There are hundreds of curry houses in Manchester and I live two minutes from the widest choice - the famous curry mile - an entire street of about 50-60 curry houses. why then, for the last two years, have I only bothered with one?

Because Spicy Hut is, I have no doubt, the best curry house in Manchester.

The interior is fabulously gaudy. A riki tiki hawaii style bar? check. faux medaeval flickering torches? check. mirrored walls? again, check. If you're lucky, you might even get sat next to the tropical fish tank.

the menu specialises in both sizzlers - hot meats brought to your table and somehow set of fire (i.e. chargrilled there and then) - and in Kashmiri foods. There is the usual range of starters, all delicious substantial portions - and, of course, as soon as you arrive, there are plates of poppadoms, dips and fresh indian salad brought over.

the main courses are arranged by the substantial bit - the meats/veg/my favourite Panneer - then the sauces. There are about 20 sauces to choose from, all the old favourites though more flavoursome and rich than anywhere else - and some specialities, including fruity Kashmiri Korma, which I'd eat every day if I could, and the orangy Malta, which is really delicious. There are also plenty of chef's specials, including fish curries and the aforementioned sizzlers. My absolute favourite is the Kashmiri Korma Panneer, although some people find it a bit sweet, so I can also recommend heartily the Panneer Malta. It's all good though - I've never met anyone who has had a bad meal. To go with it, I recommend the fluffy, flavourful Pilau rice and the naans are also fluffy and delicious.

The drinks are inexpensive - about £2.10 a pint and you can even BYO wine if you ask politely.

The service is also wonderful. All the staff are helpful without being intrusive, quick to come over, will sort you out for more-or-less anything. And when you get the bill, you always get a plate full of soft mints, fruity softmints and vimto lollies!

It's just opposite the Somerfield petrol station on Oxford Road ("town end of Curry Mile" to taxi drivers) and I'm off to pick up something now!!!!!!