THERE’s no need to travel further than Bromsgrove high street for an authentic taste of the Mediterranean.

Just a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of Bromsgrove Market lies Casa Med, giving diners a taste of Spain, Italy and Greece before they’ve even browsed the menu.

The town’s historic Satchwell Courtyard and quaint 17th century building within are filled with sounds from across the Mediterranean border, as if you’ve stumbled out of Bromsgrove into a remote Spanish village.

Casa Med tapas bar and lounge was opened almost two years ago by four local school friends, quickly establishing a reputation as a cosy hang-out with classic full-of-flavour meals.

The restaurant’s new lunch menu, which launches today, uses brand new combinations of locally-sourced ingredients from the existing menu to create an array of mouth-watering dishes.

We ordered one of everything. The meals are perfect for one, but will undoubtedly have your party swapping and sharing between plates.

The albondigas wrap was a unanimous favourite and it wasn’t surprising to hear Casa Med is already renowned for its homemade meatballs - now wrapped in a hand-rolled flatbread with a smoky bravas sauce and generous helping of cheese.

I’d never usually order a salad, but the Tuscan salad with beans and chickpeas in basil-infused oil is bursting with flavour, and bound to leave even the hungriest diner feeling full.

The soup of the day was wild mushroom, garlic and tarragon – a distinctive but delicious seasonal soup, served with the freshest crusty bread. Just what you need on a cold February afternoon.

If you’re like me – ‘if in doubt, order the burger’ – you won’t be disappointed by the chicken zhoug. It’s marinated in cumin, chilli and garlic and topped with a creamy tzatziki and harissa mayo.

The ground beef burger is equally tasty, smothered in smoked cheese, with crispy prosciutto, garlic mayo and sweet red onion jam.

Then there’s the halloumi and Mediterranean vegetable wrap – the perfect alternative for veggies - packed with cheese and more of that moreish tzatziki sauce.

The new and old menus are complimented by an extensive list of Mediterranean beers, wines and quirky cocktails.

Co-owner Ben Ascott said: “I spent most of my holidays growing up in Gozo and learnt a lot of skills from restaurants over there.

“We wanted Casa Med to bring together the best tastes from Maltese, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese dining, and open a restaurant that’s completely different to anything in the area.

“Bromsgrove is a great platform for new businesses – all the local business owners are working together to improve Bromsgrove.”

For more information about Casa Med, visit casamedtapas.co.uk or call 01527 878242 to book.