Shaanti Town officially opens its doors this Friday 7 November at 5pm.
The new café, thali restaurant and alcohol-free bar comes from long-time Sheffield hospitality figure Bally Johal, who’s aiming to create something far more meaningful than just another food spot. Rooted in the centuries-old Sikh tradition of langar – a communal kitchen that welcomes everyone, regardless of faith or background – Shaanti Town is built on values of service, equality and community.
“I’m really excited to open the space up to all the people of Sharrowvale and broader Sheffield,” says Bally. “We’ve made some great connections already and we’ll be hosting a myriad of balanced and curated wellness activities to really make the space a social hub. Come say hi!”
At its heart, Shaanti Town is a place for people to come together. Expect hearty, home-cooked vegetarian and vegan thalis – comforting plates of lentil and vegetable curries served with rice, breads and something sweet – alongside affordable street food and rotating specials. The venue will also feature pay-as-you-feel Mondays and a “pay it forward” wall, encouraging diners to donate meals for those who need them.
“It’s kind of an ethical community food hall, really,” Bally explains. “Built on seva – which means selfless service. Whether that’s paying forward a meal or washing up for your tea, the whole space is designed around people coming together.”
The drinks offering is equally distinctive. Shaanti Town is alcohol-free by default, boasting one of the city’s largest selections of zero-proof beers, wines and spirits, plus a dedicated chai bar. “There’s nowhere really in Sheffield where you can go, have a decent drink and not feel like you’re missing out if you’re not boozing,” Bally says.
True to its community spirit, the venue has been brought to life using salvaged furniture and local creativity, avoiding the polished “street food fit-out” look in favour of something more personal and lived-in. Spread across two floors with covered outdoor seating, the space is designed to stay mellow – more chai and conversation than pints and shouting.
And beyond food and drink, Shaanti Town will play host to a range of wellness and community activities, from volunteering opportunities to collaborations with local schools and charities. Guests are even invited to donate games, books or tea sets to help fill out the space.
Whether you’re calling in for a tiffin to take away, a thali with friends, or just a quiet chai, Shaanti Town promises to be a colourful, inclusive and alcohol-free social hub for Sharrow Vale.
Shaanti Town opens Friday 7 November at 5pm on Cowlishaw Road. Follow @shaantitown for updates, menus and community news.
