To imply that this is primarily a bistro is possibly less than fair. The food is very good indeed, quite French in concept. The whole place is a bit off the wall but in a very positive sort of way, though one reads of grumbles about the heating - or lack of enough of it to be precise.

Starters could be Bayonne ham and cornichons, a goat's cheese soufflé or half a dozen well-priced oysters. The fish pie is good solid value, no skimping on the content, and for the veggies there's a tasty shallot, mushroom and chestnut pudding. Amongst the daily specials is roast suckling pig with apple sauce.

If the main courses at first seem well priced, look closely and you will see there is a list of 'extras' that includes vegetables, potatoes, salad, adding another £3 to the course price. Personally I find this irritating, even though I know it does offer more choice and it seems to be fairly commonplace nowadays.

Puddings include mainly the usual suspects with a warm chocolate fondant and white chocolate ice cream as a front runner. The drinks side presents interesting choices, not least a variety of attractive and tempting postprandial propositions that could catch you unawares. Entertainment is robust and definitely aimed at the younger generation - leave Granny at home. Many would find the overall ambience the most entertaining of all.