Pub of the Week: The Ball, Crookes

Examining the pub’s colourful inn sign will tell you that the painter was given carte blanche when he was handed his commission. So the ball in question has not been played in a soccer match, or in a game of cricket, or even croquet. It is not a sphere at all. Our artist has gone straight for the sophisticated entertainment of a ballroom, where eager young maidens await the chance of an assignation on the parquet.
The pub itself is very down-to-earth, a nice, cosy venue that is community-orientated. Devoted, you might say. A quick survey of the noticeboard reveals mentions of the upcoming carol services, a community litter pick, as well as the quiz nights and much more.
There’s ample outdoor seating in the front, with lots of tubs and floral arrangements, and dogs are made very welcome (there are many drinking bowls). The beer garden to the rear is well-tended. The fact that bus services stop well-nigh outside is another plus mark.
There are senior and kid’s menus – the first comes in at under £6.99 a time for two courses, so what’s not to like? There are vegan and vegetarian options and if coffee and cake are what you need, then you’ll be very pleased with the £2.99 price.
A pint of perfectly pitched Jaipur will settle and fettle you very agreeably, while wine starts off at under a tenner a bottle.
The seating is a relaxing jumble of banquettes, club chairs and hardbacks, and the pretension level is zero. Come in, get sat, chat, do your crossword, make yourself at home.
The Ball, 171 – 173 Crookes, Sheffield, S10 1UD. Tel: 0114 2661211.

About The Author

Phil Penfold

A journalist for over half century, Phil writes over a broad range of subjects, including food and drink. He has been a long-term CAMRA member and is a keen supporter of Yorkshire's many and varied markets and independent retailers.

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