Tamarind Spice is a modern Indian restaurant quickly building a reputation as one of the best in Epsom and Ewell.

Previously known as The White Castle, Tamarind Spice in Chessington Road in West Ewell, underwent a full refurbishment in 2009 and now boasts a stylish, spacious and inviting interior.

Tamarind Spice is run by former chef Salim Choudhury.

The restaurant is already proving popular with locals, and arriving for a meal last week, I wanted to find out why. We started the evening with poppadoms (£0.75 pence each) and a selection of chutneys.

To start, I chose the keema bartha puree, (£4.75) spiced mince beef cooked with chick peas, cream and cheddar cheese served on a lettuce leaf.

The balance of flavours worked perfectly for a light starter to whet the appetite.

My boyfriend opted for the chicken chat purée (£4.50), a delicious starter of chicken cooked with tomatoes and onions in a spiced sauce served on a pancake.

For a main course, I went for the king prawn korma (£8.95) with pilau rice (£2.40).

There was an abundance of good sized prawns with a delicately spiced korma which would please anyone who prefers a milder curry.

My boyfriend chose the chicken tikka korai (£8.95) – a medium hot curry cooked with green peppers and onions.

The chicken was juicy and tender with plenty of heat but not too hot.

I finished the evening with the coconut supreme (£4.50) which consisted of coconut ice cream served in a half coconut shell, a perfect palate cleanser.

My other half went for the mint choc ice cream (£3.75).

Mr Choudhury said: “It’s a modern family restaurant and it’s got plenty of atmosphere.

“Our chef has been with us for many years and only uses the freshest ingredients and the best quality available on the market.

“I like people to enjoy the evening and spend a couple of hours and relax. Customers dining with us on a regular basis recognise the quality. They know what they are getting and they are comfortable with us.”

According to Mr Choudhury one of the most popular dishes is the Mirchi Murgh Korai (£9.50), a fairly hot South Indian-style chicken dish cooked with onion, pepper, garlic, chilli and ginger.

Another favourite is the davil tomato (£4.95) – a starter of crushed chicken tikka in sauce topped with fried tomato.

Having sampled the menu at the Tamarind restaurant I can certainly recommend a visit, with the average price of a meal around £20.

My boyfriend and I had a fantastic evening and were suitably impressed with the service and attention to detail in the presentation of the food.

Good-sized portions, pleasant service and an inviting atmosphere add up to a great meal out.

Tamarind Spice offers an online order service – as well as the traditional takeaway option.

The restaurant is open seven days a week, including bank holidays.

Opening times: Sunday to Thursday, noon to 2.30pm and 6pm to 11pm, and Friday and Saturday, noon to 2.30pm and 6pm to 11.30pm.