The Graze Inn on Ecclesall Road looks bigger, somehow. A couple of months ago, Thornbridge took over the bar area, formerly known as the Cowshed, essentially splitting it in half. Yet somehow, with its new-look bar area, airy front-room feel and cosy back-room area for drinks, the separation has done wonders for this spot.
We nipped over on a warm September morning, eager to try the brunch menu which has been largely feted at Exposed Towers in recent weeks. “They have a toast and juice station, it’s ace,” remarked one excitable member of staff. A lovely touch, we thought, as we headed down Eccy Road.
General manager Sarah Jeffrey greets us warmly at the bar before a quick natter about the renovation. “We still have a love for cocktails and drinks here, that hasn’t been lost. We have a raised bar area in the back – it’s a really nice cosy vibe in the evening whilst we try to keep the brunch tables towards the front.” It’s easy to see why. The natural light comes in from the huge bay windows and creates a relaxing, airy atmosphere. We take a pew on the long table in front of the bronze full-length mirror on the wall which is flanked by homely shelf items: plants, rose gold pots and small wicker baskets. There’s even a Sheffield Cook Book there. It’s there again – the little touches.
Having a nosy round the restaurant, the range of clientele was varied. Young couples, families, young mums with their babies and students taking advantage of the 10% off deal. The atmosphere never changed though, even with a near-full brunch area, the place was still relaxing and welcoming with Sarah flitting about between tables.
Once we’d got our photos sorted, it was time for some snap. I went straight in for the veggie breakfast: half a chargrilled avocado, asparagus, potato rosti, fire-roasted tomatos, beurre noisette mushrooms, two poached eggs and four strips of fried halloumi. All generously priced at £7. Sarah tells us it’s the most popular dish on the menu. “Everyone raves about it!”
The dish definitely lived up to the hype, with everything going down an absolute treat. Our photographer, old sweet tooth he is, went for the pancake option which came with thick cut bacon, maple syrup and blueberries, which he described as a ‘’sweet explosion’’. Truth be told, the brunch menu (served from 11am til 3pm) had such an impressive array of choices on it. Open steak sandwiches, lots of vegetarian options and a vegan section comprising of four dishes: the superfood brunch platter, a smoothie bowl, vegan pancakes and vegan porridge. No token options here, that’s for sure.
There’s also an option for a bottomless brunch afternoon (£25), a cocktail and gin special during the week (5pm to 7pm, all day on Sunday) all priced at £5 and a Sunday roast offer with unlimited drinks priced at £25. Not to mention the main menu with the famous ‘grazing’ boards.
There’s plenty to choose from, for everybody, at the Graze Inn and judging by our visit, it’s certainly solidified its position as one of the best brunch spots in Sheffield.
315-319 Ecclesall Road, S11 8NX // grazeinn.co.uk
