The Old Shoe is a brand new bar in Orchard Square, with the premises converted from a former shoe shop, hence the name – they probably realised Sheffield people always continue to refer to places by their old name, such as calling John Lewis Cole Brothers (until it closed of course!).
This is a joint venture involving Mike Pomranz of Exemption Ciderhouse (who had the Cider Hole bar at Shalesmoor, which is relocated to this new venue) and Matt Beety of the BEAR on Abbeydale Road.
Installed as manager is Nath Hehir, who many will recognise from various good beer pubs around the city he has previously worked at! Completing the team is Tom, a former wine sommelier who previously worked at the Joro restaurant and among various things he’ll be doing at the Old Shoe is blending soft drinks!
On the beer front there are two handpumps for cask ales along with 17 keg beers on tap. For the cider drinkers there are three keg taps which at the soft launch weekend (8/9 July) were supplied by Ross on Wye, Little Pomona and Orchards of Husthwaite. All the taps and pumps are on the back wall behind the bar and printed drinks menus are available on the bar to peruse.
The Old Shoe is bigger than you might expect when thinking of a former shop unit and is split into two parts, the bar area with plenty of tables and seating and a retail area with numerous fridges full of bottles and cans available to buy to drink in or take away, including a large cider and perry selection. The bar also offers a range of natural wines.
Also located in the retail space is the Exemption Cider House kit that was previously located at the Cider Hole, this is in an extension of the space behind the bar and makes the table in that room feel like a cider equivalent of the “chefs table” you get in some Michelin starred restaurants! There are various events planned in this area including meet the brewer sessions, keep an eye on their Instagram and Facebook for updates. It is also the new home of Mike’s record player and vinyl collection!
Following the two days of soft opening some tweaks are taking place then the bar will open properly from Wednesday 12 July.
You can find the Old Shoe at unit 20 of Orchard Square (off Leopold Street) in Sheffield City Centre. Cathedral tram stop and various bus stops are a short walk away. Opening hours are Wed/Thu 1100-2300, Fri/Sat 1100-0100, Sunday 1300-2000.
