In his recent review of a local eating establishment ('Down Melbourne way', June 12), James Kilner claims that a pub serving "bland", "not fresh", and "unpalatable" food would be well-suited to couples with young children.

My partner and I eat out regularly with our five-year-old daughter and, although parenthood has been described as life-changing, this doesn't mean we have lost our sense of taste or the ability to appreciate good food.

Why does Mr Kilner think "low cost no-frills food" is good enough for us, but not for his evidently rarefied palate?

His remarks are patronising and offensive. Parents and children have the right to eat tasty and well-prepared food in pleasant surroundings just like everyone else.

Bon appetit!

John Bullock,

Ambrose Street,

York.

Updated: 11:15 Monday, June 21, 2004