THEY say variety is the spice of life and there is always something quite exciting about eating for the first time in a new restaurant.

Of course, you can go back to the same places time and again - but where is the fun in that? There's the build-up, sense of anticipation and the chance to get all dolled up (well, the missus anyway).

And, thankfully, Naz's did not disappoint. Situated on The Hundred, a quaint street in Romsey serving Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine, Naz's is a welcoming sight.

With its glass front, there is not a bad seat in the house - the perfect place for people-watching.

The owner - Naz, amazingly enough - gave us a warm greeting and the drinks were on the table before we'd drawn breath.

With more than 20 years in the business - he owned the Light of Bengal in Church Street for many years and also has an interest in Ghandi's in Eastleigh - nothing is left to chance, and it shows.

The restaurant can even boast some celebrity clients, as Naz quickly points out: "We've had Kevin Phillips and Greg Dyke in here."

Impressive, indeed, and the locals seemed to know something, too - the place was buzzing for a Monday night. The five-page menu covers just about everything you could want, though the absence of any fish dishes was my only grumble.

But the chef's special selections add a personal and exclusive feel.

The obligatory round of poppadoms provided an aperitif to the more serious proceedings. We ordered a chicken Balti vindaloo strength, which can be toned down or cranked up depending on your constitution, salon chicken with pilau rice and garlic naan, chicken rogan josh with plain rice and a korai chicken bangla special.

When they arrived the other main dishes looked better than mine - as usual - but by the time I had finished, I was sure I had made the right choice.

Every dish was wonderfully crafted - Naz's father is the chef - and it was one of the best meals I've had in a long time.

Emblazoned across the front of the menu are the words "Quality is our priority".

It's a bold statement but, on this showing, it's really like saying Ruud van Nistelrooy will score 20 goals for Manchester United this season. You just know he will.

A couple of snifters on the house rounded off a wonderful evening of great food and great company. Naz's also offer a special three-course business lunch for £7.50, available between 12 noon and 2.30pm.

Naz's is at 48 The Hundred, Romsey. Tel: 01794 523222.