Caffe Nero, Davygate, York

WHAT, we wondered, would snacking be like through the eyes of a nine year old? Entering Caffe Nero, Anna's immediate comment was "should there be two Fs in caffe? Yes dear, because it is an Italian word.

This is a modern self-service snack pot. The tables visible through the windows are supplemented by more accommodation upstairs. Not only chairs, but comfortable sofas await those who climb aloft.

'All our sandwiches are made fresh each day and any not consumed on the day are given to the homeless,' read the sign - so we knew where we stood.

Available sandwiches and cakes are attractively displayed at the servery. Dual price tags refer to eating in or taking out.

I left Ann to make the choice for us both. Under the heading of gourmet sandwiches there were such delicacies as salami and mozzarella tostati; Parma ham and parmesan cheese on rocket leaves; roast ham with goats cheese and many more. Ann selected a Mediterranean bread sandwich of chicken breast and parmesan with salad and Caesar dressing (£3.25) which she found most appetising. This together with a large cappuccino coffee which she finished off with a spoon was truly satisfying.

To ensure we were different, for me she chose grilled vegetables with cream cheese, rocket leaves and tomato all in boccata bread and toasted (£2.75). Words fail me. It was superb!

What would Anna choose? A large bowl of soup which she said was lovely despite it taking three assistants to establish that the variety was leek and broccoli. A substantial roll also disappeared!

To emphasise the Italian basis of this venue, there is an interesting leaflet about the history of espresso. To eat you could try panino, bruschetta and the daily special.

Our seats were comfortable, staff cheerful and helpful. We thought upstairs was non smoking, but not so. The ashtrays were stacked discreetly on a shelf. Mobile telephones were inevitably intrusive. Newspapers are available, notably La Republicca, but my Italian was not up to reading it.

Would we return? Definitely. What about Anna? No complaints. But perhaps next time she is with us we'll try somewhere different.