The last time I ate in this neck of the woods, some ten years ago or more, there used to be a Mexican restaurant and my memory of it was that it was more like a shack.

Now there is something quite different. A new futuristic, glass-fronted building that glows at night; the home to the Palm Indian restaurant, which by day could be unnoticed but after dark takes on a whole new dimension.

Inside, the decor carries on its modern and contemporary vision. White leather seating booths, an illuminated bar, an eclectic mix of Indian decor, fresh orchids and quirky tableware create a trendy and stylish dining area.

Fresh poppadoms, chutney and salad made a good first impression as we tucked in while looking at the menu.

Unlike most Indian restaurants, The Palm has a fantastic selection of ‘signature dishes’ that have been created by the chefs and make it very difficult to make a choice.

Marrying traditional Indian with Asian cuisine and Bengal spices creates a fantastic selection of mouth-watering food.

We ordered drinks, which got delayed slightly by a classic scenario of too many cooks. Fortunately, the food erased this setback. Danny chose to start with the jinga peshwari (£6.25) and I had the chicken lollipop (£5.75).

The prawns in his starter were the biggest we have seen and they were succulent and tasted amazing.

My chicken lollipop turned out to be chicken on the bone, marinated in delicate spices, and was surprisingly meaty.

Both starters were presented like a picture, served with micro salads and flashes and swirls of bright sauces on white square plates.

Danny’s main was chhingri jhal masala (14.95). King prawns were served in their shells and with the most delicious, silky sauce. The delicate mixed spices, Dijon mustard and chopped fenugreek leaves created an aromatic curry, which was luxuriously creamy.

I had Goan tamari prawns (£12.95), bursting with tiger prawns in a coconut milk sauce livened with curry leaves and sweetened with shreds of mango.

The freshness of the fruit and vegetables was delicious and added a lovely texture to the dish and we added delicately spiced Bombay potatoes and mushroom rice side dishes.

We were dining with another couple, who gave us food recommendations. Hannah’s own starter of chat puri – spiced chicken on an Indian pancake – looked and tasted delicious. Rob’s main of seared rack of lamb, marinated in spices and yoghurt, not only looked impressive, it exceeded expectations.

With two pints of Kingfisher and two Diet Cokes, our half of the averaged out bill came to about £60.

* A blend of traditional Indian food, influenced by modern British taste.

* Opening times: Monday-Sunday, lunch from noon to 2.30pm; dinner 5.30pm to 11.30pm.