By Kate Bartlett
Mint Mojito Bar has been serving fresh craft cocktails on Niagara Street in Buffalo since 2022. A celebration of all things bright and fresh, Mint is a place for people to gather and enjoy each other’s company as much as their inspired food and drinks.
Owners and founders Alison Clancy and Chris Mendez have an extensive history in the hospitality industry, and always dreamed of opening their own restaurant/bar in their hometown of Buffalo. During a trip to Mexico, they became inspired by the refreshing rum and agave spirits (especially mojitos), and decided to bring these quality drinks to Buffalo. “We knew we wanted to keep it smaller and manageable, offering quality, well-crafted drinks and food menu,” says Alison.
Mint offers high quality craft cocktails, focusing on agave, tequila and rum spirits. While they focus on the liquor portfolio, they are most familiar with, they do offer a full bar with beer and wine available as well. The cocktail menu typically features about 7 different cocktails, 3 mojitos and 4 craft cocktails which rotate seasonally. All drinks are carefully curated and well-crafted using locally sourced ingredients when possible. Currently, Mint’s fall mojitos include pomegranate ginger, matcha green tea and pear fennel mojito. “We put a lot of time into designing our cocktail menu, but we have a lot of fun with it too.”
The food menu has a South American influence with a variety of empanadas that also rotate seasonally. “We are proud to have Chef Leon Gunn create all our dishes in house, including our sauces. He is well-experienced, and has worked in New York City and Chicago; we love having him on our team.” Current fall features include a chicken Empanada prepared with Jerk Chicken, with house made jerk spice and caramelized onion. All desserts are also made in house including Spiced Chocolate Mousse and Key Lime Mousse.
The vibe at Mint is clean and refreshing, comprised of simple décor in a beautifully designed open space. “We fell in love with the building and wanted to capitalize on its unique features, like the exposed brick and natural light,” says Alison. “We added some light wood accents and plants, keeping it minimal so the focus is on the food, drinks, and company.”
While the space is best suited for 40-50 people, Mint frequently hosts parties and events including birthdays, anniversaries, and bridal/baby showers. “We get creative with our space and love hosting events; it’s an honor to be a part of these special occasions,” says Alison.
“I love to entertain,” says Alison. “We wanted a space for people to come and relax, enjoying each other’s company as well as the food and drink. The space is inviting and calm, and it seems to set the vibe for some really great nights of conversation and good energy.”
Alison and Chris are looking forward to being a part of the revitalization on Niagara Street. “It’s been building up over the years,” explains Alison. “It’s great to see so many small businesses move to this area and we support them every chance we can. We source our espresso from Gold Lion Coffee down the street and host floral classes with our neighbors at Wildroot Floral. We’re a tight-knit community and it’s been wonderful to watch it grow; we’re excited for the next chapter.” In the next few months, Britesmith Brewing will open a second location on Niagara Street, contributing to the revival of this area.
For more information visit www.mintmojitobar.co and follow on Instagram and Facebook. They are located at 1225 Niagara Street in Buffalo, NY 14213.