http://www.therajtalbotgreen.co.uk/

Location
On the main street in Talbot Green, limited parking available outside.

Ambience
In need of decoration, an overriding smell of disinfectant.

Service
Staff keen to please if a little non-engaging.

Menu Choice
A fairly standard menu, perhaps lacking in Chef’s specialities. The usual range of bhunas, baltis and so on.

Food Quality
Very average – the prawn balti was watery and lacking in any real substance. Jalfrezi was a good strength but did not contain too many fresh ingredients.

Value for Money
Prices generally good, although king prawn dishes are quite expensive. There is a Sunday and Monday evening buffet for £8.50.

Overall Rating
2/5 – if you are in Talbot Green you might as well pop to Indiaah in Pontyclun. However if you are slightly tipsy after drinking in the Talbot Arms you may not notice the lack of quality.

http://www.restaurantsinpontyclun.com/

Location
On the small industrial estate to the north of Llantrisant, near the Royal Mint. The restaurant is contained in what used to be the Black Prince nightclub and hotel.

Ambience
Somewhat café-like, and the karaoke from the bar could be heard clearly. Clientele were limited in number for a weekend.

Service
Slow. Only one waiter who seemed stressed despite only having to serve 3 tables.

Menu Choice
Very limited menu. No chef’s specialties. Some classic Indian dishes such as Balti not available. Very limited choice for non meat-eaters.

Food Quality
Superb rice, second to none. Main dishes very tasty and full of substance, particularly Prawn Kolhapuri. The taste of the chicken was rather processed.

Value for Money
Prices generally good.

Overall Rating
3/5 – although the food was decent enough, you cannot forgive the total lack of atmosphere, the slightly odd clientele, and the fact that there is a noisy bar in the adjoining room.

Ambience
Spacious, tasteful modern décor, well-lit and comfortable furniture.

Service
Excellent service overall. The staff are all extremely pleasant, courteous and responsive to any request. There may be some waiting time in busy periods.

Menu Choice
Excellent menu with chef’s specialities virtually cooked to order. Agni Karahi ( chicken flamed with brandy ) is superb. Something for all tastes. Special offer menu  ( 4 courses for £9.50) on Sundays and Monday evening.

Food Quality
Superb –  the quality of food and presentation is consistently good

Value for Money
Excellent, modest prices for quality food. Special offer menu is tremendous value

Overall Rating
5/5 – probably the best to date in the local area and would rival the best elsewhere.

Highly recommended.