Indian Buffet

LVA Review

This restaurant was reviewed in the May 2013 LVA; some of the information contained in the review may no longer be accurate. Mint (formerly Himalayan Cuisine) serves Nepali-style cuisine, which is North Indian with some Chinese influence, and is considered by many to be the best Indian restaurant in Las Vegas. But it’s the daily lunch buffet that’s made this place a local’s favorite. From 11 am to 3 pm, seven days a week, the $10.99 buffet is all that’s offered. There are three kinds of soups; a “salad” bar with chutney, mixed pickles, yogurt, mint, and chilies; basmati and masala rice; several veggie dishes, including a good saag (spinach) with mushrooms; chicken tandoori; chicken tikka masala; and the star of the show, bone-in goat curry. Unlimited naan bread is brought to the table, along with a big pitcher of ice water, which you’ll probably need, as several of the choices run on the spicy side. Because lots of people come for the buffet, there’s a steady replenishment of dishes and everything stays fresh. From 3 to 10:30 pm you order off the regular menu and there are all sorts of options, including a few tasting choices (all under $40 for two), along with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free selections (also represented in the buffet). There are several North Indian curries and a line-up of noodle dishes (the Chinese influence) priced below $15, momo platters (dumplings) are $12.99-$15.99, and lamb lollipops (baby lamb chops) are $21.99. For those who like it really hot, there’s a special “inferno menu” that includes Mint’s challenge curry—eat it all and get on the wall (plus a $50 gift card). There’s even a kid’s menu with good old-fashioned chicken nuggets. This place also has an awesome beer selection, with something like 50 different international bottled brews, with the better-known Kingfisher and Taj Mahal Indian beers starting at $5. The selection gets eclectic with the likes of Haywards 5000, Tikka Gold (says it goes good with curry, natch), and EKU 28, along with 15 wines by the glass. Mint is located on Flamingo Rd., just east of Terrible’s. The National Atomic Testing Museum is across the street, if you want to combine a visit as part of your trip east-side.