Jasmine Garden — Restaurant in Grindelwald

Jasmine Garden: Where Szechuan Spices Meet Swiss Serenity 🌶️🍚

Nestled in the picturesque village of Grindelwald, the Jasmine Garden is a culinary gem that offers a delightful escape from the alpine chill. Stepping inside, you're greeted by an ambiance that perfectly marries traditional Chinese elegance with the rustic charm of Swiss decor. The warm, inviting atmosphere, with its tasteful red accents and serene décor, sets the stage for a dining experience that's as delightful as a ski run down the Eiger!

Let's talk about the food, shall we? We kicked off our meal with the spring rolls, and oh boy, they were crispy little parcels of joy! 🥢 Perfectly golden and served on a beautiful blue ceramic plate, they were the crunchy prelude to an evening of culinary bliss.

Next up, the Cantonese fried rice, a dish so fragrant and flavorful that it could make even the grumpiest of mountain goats smile. 🐐 Packed with succulent shrimp, tender pork, and the crunch of fresh vegetables, each bite was a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. This wasn’t just fried rice; it was a symphony on a plate!

But the pièce de résistance had to be the Szechuan beef. This dish was a vibrant explosion of colors and flavors that danced on our taste buds with just the right amount of spice. The beef was tender, the vegetables crisp, and the sauce had that perfect Szechuan kick that made us reach for our water glasses – in the best possible way. 🌶️💦

The service at Jasmine Garden deserves a standing ovation. Our server was the epitome of Swiss hospitality mixed with Chinese grace. Friendly, attentive, and always ready with a smile, they made our dining experience feel like a cozy dinner at a friend's house – if your friend happens to be an amazing chef!

In summary, the Jasmine Garden is not just a restaurant; it's a delightful journey of flavors and warmth in the heart of Grindelwald. Whether you’re a local or a traveler seeking a break from the snow, this is the spot to indulge in some seriously amazing Chinese...

Jasmine Garden serves up some genuinely good Chinese food. We loved it enough for a return visit! The Stewed Bean Curd with Chili Sauce, "Lo Hon" Vegetables, Fried Rice, and Season Vegetable were all excellent. They also cater well to dietary needs, offering vegetarian and vegan options, and are happy to accommodate requests like adjusting spice levels or omitting ingredients (e.g., no garlic, no egg).

The key to a great experience here is simple: make a reservation. The restaurant opens at 6 PM (for dinner), and the owner, who appears to manage the entire front-of-house solo, controls seating very carefully. With only one cook, she paces orders to ensure food quality and timely service, thus preventing long waits for those who are seated. This system, evidently developed over 20+ years, might mean seeing people without reservations turned away, especially when the kitchen is at capacity.

Contrary to some suggestions I read beforehand, this system did not appear discriminatory. I observed her turn away various groups, including several Chinese parties, when they were full, and also seat people of diverse backgrounds. It seems to be a practical approach to manage a busy restaurant with a small kitchen team, aiming to balance the cook's workload and ensure each table is served efficiently. While the policy could perhaps be communicated more clearly at the door, it's her method of ensuring diners receive well-prepared food without undue delay.

Calling ahead (around 5:00 PM to 5:30 PM for a 6:00 PM table on the same day) worked perfectly for us. Once you have a table, the service is fast. Do note that, as is standard for restaurants in Switzerland, no outside drinks are allowed. If you plan ahead with a reservation, you're in...

Nestled away in the basement, it offers a humble Chinese dining experience that comes with its quirks. The small establishment tends to get bustling during meal times, which speaks to its popularity. However, it's evident that the limited staff struggles to keep up, resulting in service that might not meet expectations.

The restaurant boasts an extensive menu with a variety of dishes, but the excitement somewhat dwindles when the portions are taken into account. The price-to-portion ratio leans on the pricier side, making it a bit of a letdown.

Among the dishes I tried, the Sweet and Sour Pork was a standout, offering a good sauce that complemented the small portion well. However, the Gong Bao Chicken failed to live up to its reputation, as it didn't quite capture the usual flavors I expected.

The Beef Fried Noodles and Yang Chow Fried Rice were rather pedestrian, with the rice slightly overcooked, resulting in a mediocre rendition. Even a small side of vegetables couldn't quite uplift the overall dining experience.

While it might not win any awards for service or portion sizes, it does hold a certain charm for those who appreciate an unassuming atmosphere. If you're willing to overlook the shortcomings and are primarily in search of a quick Chinese meal, this might be a suitable option.

In conclusion, offers a mixed bag of Chinese cuisine that falls short in some aspects but manages to capture a modest appeal. If you're in the mood for a bite without the frills, and you're prepared for potential hiccups along the way, this basement eatery...