Have you ever started to feel hungry when you are out walking in an area that you don't know well? When you realise that you are starting to become peckish, one of the most popular things to do is to pop into a local cafe for a snack. Relaxing and enjoying a snack or a coffee in a cafe is a great way to spend a few minutes, but how can you be sure that you have found the perfect cafe? Here are four things that can help you decide.

Great location

The right location for your chosen cafe is essential. You don't want to walk too far out of your way to try and find somewhere to eat. You need a cafe that is nearby, but you also want a cafe that is in a pleasant location. Whether you are visiting the area as a tourist or simply looking for a moment's relaxation, having an attractive view to savour while sipping your coffee is always a positive part of the cafe experience.

Friendly ambience

The location of the cafe may be great, but what first impression is it making on the customers? When you look at the cafe, does it draw you in, or are there lots of uncleared tables, shabby decor and a dirty floor that suggests the cafe is not well cared for? A well-kept cafe filled with happy people is a positive sign, but if the cafe appears run-down, it may not be the right choice.

Helpful staff

It doesn't matter how smart the cafe may look if the attitude of the staff is wrong. If you are made to feel like a nuisance or if the service is so slow that your meal gets cold before the rest of your party is served, you probably won't be going back to the cafe. If the staff are welcoming and the service is friendly, then you could soon become a regular customer at the cafe.

Quality of the food and drink

With any cafe, it is the food and drink that will set them apart from the competition. Take some time to look through the menu and see if there is a good range of products available to purchase. Ask these questions:

• Are there food options for all of the family?
• What brands of coffee do they serve?
• Does everything appear to be reasonably priced?

It is helpful to see if you are happy with the food and drink on offer before sitting down and making yourself comfortable. It can be awkward realising that there is nothing that you like when you have someone waiting to take your order, so see if there is a menu displayed outside before you enter the building.

By thinking about what draws you to a particular cafe, you can find the ideal cafe next time you feel like a snack while you are away from home.