Paradise

Things aren't supposed to change in Paradise, but that isn't the case where the restaurant of the same name is concerned

This popular eating and meeting place at the heart of South End Green has been through a number of transitions, none more dramatic than last year's stunning revamp

Gone is the dated black marble of the reception area, the smoked glass panelling and the low suspended ceilings

In their place is a stunningly spacious, bright and airily modern interior, trimmed with light oak panelling, subtle wall decorations that recall the art of the Henna tattooist and a fullwidth glass frontage which in warmer weather will offer the possibility of al fresco dining

The kitchens are set back and the bar area re-sited at the rear of the restaurant, as far from the entrance doors as possible

That doesn't mean, however, that the welcome is anything other than warm

Even on a busy Friday night, gregarious manager Wasel Ali somehow finds the time to greet most of the customers as they arrive and is often found sitting at tables chatting to regulars who have been enjoying a taste of Paradise for many years

Some were among the first customers when his father Shahid Ali opened for business in 1969 and the clientele on this night is an interesting mix of families, some with children in tow, smart young professionals on their way home from the office, incurable romantics and serious foodies who have heard good things on the grapevine

Everything about the ambiance of this fine restaurant is just right

The service is exemplary, and it is no surprise to learn that many of the staff, including the chef as well as some of the waiters, have many years of loyal service and experience

It's the little things that make a difference, and here they serve their chutneys in porcelain ramekins with individual spoons, rather than in the cheap metal dishes still surprisingly seen in some of the better Indian establishments

There's a fresh tulip and a candle on each table (with linen cloths of course) and a beautiful spray of flowers at the bar

If all this excites high hopes, then expectations are comfortably met

Our array of sublime starters included  traditional samosas (in the thinnest of pastry envelopes), a tasty onion bhaji and a local speciality, Aloo Chop, a delicious mildly-spiced mash potato and cutlet coated in crunchy breadcrumbs

Our vegetarian main courses were cooked to perfection, subtly flavoured and accompanied by the fluffiest of rice dishes

There is a good selection of naans and parathas to choose from

The kitchen has a long-established and well-deserved reputation for the excellence of the chicken and lamb dishes featured among its Paradise specials

Lamb Passanda and Murg Massala are among the most popular, and a succulent mixed grill from the Tandoor oven never disappoints

Even with a bottle of wine from the very respectable selection (ranging upwards from about £12 a bottle) it's remarkable that you can enjoy three courses in this excellent restaurant for around £30 a head - less if you're happy with two courses and prefer a Cobra beer or non-alcoholic drinks

An interesting selection of Indian street snacks, including the famous Mulligatawny soup, is available at lunchtimes when salads and wraps are also served for those seeking a lighter lunch than is normally available in Indian restaurants

And with a new children's menu on offer and plans in hand for an exciting fresh fish menu, South End Green is assured of its own piece of Paradise for many years to come

This is a restaurant with a smile on its face, and great food on its tables

Signature dishes:

• Prawn Puri – Spiced prawns with traditional bread £4.60
• Saag Gosht – Tender cubed lamb with fresh spinach, grated nutmeg and roasted garlic in a reduced sauce £5.95
• Cragoe Murg – Spicy chicken with crushed mustard seeds, cumin coriander and methi leaves £7.95
• Chana Massala – Indian bizarre style spicy chick peas £3.45

Opening Times:

• Lunch everyday Noon – 3pm
• Mon – Thurs 6-11:30pm
• Fri –Sun 6-12pm