Wokingham's dining scene may not be that aggressive but places like The Tamarind Tree are emerging signs of possible growing competition. Inside the leather seating and hardwood floors create a cosy atmosphere while the closely packed tables add to the general bonhomie. The pickle tray is something of a centrepiece, with tiny bowls of sweet tamarind, lime pickle and mango chutney vying for attention.

The chef's recommendations do more than just suggest dishes; diners are also encouraged to throw caution to the wind and try the sykley grilled chicken stuffed with minced meat with a choice of hot sauce, or minced lamb marinated and cooked in a bhuna sauce. The tandoori section could reveal trout on the bone flavoured with crushed garlic, ginger and green pepper, and shashlik skewers threaded with king prawns, capsicum, tomato and onion.

Choosing the roast may be a sensible course of action on a Sunday afternoon, but at times it's good to alter the routine slightly and head to The Tamarind Tree for a value-for-money, buffet style meal.