Spice Circle Indian Restaurant 时派圈

Spice Circle is not difficult to find, as it's opposite the Ritz Carlton on Financial Street, the exact location being No. 7-3 Jinchengfang Street. But take the trouble to look it out, as the current entrance is hidden away in a corner, although General Manager Vivek Joshi is quick to assure visitors that something more appropriate is in the process of construction. Down a couple of flights of stairs to the restaurant itself, but the ambiance is clean, modern and bright.

The dining room is small and personal, holding around fifty. Service was first-class - attentive but not intrusive. The cooking is excellent and delicate, and particularly recommended to expats who are missing a real taste of sub-continental cuisine from the north of India. The range is wide, with around one hundred dishes on the menu, and includes all the standards and classics -- Tikkas, Kebabs, Curries and Tandooris -- for both vegetarians and non-veggies.

Six generous papadums plus sauces made for a nice starter at only 10 RMB, and we had a beautifully-prepared Samudri Fish Tikka and a Lamb Roganjosh as our main courses. The menu has a helpful 'spice-level' rating on each dish, ranging from none to three chillis. As we were accompanied by a toddler, the staff took the trouble to check how hot we wanted our dishes, and were thoughtful enough to add a little plain chicken for the youngster.

There is a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. The restaurant also offers a takeaway menu, and a weekday Lunch Buffet Special at 50 RMB + 15%. Full dinner for two from around 200 RMB plus drinks. Spice Circle is Indian-owned and managed -- the company also owns an award-winning restaurant in Shenzhen.

Financial Street Area 金融街

7-3 Jinchengfang Street 金城坊街7-3号,金融街购物中心对面

Phone: 86-10-6622-0442

Lunch: 11:30-14:30 Dinner: 17:30-22:30

Takeaway service available

Delivery: Free to local precinct otherwise add one-way taxi fare.

Smoking allowed; non-smoking section available

Credit Cards: All major credit cards accepted

Dinner: From 200 RMB for two plus drinks