Akash, Cardiff Road, Newport. WE received a warm welcome as soon as we entered this city centre Indian restaurant, where the friendly staff were attentive but did not hurry us as we enjoyed a comfortable eating experience.

Almost as soon as we sat down we were served with poppadoms and dips which were much appreciated by these hungry diners.

We had the choice of paying the menu prices or opting for the £7 per head offer which allowed you to eat as much as you wanted of the dishes on offer. We decided on the latter and were urged to ask for more when we were ready.

Picking two old favourites for a starter is unadventurous but it is interesting to see how they taste in different establishments.

The onion bhajees were excellent, while the chicken tikka received a definite thumbs up from the person who had chosen it - the other was not so keen, just showing that everyone has different tastes.

Moving on to our main courses - and we liked being asked if we were ready rather than just being served - we had a beautifully cooked chicken tikka massalla, which had just the right amount of spicy kick, and a mild and creamy chicken korma served with plain rice and chips.

We also had a warm and buttery plain nan but, be warned, we chose the "family" nan which, quite frankly, could have served a large family rather than our small gathering. It was delicious and it was with regret that we had to leave a substantial portion.

Needless to say, we did not need our plates refilled but overall it was an enjoyable meal and good value for money. Jane Helmich