Castle Museum Caf, York

It is on the first floor. Run by Milburns, it is a much larger venue than you might expect and is self service. We could not see a menu before we approached the servery but, at that point, there is plenty of indication of choice and prices.

Tomato and coriander soup with a roll (£2.50) was the day's choice. We both decided to have this as a starter. Perhaps because it was Sunday, and half-term to boot, chunky white and brown bread replaced the rolls. This did not bother us except that the bread had dried out and the butter was offered on a plate just out of the dishwasher. The result was predictable!

However the soup was piping hot and tasty so we were off to a good start.

A range of pre-packed sandwiches and drinks were displayed in a chill cabinet. Hot food was available at the servery. Lincolnshire sausage with vegetables, ham and mushroom pizza with chips and vegetarian options were all on offer.

Regular readers will know that we sometimes comment on food from a servery that is far from hot. During our stay I saw a supervisor taking the temperature of all the hot food. Most impressive!

Ann fancied a sausage roll (90p) and asked for it to be heated. This request seemed to defeat the staff who said because it was from the servery it was hot. Warm yes, but certainly not hot. However, Ann reported it light and tasty.

My sweet tooth led me to the cakes. I was tempted by the chocolate brownies and chocolate cake, but opted for the bakewell tart (£1.55), which was excellent. Cream was offered but I declined.

It was 1.30pm when we visited and the place was very busy. Tables were cleared promptly and the china and cutlery holders replenished regularly. But where were the serviettes?

We thought that at £7.45 we had had value for money. However, for a family visit which included a snack and the cost of museum entry the outing would be far from cheap.

Updated: 08:57 Saturday, February 21, 2004