An abundance of Vale eateries makes it easier than ever to have a relaxing outdoor experience. Perfect for a summer evening.

AL FRESCO

There's something life-affirming about food eaten outdoors that somehow makes it taste better. Whether it's the shade of a parasol, the hum of a bee or birds chirping in the trees, what isn't there to like about dining 'al fresco'.

Our local restaurants, cafés and pubs are perfecting the art of providing their customers with casual, yet vibrant outdoor eating experiences. They're in tune with our need for informality and there's nothing better than the promise of a sunny pavement café to re-capture those feel-good holiday memories. Easting outside is a spontaneous affair, especially in our climate, where there's no guarantee of long hot summers. Welcome is the sight of a beer garden that beckons after a day at the beach. Or a little bistro serving delicious food after a shop-til-you-drop day out.

Whatever the reason, we feel we can cut loose from the stresses of the day with a cappuccino in hand and the warmth of the sun's rays on our face. There's no doubt that picnics and barbecue parties are great ways of socialising in the summer months, but somebody has got to prepare the food and clear up afterwards. Hot footing it to the nearest restaurant or pub patio makes for a far more relaxing affair. There's nothing more chichi than sipping a sundowner cocktail at a swanky bar with outdoor seating

BARRY
Food for Thought



There's more to al fresco dining than the weatherproof table, the tablecloths, large cushions on wicker sofas and chilled wine - it's also about what you eat. As we're basking in proper summer weather, there are al fresco dinner parties and barbecues every weekend.

The secret to any successful barbecue or al-fresco dining is that summer food needs to be tasty. Unlike dinner parties where you just sling a load of ingredients together to make a tasty stew, eating outdoors needs preparation. This is where your local delicatessen comes in handy. They've already marinated and cooked the meats, prepared the olives, cheeses and pastries and baked the bread, so that all you need to do is pop them in your basket.

Food for Thought delicatessen on Barry's High Street is easily one of the best deli's in the Vale. This family run business opens its doors at 7am and, from then on, the street is filled with the aromas of their infamous freshly made delicacies. There's everything you need here to stock your basket and your cupboards. You must try their invidual cheesecakes - to die for! It's a shame that these heatwaves come but once a year. Let's hope the weather holds out long enough for us to enjoy more al fresco meals before the clocks go back.

Food for Thought 12 High Street Barry, Vale of Glamorgan 01446 735711

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PONTYCLUN
The Ivor Arms



If it's a really warm welcome and tasty home-cooked food that you're after, then head to The Ivor Arms in Brynsadler, Pontyclun. The Ivor, as it's affectionately known, is a family-run pub conveniently situated on the main Cowbridge Road through the village.

Doors lead from the restaurant onto the outdoor terrace which runs around the front and side of the pub. It is perfectly positioned to take advantage of warm summer days and the sun setting on a balmy evening.

The Ivor Arms has been a landmark public house for generations and still attracts a regular following from its locals, as well as visitors from all over South Wales since its recent refurbishment.

The hearty traditional Sunday roasts are a firm favourite with couples and family members of all ages. Plus, regular diners rave about their three signature dishes - Tiger Prawns, Filet Steak and Lasagne.

It is the perfect watering hole for thirsty walkers who have worked up a hunger rambling in the nearby Ivor Woods, or a much-needed pit stop for weary travellers on their way home.

The Ivor Arms Cowbridge Road, Brynsadler Pontyclun CF72 9BT 01443 222287 www.theivorarmsinn.com Visit our Facebook page theivorarmsINN

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COWBRIDGE
Oscars Bar and Grill
perfect al fresco dining



If you fancy a spot of peoplewatching, continental style, then Oscars Bar and Grill is the place to see and be seen. Ideally situated on the High Street in the market town of Cowbridge, this cool and stylish Café provides the perfect pavement location to sip and enjoy a relaxing latte.

For those who prefer less obtrusive alfresco dining, there is further outdoor seating in the courtyard area at the rear of the restaurant. Open from 10am for breakfast, lunch and dinner, there is ample opportunity to relax with a pastry and coffee while reading the morning newspapers.

For an informal lunch choose from the varied menu of delicious seasonal dishes and classic favourites such as Caesar Salad, their signature Oscars Burgers and Deli Sandwiches. An extensive wine menu provides something refreshingly chilled on a hot summer's day.

Dinner is special, as night-time sees a change in mood and the bar becomes the focal point. Whether yours is a Manhattan or a Mojito, the bartender will mix your favourite cocktail or serve you champagne. Enjoy!

Oscars 65 High Street, Cowbridge CF71 7AF 01446 771 984 www.oscarscowbridge.co.uk Monday 10am - 5pm Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 11pm Now open for Summer Sundays