Red Pepper

This recent addition to the historic market town of Otley has only been open for eight months, but Red Pepper's restaurant and takeaway are already proving incredibly popular. This may have something to do with Red Pepper's rather unique selling point - alongside the chicken, lamb and prawn-based dishes you'd expect to find in an Indian restaurant, you will also find venison, ostrich and lobster on the menu. So why not dare to stray away from what you know' You won't be disappointed.

The restaurant is sleek and stylish, with a smart bar and waiting area and a stylish colour scheme of red, black and white. The attention to detail is apparent throughout - each plate is signed (using a blended fruit sauce) with the Red Pepper logo before serving. After starting with pickles and poppadoms, I sampled the paneer roll, packed full of spicy Indian cheese, while my companion chose the kalijee tikka (marinated chicken livers), cooked in a clay oven. Both were winning choices. Feeling a little adventurous at this point, we ordered the venison silsila and the Sylhet special. The tender venison was cooked with peppers, onions and fragrant coriander and was pleasantly piquant without being too fiery. The vegetarian special (one of many) was a rich blend of vegetables with a dash of lime. Both curries were mopped up with Madras rice and a fluffy garlic naan.

The service was impeccable and the prices very reasonable; every starter is under £5 and most main courses hover around the £8 mark; the venison and lobster will set you back a little more, but then such wonderful, unusual ingredients are surely worth paying more for. Whether sticking to your usual or trying a new and exciting dish, you are guaranteed a thoroughly enjoyable dining experience at Red Pepper.