The Greek for snack

COLOUR blindness could be a disadvantage if snacking outside in St Sampson's Square. Chairs are coloured and it is the red ones that ensure a snack courtesy of Manas, where you are invited to 'relax, eat, drink and enjoy the sunshine of Greece in York'.

A complimentary comment about a recent survey ensured that colleague Michael joined me one sunny lunchtime. Although some of the tables were set under the trees, we were in the full sunlight. A rare occurrence this summer!

Grasping the rules that between us we should aim to spend no more than £11.50, Michael scanned the menu. Divided into sections, we discovered that the cost of starters and more substantial dishes were not too different. Opting for the former, he decided to try Crispy Bits, succulent chicken coated in breadcrumbs, deep fried and served with a yoghurt dip (£4.25).

But I race on. The staff did not seem too well organised. There was only one table available when we arrived and we had to go in search of chairs. When a waitress eventually turned up to take our order, she had a defective pen. I lent her mine and had to ask for its return!

Coffee arrived for Michael and after some delay (our order was being prepared), his choice. No complaints here or doubts about what he was eating. However the warm weather did attract extra protein in the shape of wasps which livened things up.

I toyed with the idea of having a pizza but deciding among meatball, bread Antonio, Kiev or Margherita proved difficult.

Kypraka, now what was that? Halloumi cheese, smoked pork loin inside pitta bread served with a yoghurt dip at £4.50 sounded great. And it was, except there was no dip! Attracting attention to rectify the omission was a feat in itself. In due course I was able to enjoy a tasty and filling snack with adequate green salad to accompany it.

I could be tempted back to try other Greek dishes, perhaps the sweet tartafata! For the less adventurous, conventional pasta and salads are also on the menu.

As for Michael, "Yes, it was OK".