Located in the leafy suburb of Sheffield's Nethergreen, concept-led restaurant Rafters sits among streets lined with mature oak trees, creating the sort of calm, residential setting that feels worlds away from the bustle of the city centre. Inside, the atmosphere mirrors that easy elegance - this is a place you can relax, but there's an undercurrent of fine dining.
The restaurant is led by head chef Dan Conlon, whose menus are shaped by seasonality, sustainability and the best ingredients available from across the British Isles. Rafters also reflects Sheffield’s craftsmanship and impressive manufactoring history in subtle ways. Diners eat from bespoke solid oak tables made locally by Carrs Sheffield, while the steak knives are handcrafted by one of the city’s remaining Little Mesters at Portland Works - a small detail that not only honours Sheffield’s historic cutlery trade, but brings the soul of the city to life.
The kitchen’s approach is best experienced through the tasting menus, which range from a six-course format to an immersive ten-course journey. The latter begins with a delicate choux bun filled with cauliflower, Montgomery cheddar and relish, followed by chalk stream trout paired with kombu and myoga ginger. Chicharon brings a crisp, punchy bite with chilli, corn masa and avocado.
From there the menu moves into richer territory. Wild Cornish bass arrives with Thai red curry, barbecued turnip and Thai basil, while chawanmushi, a silky Japanese-style custard, is served with smoked onion, beer vinegar and Iberico. Agnolotti filled with parmesan and shiitake provides a comforting pasta course before North Sea cod appears alongside langoustine bisque, Brussels sprouts and fennel. The final savoury dish features Cumbrian beef with satay, larb and maitake mushrooms, before desserts close the meal. Apple with woodruff and spiced crumble leads into a warm date pudding served with PX caramel, artichoke and pecan.
Drinks are treated with the same care as the food. The wine list evolves regularly, reflecting bottles discovered and enjoyed by the team, while cocktails, beers and soft drinks also feature strongly. Sheffield’s thriving brewing scene is represented too, including a house lager created with local brewery Little Mesters.