Whether it’s an after-work tipple or a full dining experience, Red Mint is a refined Vietnamese venue with a few modern tweaks. Simple and fresh is this restaurant’s motto, and each offering provides a balance of flavour and wonderful presentation.

As you peruse the menu, sip on a traditional Saigon 333 lager or try something a little more adventurous, such as the signature cocktail with vodka, lychee liqueur and Chambord muddled with lychees, mint, fresh lime and cranberry juice. This restaurant places as much emphasis on its cocktails as it does its cuisine. Kim Liu’s fare takes influence from his background in Ho Chi Minh City, serving up the likes of grilled beef in wild betel leaves, rice-paper rolls filled with Yamba prawns, pork and mint, and pan-fried fish topped with green apple and carrot salad. The wine list has been chosen carefully to complement the cuisine, rounding off a completely lovely and delicious occasion.

Annabel Wise