SOMETIMES we make visits not quite knowing what to expect. This was one such occasion.

The caf bar culture in York has grown in recent years. At these venues alcohol is available and food seems to be served all day.

The appearance of Casa was a pleasant transformation of an otherwise unattractive site in the heart of tourist York. Having said that, despite it being the bank holiday week, the venue was far from full.

Located on three levels with seating on stools, settees and at conventional tables, the place has a modern airy atmosphere. If you are lucky you could secure a table overlooking the river.

A quick check of the menu revealed sandwiches with snack portions of chips and salad garnish could cost up to £5.45. Unfortunately, the main course items were beyond our budget.

"Can we personalise a dish to your taste?" was a tempting invitation, but just in case it burst the bank we let that offer pass.

We could have shared a meze platter (houmous, lamb kofte kebabs, fried halloumi, tatziki and much more) or the tapas platter (spicy meat balls, pollo con aioli patatas bravas, chorizo etc), both priced at £9.95.

But with our eye for a bargain, how could we ignore the £8 for two menu? Served between midday and 4pm, the choice was mouth-watering. Tomato and herb spaghetti, caesar salad on its own or with chicken, mozzarella with basil and tomato in a panini were all possibilities.

Spotting something unusual, Ann ordered lime and coriander chicken wrap. For me the bacon and brie baguette would be just fine.

There was a delay, but only long enough to allow the orders to be prepared. They arrived as expected together with a portion of chips and a salad garnish. The only words I could get out of Ann were "can't fault it!" There was nothing I could add.

If pressed I suppose I could have managed a pot of Toberlone chocolate fondue with fresh strawberries and marshmallow shortbread (£5.95), but it would have been sheer greed. Maybe next time!

Although some customers were enjoying alcohol, there was no embarrassment in asking for tap water. Indeed others seemed only to have coffee. It lived up to its description of a caf as well as a bar.

So having entered with uncertainty we exited well and truly satisfied. At £4 per head where else could we have eaten so handsomely?

Updated: 08:44 Saturday, September 07, 2002