Situated in the vicinity of Bugis is an extraordinary eatery with a difference. Mint Café, Restaurant and Wine Bar is accompanied by a delightful four levels of antique toys, which make up Mint Museum of Toys. Having opened in May 2006 with this unique concept, the place has garnered attention from the press, as well as walk-in customers intrigued by what it offers. One of its objectives is to “reach out to the child in every one of us”, and this approach does seem to be working. Mint, which is short for Moment of Imagination and Nostalgia with Toys, does exactly what its name says.

• The Vibe
  Upon stepping into the building, you will experience an almost futuristic, yet antique vibe. Glass panels and silver tones decorate the interior of the building, contributing to the contemporary atmosphere, but simultaneously, the toy and comic book memorabilia peppering the premises blasts you into the past. Step into the bright green elevator, and be transported into a world most adults can barely recall, and children can only dream about. Mint Museum 's toy collection is divided by theme. Space characters such as Flash Gordon, comic characters like Popeye and Tintin, childhood favourites like Casper , and a myriad of other toys make up the museum's vast anthology. The toy theme is apparent also in the restaurant, where placemats featuring comic characters are used, and posters adorn the walls.

• The Food
  Mint Café serves a mix of international and local cuisine, to cater for local as well as foreign palates. Children, as well as the young at heart, will be charmed by the characters printed on the menu. For starters, try the Salmon Nicoise Salad($16), which is an assortment of greens served with seared salmon and potatoes. A good-sized portion, this can be a meal on its own. Accompanied with a light dressing, this salad is satisfying both in taste and quantity. Do try another of the restaurant's specialties, the Seafood Chimichanga($10). Intimidating, the name may be, but miss out on this and you will miss out on a delectable starter . Consisting of squid, shrimp and cod with spinach, cream, breadcrumbs and eggs, carefully rolled and deep-fried, this delightful dish will leave you hungering for more. Those in the mood for pasta can try the Spaghetti Shrimps($16). Done in an aglio-olio style and served with pine nuts, the dish does not leave one feeling overly full, as is what happens so often with creamy pasta dishes. The shrimps were very fresh, but a little undercooked. The Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Basil($18) also came recommended, but could have been more flavourful, especially with regards to the potato served alongside. For dessert, do order the Panna Cotta($5.80). This traditional Italian dessert is surprisingly done quite nicely, served with a dollop of berry sauce. Made with just the right amount of sweetness, this will also satisfy those without a sweet tooth. Adventurous diners may want to order the peanut butter, banana and tofu smoothie($7). Rich and decadent with the taste of peanut butter, there is just a hint of tofu taste.

• The Service
  The staff were prompt and professional, replacing side plates and serving water when necessary. They added to the SD Editorial Team's pleasant dining experience.

The SD Food Advisor's take on Mint Café:
As the establishment's focus is the toy museum, one may be surprised at the existence of a café restaurant with a fairly extensive menu for its size. While the food is above average, more can be done to improve taste-wise. The museum, however, makes it worth at least a visit.