Driving south from York on the A19 I thought there had been changes. So returning from Wheldrake recently it made sense to investigate Strawberry Fields.

It advertises itself as a family caf. No HGVs says the notice. So that was one difference! Another was the number of cars outside, testimony to this one-time transport caf.

My eye caught some interesting tasties on the plastic laminated menu and specials board. A giant Yorkshire pudding filled with mince and vegetables (£2.95) was one. Strawberry Fields' special mixed grill (£7.99) which comes on two plates, was another. But quite why one soup should cost £1.95 while another was £1.99 puzzled me.

Ann was highly delighted with her choice of vegetable and pasta bake topped with cheese and tastefully garnished at £4.99.

I do not remember eating such a wholesome pie outside our family. It was definitely home-made, full of lean meat, plenty of kidney and rich gravy. Topped with flaky pastry, at £4.99 only one word is needed. Excellent!

The crisp chips and diced carrots were almost superfluous.There are also some gimmicks designed to spread the customer load. Spend over £4 on a meal between 3pm and 4pm and an ice-cream is free. Or accept a free cup of tea between 4pm and 5pm with a £3 meal. In throwing off the image of a transport caf, I feel the proprietors have not quite got there yet.

Fixed tip up seats restrict movement at the table. Garish plastic table cloths and an intrusive Minster FM phone-in on the radio lowered the tone a little. But the quality of the food we tried was quite outstanding.

Restaurant: Strawberry Fields Caf

Address: Crockey Hill,York

Telephone: 01904 630104

Reviewed: April 10, 1999