Jason Kim is a Korean-American foodie with a passion for cooking, eating and photographing. He currently lives on Jeju Island and updates his popular blog, mykoreaneats.com, where this article originally appeared.
Mint Restaurant is one of those restaurants that is a must not only for its food but also for its impeccable design and aesthetics.
This fine dining establishment serves up fusion dishes in a breathtaking setting overlooking Seopjikoji, southeastern Jeju. On the second floor of Glass House, a v-shaped building — designed by famed architect Tadao Ando — with floor-to-ceiling windows, diners enjoy pristine views of UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak.
To match the mood, I ordered the three-course lunch set with lobster and tenderloin steak as the mains and everything else playing the role of “snacks.” Simply put, both were delicious and very well executed.
The steak, served in a savory sauce, was cooked perfectly to medium (as requested) and, although a tad small, couldn’t have been any tenderer, exuding melt-in-your-mouth goodness. (Yes, some steaks do melt in your mouth.)
As for the lobster — again a tad small — it had my girlfriend and I moaning with each bite. It was nicely seasoned with some lemon/citrus zest and the extra cheese did no harm. Overall, it was meal thoroughly enjoyed, creating lasting memories for me and my lady friend in a top-notch setting.
Tips
♣ Reserve the far-end table for the best seat in the house — you won’t regret it.
♣ For unforgettable views without breaking the bank, sample one of their teas, coffee, or desserts.
♣ The popular jeonbok (abalone) dish I intended to try — hand-caught by haenyeo, apparently! — is only offered in spring and fall.
♣ To enjoy the scenery to its fullest, visit the four seasons outdoor flower garden and the amazing coastal trails after your meal.
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