IT is something of a treat to visit Bettys. The venue attracts tourists, but should not deter local residents. We saw half a dozen familiar faces during our visit. Like us they were enjoying the elegant surroundings, attentive service and delicious food.

The caf is open all day and in the evening you may be entertained by a musician - all part of the Bettys experience.

For us it was a special occasion so we decided to indulge. It was also during the evening. We had no difficulty selecting from the specials' menu. Ann chose haddock and prawn gratin which she described as "mouth watering".

My Swiss Alpine macaroni left me speechless. However, these items exceeded our budget somewhat, so we set about to see how, with care, this venue does not need to cost you an arm and a leg.

Traditional sandwiches range in price from £4.25 to £4.95 with the speciality varieties at £5.50 to £5.95. They are available in organic malted granary, wholemeal or white bread. In a lighter vein, a warm Yorkshire fat rascal (£3.25), Ripon spiced bread (£2.35), cinnamon toast/hot buttered pikelets (£2.25) or scone (£2) would all come within our normal budget, allowing for coffee or tea.

Having finished her main course, Ann could easily have been tempted by banana and toffee pancakes (£4.95) or the lemon and lime cake (£2.50), but common sense prevailed. We required considerable resolve to allow ourselves no more than a glance at the passing cake trolley however. If you are familiar with the cakes on sale in Bettys' shop, you will understand the temptation.

Bettys traditional afternoon tea for two costs £25 and would absorb our budget for a fortnight. Looking back at an earlier review of a visit to this venue we noted that the price of this genteel fare has increased by 25 per cent in less than three years. At £6.50 the cost of tea with two scones and clotted cream is also more expensive.

But yes, you can enjoy a modest snack here. Whatever you choose to eat, the service is the same with no charge for watching the world go by in St Helen's Square and Davygate. But beware, the world will also be looking in on you.

Updated: 10:35 Saturday, October 22, 2005