Jasmine Market in Culver City, California: Authentic Muslim and Indian Food-specials

When you step inside, it feels like many Pinoy restaurants I have been to since it's a restaurant and a market. I like how this place seems to be a focal point for the small Burmese population in the LA area, more exactly at 4135 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City.

People of Burmese decent will drive from faraway places like Simi Valley to eat here. The food is halal, so if you a practicing Muslim, you can eat at this place. The prices are such a great bargain. It's very affordable, especially their lunch specials. Their lunch specials basically match the prices of most meal deals at fast food restaurants.

I have tried their: Chicken tandoori, chicken tikka kabob, chicken biryani, Mont Hinn Ga and Chicken curry soup. I liked their chicken tikka kabob a lot, because even if it is white meat, it's still tender, juicy and full of flavor. Visually, the chicken biryani also looks delicious with the rice piled up so high but unless you are a rice lover, stick to other dishes.

The naan bread here is excellent. It puts most Indian restaurants to shame. Most of the meals are served with some salad greens, vegetable curry and naan bread. The vegetable curry has coconut milk in it, which I love. It also has just the right amount of spice without burning my taste buds.

The owner is very nice to talk to and is a jolly fellow. He is popular because he has a happy disposition, positive attitude, and friendly demeanor.

I also had the Burmese food for the first time; it seemed to have influences from Thailand and India. The Keema Curry made from ground beef was rich and hearty. The angel hair and fish soup was delicious.

You can also browse through the glass refrigerator to pick a drink like coconut juice, Thai tea, or Pakola a Pakistani. Another small fridge next to the free water dispenser contains frozen Kulfi bars for dessert. You can buy them by the box or individually. Flavors include malai (milk and nuts), coconut, pistachio, and others.

Food over here has been excellent and cheap and you will also find some bright and friendly people behind the counter. The regulars are primarily Burmese people (good sign). This is also a small market so you can pick up quite a few things you would normally get at sweets & spices (or your local Indian market).