REVIEW: Rarely do Asian restaurants try to make the food a little different. So, it is pleasing when you visit one that does.

There is nothing surprising when you first enter the Sahara Restaurant. The seating style and layout is reasonable and it is welcoming for families with children.

But the former Italian eatery has quickly built up a reputation for a wide variety of Asian-inspired dishes and tastes. New owners and new food means a new sense of direction.

Each dish served to us was beautifully presented. Presentation is the key here at the Sahara and it makes a big difference.

On our visit we opted for the Chicken Steak, the Chicken Fettucine Pasta and the Gourmet beef burger.

The pasta had a spicy kick to it and came with dash of fresh herbs. The chicken steak was complimented with a side of chips and fresh salad and freshly made sauce.

The Gourmet beef burger was served true American style in a bagel and came with chips, salad and coleslaw.

As a big bonus here they have a very good drinks menu. Over the years we have found that that many Asian restaurants have become content with serving up the basic drinks.

It seems they are hoping we are happy with the familiar list of cola and juices. There is no imagination and no real effort to try something new and refreshing. The Sahara though has a good little drinks menu, all of it non-alcoholic. The cocktails are certainly something that will keep many customers coming back here time after time.

As someone who visits many restaurants and in large groups I was pleasantly surprised at how the Sahara has tried to change things a little. From the menu, to the service, they are actually looking to change how Asians tend to go out.

Moreover, you tend to notice quite quickly when a restaurant is serving up good food. Word of mouth does more for places than anything else.

And having spoken to several people after I visited the Sahara it was great to learn many others also held it in high-esteem.

The final bill was a lot less than one was expecting!

We visited during an early Sunday afternoon when it was quite relaxing sitting in one of the window booths. I do know it can get quite busy so I would maybe ring ahead to find out the waiting time.

Just as an added note the restaurant is going through changes in terms of rebranding and menu in the coming months. Hope nothing too much changes!.

The Sahara Restaurant is based at 96 Bury Old Road, Manchester