MY Fawlty-esque entrance into Ashleys, missing the step as I swung open the door, was the only blot on a convivial night’s dining.

That is until my pal stumbled over the same step on the way out – maybe it was the Cobra beer, maybe we’re a pair of clowns.

Thankfully, while safely seated we were able to choose from a fine selection of traditional and contemporary Indian cuisine, with an eye-catching fusion menu.

Ashleys Restaurant used to be a budget-priced, bring-your-ownbooze affair. It’s since become licensed, upped its game, extended its menu and the old orange decor has been replaced with a more contemporary black-and-white feel.

However, it still doesn’t hurt your wallet and a three-course meal plus poppadoms and a couple of pints each only came to £47.50.

After chomping on four crisp poppadoms, with a fine array of yoghurt, onion and coconut dips, we decided to avoid the fusion dishes and stick to traditional Indian fare.

My salmon la jawab starter (£3.25) was fine, the tender bites of marinated salmon had the appropriate texture and it went well with the yoghurt and spices.

My pal said his onion pakora (£2.25) was tasty and just the right texture. He raised a quizzical eyebrow when he realised we were eating to the accompanying sounds of Bryan Adams but decided to plough on regardless.

After all Can’t Stop This Thing We’ve Started...

My balti lamb saag (£5.55) with peas pilau rice (£2.25) was exquisite. The succulent, diced, boneless lamb with a hint of spinach and various spices was a treat. My chum declared his chicken balti (£4.95) tender and flavoursome while his egg fried rice (£2.25) was dubbed “delicious”

as he imbibed another pint of Cobra.

As ever, in a curry house, we were presented with an array of ice-creams for dessert (£6.50).

My hazelnut crunch did exactly what it said on the label, while my pal was pleased his coconut helado was served in a real coconut.

Ashleys is the perfect place for a pre or post-cinema meal or a night out with friends. The staff are friendly and efficient, there’s a relaxed atmosphere and a function room upstairs if you’re up for a group celebration.

One slight gripe, the back garden could do with a tidy up – the view from our window seat was not the best.

But as Basil Fawlty himself would say: “What did you expect to see out of a Tything curry house window? Sydney Opera House perhaps, the hanging gardens of Babylon?”

HOW IT RATED

Ashleys,
11 The Tything,
Worcester
Telephone: 01905 611747
Food ★★★★✩
Value for money ★★★★★
Ambience ★★★✩✩
Service ★★★★✩