In amongst the range of establishments that make up the often chaotic West Street, there’s a bar that’s just a little bit different. If you’ve read the magazine for a while you probably know we’re fans of The Wick at Both Ends and we thought it high time you heard more about hem straight form the horses’ mouth.
The Wick’s a Sheffield institution these days – can you sum the place up?
The Wick is one of the very best examples of Sheffield’s growing Independent culture. It is a hidden gem in the middle of West Street that really sums up the city itself with its friendly staff, great music and heavy emphasis on fun and quality.
How would you describe the style of your food?
In a nutshell, The Wick’s food style can be described as Modern British. Many of the dishes on the menu are hearty, classic, pub food that everybody loves. Sausage and mash will always have it’s place on the menu here. However, The Wick will from time to time take influence from other places. A prime example of this is the ‘tapas’ style section of the menu that allows customers to enjoy light bites of British themed food but in a very Spanish way.
Where do you source your ingredients?
All of our ingredients come from local venders, we think it’s very important to support Sheffield suppliers and the quality of the produce they provide is second to none.
What is the most popular item on the menu at The Wick?
The most popular item on The Wicks menu is the Chicken Supreme. It was brought back onto this menu by popular demand and has been going down a storm ever since. Crispy Kale, Herb Crusted Dauphinoise make up the rest of the dish, no wonder it’s a favourite really.
You’ve got a pretty varied drinks menu too, what’s your specialty?
It is agreed among all of the staff that the Handsome Boy Modelling School is a Wick classic and a real favourite among those who enjoy a good rum cocktail. A combination of El Dorado Rum, Dark Chocolate Liqueur, Cointreau, honey and spice make up the drink. It comes highly recommended!
What inspiration has The Wick taken from Sheffield’s local food and drink culture?
What The Wick has been brilliant at is becoming a real destination for students during their second and third years. Sheffield has one of the highest student retention rates in the country, with many staying in the city after their education finishes and these students just keep coming back to The Wick which has become a favourite in the hearts of many.
As the evening progresses, how does The Wick transform?
The Wick transforms into a completely different creature by night. Our in house DJs start at 9pm and the venue doesn’t really stop dancing until closing time. Our house shots; lemon drizzles, are easily one of the most popular items on the menu – mainly because they are set on fire and people love fire.
What do you think the secret is to a successful bar and restaurant?
I think the secret to a successful bar and restaurant is fun. the staff have just as much fun at work as the customers do. Everyone leaves The Wick having had a good experience and the enthusiastic and dedicated staff have everything to do with that.
Any good stories?
Everyone has a really good Wick story, most of which probably include a few margaritas and a rendition of ‘Come on Eileen’. For me, it was being starstruck by the Vicar from GoggleBox when she turned up one evening.
What, if anything, do you think that Sheffield City Council can do to support independent businesses in the city?
We have seen many positive changes in Sheffield over the last few years that have both directly impacted and indirectly impacted Independent Businesses in the city. What the council are very good at doing is making sure the city hosts large scale events such as Doc Fest, Tramlines Festival and many more. In this way the council are marketing the city itself and Independent businesses are flourishing due to the city’s rising profile.
Interview by Will Daly.
Images © The Wick at Both Ends.
