Jasmine Thai Intoxicates the Senses

Yes, there is an abundance of Thai restaurants. But to
 find the best of the best, one must search for the truth, look beyond the exterior and judge from within.

Since 1981, Jasmine Thai has been serving up some of the Bay Area’s 
most authentic Thai food. The family-owned restaurant has been going strong for nearly three decades and has built their dynasty with locations in Carrollwood, Brandon, and South Tampa. Jasmine Thai has been in the Lertpanit family since the restaurant opened. The current owners, siblings Nanta and Christopher Lertpanit, purchased the restaurant from another family member in 1990. 

The interior of the South Tampa location is a 
balance between traditional Thai design and contemporary décor. Buddha and a smiling host greet you as you enter the quiet and peaceful space. Silk pillows accent the intimate, warm toned booths and intricately carved gold structures hang upon walls that are the color of a deep orange sunset. The ambiance is warm and welcoming and emits a calming and peaceful vibe. The staff is extremely pleasant and friendly, and the wonderful service adds to the serene ambiance.

Thai cuisine should reach a perfect harmony in taste and
 aroma, and Jasmine Thai exceeds this expectation. The menu offers a wide variety of traditional Thai cuisine, cooked with only the freshest spices and herbs, many of which are imported. They strive to make all of their dishes perfect, right down to the precise details like the fresh orchids that come with every
 entrée, or the jasmine rice that is molded into the shape of a heart. It is this attention to detail that makes the restaurant so special.

For lunch, the Thai Spring Rolls ($5.95) wrapped in rice
paper, stuffed with shrimp, ground pork, crab meats, mushrooms, carrots and onions are great for a starter. The Yum Larb Gai ($8.95) is ground chicken tossed with lemon juice, onions, bell pepper chili, rice, and is served on lettuce and will definitely not disappoint. You can never go wrong with one of the dishes from the Chef’s Specials like the Grilled Salmon and Shrimp ($9.50) that is served with Panang curry, crushed peanuts, bell peppers and zucchini. Vegetarians and carnivores alike can live in harmony here with a variety of options for 
both.

For dinner, the restaurant maintains it’s daytime 
charm and serene atmosphere, but transforms into a romantic and exotic destination.
  Many consider themselves Pad-Thai experts due to the simplicity of this glorious noodle dish. This is why you can trust me when I say to you that the Pad Thaihere is one of the best EVER! If you are a Pad Thai fan, get in your car right
 now, drive to Jasmine Thai (c’mon, there are three locations, there has got to be one right around the corner from you) and treat yourself to a wonderful dish of Pad Thai. It is sure to make any grey skies turn blue. ($9.95-$14.95).

The usual crowd pleaser, curry dishes, are
 also where Jasmine Thai excels. The richness of the coconut milk and the general deliciousness of curry dishes somehow make your life a little bit better with each bite. The Yellow Curry ($9.95-$10.95) cooked with coconut milk, potatoes, carrots, and onions with your choice of meat will make you a very happy camper. 

For dessert there is Jasmine’s banana ($4.95), a crunchy
 banana on top of homemade coconut ice cream. The Thai donuts ($3.50) are homemade and served with creamy dipping sauce. Both dishes are intoxicatingly delicious.

The Lertpanits have put their hearts and souls
into their restaurants. It is obvious in the soul-satisfying food and balanced, peaceful atmosphere they have created.  If the past is any sign of the future, Jasmine Thai will be a staple of the Bay area community for many more decades to come.

Where

South Tampa - 3333 S. Westshore Boulevard

Carrollwood - 13248 North Dale Mabry Highway

Brandon - 1947 West Lumsden Road

When

Mon-Thurs: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lunch; 4 to 10 p.m. Dinner

Fri-Sat: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lunch; 4 to 11 p.m. Dinner

Sun: 4 to 10:30 p.m. Dinner 

Contact 

South Tampa: 813-831-8881

Carrollwood: 813-968-1501

Brandon: 813-662-3635

jasminetampa.com