Supporting local businesses is something lots of us want to do. It keeps money in the local economy and helps make the city a more unique and interesting place.

Unfortunately not every home grown business in Sheffield gets the basics right. I’m talking about service, quality, price and convenience. And that makes the decision to support local companies a little bit harder. I’m sure I’m not alone in choosing McDonalds over local food pretty often. Or Sainsbury’s over independent butchers and grocers. I’ve been disappointed too many times here.

Thankfully there are a few home grown businesses I do love to visit in Sheffield. And in the interests of supporting places that are run with real passion, I thought I’d share a few.

The Red Lion, Charles Street

This is my favourite pub in Sheffield city centre. It doesn’t do anything too out of the ordinary. It just serves decent beer to a good and varied crowd, in a friendly manner. It’s clean and cosy, the music doesn’t drown out conversation and it’s in a great spot. I’m a lager drinker myself, but there are local ales on tap too.

I know there are lots of other great pubs in the city too. Which is your favourite?

Cake R Us, London Road

The endearingly erroneous name drew us in, but the delicious and colourful cakes made by this Chinese bakery have kept me and Mrs Wheatley going back. They’re obviously doing well, having just opened a new branch on Division Street.

I’m not going to pretend the service and shop interior are especially nice, but the cakes and prices are perfect. Give Cake R Us a try!

The Admiral, Crookes

The tastiest fish and chips in the city for my money. Portions are big. Prices are reasonable. Service is always good. I’m not saying there aren’t other great fish and chip places in Sheffield. This is just my personal favourite, having grown up close to its other two branches in Killamarsh and Mosborough.

They also do an amazing lunchtime special, which gives you a small fish, chips, a sausage and curry sauce for around £2.20. Brilliant place.

Walkley Dental Centre, South Road

I know, a dentist right? But this is by far the best dentist I’ve ever been to. The whole staff is genuinely friendly, smiley and helpful. They also have a reasonably priced dental hygienist, thanks to whom I now have really white teeth. If you get the chance to register here, take it!

Relish, Ecclesall Road

This somewhat upmarket diner gets absolutely everything right, although its the service I especially like. You can bank on a friendly welcome and the right amount of attention throughout your meal. I’ve always really enjoyed the food as well, and it’s just a relaxing place to sit for an hour.

Any others?

If you’ve got a favourite local Sheffield business you want to recommend – preferably one you don’t own yourself – please share it in the comments. And don’t forget to tell us what’s so good about it!