YOU might wonder why we haven't visited Melton's Too before, especially as it is so close to the press office. But better late than never.

This venue used to be a family-run country pursuits business. Hooks remain where saddles and ropes were once displayed.

You have the option of sitting at ground level and watching the world go by or go aloft. There you will find three adjoining beamed bare-walled rooms. It is described as being a cafeteria and bistro serving simple food. From morning coffee (£1.20) through tea (£1.50 per pot) to an evening meal (outside our budget) the menu has much to offer.

Speciality sandwiches were priced £3.50 to £4.80. Seeking to try something more exotic we cast around for the unusual. A vegetarian breakfast might be a change but it was past one o'clock so we moved on.

We could afford falafel pitta with vegetables (£4.20), baked Portabello mushrooms (£3.90), spicy couscous wrap with vegetables (£3.50) and vegetable crostini (£4.10). All the vegetables were described as Mediterranean.

Ann chose oriental duck wrap with plum sauce at £4.80. This proved to be a winner coming nicely garnished with salad and some fruit.

The name Arnold Bennett appeared on the menu. I remembered his novels set in the Potteries but had forgotten an omelette was named after him. Say no more. It contained smoked haddock and cheese and was much to my liking. The price of £3.20 included a drink. With black coffee and a jug of hot water for Ann and a cold lime and lemon for me we felt that it was good value.

Much as we should have liked to try the puddings at £2.85 or £3.40 we drew a line. Maybe another time!

Although a bit off the normal shopping/tourist trail, once you have sampled the food you could well be enticed back.

Updated: 09:49 Saturday, April 05, 2003