BORDERS book shop has much to commend it. Wide aisles and good signs make browsing a pleasure. But to find your way to the caf is something of a feat.

This is a self service, well-lit spot with modern furniture. It consists of a circular gallery overlooking the sales area.

Our problems began with the slow-moving queue. Despite five staff falling over each other behind the servery, only one person appeared to be taking orders. Maybe he was new to the job but every item had to be price checked before it was rung into the till.

Over 20 minutes to serve ten people seemed an inordinate time to wait. The trays were washed between customers but not dried. As a result our paper serviettes were useless by the time we reached a table.

Cutlery was likewise dripping wet and not over clean.

We shared a pot of tea which came with fresh milk and the largest teacups we have seen in York. We each chose a scone, cheese and butter for Ann and cherry for me. We paid 99p each, which is expensive by local standards. But why were they served on saucers and not on plates? Ann had a piece of lemon tart which was displayed at £1.75, but we were charged £1.99. It had the sharp taste lemon tart should have but was not easy to cut on a saucer!

I had an acceptable slice of caramel apple granary cake (£1.99), once again saucer bound.

Two other things we did not like. The floor was littered with crumbs. The half-hearted attempt to clean up with

dustpan and brush did little more than reposition them.

Next time we are book shopping, I doubt we shall dally for refreshment

Restaurant: Borders Gallery Cafe

Address: 1 Davygate, York

Telephone: 01904 653300

Reviewed: April 8th, 2000