Top 5 foodie hotspots in Sheffield, South Yorkshire

Sheffield has brilliant food and drink places but these are my absolute favourites. Picture Scott Merrylees | JPIMedia

I love that the national media is finally starting to appreciate the foodie wonders that Sheffield has to offer but some of the best spots quietly go under the radar, writes National World Editor, Nancy Fielder.

Born and bred in the Steel City, here are my top five favourite places to eat and drink that should not be missed whether you call Sheffield home or are just on a visit. Step off the beaten track and let Yorkshire’s finest satisfy your stomach.

September is Food and Drink Month in The Star, where we are championing the city’s hospitality industry.

Kopi and Chai, 55 Derbyshire Lane, Meersbrook, Sheffield, S8 9EH

Wonderful food in a place which feels just like home ... but the chef is better! | Google

If you fancy homely food in a space that feels like it could be your own front room, Kopi and Chai is the place for you. The Dahl Infanti is a must but the menu is small and perfectly formed so you can't really go wrong. Possibly the only place that can tempt me to have a salad when the Sheffield weather is grey and wet, with one of their delicious chais to warm your soul.

The Summer House, 289a Abbeydale Road South, Sheffield, S17 3LB

The Summer House, on Abbeydale Road South, in Dore, Sheffield, has long been one of the city's most popular restaurants, with its ornate interior adding to the charm. | JPIMedia

It may be the girlie in me that started my love affair with The Summer House, but who can resist a beautiful setting full of twinkling lights and cosy corners? I first visited with an old friend - we had pretty cocktails, impeccable food and never looked back. This is my number one top spot to relax in good company with perfect food, wonderful company - and know that all is right with the world.

Duke's in the Park, Centre in the Park, Norfolk Park, Guildford Avenue, Sheffield, S2 2PL.

Norfolk Heritage Park has stunning walks and superb cake!

Norfolk Park is my favourite park in a city awash with stunning green areas. This more recent addition to the Centre in the Park is a notch above most. You can't really argue with 'good honest grub with northern portions' and breath-taking views of Sheffield's skyline. They'll even do a puppucino for your dog. I would hate to impede anybody's route to fitness but the challenge of striding out around the park when such an incredible line-up of cakes is calling might even test Mr Motivator.

Everest, 59-61 Chesterfield Rd, Meersbrook, Sheffield S8 0RL

Everest Restaurant, on Chesterfield Road, Meersbrook, first opened in 1978 and remains one of Sheffield's most popular Indian restaurants. | National World

There are tons of places to pick from if you fancy a curry in Sheffield and lots of really good choices, but my personal favourite has always been Everest Balti Restaurant. You are guaranteed the warmest welcome and the food always hits the spot. There is never any discussion in the family - across three generations - when there's a suggestion to head to the Everest. We all have our favourite dishes but nothing that we've tried had disappointed. Opened in 1978, there's a reason it is one of the city's long surviving restaurants.

Marmadukes, 22 Norfolk Row, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 2PA

The eggs benedict are just one highlight of the Marmadukes’ menu. | JPIMedia

The original Marmadukes is still the best despite sister venues of this Sheffield institution sprouting up across the city. It is the charm and slightly squished nature that makes this neighbour of the Crucible theatre so unique. But it is the thoughtful quality of the menu and the utterly delicious brunches that keep you coming back. It is all about the burger, or the cheesecake, or just the humble teacake. In fact, you'll have to go more than once to experience why Marms is just so good.