I was on a quest for something spicy and a quick glance up from Clapham Common Tube station brought me to a wonderful curry restaurant.

Clapham Tandoori, located in Clapham Common Southside, is a step up from your usual local curry house.

Your Local Guardian:

The interior of the restaurant reflects a fine dining establishment, distancing itself from the stereotypical Taj-Mahal style settings.

Coloured lightings and TV screens are on the walls, as well as a photograph of when the restaurant first opened in 1971.

My friend and I began the meal with a tipple – spirits, beers and even cocktails are on offer.

Your Local Guardian:

I opted for my classic choice, a gin and tonic while my friend sipped a more traditional Cobra beer.

We started off with crispy poppadoms, served with generous portions of chutney and pickles.

My eyes lit up on reading tandoori monkfish jhalfrazi, as monkfish is one of my favourite meals.

I have never eaten it in a curry before and the flavours taste fresh, with just the right amount of spice.

Your Local Guardian:

We also shared a sag dall, spinach with lentils, as a side dish, which was mild and more palate cleansing.

Clapham Tandoori; Clapham Common Southside; for more information, visit claphamtandoori.com or call 020 7498 8489.