AS a family with two young, excitable children aged two and four, we don't get to eat out very often in city centre restaurants due to the fear of disapproving glares from foody fanatics who have come for a quiet, relaxing meal.

We arrived at the Olive Press at about 3.30pm on Saturday for a pre-theatre meal, with tiny terrors in tow, and were relieved to see numerous tables occupied by happy, smiling diners varying in ages from babies to grandparents. The staff were efficient and friendly and engaged our children straight away, quickly supplying them with drawing utensils and menus.

The children were delighted when they were allowed to make pizzas themselves, although my two year old was quite upset when he learned it had to be sent back to the kitchen to be cooked!

We also ordered pizza, which was a little disappointing, sounding delicious on the menu but actually rather bland. However, prices were very reasonable and our youngest got to eat for free. The service was prompt and the whole experience very relaxing.

We used the online booking service to reserve a table and that was excellent. We would definitely go back again but would choose something from the menu other than pizza!

Olive Press, 4 Lloyd Street, Manchester M2 5AB.