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| - I stopped in at Jasmine Tokyo Asian Buffet at the recommendation of my massage therapist who is in the neighborhood. She said that although it is a little pricey, the lunch buffet is reasonable, and she particularly enjoys the assortment of vegetables that they serve. I had just had my massage, I hadn't eaten yet, I wanted something on the healthy side, and it was just after their 11:00 am opening time - so I decided to go directly there.
I rejoiced at finding a parking space in the shade, and counted myself blessed at that point. As I entered, and waited to be seated, I noticed how large and extensive the buffet was. A friendly hostess greeted me and showed me to a table, where a friendly server immediately came to take my beverage order.
Before even picking up a plate, I walked the entire buffet twice, just to decide on a strategy. The selection was huge, including made to order Udon and Soba noodle soups, to assorted sushi (nori and rolls), assorted tempura, lots Japanese and Chinese dishes, assorted salads, vegetables of every description and with varied preparations, tofu dishes, desserts, 3 Asian soups, and more. There was LOTS of variety.
I decided to start with salads and vegetables, ease from there into slightly heavier fare, and wrap up with a sampling of desserts.
There was not a vegetable that I tried that I did not enjoy, although some of them needed a bit of additional seasoning. I had fried rice with my veggies, and while it was just ok, it was better than what I've had at other buffets, and was loaded with onions, and other tasty tidbits. On the first trip, I has stuck to very small portions. I would have been perfectly happy sticking with a second plate just like the first, but I wanted to sample additional items.
I loved the Tofu Lovers dish which was in a light but flavorful sauce with lots of delicious broccoli and cabbage. I also tried the mushroom chicken, the sesame balls, and red snapper, tuna, and salmon nori. I opted not to try any of the sushi rolls or tempura. I was tempted to have Udon noodle soup, but knew that there was no way I would have room in my stomach to do it justice. I got a bit more fried rice, and some more vegetables.
The nori was pretty flavorless, even with wasabi and soy sauce, and a bit on the dry side. Not odd for a buffet, but at least it didn't taste fishy. The other dishes beyond the Tofu Lover were pretty so-so. The beef dishes looked good, but I didn't really want beef today.
I should have skipped the dessert course. The cookies were heavy and didn't have much flavor. I tried four tiny pieces of cake (different kinds) and every single piece was soggy (wet) on the bottom. Once I discovered that, I gave up on the desserts and called it a day.
My server promptly brought me my check, and closed me out, thanking me for coming, as did the hostess as I exited.
Bottom line, lots of variety, lots of what I wanted - vegetables and lighter fare, decent basics, except dessert, and a price that is reasonable only if you eat more than you generally might (I know I did). I'll go back again just for the vegetable selection, but I'll stick to lunch since dinner is almost double the price.
I really don't like buffets, but for a buffet, this wasn't too bad.
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