The story
Pinch is a Suffolk cafe in Leiston where chef Alice Norman applies her London training to a menu rooted in local farm produce. Alice Norman grew up in the county before working at venues like Clipstone and Emilia, then returned to study food anthropology at SOAS. She founded the business to highlight ingredients from Maple Farm, a regenerative operation that mills grains on site and keeps bees. The kitchen prepares crullers and choux pastries daily using the farm's eggs, honey, and stone-milled flour.
The crullers are made from light choux pastry and available in flavours such as honey and bacon or blackcurrant. A signature dessert is the choux au craquelin filled with a custard that incorporates St Jude cheese, blending sweet and savoury elements. From eleven o'clock, the counter serves slices of Roman pizza topped with items like Westcombe sobrassada and cow's curd. Seasonal gelato is presented in handmade spelt cones, offering choices including olive oil and pumpkin chocolate sorbet.
Situated just across the yard from its original premises, the space retains the rugged character of the working farm while accommodating diners. Guests can choose from ample outdoor seating or a smaller indoor area that discourages laptop use due to limited Wi-Fi connectivity. This Suffolk cafe was named a Local Gem in The Good Food Guide 2026 for its consistent output and popular menu. Transactions are processed via card only, and the casual model does not accept reservations.
Recognition
Location
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