cross the city centre park at speed or at their leisure.

This view would indeed make day-dreaming a grand pastime if it wasn't for the quality menu on offer in this laid back and fashionably presented restaurant. The walls are interestingly decorated with ethic paintings and interesting spherical designs made from logs of wood. Dark brown décor, soft lighting, comfy sofa seats and chilled out music formed a relaxed atmosphere and continuing on that theme we were soon served by a waitress in casual denim and khaki.

From the starter menu we selected a mild a tasty pecorino cheese ravioli with the intriguing combination of pinenuts and pesto with a generous helping of rocket salad to get the taste buds moving. A basket of warm ciabatta bread with the obligatory balsamic vinegar and olive oil and a soft Monteulciano house red made ideal accompaniments.

The highlight however was still to come and it was a tight call between the excellent Risotto di Pollo or the chocoholic's delight, the rich Banana con Cioccolata.

The main course arrived just as the sun was setting behind the grand University Arms Hotel and the tender chicken breast was bursting with flavour from the powerful tastes of Parma ham and mozzarella with a creamy mushroom and thyme risotto to complete a fantastic dish. However the excitement of the main course was soon replaced by the ecstasy of the dessert, not a difficult choice for anybody with a sweet tooth.

Thick and filling Belgian waffles ensured the last remaining vestiges of hunger were banished with mountains of chocolate and toffee sauce covering caramelised bananas and topped off with endless cream.

After a journey through the exquisite flavours of Italian cooking a strong espresso and sharp brandy was then needed to neutralise the taste buds.

To dine overlooking Parker's Piece surpasses most views on offer in central Cambridge and combined with a decent and varied menu, this well-run restaurant is a must for good value dining.