Just seen on their website that Wagamama is opening a restaurant in Sheffield:clap: - heard a rumour it might be in Leopold Square - anyone know if this is true?
It was my favourite restaurant when I lived in Manchester so I'm well happy we're getting one here!

it's true!!

Thanks - I'm gonna be a regular there - can't wait to stuff my face with gyoza and wash it down with sake!

Oh dear... another chain restaurant shaped nail in the coffin of good food. :(

Have you ever actually eaten in one Tony?
A chain yes, but better than any other that I've been too and a welcome addition to Sheffield in my opinion. Beats East One and the Vietnamese Place on London Rd hands down

Oh dear... another chain restaurant shaped nail in the coffin of good food. :(

Tony - you really need to get out more.

Chain does not equal bad.

Chain equals a successful restaurant that has made money, and delivers good service so can open another one.

There are good chains and bad, and bad and good independants.

... plus the fact differing branches of the same chain can have good and bad standards due to the managers/ chefs and people who work there.

Have you ever actually eaten in one Tony?
A chain yes, but better than any other that I've been too and a welcome addition to Sheffield in my opinion. Beats East One and the Vietnamese Place on London Rd hands down
The rumour is that the founder of East One actually put together the Wagamama concept only to not be involved in the execution for whatever reason.

As for chains... I despise what they have done to the way that we eat food. The way that they downgrade the experience in every single way except profitability.

Which would you rather have jackdanny... Wagamama or a great independent? By the way, I get out plenty in spite of you saying that to me twice now.

See what your saying Tony and I tend to avoid chains for the same reason but Wagamamma is worth a go if maybe you've not tried it!? ;)

I've been to the one in Nottingham and it's perfectly fine, but it's not great. Just my opinion.


Edit: Their website (http://www.wagamama.com/index.php) tells me more than I need to know of what Wagamama is about - how old am I supposed to be? :roll: 80 restaurants and Sheffield is suddenly on the list. That's probably why we don't have (m)any truly great independents within the city either. I wouldn't keep banging on about the awards (http://www.wagamama.com/article.php?articleid=9&section=2) either if I was them.

Still, it doesn't do for us all to like the same thing I guess :)

Tony - you really need to get out more.

Chain does not equal bad.

Chain equals a successful restaurant that has made money, and delivers good service so can open another one.

There are good chains and bad, and bad and good independants.

... plus the fact differing branches of the same chain can have good and bad standards due to the managers/ chefs and people who work there.

If I ever have the choice, I'd go for an independently owned restaurant every time... however, as Jackdanny has just said, being an independent does not a good restaurant make - there are many crap ones in Sheffield that still live off their reputation from years gone by. I've been to loads of Wagamamas accross the country and I've never had a bad meal - sometimes the service could be improved, but it's reasonably priced fresh food and I think it may force some of the other similar Sheff restaurants to up their game....:nod:

it's reasonably priced fresh food
You mean the 'fresh' food that is batch produced in their central kitchen in London?

Perhaps it was fresh when it was made and frozen before shipping around the UK in lorries, but then so were McDonald's burgers...


I'm sorry to spoil the illusion, but when it comes to food you shouldn't believe everything that they would have you believe.

Hurray - I love the cherry hoi sin sauce...!!

I'll give it a try but I'll be expecting something similar to Nandos.

You mean the 'fresh' food that is batch produced in their central kitchen in London?

Fair point, but it tastes a lot fresher than a lot of other restaurants I've been to. I feel a bit weird defending chain restaurants here as it goes against a lot of what I think about food - that's not what I'm trying to do. I think we should try and support local businesses when they deserve our custom... I do genuinely love Wagamama though and think we should give this particular chain credit where it's due!

I've been to the one in Nottingham and it's perfectly fine, but it's not great. Just my opinion.


I've also been to Wagamama in Nottingham. It's very handy when visiting the Theatre Royal or Concert Hall - as it's only across the road.

I also found it ok, but nothing great.

However, having a new noodle bar in Sheffield can only be a good thing, as it extends the choices available for those who like eating out.

I have never heard of it before but I am always willing to try something new so I will probably go.

Is it halal ?

I am intrigued as to what special environmental and geographical anomalies mean that the Oxford Wagamama cannot do the Sain Soba Ramen but is quite happy to do the Chilli Mushroom Ramen.

