Courtesy Mint
Mint Restaurant, a well-regarded Glens Falls establishment renowned for its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a delightful dining experience, is now bringing its unique charm to Slingerlands.
Johanna von Geldern, the proud owner of Mint Restaurant, along with her daughters Katriel and Cagney Houlihan, is a fervent advocate of sustainable and ethical dining. Her passion for food is deeply rooted in her childhood, where she witnessed her mother’s recovery from a serious illness through a macrobiotic diet. This early experience sparked her lifelong interest in healthy, mindful eating.
This concept is at the core of Mint Restaurant. The restaurant passionately prioritizes sourcing ingredients from local farms and artisans, ensuring freshness, quality, and ethical and sustainable practices, fostering a strong connection with the local community.
The current menu includes produce from Grazin’ Acres Farm and The Mushroom Shop in Salem, Almosta Farm in Gansevoort, Kilcoyne Farm in Hudson Falls, Jasper Hill Farm in Freeville, Rosemary Acres and Pleasant Valley Apiary in Argyle, Saratoga Gluten Free in Schuylerville, Rock Hill Bake House in Glens Falls, and Pleasant Valley Flowers in Fort Edward.
Von Geldern’s mission is to foster a “safe space” for both employees and customers, ensuring a positive and supportive environment. She handpicks staff members who share her passion for service and contribute to the restaurant’s warm atmosphere. “I want everyone to have the most pleasing experience we can possibly provide,” she affirms.
This commitment to excellence has resonated with diners. Patrons often comment on feeling satisfied but not overly full after a meal at Mint, a testament to the fresh, wholesome ingredients and mindful preparation.
Another key aspect of Mint’s success is its unique ambiance. The restaurant’s décor is far from “farmhouse-y,” featuring elegant touches like antique mirrors, distinctive lighting, and original artwork by local artist Susan Beadle.
“There are so many elements that go into creating a great experience,” von Geldern notes, highlighting the importance of aesthetics alongside delicious food. Von Geldern credits her daughter, Katriel, who manages the bar and payroll, with much of the restaurant’s design success. Together, they curated a visually appealing and welcoming space that reflects their shared vision.
“We just want to be able to offer more of our delicious food to more people and are taking the opportunity to open a second restaurant in the southern part of the Capital Region, allowing us to offer our food to thousands more people.”
The new Slingerlands location will occupy the former Garden Bistro 24 space at 5 Vista Boulevard. The building boasts a spacious layout, including a large bar, dining room, and expansive outdoor patio—that von Geldern believes is the largest in the area.
Diners can expect the same delicious menu offerings, including lunch, dinner, and brunch options, with special menus throughout the year and a carefully curated cocktail list and non-alcoholic “elixirs.” The Slingerlands restaurant will mirror the Glens Falls location, ensuring consistency and brand recognition.
“It will also be called Mint,” von Geldern confirmed. “Mint in Glens Falls, Mint in Slingerlands.”
Expanding to a second location presents unique challenges, particularly in sourcing high-quality, local ingredients on a larger scale. Von Geldern acknowledges the complexities of managing numerous supplier relationships and maintaining price consistency. To address this, she has implemented a dedicated ordering manager to streamline the process and ensure accuracy.
According to von Geldern, “We’re keeping many of the staff from Garden Bistro 24. The chefs there will work under my chef. My kitchen, bar, and ordering managers will work at both places.”
Mint in Slingerlands is due to open mid March. “Once my staff has got that tucked away, we’re going to start some soft openings,” says von Geldern. “Start inviting friends, family, and regular customers, people on our mailing list.”
As Mint expands its footprint in the Capital Region, von Geldern remains committed to her core values: providing high-quality, ethically sourced food in a positive and supportive environment. The new Slingerlands location promises to be a welcome addition to the local dining scene, offering a unique and mindful approach to farm-to-table cuisine.
For more information on Mint Restaurant, visit https://www.mint518.com/.