We are great fans of National Trust tea rooms, but you can't always eat without entering the Trust's property. The Treasurer's House in York is an exception.

A steep stair to the basement, past the video room, along the exhibition corridor and you enter the tea room. It does not appear large but there is a sizeable extension through an archway.

We were immediately struck by the LNER posters depicting the Treasurer's House and York. Were they originals?

The menu declared that home-made soup (£2.25), quiche, open and closed sandwiches (£2.50/£3.50) and jacket potatoes were all readily available.

Ann chose a jacket potato with cottage cheese, fruit and nuts (£3.50) which arrived with the usual garnish plus fresh apple, pineapple and strawberries. Where she had difficulty was in clearing her plate. I gallantly came to the rescue and delicious it was too.

I was delighted with the home-made ham and pepper quiche (£3.95) although should warn anyone who might be ravenous, they might just come away still hungry.

We couldn't resist the home-made bread and butter pudding and the rhubarb and ginger crumble. At £2, we agreed they must rank among the best we have tasted.

For £11.95 our snack was not cheap. However tea/coffee and a scone or toasted teacake should cost under £2.50. And for £1.95, the Butler's Afternoon Tea sounded very upmarket with its toasted crumpets, preserves and a pot of tea.

So with excellent food, pleasant and attentive staff why did our glasses of water arrive without ice and decidedly warm?

Restaurant: Treasurer's House

Address: Minster Yard, York

Telephone: 01904 646757

Reviewed: June 19, 1999