Jasmine Deli

2532 Nicollet Ave
Minneapolis, MN
612-870-4700

Category: Vietnamese

Rating (Scale 1-10, with 10 being the highest):
Food: 8
Service: 7
Ambience: 5

Recommendation: Very Good. Inexpensive, flavorful and fresh – this place is a winner.

We’ve been to Jasmine Deli three times in the last month – we can’t remember the last time we frequented a restaurant this often. The food is light, fresh, and flavorful and the place is quick and inexpensive – there was no reason not to go back after our first visit. Located on Eat street, this establishment is small and inconspicuous – there’s nothing on the outside that would differentiate this place form the hundreds of others on Nicollet Avenue. Pop your head in and you’ll find a half dozen tables in a room no bigger than a suburban living room. Takeout is just as popular as sit down – apparent from the display of sandwiches and spring rolls wrapped and available for those on the go.

In addition to the staples above, you also find that the menu contains Bun Nuoc (Noodle Soup), Vermicelli Noodle Salad, Broken Rice Plates and other appetizers.
The Banh Mi (Sandwiches) is great, and it’s the bread that really shines. The Grilled Pork with its char has awesome flavor and the carrots, cucumber and cilantro add freshness. Wrap that in the crusty bread and at $3.50, you can’t find value like this anywhere in the city. If you’re looking for a similar pork preparation with rice, try the Broken Rice Pork Chop Plate ($7). Along with the rice and meat you get a salad and a sweet dipping sauce. We highly recommend the Bun Thit Xao (Stir Fried Vermicelli Noodle Salad, $7) with Pork. This light salad erupts with freshness. A burst of textures and flavors comes from the cucumbers, carrots, cilantro, peanuts and hoisin sauce. Throw in the sweet and light dressing over the charred pork and you’re one happy camper. If want soup instead, try the Hu Tieu Hai San (Seafood Rice Noodle Soup, $8). The broth is light and clean and although not as fragrant as Pho, still very good and offers a nice alternative to the heavier Pho. Bean sprouts, lime, and herbs accompany the soup. We felt that the shrimp and calamari in the soup were good, but the fish cake was a little strong for us. For drinks, there is a nice assortment of Bubble Teas that are prepared by blending the drink with ice – we really liked the Coconut Bubble Tea ($3.50).

Service is fast and friendly and even if this place is packed, which it usually is on the weekends, we recommend waiting – a table will open up soon. Else, walk up to the counter and order take-out.

$. Street parking is available.