Bombay Bicycle Club - Holland Park

Aiming to take you back in time to a club in the Indian subcontinent, where colonial officers would dine and relax, Bombay Bicycle recreates that magic through their chain of restaurants and takeaways. The first outlet opened in Nightingale Lane, Clapham in the late eighties and today it also boasts a flourishing catering and events division.

The design is modern though the pleasant ambience is thoroughly Indian, with no frills, but, to suit the more sensitive Western palate, the kitchen veers away from fiery creations and instead produces milder, aromatic delicacies. Starters such as lamb samosas and prawn puree, through to shish kebab murgh - mildly marinated tender chicken breast cooked in the tandoor - tempt even the most discerning diner.

Their sizzlers, which arrive at your table piping hot with grills on a bed of onions or a creamy sauce, are a house speciality, while the day's specials vary and could include the popular biryani. Murgh Mangalore is a delicious main of chicken with a blend of spices, while the hot and sour Calicut fish curry is suited to seafood fans. Vegetarians have options like the dupiaza, which is best had in tandem with Indian breads or pilau rice. There are poppadums and vegetables sides, besides salads, to complete the meal. If you have ordered spicy fare, then the homemade sorbets are a perfect way to give your tongue some much needed relief.

The dessert list is limited and, apart from a few Indian sweets, offers the likes of a more familiar cinnamon chocolate fudge cake, a pleasant way to end a meal there.