Alley Cats, Coffee Yard, Stonegate, York

Despite Coffee Yard not being an obvious diversion for strollers in Stonegate, many people had beaten us to a table.

A notice on the door proclaimed 'unfortunately we have no room for buggies or pushchairs'. Because of the close proximity of the tables inside we would say the same applies to wheelchairs. Also the tables are high, as are the chairs.

"Quite a challenge for some people" observed Anna.

There were tables outside which were all occupied on this warm lunchtime. So inside we went.

Anna was struck by the fireplace that dominated one wall, not forgetting the large family of cats on the mantle shelf.

This venue provides substantial meals outside our price range but, with care, modest snacks are available. However I could not spot any items that would be unique to this venue.

Salads (£8.50) would have been attractive on this hot day but we looked towards the wraps and melts.

I thought Anna was going to select the tuna but she suddenly changed her mind. Discovering that there was tomato and basil soup (£3.95) she opted for that. It was very thick and hot and came with two chunks of bread. The butter was wrapped.

Anna assured me that she was very satisfied with her choice. The creamy mushrooms sounded appetising but I felt a chicken melt (£5.95) would be more filling. This came on a halved baguette with more tender chicken than cheese and garnish.

Alternative baguettes and ciabattas included a steak strip, onion and mushroom version which at £6.95 seemed reasonably priced.

We couldn't eat without a drink on this hot day. Ignoring all the varieties of tea and coffee, Anna enjoyed a glass of lemonade (£1.30) and I cooled down with an Appletise (£1.40).

Should you sit inside an intimate meal would be difficult because the tables are so close and conversation from nearby snackers is likely to drift your way. This could be disturbing unless, of course, you are absorbed in the Half-Blood Prince.

Updated: 16:18 Friday, July 22, 2005