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Quite possibly, the dining table conversation could revolve around the stunning fibre optic chandelier or the glass waterfalls that are part of the very sleek and opulent décor of the Curry Lounge. Dark porcelain floors, leather seating and silk screens complete the picture, creating a visually appealing restaurant. But then, it is the culinary delights there that far exceed expectations, earning this Indian the sobriquet of Nottingham's best curry house.

Their authentic cuisine focuses on Indian and Punjabi elements, and your starter could be lasooni chickeni, chicken marinated in royal cumin, cardamom and mace scented cream, skewered in a clay oven and served with mint chutney. For the main course, if you are a lamb aficionado, the achari, tender baby lamb chunks cooked in an onion, masala, tomato gravy, with a dash of pickling spices and green chillies, will certainly appeal. The bar is well stocked with a selection of fine wines, beers and spirits.

The relaxed and informal setting, friendly service and delicious food exude a welcoming warmth that makes dining here an experience to which to look forward. Restaurateur Nik Bhalla's personal touches have made all the difference at the centrally located Rushes Bistro.

The bistro's a la carte and set menus feature an eclectic combination of dishes that speaks of different cultures. There's a choice of spicy beef chilli nachos, duck pate with orange and ginger chutney, Greek lamb kebabs, Caribbean fruit and vegetable curry with steamed rice, moules marinière with French fries, tomato and mozzarella bruschetta and more. If you wish to end on a sweet note, sample some treacle tart with custard or sticky toffee pudding or maybe just a glass of dessert wine. A range of cocktails, red and white wines and other spirits complement the meal admirably.

Customers can stop by for a drink only if they so please. A party menu, for a minimum of eight people, must be ordered in advance.

In this age of new generation dining destinations, it is pleasing to see places such as The Swan doing exceedingly well. Located on the banks of the River Soar in a Grade II listed building, the freehouse is a traditional 17th century inn in the village of Mountsorrel, Leicestershire. The AA four star enterprise offers visitors a large bedroom in an apartment style suite.

Sit by a roaring log fire and treat yourself to good real ales, wine and spirits. Food can be enjoyed inside or out in the riverside garden in summer. A regularly changing menu of hot and cold food is on offer at lunchtime while a traditional three-course roast lunch is served on Sundays.

British and European classics such as steak and kidney pudding, mussels in a lime and ginger broth, and seared breast of pigeon with caramelised beetroot are all homemade. A special bistro night is organised on the fourth Monday of each month, and a steak-frites evening on the second Monday of each month is popular among customers.