Dessert cafes hit the sweet spot as a cheaper way of eating out

Dessert cafes and ice-cream parlours are hoping to play a role in a revival of high streets and the night-time economy as customers seek cheaper, alcohol-free alternatives to the pub and meals out.

- Sarah Butler

The number of outlets is up by almost 700 over the past decade, according to analysts at Green Street - and the market is now thought to be worth more than half a billion pounds a year. It encompasses national chains and much-loved independents ranging from The Pudding Stop in St Albans to Cloud 9 in Brighton.

"It's a nice chit-chat place," said Ria, 24, emerging from a lunchtime stop with two friends at a London outpost of one of the UK's biggest chains, Creams. "Especially if you are craving something sweet. It's a Friday treat at a decent price."

Gemma Saunders, 46, who has just bought gelato with her daughter Elizabeth, 13, said: "I've noticed it's becoming a bigger thing. It's a nice alternative to going out drinking and more and more people aren't drinking. It's quite a family place."

Elizabeth added: "I can meet my friends in places like this. It's less expensive than going out for pizza."