Scotti's Snack Bar

Scott’s Snack Bar Owners Fear Clerkenwell Green Redevelopment | Eater London

"An old-fashioned Italian sandwich café dating back to 1967 and often described as “museum-like” or a “time capsule,” it’s known for generous breakfasts and its legendary chicken escalope sandwiches. Rooted in Clerkenwell’s former “Little Italy,” the business still relies heavily on cab drivers and other tradespeople who value plentiful nearby street parking for quick stops. Owners Al and Max Scotti fear planned changes to Clerkenwell Green—which would cut road space by 51 percent, remove 43 parking spaces and could begin as early as February 2023—would have a devastating impact by removing the early-morning parking that provides much of their trade. Having been excluded from the consultation committee, they organised a petition and say the council has not properly reconsidered the proposals in light of Brexit, the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis; the council argues reduced traffic and increased public space will improve the area and attract visitors. Local residents remain loyal customers, and praise from contemporary food writers for the freshly made sandwiches offers some hope, but there is real uncertainty about the café’s future as London moves away from being car-friendly (with a Traffic Management Order objection deadline of 27 January 2023 being a last-chance option)." - Sean Wyer