For more than two decades this old-stager a few doors from the Hippodrome has been one of Birmingham's most enduring and endearing restaurants, much liked for its consistency and good nature. The décor is highly evocative, with its ethnic wall hangings, prints and pastel colours and service is genuinely affable.

The shortish menu seldom changes and it's a world away from 'Brummie balti'. Instead it promises genuine North Indian and Punjabi dishes with clear flavours and fresh, subtle spicing. Tandooris loom large (everything from chicken tikka to shahi kebab) and the range of curries extends to king prawn masala, chicken sagwala (with spinach) and lamb pasanda.

Also look for the 'dhal of the day' as well as more unusual items such as K.K.matter (lotus root with peas) and aloo tikkian (a fried patty of 'smashed' potato, peas and spices). The wine list is appropriate and sensibly priced.

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Indian

Lunch: 12.00 - 2.00pm Mon-Sat
Dinner: 5.30 - 11.00pm Mon-Sat

Visa, Master Card

• Vegetarian menu