Pub of the Week: The Head of Steam, Sheffield

Now heading toward its first anniversary, the Head is part of a branded chain of venues owned by Cameron's Brewery '“ there are at least another two of them in Leeds, and half a dozen or so elsewhere. The building itself couldn't be more central to the arts district of the city, with the Crucible Theatre to the right, the Winter Gardens to the left, and the Graves Art Gallery and Lyceum straight ahead. It was originally built as a bank, and the new design has opened up the main hall into a big, airy space.

It previously did service as a rather raucous pub called The Old Monk, which was not the sort of place where anyone over the age of 30 would feel remotely comfortable. That has all changed, for the clientele today are across all the age groups

It has several strengths, the first of which is a vast range of drinks. A pint from the Bad Seed brewery was beautifully poured and packed with flavour, and the barman knew his beers. Leeds Brewery is also well represented. And if your preference is lager or cider, there are at least another dozen or so on pumps, and what seemed like a score of varieties in bottle.

The food operation is franchised out to the Longhorn group, and a beef brisket sandwich was generous in proportions, and also well tasty. The table service is spot-on.

This is clearly a bar that wants to give a buzz to the customer, and it appears to be succeeding.

The Head of Steam, 103–107 Norfolk Street, Sheffield, S1 2JE. 0114 275 2526, the headofsteam.co.uk.

WELCOME 5/5

DRINKS SELECTION 5/5

ATMOSPHERE 4/5

PRICES 3/5