Mantra

52 Temple Place



Boston



(617) 542-8111



It's easy to pass by Mantra and never know it exists. In a building that used to be a bank, a chic, bold restaurant opened in 2001. The exterior of the new restaurant remains unassuming and bland, with a hidden sign and no clue to indicate it is there. But once one moves inside, a world of sophistication and style appears. Mantra is not only a restaurant; it is an experience.

Serving French-Indian cuisine, Mantra has an extensive, alluring menu. Whether one is familiar with this unique type of food is irrelevant because there is nothing comparable to the dishes Chef Thomas John cooks up. A native of South India, John "harmoniously blends the familiar with the exotic; the delicate with the robust" (www.mantrarestaurant.com). The aroma and presentation of the cuisine is wonderful . almost as good as the taste, but not quite.

For dinner, my boyfriend and I decided on two courses that we would both enjoy sampling. He ordered the Grilled Filet Steak with Sesame Sauce, Turmeric Potato, Spinach and Corn, and I the Spice Simmered Organic Chicken with Quinoa, Haricot Verts, and Minced Mushrooms. Admittedly, we could have been more adventurous with lamb or scallops, but these dishes particularly appealed to us that night. Luckily, they proved to be fine choices, as each was delicious. The rich sauces of each dish were especially well-flavored and exotic to the palate.

After dinner, we both ordered dessert. My boyfriend's Chocolate Degustation: Chocolate Sorbet, White Chocolate Cardamom, Saffron Mousse, and Pot de Craeme took the prize for the most dense, heart attack-inducing dessert, but was worth every calorie. It was simply scrumptious. And my Glazed Plum Filled with Ginger Cream Plum Soup and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream was a close second; definitely the most unusual dessert I have come across recently. Both were a bit too sweet for comfort, but still not to be missed.

The interior of Mantra is simple and distinct. It still has remnants of the bank with its marble floors and cream-colored walls, but the huge hookah den in the middle of the restaurant distracts from that. Metal screens separate the rooms and add a hint of mystery and romance. Make sure to check out the bathroom because it has a surprise that is creative and fun.

Unfortunately, Mantra is extremely expensive. As good as the cuisine was, I would say it is still overpriced. Entres range from $19-36, while desserts range from $7-13. Oooh boy. My suggestion is to go for lunch when the same menu appears, but for less money. Otherwise, save Mantra for that special occasion . or possibly parents' weekend.

For more information and directions, visit the restaurant's website at www.mantrarestaurant.com.