IT may be a tired clich?? to even mention the weather in Manchester, but of late it's been rather pleasant, teasing all of us with the promise of a glorious rain-free summer. Many will head off to the local travel agents with visions of lazy days in the Med.

But you don't have to go all the way to Greece to absorb the authentic Mediterranean vibe - because there's Dimitri's right here on Deansgate.

Originally a deli and sandwich shop back in 1991, Dimitri's success has seen an expansion to bar, taverna and private dining rooms all within the Campfield arcade. Probably most recognizable is the taverna, situated within the arcade. Decked out in red check table cloths with an open kitchen, and serving a menu of genuine Mediterranean classics, it has always been popular with a huge cross section of Mancunians.

Less well known is Dimitri's bar at the front of the Campfield arcade. Although the space isn't huge ( there are only five tables) it does manage to retain much of the atmosphere of the taverna next door, but with a more Spanish feel (as it serves tapas). There is one large room, painted in a rich red and ochre, with a beautifully delicate Greek-inspired mural surrounding the ceiling.

Friday and Saturday nights are certainly the busiest with live music. Tonight you can catch live jazz with Mocking Bird, and tomorrow folk inspired singer songwriter Virginia Barratt.#

Food till midnight

Food is served up till midnight at weekends, although I suspect dining in the taverna will be less crowded. The menu is a superb choice of tapas, including halloumi, falafels, tabouleh and many more, plus the mezes platters starting at a mere é10.95. Lunchtime is also particularly popular, especially with the media crowd over at Granada. You can enjoy a sandwich and soup for only é2.95, or try out the tapas in the four for é10 offers.

If you are just popping in for a drink, Monday to Thursday there's a happy hour between 5 and 7, with special offers on all draught and bottled beers, wine and house spirits.

The wine menu is extensive, with most house wines priced around é10. You can even learn useful Greek phrases on the menu, such as "my bridge work has broken loose," presumably not relating to the food!

Dimitri's has recently opened branches in Hale and Leeds offering the same choice of Mediterranean food and atmosphere, but if you want to experience true authenticity, try out the original first.

Dimitri's, Campfield Arcade, Deansgate, Castlefield, Manchester. Tel 0161 839 3319.

Monday-Thursday noon-11pm. Friday-Saturday noon-1am. Sunday noon-10.30pm.

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