IT was sheer indulgence! We sat at a window table looking out on the world while the world looked in on us.

Let's not beat about the bush. Compared with many other snack spots in York, this venue is expensive. But perhaps a visitor to our city looks upon a trip to Betty's as comparable to having strawberries and cream at Wimbledon or tea in St Mark's Square in Venice.

Observing fellow customers, most looked like tourists. One, possibly from the Far East, was reading a book - Normandy Battlefields.

Betty's traditional afternoon tea cost £10 but as this caf recently scooped a prestigious Award for Excellence, quality should be assured.

On arrival we were delayed by a short queue but were soon seated. Vacated tables were cleared promptly and service by traditionally dressed waitresses was efficient.

The extensive menu took some reading. Soup of the day was priced £4.25 but at 4.30pm on a warm afternoon this was not a consideration.

Conventional sandwiches and most of the speciality varieties were within our budget. However, it would take careful selection to eat comfortably within our budget of £11.50. A Yorkshire fat rascal (£2.95) would be a good start for me then maybe a cream cake. What, no rascals left? Shame on you.

Fruit scones, jam and clotted cream (£3.45) would be my substitute. Asking for raspberry instead of strawberry jam presented no problem. The scones arriving on a cake stand were light and delicious. Butter, jam and the cream were served in individual dishes.

My pot of tea (bag not leaves) with hot water provided more than three cups for £2.20.

I suspect Ann had missed out on lunch because she ordered a warm freshly baked roll with bacon, chicken and avocado (£5.25). Her reaction was predictable. Magnificent! Requesting a glass of tap water she was offered ice and lemon.

The surroundings in this caf are gracious. Walls and pillars are mirrored which increases the light and spacious effect. At certain times there is live music provided by a pianist or instrumentalist.

Although there was a steady flow of customers no one seemed to be hurrying. Judging it was time to leave we departed, refreshed and delighted that we had achieved our objective. The bill came to £10.90.

Updated: 09:13 Saturday, September 20, 2003