In fact the Chilli Mushroom Ramen is available ONLY in Oxford...........do chilli mushrooms only grow in Oxford?

I am intrigued as to what special environmental and geographical anomalies mean that the Oxford Wagamama cannot do the Sain Soba Ramen but is quite happy to do the Chilli Mushroom Ramen.

In fact the Chilli Mushroom Ramen is available ONLY in Oxford...........do chilli mushrooms only grow in Oxford?

..... you got me, please do tell?

..... you got me, please do tell?

I was just looking at the menu posted previously, wondered why Oxford seemed a special case

Yay! Can't wait. I love Wagamama.

Have you ever actually eaten in one Tony?
A chain yes, but better than any other that I've been too and a welcome addition to Sheffield in my opinion. Beats East One and the Vietnamese Place on London Rd hands down

I agree, it's one of the best.

been reading peoples opinion.

Wagamma is above average, but the good thing its gives choice, but tad on the expensive side!!!!!!

Just seen on their website that Wagamama is opening a restaurant in Sheffield:clap: - heard a rumour it might be in Leopold Square - anyone know if this is true?
It was my favourite restaurant when I lived in Manchester so I'm well happy we're getting one here!


That is indeed great news!

They have a very good restaurant in Dublin, among other places.

I am really looking forward to the opening, we don't have a decent noodle place in Sheffield. I have been to better, but Wagamama isn't bad.

Yum yum

Wagamama does sound awesome actually, but we've already got a load of noodle bars in Sheffield.. I personally think its time for a sushi bar..one where you can eat in, or take out. Theres been too many times when I've been craving sushi, but can't afford Wasabisabi, and have to make do with supermarket sushi :(

The rumour is that the founder of East One actually put together the Wagamama concept only to not be involved in the execution for whatever reason.

As for chains... I despise what they have done to the way that we eat food. The way that they downgrade the experience in every single way except profitability.

Which would you rather have jackdanny... Wagamama or a great independent? By the way, I get out plenty in spite of you saying that to me twice now.

We had a great little independent restaurant in Jabu, but that was closed down for whatever reason.

You'll not find many Szechuan hotpot restaurants anywhere in the UK, a sad loss for Sheffield.

I personally think its time for a sushi bar :(

Definitely agree here, there are a proliferation of asian style noodle bars so some well priced competition for Wasabi Sabi would be great. Mmm Mmm.

There's a sushi/noodle bar opening on campo lane next to Urban Deli I think. (Infact it might be open by now)

Paulmat, really??! Whats it called? Do they have a website?
I need to be there!

Paulmat, really??! Whats it called? Do they have a website?
I need to be there!

It does have a website and it opens on the 24th of April, though not sure of it's location. I think it's going to be doing sushi as well.

Paulmat, really??! Whats it called? Do they have a website?
I need to be there!

It's gonna be called Nushi. Dunno if it's got a website though.

That's strange, because Wagamama do have a website and they say it opens on the 24th of April, In Sheffield, and it's called Wagamama.:thumbsup:

That's strange, because Wagamama do have a website and they say it opens on the 24th of April, In Sheffield, and it's called Wagamama.:thumbsup:


Please try to keep up! :hihi:

There's a sushi/noodle bar opening on campo lane next to Urban Deli I think. (Infact it might be open by now)

It's gonna be called Nushi. Dunno if it's got a website though.

It's gonna be called Nushi. Dunno if it's got a website though.


Do you mean Nooshi? I tried some of their sushi when visiting friends in L**ds. Not bad...but I'm no expert.

Found their website. www.nooshi.co.uk

Ah yeah, could well be.

Please try to keep up! :hihi:

Sos, thought the thread was supposed to be about Wagamama opening.:huh:

Oo, Nooshi looks rather delish. As does Wagamama actually.
Can't wait! :D

I may be wrong, but I don't think the 'Nooshi' of the website is related to Nushi which is opening soon on Campo Lane.

Wagamamas is OK. I just don't rate it.

It's certainly not authentic Japanese food.

Oh for an authentic, affordable sushi bar here in Sheffield...

If you sit in the windows at wagamama, would you be able to letch at the Hooters girls?
Everyones a winner!!

