Charles Campion is The Smart Shopper

This week's latest food shop news from the main in the know, Charles Campion...

The knives are in
"Knock on the window to enter" says the notice on the Japanese Knife Company's Soho Hamonoya. Inside the knife shop you'll find an enormous range of covetable knives — enough shimmering steel to turn the head of the most traditional cook. Kitchen knives are taken very seriously here and you can "try before you buy". There is also a hand sharpening service which may prove useful if you have already spoiled the edge of your Christmas presents. But beware: Japanese knives will always be the Rolls-Royce option and in this temple to knives there is much to tempt. Japanese Knife Company, 14 Bateman Street, W1 (07939 678853, japanesknifecompany.com)

Detox with apples
If the recent festive season has left you somewhat jaded, the Sundance company has brought out a new "detox" drink. Freshly made from Kentish apples, ginger and carrots, the "Carrot Apple and Ginger" is an all natural juice that contains no preservatives. Setting aside claims for "rejuvenating properties" and the long list of vitamins and minerals it delivers, this "detox" juice has got one thing right — it tastes very clean and refreshing. Sundance Carrot Apple and Ginger (£1.49/250ml) is available from Fortnum & Mason, 181 Piccadilly, W1
(020 7734 8040, fortnumandmason.com)

A welcome Italian
The Italian community based around Back Hill and St Peter's Italian church on Clerkenwell Road took a bit of a body-blow when Terroni — a magnificent and old-established deli — put up the shutters during 2010. So it's a heartfelt welcome to newcomer Veneticus, which has opened on the opposite side of Clerkenwell Road. Light and airy premises combine deli counter with a coffee shop. Stand-outs are the chorizo piccante (£12 per kg), an indulgent dolcelatte (£19 per kg) and salsiccia al peperoncini (£14.50 per kg). There is also an array of Italian cakes and pastries. Veneticus, 97-99 Clerkenwell Road, EC1
(020 3490 2218, veneticus.co.uk)