I really miss Clerkenwell. It went from a handy place to live to somewhere with a special place in our hearts when we decided to base our wedding celebrations within walking distance of it’s heart, St. John’s Square. Since we have left (like many, priced out of EC1 to make way for corporate rentals & investors) though; it’s foodie scene has continued to go from strength to strength, so we get back when we can to visit old haunts and try out the new. Lamenting the closure of local businesses and the old fire station, admiring the face lifts of old dives along Rosebury Avenue; and exploring parts we never had cause to before – like playgrounds and child-friendly cafés!

When I heard former winner of the Free From Food Awards, Catherine of Sweetcheeks, was set to open a café of her own a moment’s walk from my old front door, I was excited and envious. Soon enough pictures of the most vibrant salads, delicious bakes and giant fresh produce started popping up on Instagram; so I made a beeline when they offered a £5 lunch deal.

If I owned a café, this is what it would be like. Clean, chic decor with homemade touches; as is only proper in London’s home of interior design. A regularly changing menu of simple, seasonal and fresh food. Zingy juices with tempting (mostly free-from) bakes. The sandwiches can be made with generous fillings on the softest gluten free bread, and the coffee smelled incredible.

The passion and hard work Catherine and business partner Danielle (a trained chef) are putting in is evident. This place is spot on for the market comprising the surrounding creative agencies – balancing high quality everyday eats with the latest trend for low-sugar and paleo eats. Special diets seem more than welcome.

Sadly (for me) Printworks is currently only a weekday endeavour, but I will be going out of my way in the future to try some more of the menu.

For more gluten free options in Clerkenwell, check out my guide.