I ONCE tried to contemplate an existence without crispy duck and pancake rolls - and ended up giving myself nightmares for weeks.

It appears there are some things in life that are simply not negotiable.

Which is why, when we went to Mr So restaurant in Winchester this week, we had to order a great plateful of the stuff which disappeared into the group of Echo journalists quicker than you can say "chop suey".

It seems Mr So has been in Winchester almost as long as the Hampshire Chronicle.

It's one of those restaurants which is busy every night of the week - a testament to its enduring appeal.

And there was certainly a lot of lip-smacking at our table as hacks sipped on Pinot Grigio and bickered over what to order.

Winchester tree expert Alex Edwards, who owns Cadogan & Co, huffed a bit when he lost the argument but was soon mollified when we kicked off the meal with a huge platter of shared starters, including chicken satay, spring rolls, spare ribs, prawn toast and seaweed.

Then the duck arrived and was shredded before our saucer eyes.

It was perfect, absolutely perfect - even if someone (Alex) might have hogged slightly more than his fair share.

However this meant there was plenty of room for the crispy chilli beef, crackling pork, Szechuan prawns, choi sum in oyster and garlic sauce, served with boiled and egg-fried rice which literally covered the table.

Every dish was beautifully presented and the crackling pork was just

fantastic.

Food aside Mr So also boasts some great little touches.

Obviously I can't speak for the gents but the ladies is certainly worth a look - just for some of the fittings.

But what I really love about Mr So is the fact that the food is unfailingly fresh - and unfailingly delicious.

And, of course, it does fabulous crispy duck.

Reservations: 01962 861234

Mr So - 3 Jewry Street, Winchester