Make sure to pack a desert survival kit before setting out to Tamarind. Situated on a gentle slope overlooking the shifting sands towards the west coast of the island, the restaurant is part of the zen-like Banyan Tree Desert Spa & Resort. However, the recent alcohol license has made the 40-minute drive from Manama even more worthwhile. This seafood restaurant has an oriental and health theme winding its way through the menu, but there is more than enough to satisfy the hungry diner.

Pondering the height of the restaurant’s majestically proportioned ceiling is an ideal way to while away the time until your starters arrive, or the same result can be achieved by mesmerising the mind with the tranquil view of the backlit outdoor pool. Starters included a seasonal mussel menu with a choice of mussel ‘shooters’ in a variety of sauces. The delicious mussel and saffron soup was only marred by slightly overcooked shellfish. Main courses focus on seafood, but not to the exclusion of several tempting meat dishes. Delightful Omani lobster is served over a bed of ginger-infused asparagus, perfectly cooked and exuding sweetness.

The tiger prawns are fleshy and firm and both dishes are refreshingly simple in presentation and taste, allowing the seafood flavour to do the talking. A surprise winner in the dessert stakes was the pumpkin custard, although the accompanying star-anise-flavoured berry compote delivered an unexpected, but not unpleasant finish. Check out Tamarind for a surprisingly good-value romantic dinner in elegant surroundings.