IF you enjoy Italian baking this is the place for you.

It is truly a snack spot with a very limited menu.

Associated with La Cremeria in High Petergate where daily made ice-cream is available, this business imports fine Italian food direct from the suppliers.

Behind the deli is a small cafe. A full range of coffees are on offer and some delicious cakes.

It was late morning and therefore too early for a full lunch but we were in need of sustenance.

What could be better than a croissant? What indeed! To be told they had sold out either indicated extreme popularity or maybe supplies had not yet reached York.

Ann had no difficulty in choosing a cappuccino (£1.55). This came hot and frothy and was well received.

My selection of tea (£1.10) was also a good choice. It was accompanied by fresh milk and hot water. I had been offered Earl Grey and camomile but decided to play safe.

Disappointed that there were no croissants we looked at the cake selection.

Chocolate and hazelnut (and the two together) and apple and pear tarts were on view.

Ann found the combined chocolate and hazelnut to be rich and, being Italian, slightly dry. However this was relieved by the addition of a dollop of very thick cream. Oh the calories, and at £2 a portion quite pricey!

I decided that the apple on a pastry base would be more to my liking. I was not disappointed.

Italian afternoon tea (£2.95) was billed as having biscuits to accompany your drink. Could they have been from a packet of the interesting hand-made biscuits that were separately on sale at £2.40?

We looked long and hard at the Italian cheeses and other delicacies on display but decided that prudence should win the day.

However we had found a pleasant haven for a quick snack.

Updated: 10:30 Saturday, April 23, 2005