Jade Pavilion

If I had to single out one dish, it would be the fried rice because I think it’s the one that gave me food poisoning.

The Jade Pavilion is an excellent restaurant in a slightly down-​at-​heel area of Northampton where you might feel nervous about leaving your car but won’t regret the decision because the food, ambiance and service are excellent.
It’s located in a heritage building that was once the pavilion for Northampton’s long-​gone racecourse — home to a blend of horse racing and public hangings — and the dining room offers fantastic views over the park. The room has high ceilings, fab chandeliers, nice slightly cheesy murals and even a fountain in the middle of the room.
The food is a blend of Chinese and Thai and the dishes are a good size for the money and of good quality. Soft drinks are decidedly mean in size (ask for tap water if a tiny coke annoys you). The Tom Yum soup is a star performer and the Thai fishcakes are exceptional.
For two pints, a soft drink, two TY soups, a portion of fishcakes, a seafood dish and a tofu curry and rice, a grand total of about £40 — I thought that was excellent value and if you prefer a take away, the prices are even better.