Think of an Indian restaurant and you might not think of French cuisine but Amani has successfully managed to combine both. This is no ordinary Indian restaurant – in fact it is very classy, writes Rhian Morgan.

But if you are expecting high prices, think again. My partner and I went mid-week, when you can have the wine and dine special – three courses and a glass of wine or bottle of beer for just £12.95.

Manager Azad Miah told us that he wanted the calibre of the surroundings to match the excellence of the food. The original artwork on the cream walls perfectly suited the quiet ambience, with mellow lounge music and low-lit lights setting the mood.

He explained his chef has previously worked at Claridges in India, Kensington’s Aubrey restaurant, and for the Cinnamon Tree, which explains why the food here really is first class. We began with a selection of h’ors d’oeuvre: spicy lemon chicken tikka; fennel-and garlic-infused Bleinheim lamb chops and – best of all – Tandoori king prawns in a marinade of mango and yoghurt.

All the dishes were artfully presented and showed a clever mix of flavours. The meat was beautifully tender, the prawns melt-in-the-mouth.

For our main course, we shared a selction of dishes. A highlight was the chargrilled cod with coconut, onion and ginger – succulent fish in a rich sauce.

The chicken biryani was beautifully presented. I particularly loved the garlic and chilli lentils – a creamy comforting delight. This was served with mustard crushed potato while I mopped up my tasty garlic spinach with chilli naan bread.

The food was so delicious we just had to try dessert. I opted for creamy passion fruit and mango brulee while my companion tried kulfi, Indian ice cream enriched with pistachios.

Amani also stages themed evenings each season. The next one, a James Bond night, is taking place in April adding another twist to dining out.

With such high standard of food and service, it is no surprise that Amani’s owners are already thinking of expanding with plans now being made to open an Amani in Epsom Downs.

I certainly recommend this one.

Amani 322 Limpsfield Road South Croydon CR2 9BX 020 8657 4200