WE take our lovely coastal position here in Hampshire for granted, but very few eateries seem to take full advantage of their near waterfront location.

The same can’t be said for a nautically-themed gem hidden within a Southampton marina.

You’d be forgiven for thinking you had got lost as you approach Shamrock Quay, close to St Mary’s Stadium and in an industrial area, but that is part of its charm as a haven for yachties.

Tap’s Restaurant, which has been serving Southampton customers for two decades, is one of those fantastically versatile venues which manages to feel cosy in winter and cool in summer.

My friend and I were given a warm welcome by our host Emiliano who explained that everything is cooked from fresh by Peter, the restaurant’s head chef of 17 years standing.

Staff are always up for a challenge and happily mix and match starters and main courses or will tailor a meal to your requirements.

Being close to the water and Mediterranean in style there is some emphasis on fish and seafood, but there’s also plenty of other treats to tempt the tastebuds.

I opted for delicious crab cakes to start, while my companion tucked into a large helping of tasty devilled whitebait.

Main course was a real treat for the cheese lover in me – four large chunks of deep fried brie, a favourite of mine which is served only as a starter in most restaurants.

The interestingly named ‘Song without Words’ was my friend’s choice. She assures me the chicken breast served in a mango mild curry sauce with Basmati Rice was delightful and aptly named.

For dessert, two very full diners shared heavenly white chocolate cheesecake with raspberry sauce, washed down with a recommended dessert wine.

We enjoyed a lovely reasonably-priced meal, well-served by friendly and helpful staff and with the informal and relaxed atmosphere even made some friends with other guests along the way.

Shamrock Quay, William St, Southampton, SO14 5QL.

Tel: 023 8022 8621 Web: tapsrestaurant.co.uk