This is where new waterside bar and delicatessen True Loves is opening in Sheffield after lockdown – named after famous city tales

A new waterside bar and delicatessen is poised to open in Sheffield – as soon as lockdown restrictions are eased.
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True Loves, on Victoria Quays, will serve small plates and sharing platters of Yorkshire cheeses and meats, accompanied by a large selection of wines, beers and craft ales, along with coffee from city roasters Forge.

Situated in the archway next door to popular bar Dorothy Pax, the new venue’s opening will have been a long time coming, as the original launch date was set for April.

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“We’re ready to open now, basically as soon these new restrictions are lifted,” said owner Bally Johal, who also runs vintage shop Thrifty Store and bar Bal Fashions, both in nearby Castlegate.

The site of True Loves, on Victoria Quays.The site of True Loves, on Victoria Quays.
The site of True Loves, on Victoria Quays.

“If we can get open and survive this period then I just think it’s going to be a great place for family and everyone else to come and enjoy waterside drinks and sharing platters.

“It’s something new for Sheffield. We’ve got a pretty comprehensive wine list and the sharing board will come with flights of wine or flights of ale. We’re going to pair the meat and cheeses with wines and ales, but equally you’ll be able to pick your own.”

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The name True Loves derives from two local legends. The first recalls a nineteenth century poem which tells of two lovers who were washed away off Lady’s Bridge, whereas the second is the tale of Trueloves Butchers, who were said to throw their offal in the River Sheaf, hence the area becoming known as Truelove’s Gutter.

Bally Johal.Bally Johal.
Bally Johal.
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“That’s the link to the name,” said Bally. “The fact that it’s Yorkshire meats and it’s a nod to a bit of the history of the area. This area is really close to my heart. Years ago, I saw the opportunity in a downtrodden area.

"My mother in law, who’s from Sheffield, said at the time, ‘Why’d you want to go down there? Nobody goes down there.’ But for me, it’s one of my favourite parts of the city.”

Bally opened Thrifty Store in 2015 and has seen an upturn in Castlegate’s fortunes since then, with developments planned and the council’s Grey to Green scheme brightening up the roads.

He said: “When you actually look at the heritage in this area, Sheffield was born here.”

A glimpse inside True Loves.A glimpse inside True Loves.
A glimpse inside True Loves.

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In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.

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