Frampton Balti

Tucked into the village of Frampton Cotterell on the northern edge of Bristol, this long-standing curry house has built a loyal local following for its freshly prepared Indian and Bangladeshi cooking. It is the sort of neighbourhood balti spot that regulars in Winterbourne, Coalpit Heath and the surrounding South Gloucestershire villages keep coming back to, ordering ahead and collecting on the way home. The kitchen still works a traditional clay tandoor oven, turning out smoky favourites such as Tandoori Chicken alongside the classic baltis and bhunas that give the place its name.

The menu runs the full spice spectrum, from gentle, creamy dishes for milder palates right up to the famously fierce Phall for heat-seekers, with grilled specialities like Shaslik Bhuna for something in between. Vegetarian diners are well catered for with a good spread of vegetable curries and sides, and staff are happy to tweak the chilli level to taste. Reviews note that service can run at a relaxed pace when it is busy, so it pays to order ahead and let the food be cooked fresh.