Chorlton isn’t impoverished when it comes to Middle Eastern cuisine. So to stand out isn’t easy. Jasmine stands out. In fact, this family-run Lebanese restaurant has stood out since more or less the day it opened its doors in 2013.
Having very quickly earned itself a near fanatical fanbase among locals (and, of course, well beyond), it soon expanded into the premises next door, and now occupies a sizeable portion of Barlow Moor Road.
The notoriety is well deserved. Each dish feels like the best iteration of instantly recognisable Middle Eastern and Mediterranean classics that are sold the city over. So their roasted aubergine baba ghanouj is probably the best version there is. It’s sharp, smoky and makes for compulsive eating.
Ditto the walnut mouhamara, both of which are mopped up with perhaps the best pitta (a bold claim, but we’re sticking by it). You would struggle to find a softer maklubieh – lamb shish kebab – in all of Greater Manchester, or a more deeply savoury kofta or lamb shawarma, heady with cinnamon and piled onto a slick of nutty tahini.
Somehow, however invariably packed out it might be, you’ll always be found a corner to sit, while the most welcome bring-your-own policy (increasingly scarce around the city and the suburbs) means that, should you wish to grab a bottle from the offy along the way, you’ll end up being pleasantly surprised when the bill comes.
Perfect for a family meal, a special occasion with friends where the table groans with generous plates, or a date night, Jasmine is a true gem.