The last time I went to Oldham they were scrapping in the streets.

Things have changed somewhat and this month I was welcomed with opened arms at one of the new style of restaurants to hit the circuit.

The Prithi Raj had quality written all over it. From the menu design, to the lay-out.

Someone had a vision and they went about making it come true.

Named after a famous restaurant in Sylhet, Bangladesh the Prithi Raj wanted to make a statement and did so immediately.

Situated in the heart of Oldham on the busy Feathersall Road the restaurant is owned by a group of young (by restaurant standards) entrepreneurs.

Having marvelled for a while at the decor and fashionable seating area I was shown to my table on the main floor (there is a balcony area too) where I ordered the Tandoori Mixed Grill (Chicken Tikka, Lamb chops, Garlic Chicken and seek kebab).

A quick glance at the menu and I noticed the restaurant featured a wide range of seafood dishes as well the familiar curry offerings.

I went for the Afghani (sliced chicken or lamb with peppers in spicy sauce) and the Gharkali (Small chunks of chicken with peppers and nepalese sauce).

Whilst I have become accustomed to some to some lavish surroundings up and down the country I must admit these guys presentation of the food was impeccable.

There was a relaxed atmosphere about the whole place and a giant projection screen on the wall was a real eye-opener.

Both the main dishes took some time to arrive but the wait was certainly worth it.

The Gharkali was particularly impressive although slightly chilly.

Restaurants come and go and so do new fads but it seems once a Raj always a Raj.