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Jasmine

Jasmine

By Nancy Tujague, freelance writer

Perhaps the best kept secret in Franklin, this obscure Thai restaurant sits unpretentiously in a strip mall off of Moore’s Lane (near Michael’s).

But don’t let its corporate surroundings deceive you; this locally-owned restaurant is perhaps the most delicious and authentic Thai food in all of Nashville. Jasmine is owned and operated by Bobby and Peteya, an incredibly friendly couple, both of whom hail from Thailand. About four years ago, they moved from Nashville to their current Cool Springs location and have since maintained their status as the only fine-dining Thai restaurant in Franklin.

From your most basic and familiar dishes to the more complex and traditional recipes that only a native could create, dining at Jasmine is an excursion for your senses. Its menu is an accurate reflection of the native culinary style, and their diverse ingredients, from lemongrass to coconut curry to banana leaves, will definitely work to expand your palette. All dishes are available in a range of spiciness that go from American mild to native hot, and the kitchen is more than willing to accommodate any changes that a customer sees fit to make.

For those less experienced in Thai cuisine, their Pad Thai is unbeatable, surpassing most others that I have tasted, and is a perfect option for the health-conscious, as well. For those looking for something a little more interesting and creative, the salmon is a very rewarding choice. Made with wild salmon, which is only available during the months of June and July, and placed on a bed of plantains with a coconut-base sauce, this dish is elegantly served and surprisingly filling. The Patong salad is another good choice for the summer. Named after the popular beach in South Thailand, its array of fresh seafood cooked in the traditional island style will convince your taste buds you are a thousand miles from Franklin.

There are many reasons, aside from the food, as to why I would highly recommend this place for those on their lunch break. The atmosphere in Jasmine is a quiet and friendly one, and it’s cool and clean interior make it an oasis of sorts from the traffic and noise of everyday life. In addition to tables and booths, it also has low-top tables with comfortable cushions on which you can recline for a truly relaxed meal and a break from the mundane. The food is prepared quickly and the wait staff is attentive, so that you can take as little or as much time as you need.

As far as the service goes, I only need to say this: you wouldn’t expect anything less from a country known as the “land of smiles.” In all my times of dining here, and there have been quite a few, I have never been anything less than impressed by the level of service, which is both unobtrusive and friendly.

Aside from the unique blend of spices, quiet atmosphere, and impeccable service, the only thing that could make this restaurant any better is the prices, which are more than moderate and quite remarkable when you consider the portion size. Overall, Jasmine is an undiscovered gem, and those willing to venture into its doors and try something new will certainly leave feeling both full and content.

Getting there…
8105 Moores LN
Brentwood, 37027
(615) 661-0169