FOR three years, Stroudies have been enjoying the tastes of the Mediterranean thanks to the popular No 23 Bar & Bistro, writes Tamash Lal.

Situated just outside the town centre in Nelson Street, owner Alex Jamieson has worked hard to build up a reputation for high quality, reasonably priced food.

Glowing reviews on Tripadvisor praise the authentic cuisine, friendly service and location, which offers stunning views across the valley from a small balcony.

I was lucky enough to be invited to one of the quarterly Wine Pairing and Taster Menu evenings.

Experts from The Oxford Wine Company match wines to each course and give a short talk explaining why the flavour combinations work.

We enjoyed a five course menu bursting with robust flavours in the lovely upstairs dining room, which has a cosy atmosphere buzzing with chatter and laugher.

Sherry marinated dates wrapped in Serrano ham served with huge olives were matched perfectly with a light, refreshing cava which complemented the rich fruitiness of the dates beautifully.

A steaming dish of clam chowder with white beans, saffron and samphire was joyous eating.

The soft beans had soaked up the sauce and it was all washed down with a lemony Cal Y Canto viura/verdejo.

Black pudding was transformed into a moorish delight, wrapped in green leaves with broad beans and quince with a dash of chorizo mayonnaise.

A bold wine was called for and a spicy tempranillo syrah blend was just the ticket.

Beautifully tender roast lamb was matched with a mellow velvety Ederra Criaza and the dessert course of lemon tarte was served with a lovely dessert wine which wasn’t too sweet.

At £38 a head, it was great value for money.

Alex recently hosted a soul food evening featuring dishes such as bayou shrimps, jambalaya okra creole, cajun steaks, gumbo and grits plus cocktails such as the sazerac, hurricane, old fashioned and mint julep.

And every Tuesday is paella night with vegetarian, vegan, chicken and chorizo, seafood or the full monty for just £5.

No 23 Bar & Bistro is at 23 Nelson Street, Stroud.

Call 01453 298525.