What is the concept?

Prior to opening in Dubai last summer, Mint Leaf already had two Indian restaurants in the well-heeled areas of Piccadilly and the City financial district in London. The Dubai branch clearly aims to attract a similar cliental as its British counterparts – situated on the 15th floor of Emirates Financial Towers in DIFC the restaurant and lounge have an elegant minimalist interior, with floor to ceiling windows looking out on to the city’s skyline.

What are the food highlights?

A welcome break from the mass of buffet brunches in the city, Mint Leaf instead offers a six course a la carte menu. The spiced chickpeas with tamarind chutney and Tandoori salmon were standout dishes. The portion sizes are ideal – small enough that you don’t feel overwhelmed by the sixth course; equally if you still feel peckish you can order more of any dish on the menu. Vegetarians are also welcome, as the restaurant has a six course vegetarian-only menu offered at the brunch.

How is the service?

The staff is well versed in both brunch menus and able to recommend drinks to suit different courses. Along with the usual house beverages, there is a fantastic list of fruit-based concoctions which are created by the expert bar team and are well worth a try.

What is the atmosphere like?

Pleasantly busy for a Friday brunch in one of the lesser-known areas of DIFC. There’s a sophisticated crowd and a live saxophonist playing during brunch. The space is divided between the restaurant and lounge, and after the brunch the lounge area offers half priced drinks, (although when we went, this seemed to be something not many people knew about as most people left directly after the brunch).

Every Friday 1pm-5pm, AED 295 with house beverages, AED 435 with bubbly. Address: Mint Leaf of London, South Tower, Emirates Financial Towers, DIFCT, Dubai UAE. Tel: (+971) 4 706 0900 For more information visit: mintleaf.ae