I WAS pleasantly surprised by my visit to Massalla Lounge, on Broad Street, in Worcester.

I had not visited this eatery in years, which is unusual considering it is located right in the centre of the city.

Established for over 10 years, Massalla Lounge suggests on their website that they are considered “Worcester's favourite Indian curry restaurant,” and I can see why.

I walked in and was greeted by the owner, Jay Mifta, with a handshake and warm smile.

There was a wonderful atmosphere in the room. The lighting was dim, yet cosy.

It has a spacious dining area with a variety of seating options.

The music volume was just right, which is a big tick off the box for me. I cannot stand restaurants that have their music blaring to the point you cannot hear your party.

I could smell the sweet and subtle scents of my favourite side dish, peshwari naan.

Mr Mifta, who has been running the restaurant for two and a half years, said: “All of my staff helps run this restaurant. I do not describe myself as the owner. Everyone has a responsibility, we are all equal. We have a good team and my staff are like family.

“I love working in Worcester and the people are lovely. We get close to our regular customers, we get to know them and their favourite dishes.”

For a Wednesday evening, it took me by surprise how busy the restaurant was. Coincidentally, there were customers seated next to my table who regularly visit Massalla Lounge. They offered their opinion on the restaurant, claiming it be their number one place to eat.

Neil Smith calls in to Massalla Lounge every week, with a specific table reserved for him and his friends on their visits.

He said: “It is the best food in Worcester and I have tried most of the restaurants.

“They do treat us well here. The staff are friendly, if you ask, they will cook you anything you like that is not on the menu.

“I love the atmosphere. We could sit here all night having a few beers and sit and chat.

“Jay, the owner, is brilliant. He is very helpful and looks after his staff very well.”

Bobbie Taylor visits the restaurant once a week with her husband and group of friends.

She said: “We know we can trust Jay. He brings quality food, amazing service and the restaurant is always clean. We have never had a bad meal here.

“There are so many Indian restaurants in Worcester, this is by far the best one.”

As I could not decide what starter to order, Mr Mifta said he would surprise me with a special dish. He brought out a mouth-watering chicken tikka puree on yogurt bread. It was very flavoursome.

Browsing through the menu, the ‘Chocolate Korma’ caught my eye. I am familiar with Indian food, however this was new to me. I was apprehensive about ordering this, however, I am always keen on trying out new things. I ordered the korma with, of course, my ultimate favourite treat – a peshwari naan. Talk about sugar rush.

The dish was very tasty and undoubtedly the most adventurous meal I have ever had. There were roasted clay chicken pieces cooked in a hint of coconut and chocolate sauce. I would most definitely order this again.

The ambiance in Massalla Lounge sets a calm and tranquil mood. The staff were laid back, yet attentive.

Just as I mentioned to my companion how full I was, Mr Mifta provided complimentary dessert to the table, as well as a glass of Bailey's.

It was a lovely finishing touch to a fabulous evening.

Overall, I cannot fault my visit. All the staff made their customers feel very welcome and there was service with a smile throughout the evening. Nothing was too much trouble and the staff were very helpful.

I am happy I paid a visit to Massalla Lounge and will look forward to coming again. Perhaps next time I will try a healthier alternative, although nothing can keep me away from peshwari naan.