Equally fitting for a romantic setting as it is for a group of friends, Kappad’s beach retreat interior is both relaxing and fun.

The authenticity of the food at Kappad was evident immediately as we were served a striking plate of Pre Meal Snacks and Pickles (£4.89) – Pappadoms and Kaya Varuthathu (traditional Keralan spiced snack, think of a deeply flavoured pappadom with black sesame seeds); Achappam (an intricate flower shaped crisp made of rice flour, coconut milk and flavoured delicately with spices); Kaya Varuthathu (plantain) all served with coconut chutney, mango pickle and tamarind sauce.

As I write this I am smiling, thinking of how each tiny detail is thought of and each dish so unlike anything I have ever tasted. Those who have been to Kerala and eaten at Kappad testify to the authenticity of the cuisine and the expertise of the chefs.

It was a tough choice from the vast and fascinating menu, for starter I chose the Chilli Paneer (£5.95), and my husband chose the Prawns Ularthu (£7.45) – which is highlighted as a signature dish.

The paneer, a light cheese which becomes silky and takes on the heat of the chillies perfectly, was served deliciously caramelised with peppers and onions and a crisp side salad to complement.

The prawns were incredibly special, served in their shell which keeps the flavour at its finest. Everything on offer to diners is at its very best, unapologetically spiced and flavoursome.

Gluten-free diners will rejoice in the huge array of dishes available. The bread accompaniments were the star of the show for me. I tried Appam for the first time – a soft pancake made with fermented rice flour (£2.95).

It was recommended to accompany my spiced, savoury and caramelised Meen Pollichathu main course of Grandma’s traditional grilled fish wrapped in a banana leaf (£12.45).

This dish is a signature for a reason – and is fantastic to share, the portions are all extremely generous. And sharing simply adds to the atmosphere, as good as each dish is, you can’t help but want to try everything!

I even had some of my husband’s Kappad Lamb Curry (£11.25), which was incredibly creamy and unctuous, for want of a better word! The recommended bread for this dish was an absolute knockout.

Kerala Paratha (£2.69), I could sit and eat the fluffy, almost chewy tearings of bread that are perfect to dip into the gorgeous sauces on offer all day.

We had the Naranga Choru (£2.95) rice to accompany, tossed with lemon and fresh curry leaves and a Vegetable Mezhukkavaratty (£5.29).