New data from restaurant bookings platform OpenTable highlights which venues in South Yorkshire are drawing the most diners right now — useful information for anyone planning evenings out across Doncaster, Sheffield and Rotherham this summer.
What the rankings show
The list, compiled from OpenTable’s recent booking and review activity, captures the places that have been most in-demand over the last month. It mixes newer openings and established names, and reflects a range of cuisines and dining experiences.
Among the venues named were several Sheffield restaurants that have proved particularly popular:
- Forbici — a recently opened Italian spot close to the Winter Garden that brings Neapolitan influences to the city.
- Piccolino — on Millennium Square, known for Italian dishes, cocktails and a large terrace with a retractable roof.
- Tsuki Restaurant and Bar — a Japanese-focused offer in Sheffield city centre with a wide drinks selection.
- Church - Temple of Fun — the vegan bar and restaurant in Rutland Way owned by Oli Sykes of Bring Me The Horizon, which pairs food with arcade games and gaming pods.
OpenTable monitors hundreds of thousands of monthly diner reviews and booking patterns worldwide to produce its lists. The local summary published for South Yorkshire is presented "in no particular order", reflecting places that are especially busy rather than assigning strict rankings.
Why this matters locally
For diners in Doncaster and the wider borough it is a reminder to plan ahead. Popular spots can fill up fast, particularly on weekends and for alfresco or terrace tables during warmer weather. For hospitality businesses, inclusion on such lists can bring increased visibility — but also pressure on staffing and supply during busy periods.
| Restaurant | Location | Style |
|---|---|---|
| Forbici | Sheffield (near Winter Garden) | Italian (Neapolitan influence) |
| Piccolino | Sheffield (Millennium Square) | Italian, cocktails, terrace |
| Tsuki Restaurant and Bar | Sheffield (city centre) | Japanese |
| Church - Temple of Fun | Sheffield (Rutland Way) | 100% vegan, entertainment-led |
Top practical tips for booking
- Check availability early — popular services often fill quickly for weekend slots or bank holidays.
- Use OpenTable or the restaurant’s own booking page to reserve a table and to see cancellation policies.
- If you need a particular table type (outside/terrace/highchair access), mention that at booking to avoid disappointment on arrival.
While the OpenTable snapshot focuses on demand rather than a definitive measure of quality, it gives a good steer on where people are choosing to eat. For Doncaster residents looking to try something new, or to plan a trip into Sheffield, the list offers a starting point — but wherever you decide, booking ahead remains sensible in the busy summer months.
