For my birthday this year, I wanted to go somewhere special - somewhere that served incredible Indian food with a touch of luxury.
Mint Leaf in Bank ticked every single box.
Just moments from Bank station, the restaurant is elegant, stylish and definitely knows how to make you feel like you're celebrating.
I went with my best friend on a Friday night and from the moment we stepped in, the service was warm and welcoming.
The bar area at Mint Leaf (Image: Poppy Huggett)
Our server, Ali, was so kind and attentive throughout, and he really made the evening feel extra special.
We kicked things off with two starters: the Lamb Seekh Kebab and the Crispy Kekda.
The lamb was tender and perfectly spiced, with a rich smoky flavour from the grill.
The lamb seekh kebab and crispy shell crab (Image: Poppy Huggett)
The crispy shell crab had a lovely crunch and came with a sweet chilli dipping sauce that paired beautifully with the delicate seafood.
It was a great start and set the tone for the rest of the meal.
For mains, we shared the Butter Chicken Masala and the Duck Pepper Fry.
The butter chicken masala and garlic naan bread (Image: Poppy Huggett)
The butter chicken was creamy, rich and full of flavour - the chicken was so soft it practically melted in my mouth.
The duck was just as impressive - tender, peppery and packed with South Indian spice.
The duck pepper fry (Image: Poppy Huggett)
We had saffron pulao rice and garlic naan on the side, which were both delicious and perfect for soaking up the sauces.
We also tried the tandoori broccoli, which was marinated in a cheesy sauce and had just the right level of smokiness from the tandoor.
The tandoor broccoli was a personal favourite (Image: Poppy Huggett)
To drink, we shared a bottle of white Pinot Grigio from New Zealand, which was light, crisp and paired beautifully with everything we ordered.
It was priced at £49, and honestly worth every penny for a celebration meal.
The relaxed dining area at Mint Leaf (Image: Poppy Huggett)
When it came to dessert, Mint Leaf didn’t disappoint.
The team surprised me with a vanilla cheesecake and a rich chocolate fudge cake, both beautifully presented on a plate with ‘Happy Birthday’ written in white chocolate.
The desserts and 'happy birthday' surprise (Image: Poppy Huggett)
It was such a sweet touch and made the evening feel really personal.
The atmosphere inside the restaurant was relaxed yet refined, with warm lighting and a stunning 16-metre bar that gives the space a really modern, luxe feel.
Mint Leaf was the perfect place to celebrate my birthday (Image: Poppy Huggett)
It’s clear Mint Leaf has mastered the balance between traditional Indian flavours and contemporary fine dining.
If you’re after a stylish dinner spot in the City with top-tier food and lovely service, Mint Leaf is a winner.