Comfort Food Clerkenwell? [London]

[justmarried]

I am organising a chritmas lunch for myself and 7 others for the 11th December. We all come from different side of London, so decided that Clerkenwell may be a good central option.
We don't want to eat a christmas dinner, and woiuld like to be somewhere laid back and relaxed, more like a pub with great food? Or close to a nice pub to lounge in with full bellies! We can do either a late lunch or a dinner.
Any suggestions? Thanks in advance!

[DietStartsTomorrow]

I like the crown in clerkenwell green....very traditional old pub. Not eaten there a lot but recently had a very decent sunday roast there. Much cosier (and probably lots cheaper) than Modern Pantry/Ambassdor/Caravan etc....it depends if food or setting/ambience etc is the priority

[themags]

Second the Crown altho' this is the second time I've clocked your post and "comfort food clerkenwell" just screams currywurst at Kurz and Lang but that's pretty much standing room only but they do have lager! Totally inappropriate for your needs - sorry

[sphamilton]

Little Bay used to be good value for the (low) price, but the last time I ate there the food was awful. Vegetarian options seemed to be designed purely to use up vegetable leftovers, IMO. Also because of the cheapness not a place to linger for a few hours.

[seddon]

Modern Pantry is laid back. The Ambassador or Caravan also in exmouth market could fit the bill.

[Theresa]

The Eagle? Might be a bit busy/hectic though. The Little Bay gets good reports. And perhaps somewhere like Vinoteca would work.

[seddon]

Vinoteca take reservations at lunchtime which would be absolutely necessary.

[tavegyl]

How about the Medcalf in Exmouth Market? It's pretty relaxed. Their private room looks very nice, though it may be too big for your group.