A cut above the average Indian, if you wait long enough

Let's be clear. There are lots of reasons to like Cardamom. We love the interior, there's a friendly welcome, and it doesn't attract the late-night vinda lads. But they don't quite get everything right.

For starters, why are the tables so small? Curry eaters need space. Space for chutneys, space for breads, space for those extra dishes you wish you hadn't ordered when greed got the better of you. Nudge your Balti pan 2cm too far in Cardamom and your dinner date gets a nice plate of rice on her lap. It's not the quickest service this side of Bombay either. We waited a good half hour for our meal.

Having said that, when the food comes it's mostly very tasty. The Acharez Gosht Bhuna was our favourite - plenty of rich tomato flavours and good-quality meat. There are some good sides too - the lime pickle tasted freshly made and the sag aloo was the best I've had. Not everything is a success though, The 'award winning' Murg Anawaka is a big let-down, and the salad that accompanied our fish dish was a very unpleasant shredded Iceberg affair. Definitely try the fish options though - plenty to choose from.

Do try the desserts too. They do tasty samosas and pancakes, both with a splendid coconut filling (definitely go for the samosa - the combination of textures is much better) and the thick Greek coffee is top-notch.