Some places are simply famous for their food and nothing more.

Having never heard of the Murray Takeaway before we were a little apprehensive when asked to meet here for a late dinner.

You will either have a mind-blowing experience or leave promising never to return to it again.

This takeaway or small restaurant is as traditional as they get. To say it was like stepping back in time would be an understatement.

But this was exactly what we have been missing on our travels.

The simple desi look with the desi plates could only mean traditional desi food. Surprisingly, though the food presentation was pretty decent and a lot better than many more expensive restaurants we have been too.

The chicken and kebab starters were freshly prepared and as a starter for a large group it does go down a lot better than those ‘mixed grills’ restaurateurs are now keen to shove down your throats.

The main meal we had a variety of dishes including the chicken karahi, the lamb karahi and dhal (lentils). The rotees arrived and one has to admit, this turned out to be one of the best meals I have had.

It was actually good to see someone trying to make great dhal.

No nonsense style meals like this are a rarity these days and when you actually experience one like this you do get a little reminiscent of how things were cooked in the ‘old days’. This was desi food made the desi way for the desi customer.

I have learned that as well as being popular with the locals this place is frequented by many of those born and brought up in the Asian sub-continent. I can see why. To get food like this you may have to travel back there!

It seems to have got by on word of mouth but it is a great little feeling when you come away pleasantly surprised.

A couple of things on the downside. It does need a slight makeover.

At busy times there may not be enough room to sit. Either way, take the food home – you will not be disappointed.

But none of this should put you off. Here, we have food being prepared by a team who know exactly what today’s customers want.

We want to say we went out to eat and were thoroughly satisfied with the quality of the food, how it tasted, how it was served and how much it cost. Happy times.