How to avoid those hackneyed superlatives? How to find a different way of saying: “It was very, very good.”

I went to Baluchi with trepidation. Its reputation preceded me, but I had yet to try what many proclaim to be the best Indian restaurant in Phuket.

Baluchi is located in one of Patong’s better boutique hotels, Horizon Beach Resort. The hotel’s first general manager came from Bangkok and was surprised to find Phuket had nothing to compare with the capital’s wide choice of Indian dining. No doubt wondering where on earth he was going to get good food, he set off for Delhi on a recruiting trip – and filled that glaring gap.

Years down the road, Baluchi is firmly established amongst the island’s expat population – and the wiser visitors.

The first good as we entered Baluchi’s relaxed atmosphere was that at least half the restaurant’s customers were Indian – an indication of good, authentic food. Baluchi’s menu prompts you towards one of two set menus, something I usually prefer to avoid. However, after long study, I could not fault the thought that had been put into these recommendations: The Maharaja at 350 Baht ++ and the Maharani at 500 Baht ++. We opted for the Maharaja – then added a couple of extra dishes.

The stars of the night were Dal Baluchi and Gosht Mirch Piayza. If you’re a dal lover, you HAVE to try Baluchi. Simmered overnight and finished with cream, it was the best I’ve ever tasted; the Gosht was cooked to perfection. These highlights of our meal were prepared by a chef aiming to surprise and delight his guests. My partner that evening was delighted to hear nothing but an (unusual) string of superlatives. Of course, the Tandoori chicken was excellent too, and everything we ordered – including the Tandoori Roti and Latha Paratha – was served piping hot.

Of course, nothing is perfect. With such a feast demanding too frequent return to the serving dishes, I came to the end of my meal and realised I’d continued eating well past the point of common sense. But Baluchi has the answer to that too. The peaceful garden setting, with the soothing fountain in the background, is the perfect place to sit, sip a few ice-cold beers, and wait for your body to do its magic.