Ashoka Ashton Lane

The 2013 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

This review is taken from the current (2013) edition.

This Scottish chain has grown in tandem with its customers, offering a convivial atmosphere with a menu evolved over decades to suit the taste of its loyal clientele. Ashoka in the Lane epitomises this experience within comfortable, relaxed yet bustling surroundings. Butterfly king prawns, large and juicy, are a decadently spiced starter as are the Aloo Tikki potato cakes, ranking highly amongst the familiar dishes we have grown accustomed to when beginning an Indian meal. The mixed tandoori platter of lamb, chicken and prawn is decently portioned for one but on this occasion served a little dry, making the accompanying curry sauce a need when really there should be none. The nan is perfect in size and lightness with a tandoor charred flavour while the lamb patia is tenderly satisfying with a good balance of sweet and sour in the sauce. Choosing wine is made easy with a colourful rainbow graphic, showing light white wines through to deeper bodied reds available by the glass or bottle. Friendly yet unobtrusive staff makes this a place visit if you either need to dine quickly or late.

• High point: Good for groups, quick and/or late dining
• Low point: Tandoori can be hit or miss