A few years ago, some of the OFP team were eating out in Leeds when we asked the owners of the lovely place we were dining at whether they would expand to South Yorkshire. "People don’t eat out in Sheffield," came the reply, and while we initially clutched our pearls in offence, at that point in time there wasn’t much we could say to argue.
Just a few years later and the Sheffield food scene is booming, with not one but two food courts (Cutlery Works and Kommune) opening within the space of a year. "Something Portland-esque is happening in the Steel City, and it won’t be long before the rest of the world catches on" wrote iNews. You know what, maybe they’re onto something.
The first of these two establishments to open was Cutlery Works, hidden away behind an unassuming facade in a former factory in Neepsend, near to Depot Bakery, House Skate Park, Peddler, and one of the best chippies in Sheffield, Wendy's (trust us).
Within you’ll find some excellent traders, serving up exceptionally tasty and varied options. Cutlery Works spans two floors, with plenty of space to move around and try a bit of everything. Alternatively, settle in on one of their huge sharing tables and give into the convivial atmosphere. Offering more comfort and relaxation than you might be used to at an outdoor street food event, Cutlery Works also offer table service. Download the Milestone Group app to order straight from your table and kick back.
Set up by the people that brought you the Milestone and Craft and Dough, Cutlery Works showcases local Sheffield culinary talent. Vendors include long-established city favourites, including Edo Sushi; Broomhill's Five Rivers serving Vietnamese delicacies and huge bowls of Pho; and Pie-Eyed, Union Street regulars and purveyors of the perfect pie. A particular favourite is Fin and Bone and their sister spot Table, which is upstairs, serving fresh fish (even oysters!) small plates, top quality burgers and cured meats alongside a growing and enticing natural wine selection. Pop along for their stunning Sunday dinner, with Yorkshire puddings as big and fluffy as you’d ever want.
You can pick up coffee from Foundry, exceptional chocolate from Bullion (who also run factory tours), vegan puds from Elly Joy, and poutine (fancy chips, cheese and gravy) from Gravy Train. There’s also plenty to choose from at Ma-ba, serving up veggie and vegan South Indian street food, while Jar Bar specialise in Balkan-inspired barbecue.
Looks like people in Sheffield do eat out, and boy do they have a lot of choice!
- Words by
- Jacqueline Chell
