Pub of the week

PUBLIC, SHEFFIELD

Sheffield’s Grade I listed Town Hall is remarkable in many ways. It was designed by Edward William Mountford in what is described as the “Renaissance Revival” style, and it was opened in 1897 by Queen Victoria herself.

To make sure that the male residents hereabouts had every convenience there’s a gent’s loo, down a flight of stairs and set its very own basement space.

It had been locked up, and abandoned for many years, until one bright spark put in a bid and applied for a licence to sell alcohol. It has been totally transformed into one of Britain’s strangest (and smallest) bars.

The only two loos you’ll discover these days are at the far end of the service counter, unisex and elegantly modern. The majority of the seating is in separate large booths, with some comfortable bar stools, and a strange little standing area with its own wide shelf. Much of the original white ceramic tiling has been preserved.

There’s a really good selection of freshly-prepared food, a small selection of beers, and a blastingly good selection of cocktails. These are prepared with superb style by a pair of mixologists who really know their stuff.

Space is very limited, probably about two dozen or so can congregate in comfort, so it is wise to plan ahead and to make reservations on busy evenings, such as the weekend. And it is also advised to check the opening times. Would Victoria have been amused?

If, that is, she could have managed to negotiate those stairs, which are very definitely not crinoline friendly. Public is quirky, fun, and definitely one to try. ■ Public, 23 Surrey Street, Sheffield, S1 2LG.