Bengal Spice is a popular Indian takeaway nestled in the heart of Gnosall village, offering delicious food and friendly service.

A firm favourite among the locals, it does a bustling trade throughout the week.

You are guaranteed a warm welcome by the chatty staff who are more than happy to explain what’s in the dishes on the menu and offer advice to suit your particular tastes and preferences.

I am a big fan of the classic chicken tikka bhoona and can also recommend the south Indian garlic chilli chicken for the more adventurous who like something a little hotter.

On a recent visit I ordered roshun chicken (£6.15) from the “chef’s specialties” section of the menu.

It is a medium-spiced dish which is wonderfully garlic-drenched in a thick, rich sauce combining a great mix of flavours.

My friend plumped for the chicken pathia (£4.45). This is a hot, sweet and sour dish which combines tangy savoury undertones with a delicate sweetness.

Together with two portions of pilau rice (£1.65 each) and the Bengal Spice’s coriander naan (£1.85), it more than satisfied two hungry appetites.

The comprehensive menu offers a wide range of meals, from mild kurmas and kashmirs through sagwalas and malayans to hot madras and vindaloos.

There are also some mouthwatering descriptions of further “chef’s specialties” which I have yet to sample, including the delightful-sounding apricot blossom and up-front tutty fruity.

An added bonus is the fact that, on request, the chef normally welcomes “special requests” and will create a dish tailored to your requirements.

For more traditional tastes, there are a selection of English meals, including roast chicken, sirloin steak and scampi and chips.

There are set meals available and various special offers such as a free drink or side dish with certain orders.

Bengal Spice

Station Road, Gnosall

01785 823248

by Wyn Matthews