By
Andy
The
illuminated structure jumped out of the darkness, drawing us towards
it like a predator in the depths of the ocean.
“What
is it?” gasped Rob. I couldn't offer an answer.
An
imposing staircase began at our feet, stretching away into the
distance.
“Is
it a mansion?”
Inside,
an assortment of padded chairs were dotted around glossy tables. A
member of staff smiled and offered her greetings.
“Is it a hotel?”
The
room was infused with the warm aroma of basil, a product of the pizza
oven which blazed in the corner.
“Is
it a restaurant?”
Our
questions were answered by a sign on the counter: “The Florentine
Pub.”
Here
at Pubquest, we like our pubs a bit posh. Give me a pint of ale and a
fireplace over a John Smith's and a fight. But this place had swung
the pendulum too far. It was off the Poshometer.
The
atmosphere was more reminiscent of an art gallery than a pub, with
huddled regulars conversing in hushed tones.
The
floor was immaculately tiled, the bar was crafted from wood. The beer
was poured from sparkling bronze taps into oddly-shaped glasses,
before the head was sliced off with that thing you see on Stella
Artois adverts.
Yes
it was impressive, but I'd rather sit in cheaper furniture and pay
50p less for my pint.
Instead
of offering a selection of prize ales from Sheffield's local
breweries, The Florentine primarily stocked lagers from an assortment of European
countries. Granted an Estrella is refreshing when you're on a beach
in Barcelona, and I'm sure a Staropramen hits the spot when you're
relaxing in Prague; but in Sheffield on a cold Autumn night, I just
want a Moonshine or Pale Rider.
However, the pub gained brownie points for having the Pubs of Sheffield
map on the wall. This document is to Pubquest what the Bible is to
Christians, and anyone who puts it in a frame is part of our
congregation.
Pub:
The Florentine (1 Tapton Park Road, S10 3FG)
Rating: 7/10
Pint: Löwenbräu
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