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On hearing many good reviews we visited 4550 Miles... with great anticipation. Although midweek, there were still a number of diners in the restaurant; always a good sign. Our meal was nice, although not spectacular, and our abiding memories were of the poor service from our waiter, who failed to tell us prior to ordering that a number of specific dishes were unavailable... typically these were what we wanted, his unwelcoming manner that lacked a smile, and also that the poppadoms and pickle selection was excellent. In terms of going out and enjoying an indian meal, the appetising role that poppodoms have is important, although shouldn't be the highlight of the meal. Overall we felt it was satisfactory, although we were a little disappointed after hearing such positive reviews, and was certainly not a patch on West Bridgford's Bombay Brasserie.

Despite being located on the same road as 2 other top Nottingham Indian Restaurants - Mem Saab and Cumin - '4550 Miles ....' holds up to the challenge without a doubt and its popularity is obvious as, despite being a quiet Wednesday evening, by 8pm there were at least 30 other diners in the restaurant! We were swiftly shown to our pre-booked table for 5 and ordered popadoms & pickles while reading through the menu. Apart from the regular accompaniments, a pink coloured dip made from fresh cream and chilli was the favourite. Starters were generous, with stand-outs being the Fish Amritsari and the Lamb Fillet Kebab. However, the best of all was the Adraki Champs - 3 lamb chops that were succulent, juicy, slightly pink ..... cooked to absolute perfection! On a negative note - the side salad that came with the starters was dull and boring, comprising of the usual Iceberg lettuce and cucumber slice found in all Indian Restaurants. Personally, I see no requirement to this addition to the plate. It wasn't long before the mains were served and, once again with everyone choosing something different, there were highlights. Best dishes of the evening were the Goan Fish Curry - soft chunks of fish in a deliciously creamy (coconut) hot (chilli) sauce and the Lamb Saag Wala - soft tender lamb pieces in a stunning green sauce made from spinach, mint, green chillies, green cardamons, coriander and cloves ........ all complementing the lamb perfectly. A selection of soft fresh nan breads (Keema, Garlic & Coriander, Chilli & Cheese) and a few bowls of Pilau rice accompanied our dishes. The rice selection is very small with only Steamed, Pilau or Mushroom being available. This, to me, is no bad thing as it allows the creations from the kitchen to shine without intrusion to the palate ........ and believe me, they shine! '4550 Miles ....' is a highly recommended restaurant, one that I have vowed to return to! And, the generous discount given to Society Members adds yet more points to an already high score. Andy Sutton/NTCC.