HASSAN BALTI, HIGH STREET

Another in the West Country that I haven't visited, but one that a local contact tells me is 'excellent in every way'. She provides the following report:-

"Located at the end of the High Street, it looks extremely inviting from the outside, being housed in a traditional Cotswold stone building towards the end of a long terrace. Not the largest of restaurants inside, but it is tastefully decorated with an Asian 'feel'. 

Preliminary poppadoms and choice of pickles was excellent, as was the accompanying raita. We had main dishes of Lamb Madras, Chicken Korma and a Chicken Biriyani, and all three dishes were beautifully prepared. The Korma was sweet without being cloying, with a sauce of an ideal consistency - not too thick and not too runny. The vegetable side dishes and Onion Bhajias were also all flavoursome and delicately cooked to perfection.

Acceptable portion sizes, and the service was excellent. We were welcomed in a friendly manner, and the waiter (the same who greeted us) was attentive throughout without being obtrusive. He was also very good with our son (aged 12), making a fuss of him and bringing him assorted sweets and lollipops at the end.

Definitely one on our repeat list next time we are in the area.

CD - 2004 "