Maranello's Italian Restaurant

There are shades of a quaint Tuscan osteria about this long-serving Italian hideaway with its exposed brick walls, warm Mediterranean hues, chunky wooden tables and rustic wine displays. The kitchen keeps it simple, offering a tried-and-tested assortment of trattoria staples – from stuzzichini appetisers and antipasti such as garlicky mushrooms, asparagus with prosciutto or mussels in tomato sauce to chicken risotto, seafood linguine, calf’s liver with butter and sage or filetto toscano cooked with garlic, rosemary and red wine and olive oil. There are a few pizzas too, while desserts are old faithfuls such as tiramisu. Fixed-price ‘early bird’ menus (exc Fri and Sat) offer good value, likewise the well-spread Italian wine list.

Maranello’s Italian Restaurant brings a relaxed, family-run approach to one of Sheffield’s busiest dining neighbourhoods. Set on Ecclesall Road, the restaurant is just the thing for everything from a casual midweek meal to a birthday dinner, family gathering or date night - because, who doesn't love Italian food?

The interiors strike a reassuringly homely balance between rustic and contemporary. Exposed brick walls, wooden tables and bright linens give the room an airy, welcoming feel, while simple enough to let the food take centre stage. It's the kind of setting that almost makes you feel like you're in Italy for the night. 

The menu covers the classics generously. To begin, the tagliere misto is an easy choice for the table, bringing together Italian cured meats, artichokes, Grana Padano, olives and homemade focaccia. Vegetarian starters are equally appealing, including mozzarella di bufala with artichokes, peppers and olives, or crostini topped with aubergine, tomato, mozzarella, Parmesan and basil oil.

Pasta is a particular strength. Linguini Siciliani comes in a spicy tomato sauce with homemade meatballs, while tagliatelle with chicken and pancetta is richer, combining cream, mushrooms, garlic and parsley. Seafood lovers can opt for linguini mare, loaded with prawns, mussels and clams in a cherry tomato and fish broth sauce. For something more comforting, the lasagne al forno layers slow-cooked beef and pork ragù with béchamel and mozzarella, while pumpkin ravioli offers a softer vegetarian option finished with pesto and black pepper.

Meat dishes sound delicious and indulgent, including slow-cooked lamb served in a lightly spiced Marsala and brandy sauce, while fillet steak can be wrapped in Parma ham and paired with Stilton cream, or cooked with peppercorns, mustard and brandy. Fish options include cod with spinach, béchamel and mozzarella, and salmon cooked with prawns, capers and white wine. Pizzas round out the menu, from a hearty ham, bacon and pepperoni combination to Parma ham, rocket and burrata, or a vegetable-led pizza with artichokes, olives and chilli.