The Raj Gate, Llanfrechfa

YOU really feel like you're in the lap of luxury as you sink into the huge leather sofas in the tastefully appointed lounge bar of the Raj Gate.

There you can sip your drink and peruse the menu in an unhurried manner.

And you're going to need a bit of time to make your mind up as there is a vast array of dishes on offer.

When we were ready, staff guided us to an elegant dining area, where we sat in eager anticipation, tormented by the seductive aroma of the food as it emerged from the kitchens.

I went for aloo took to start - pieces of fried potatoes bathed in a tangy yoghurt and tamarind sauce, while my wife tucked into a beautifully presented shimla mirch - spiced vegetables stuffed in a capsicum and baked in a tandoor oven. Both were lovely.

My juicy rainbow trout tandoor to follow was a delight, with just a hint of spices, allowing the delicate flavour of the fish to prevail.

Hannah's rich and spicy vegetable balti really packed a punch.

The accompanying nan breads and chola dall were equally delicious.

Billed as "contemporary Indian cuisine", there is something for everyone on the menu.

Vegetarians can choose from nine different main dishes, while meat and fish eaters are faced with a dizzying array of tandoor, korma, madras and balti selections.

There are 14 different options on the seafood menu alone, as well as some tasty looking speciality dishes.

If all that's too much choice, there are a number of very competitively priced set menus, and a take-away service is also available.

This was a fine meal in relaxed surroundings, and the service was extremely attentive and friendly.

I rounded it off with a Belgian chocolate orange ice cream desert, while Hannah went for an Irish coffee.

The bill, which included a glass of wine and soft drinks, came to a very reasonable £56.

Andy Doyle