Food review: The Good Earth, in Bellevue Road, steers away from hydrogenated fats and dishes up healthy meals that are the real thing - something hard to come by in south London.

The family-run chain of restaurants has been operating in London and Surrey since the 1970s and have retained the sense of class associated with going out for a Chinese.

As I enter the restaurant manager Catherine Wong takes our coats and guides to our seats.

Wandsworth Times: WAND YELLOW Review: The Good Earth, Wandsworth

The interior of the restaurant is something else and worth taking in a few moments before concentrating on the food. Gold art-deco style signage, plush lime green chairs and Oriental style artwork all add to the experience.

Before we peruse the menu, Catherine explains: “We had a soft opening in September and fully opened after Christmas.

“The quality of food is fresh and crunchy – we don't use MSG (monosodium glutamate). It is a much healthier option.”

The waiting staff are happy to give recommendations, so for a starter we are served a selection of the best dishes.

Dragon's whisker prawns are like nothing I have ever seen before – giant prawns enrobed in shredded crispy pastry (£8.40), while satay chicken (£5.40) comes with a kick.

We are also served a plate of crispy duck, pancakes and plum sauce (£13) – each dish presented in dainty wooden baskets.

It is not long before the main course arrives. My guest and I share a plate of Sichuan prawns (£17.80), which are juicy and served in a sweet sauce.

The waiter brings a hot clay pot to the table and fries fillet steak (£16.80) in front of us, tasting incredibly fresh and succulent. The dishes are accompanied by egg fried rice priced at £5.40.

Wandsworth Times: WAND YELLOW Review: The Good Earth, Wandsworth

I'm stuffed to the brim and still washing it all down with the house red wine when the waiter presents us with the dessert menu. My guest orders a bowl of refreshing lychees (£4.80) while I select toffee apple (£4.80). They are both delicate portions and easy to share between the two of us.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time at The Good Earth and would really like to book the private dining room for a special occasion. There is also the option of takeaway so you can enjoy the dishes within the comforts of home.

Wandsworth Times: WAND YELLOW Review: The Good Earth, Wandsworth

The Good Earth, Bellevue Road, Wandsworth, goodearthgroup.co.uk or call 020 8682 9230.