THE fascinating bric-a-brac displayed in this two-floor caf has been collected by the owner, Simon Robertson. In case anyone accuses me of nepotism, as far as I know we are not related.

It was Friday and the caf was full when we arrived. "If you would like to come back in 20 minutes I am sure we will have a table for you," ran the friendly greeting.

On our return, there was only one available table. Surely this must indicate a popular venue.

We studied the menu with care. Flavoured cappuccino or latte (cinnamon, amaretto or macadamia nut were just some of the flavours on offer) at £1.45 and thickshakes made with dairy ice cream caught the eye.

Home-made soup with a roll (£2.90) and panini grill of feta, roast peppers and onion (£3.60) sounded appetising. However, on this occasion we had spotted something unusual.

For Ann, hot chicken and bacon on a spinach bed, with pine nuts and Caesar dressing (£3.90) was a must. She was taken by surprise to find the spinach uncooked but this did not spoil her enjoyment. And there was plenty of meat. Together with a pot of tea (90p) I thought that would be it, but not so!

For me, Leoni antipasto (£3.60) of salami, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, feta and a warm baguette with butter proved to be very tasty. I offered Ann a slice of my baguette and it was so fresh she went on to ask for a second piece.

We agonised over the choice of something sweet and requested an explanation of Malton monster (£1.20). "Like a flat scone, with currants, sultanas, mixed spice and topped with cherries and almonds, but you may find one each a bit much!" And that is how we came to share this local delicacy.

Artefacts were interesting. Display shelves seemed to have been made from old bakers' delivery trays. The bookshelf beside us held the University History of the World, two volumes of the Electrical Educator and three scores from Verdi operas. None of which detracted from an excellent snack served by friendly and helpful staff.

Updated: 09:12 Saturday, March 16, 2002