FOR some strange reason I have never managed to find an Indian restaurant whose takeaways can match up to the quality of their sit-down meals.

I recently took my family to Indian Ocean on West Cliff where we enjoyed a very decent meal.

So one Friday night I took advantage of their free delivery offer (within four miles) and a friend and I ordered a Nargis Kebab for starter (£2.95), a Chicken Karai (£5.95), a Chicken Do Piaza (£4.95) and one portion of Pilau Rice to share (£1.95).

About 20 minutes later an incredibly jolly deliveryman arrived at the door and took my £16.10 in exchange for the bag of Indian delights that also included free poppadoms, yoghurt dip and salad.

A very promising start.

The Nargis Kebab had been bought more out curiosity than anything else, but the boiled egg encased in keema meat was actually very tasty.

Unfortunately it came in a very sweet tikka massala style sauce, which didn’t suit my palate at all.

The two main dishes were very similar, with delightfully tender pieces of chicken, but the Karai did have a pleasant kick and tangy taste to it that would be ideal for those who like a bit more spice in their curry.

At just over £16 for two very filling and enjoyable meals, delivered direct to my door, I can’t complain.

However, my quest to find an Indian takeaway that is as good as its restaurant food continues.

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