Al Frash

In the perpetual debate surrounding the authenticity and origins of Balti one is inevitably drawn towards Sparkbrook, where Indian restaurants offering a Balti meal as a specific line the streets like so many traffic wardens, only far more tasty. Ladypool Road in particular offers a fine crop amongst which Al Frash has earned itself more commendations than most.

Not that the walls are lined with framed certificates from hitherto unheard of organisations showering bouquets of rosettes upon them, but rather the word on the street which simply says 'Al Frash is good'. Dishes are freshly prepared and clearly care has been taken. The treatment of the generous-sized nan bread is an example, none of the rubbery old boot leather here.

Dishes are liberally spiced and flavours come through clearly, particularly recommended (by Jan Moir in The Telegraph) is the lamb balti, the chicken curry spiked with chilli, fresh coriander and garlic, accompanied by huge, fluffy naan bread. Not only is the food good it is also outstandingly good value, unless you consider around £6 for most main courses to be unduly heavy on the wallet.

It's BYO and the customary convenient shop is just down the road.