After a highly enjoyable evening at Summerhall catching up with the new, emerging and emerged writing talent at the Scottish Book Trust’s new writers showcase, I found myself with a very specific longing for Chinese food. Accordingly, I headed towards Grindlay Street to try Jasmine, which is just across the road from the Lyceum Theatre.

Two doors down from a Jimmy Chung’s all you can eat Chinese buffet, but this place is quite a different prospect, specialising in seafood dishes across an extensive selection.

The menu presented little challenge as I was keen for soup and seafood so quickly settled upon braised tofu and seafood soup followed by salty chilli squid.

Service was prompt but relaxed, throughout. I was dining towards the end of service so some of the staff members were having their dinner at a nearby table. The ribs they were dining upon looked delicious.

My starter quickly arrived. It was one of those delicate and delicious soups at which Chinese cooking excels, with all elements coming together harmoniously.

The main course had less elegance, but was every bit as tasty. The squid was crisp and plentiful. It was prepared very accurately and packed a light chilli heat.

So overall, Jasmine delivered exactly what I required. Both dishes I had were high on flavour and displayed accomplished cooking. I’d be more than happy to visit again to sample more dishes from their menu.

Scores
Blythe scores Jasmine
4/5 for food
3.5/5 for presentation
3.5/5 for setting
4/5 for service
giving an overall 15/20

I ate: braised tofu and seafood soup; salt and chilli squid; fried rice

I drank: white wine

I wore: bolo tie

Total bill: £23.15