NESTLED in among the many kebab, fast food and takeaway outlets on Bedford Place is a touch of class in the shape of Langley's Bistro.

In a sea of student-friendly eateries is this particular gourmet island that offers diners a taste of high-class cuisine with a flavour of French sophistication.

The majority of the menu is a la carte, but if it is a top-nosh meal for a more affordable price you're after then the table d'hte selection offers a satisfying three or two course meal for under £17.

We opted for the a la carte and being a sucker for anything goat's cheese-related I went for the double baked souffl.

I am in awe of anywhere who can pull off a decent souffl and the one I tasted in Langley's was worthy of the highest praise.

The light and fluffy texture of the souffl was complemented by the bubbling cheese sauce it was smothered in and the chive garnish made it simply delicious.

My partner had the soup of the day (mushroom) that although didn't have much mushroom about it, was packed full of fresh vegetable flavour.

Next up was a ribeye steak cooked perfectly to medium for my partner accompanied by a freakishly big tomato, field mushroom and home-made steak cut chips.

My main course was the confit of duck that was accompanied by summer-fruit compote.

The slightly salty flavour of the duck was complemented beautifully by the sweet and sour array of summer berries that also cut through the richness of the meat.

My only slight complaint was the sheer amount of compote that after a while, tasted like a large helping of summer fruit pudding all over it. A side helping would have been enough to work with the meat without overpowering it.

Nevertheless the taste was sumptuous although for £16.95 I would have liked to see more of an effort in the vegetable stakes. However, these were optional extras on the main menu.

After a small amount of deliberating we agreed that a dessert needed to be shared and we both opted for a bread and butter pudding made with Italian panettone - a continental version of the English - classic topped with vanilla flecked ice cream.

The meal including drinks came to £56, slightly more than I would normally expect to pay for a weekday dinner but the service and ambience of the stylish restaurant made it a real dining pleasure.

Langley's Bistro is at 10 to 11 Bedford Place, Southampton.

Reservations: 023 8022 4551