After months of speculation and rumours, The Curry Centre finally reopened its doors earlier this summer, and I can confirm the wait was most certainly worth it.

I was shocked and saddened to hear it had closed its doors, and after the months of refurbishment, I wondered if my favourite Indian restaurant would ever reopen.

When I heard it had, but with a menu revamp and the classic retro booths and bright colours long gone and replaced with a more modern, minimalistic look, I wasn’t sure what to expect, however there was no need to be concerned.

Welcomed as warmly as ever, we were presented with the new menus. We decided we would each try an old favourite, and something new.

Our drink orders swiftly taken, a plate of warm, crisp poppadums with a selections of dips were placed in front of us.

For my starter I decided to try something a little different to what I would normally go for, Lamb Chops (£6.95).

Marinated overnight in yogurt and spices, before grilling, they were full of flavour.

My fiance Andrew went for his normal choice of starter, a Mixed Grill (£6.95). Tandoori chicken, sheekh kebab, succulent chunks of chicken and lamb tikka and a tandoori king prawn filled the plate. Bursting with flavour, it did not disappoint.

For mains, it was Andrew who was this time more adventurous, and he selected the Lamb Shank (£14.95). Served with a chana rice and salad, it was far from his normal chicken jalfrezi.

The soft tender lamb, cooked to perfection in a tomato based sauce was a taste sensation. I just had to go for a classic, Dupiaza, and I opted for the shrimp. The medium spiced dish is a favourite of mine, and I thoroughly enjoyed my choice, particularly as the chef had not scrimped on the shrimp.

We had a side of Aloo Gobi (£3.95) and Saag Paneer (£3.95) along with a plain naan (£2.95) and chapati (£1.50).

Completely full and thoroughly satisfied, there wasn’t much room for desert, so we decided to share. The Gajar Halwa (£4.95) stood out for us, and although not what we would normally go for, we decided to give it a try.

The Indian style carrot cake is served with a vanilla ice cream and a white chocolate cream. Andrew is not normally a fan of carrot cake but the Indian twist with subtle spices was delightful, and the white chocolate cream complimented it perfectly.

With plenty of choices for meat eaters and vegans alike, in a perfect location – The Curry Centre really does tick all the boxes of a great Indian restaurant.

With years of history and loved by many in the town, the refurbishment and menu refresh is just what was needed.