How it tastes
Espresso bitter on first sip, then mint cools the palate, then dark chocolate fills in the middle. Drinks like dessert without being sweet. The mint is the part that keeps the drink moving. Without it, the drink would feel heavy. With it, you can drink the whole glass without slowing down.
Why we built it
Mint and chocolate are an old combination (the after-dinner mint, the chocolate-mint ice cream). Adding espresso turns it from a candy into a cocktail. Kahlua does the structural work the recipe needs. We've been pouring this for years and it's stayed on the menu without arguing.
Where to drink it
On the menu at Dissolved Solids, Damansara Kim, Petaling Jaya. Best ordered late in the night. Reserve a table if you want to be sure of a spot.
Frequently asked questions
What glass is the Mint To Be served in?
A chilled coupe, up, with a fresh mint sprig and a few dark chocolate shavings as garnish. The drink is dark espresso-coloured and the coupe's wide bowl gives the mint aroma room to project. The drink is built as an after-dinner dessert pour, not a long drink.
Can I substitute the Kahlua?
Any coffee liqueur works in place of Kahlua. Mr Black Cold Brew gives a more pronounced coffee character and less sweetness. Tia Maria sits closer to Kahlua. Patrón XO Café (tequila-based) gives an interesting agave undertone. Avoid "coffee-flavoured" supermarket liqueurs that contain no actual coffee. The crème de cacao is structural and not really substitutable; chocolate liqueurs vary, but dark crème de cacao is the right register.
How strong is the Mint To Be?
Around 14 to 17 percent ABV in the glass after the shake. Lower than a Negroni because the espresso and crème de cacao lengthen the drink. Built as a dessert pour at the end of a long meal, so the relatively low strength matches the moment. The caffeine load from the espresso is real, so it'll keep you up if you order it late.
Where can I order a Mint To Be in PJ or KL?
On the menu at Dissolved Solids in Damansara Kim, Petaling Jaya (43-1 Jalan SS20/11, Tue to Sun 15:00 to 01:00, WhatsApp +60 11-4008 7607). Also on request at Soluble Solids in SS2, Petaling Jaya (50-1 Jalan SS2/24, Wed to Sun 18:00 to 01:00, WhatsApp +60 11-1682 8651). Both bars are in Tatler Asia Top 20 Bars 2025/26. Best ordered late in the night when you'd otherwise reach for a dessert.
What food pairs with the Mint To Be?
Dark chocolate desserts: chocolate fondant, dark chocolate mousse, brownies. Anything mint-and-chocolate already on the plate (after-eight mints, mint chocolate ice cream). Tiramisu also works. For Malaysian context, kuih bingka cokelat or a slice of dark chocolate Black Forest. The drink is dessert in liquid form; food pairings should be dessert too.