It's been an absolutely belting year for new openings in Sheffield, and we're only just getting started.
We don't know about you guys, but we think Sheffield is really thriving with all it has to offer at the moment. And trust us, that's a lot.
We've had some cracking spots arrive in the city so far this year, and if you haven't visited them then we urge you to check them out pretty pronto.
But first, allow us to tell you all about them...
Maria
4 Wellington St, Sheffield, S1 4HD
Images: The Sheff
The talented team behind Bench and The Pearl opened up this beautiful restaurant in the city centre back in March, and it'll come as no surprise to you that it's absolutely class.
Maria, located on Wellington Street in the new heart of the city development, is a homage to owner Ronnie's grandmother and a nod to his southern Italian heritage. It's a space unlike anything in the city, a small but perfectly-formed space complete with counter dining where you can watch the magic happen.
They're cooking up Sicilian-inspired dishes made using Yorkshire produce, like the tortellini in brodo with Yorkshire ham from Swaledale Butchers in Skipton.
Manchester’s beloved bakery, Gooey, has opened a gorgeous kiosk inside Meadowhall and we’re utterly obsessed.
They’ve brought their thick cookies, pillowy doughnuts and fabulous drink creations (hello French toast matcha) to Sheffield and it’s the perfect mid-shopping fuel.
Memory Dance
21 Chapel Walk, S1 2PD
Images: The Sheff
There’s a brand-new space that’s just opened on Chapel Walk, celebrating Sheffield in a truly unique way. From vinyl records and exhibitions to immersive cinematic experiences, it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves the city’s rich creative heritage.
JD Sports
Meadowhall, S9 1EP
Images: The Sheff
High street sportswear and footwear giant JD Sports has officially unveiled its brand-new superstore at Meadowhall, and it’s safe to say they’ve pulled out all the stops.
Packed with the latest trainers, streetwear, and all your favourite clothing brands under one roof, this new store is a must-visit if you’re planning your next shopping spree.
Leeds City Council have revealed the exciting new concept for Abbey House Museum.
Opened to the public almost 100 years ago in 1927, the historic Grade II listed museum originally served as Kirkstall Abbey’s gatehouse until the dissolution of the monasteries.
The plans for the site have been drawn up as part of a 'Reimagining Project' supported by Leeds City Council and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport Museum Renewal Fund.
The concept aims to create a more interactive visitor experience as the museum goes into its centenary year, with a main focus on intergenerational play for people of all ages to enjoy together.
Image: Supplied
Leeds’ rich collections will be at the heart of the museum, whilst the proposals include enhancing the museum’s traditional streets to enhance and include magical reveals that will let the public experience history through hands on activities.
The proposals mark a new direction for Abbey House Museum, which was put forward for potential closure in 2024 as part of measures to help Leeds City Council address unprecedented budget pressures.
A public appeal saw the council listen to the community, agreeing to keep it open and pledge to make steps to make the museum more sustainable in the future.
Image: Supplied
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for economy, said: “This is an exciting moment for the future of Abbey House Museum and one which we hope will be the beginning of a bold new direction for a special place which has been part of the Kirkstall community for centuries.
“During the public consultation on the museum’s future, what really came across was the passion and determination people have to see the site succeed, and we want to channel that enthusiasm into creating an attraction which can continue to welcome visitors for many years to come.”
Independent Leeds matcha stand forced to close by council despite 3,000 people signing petition
Clementine Hall
An independent matcha stand in Leeds has been forced to closed due to council concerns.
You may remember back in August when the whole of Leeds rallied to save Sips Matcha over in Headingley.
The front garden matcha spot has become a firm favourite for students and locals alike over the past year, gaining more than 12,000 followers on Instagram.
The self-proclaimed 'tiniest matcha stand in Leeds' is located in the residential area of Little Woodhouse and is run by the lovely Matt and Julia.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
However, in August their retroactive planning application was rejected by the council and they were given 28 days to remove the shed.
In a published document via Leeds City Council website, multiple reasons were listed for the decision to refuse planning permission for the bright-green matcha shed.
The electronic letter signed by Martin Elliot, Chief Planning Officer, listed spoiling the property's character, increased footfall, and a failure to comply with numerous development and design policies.
In response, Matt and Julia launched a petition urging people to save Sips Matcha, labelling the painted wooden shed-turned-coffee shop as a 'Community Stand'.
Despite over 3,000 signatures, Sips Matcha have announced on their social media today that the shed must be removed by the end of November.
The statement reads: "our retrospective planning was declined, we appealed, and the appeal was dismissed. then the dreaded email arrived: the shed has to come down by the end of november.
"we don’t have all the answers yet, but we’re working out what happens next. over 3,000 of you signed the petition and it meant the world. thank you for every sip, share and signature. come say hi while we’re still here."
We're absolutely gutted for them, so make sure you pop by for a matcha before the end of November to give them a proper farewell.
Clementine Hall -
13th August 2026 
