Mango Tree, Stonnall

Mango Tree restaurant is basking in the limelight after scooping a clutch of awards.

Keen to discover what all the fuss was about, I made my way to the Indian restaurant in Stonnall near Lichfield on a cold, blustery evening.

The building was decorated with twinkling fairy lights and looked welcoming. The spacious interior had funky lighting and well-spaced out tables.

But it was the menu which was the biggest revelation.

Award-winning head chef Murray Mariappan worked with top celebrity chef Keith Floyd on the hit series Floyd's India. The restaurant's menu is inspired by his journey across the country.

For starters I opted for salmon dil tikka - fresh salmon marinated in mustard, lime and dil.

The tasty salmon was not overwhelmed by the delicate flavour of the marinade and the dish was nicely complemented by a refreshing mint sauce and salad. My dining partner went for the crab cake starter -Êfresh crab flakes sauteed with delicate and aromatic spices, coated with breadcrumbs and deep-fried to a golden brown.

He said they were nice and crispy on the outside and spicy on the inside.

They were served with a mixed salad and a plum chutney which he said was delightful.

For the main courses we decided to try two of the restaurant's award-winning dishes. I went for allepey king prawn curry. The huge, succulent prawns were cooked in a delicious sauce of raw mango with fresh coconut, coriander and pepper.

My friend ordered the murgh jardaloo - chicken with apricot.

It had a rich, thick sauce and tender chunks of chicken which proved a class above regular curry house fare.

Both dishes were quite spicy and the fruit, found in each, proved a sweet relief. We also enjoyed the rice and peshawari naan bread.

The portions were large and presented nicely.

Unfortunately it all proved so delicious that we over-indulged and were too full to sample any sweets.

The waiter service was impeccable - the staff were friendly and helpful without being intrusive.

The bill, which included a 10 per cent service charge, was nearly £50 for the meal and two drinks - steeper than your average Indian but worth it.

This is an ideal restaurant for special occasions.

by John Sambrooks

Mango Tree, Chester Road, Stonnall

Tel: 01922 457344