Just been to the one in Leeds mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm! :thumbsup:

Dear all,

Sakushi is opening on campo lane at the bottom end of west street just next to the Cathedral. It is not called nushi that is the company name and it has nothing to do with Nooshi of leeds.

Sakushi you could say is Yo!/wagamma but the food is hand made and the Chef is a japanese master with 30 years experience. So its actually the opposite when it comes down to authenticity and food quality, so they dont really compare just the principle of a noodle and sushi bar!
It is being built at the present time and the interior is modern and very classy.

You will have the option to sit at a conveyorbelt or sit at the restaurant tables for a longer more relaxed meal. The menu consists of 50+ dishes of sushi at the belt and you can order many other traditional side dishes like chicken yakitori. Also dont forget you can order big bowls of noodles to.

So if you want real japanses food in a upmarket environment than get down to Sakushi when it is opens. We are hoping late april or early may.

Website under construction but keep checking

Regards

Sounds great to me Sakushi! I'll have to check it out once it's open. Good luck with it. ;)

Sounds great to me Sakushi! I'll have to check it out once it's open. Good luck wick with it. ;)

I'll second that.

I'll be there!

Dear all,

Sakushi is opening on campo lane at the bottom end of west street just next to the Cathedral. It is not called nushi that is the company name and it has nothing to do with Nooshi of leeds.

Sakushi you could say is Yo!/wagamma but the food is hand made and the Chef is a japanese master with 30 years experience. So its actually the opposite when it comes down to authenticity and food quality, so they dont really compare just the principle of a noodle and sushi bar!
It is being built at the present time and the interior is modern and very classy.

You will have the option to sit at a conveyorbelt or sit at the restaurant tables for a longer more relaxed meal. The menu consists of 50+ dishes of sushi at the belt and you can order many other traditional side dishes like chicken yakitori. Also dont forget you can order big bowls of noodles to.

So if you want real japanses food in a upmarket environment than get down to Sakushi when it is opens. We are hoping late april or early may.

Website under construction but keep checking

Regards

Its also traditional to give Forum members a discount if you use the Forum for free advertising!

I will try both. Yum, yum, yum.

Sakushi .....Great news about a proper sushi restaurant opening in the city centre. We love going to Wasabisabi (good but pricey) and will definitely go to Sakushi - I think there's a market for decent sushi in the city centre. It makes a change from the usual chains - last time I ate at Yo Sushi, I didn't rate it.

Whats so great about Wagamama's anyway?

I'll second that.

Damn right - sounds spot on. And near my office too...!

Sakushi .....Great news about a proper sushi restaurant opening in the city centre. We love going to Wasabisabi (good but pricey) and will definitely go to Sakushi - I think there's a market for decent sushi in the city centre. It makes a change from the usual chains - last time I ate at Yo Sushi, I didn't rate it.

It will have to be reasonably priced. Most Sheffielders wont want to pay much for a scrap of fish and some sticky rice

Oh yes. I shall be at both with jumbo bells on!

oooh, this sakushi sounds good.

YAY - love Wagamamma's i know its a chain but the food is yummers! always good to go with girlfriends before a night out coz you can light soups etc

Wagamama is mostly about branding, and I guess it just caught onto this "hip", "young" and "urban" image. That is all! There used to be another chain called "Tampopo" in Manchester when I was a student, and this was pants. A lot of my friends would say that it is nothing special because we could cook better than that at home. A lot of instant noodles repackages to be considered as some kind of great food. Pah.

To me, it is a fusion of food. A basic concept of simple stripped down meals which is actually seen as cheap street food in other countries to then be branded without much culinary skills in a very modern setting in this country.

I actually champion a lot of the independent restaurant who now actually move on to compete again such chains.

Dining used to be, "going out for a meal that I cannot possibly cook at home". Nowadays, it more of a case of, "I need to eat, and this is the best place for an average meal cos I'm so busy".

Just seen on their website that Wagamama is opening a restaurant in Sheffield:clap: - heard a rumour it might be in Leopold Square - anyone know if this is true?
It was my favourite restaurant when I lived in Manchester so I'm well happy we're getting one here!

I heard this news sometime in March last year & I am still waiting for its opening here in Sheffield.

Opens on the 24th April, just got our preview tickets through :)

Opens on the 24th April, just got our preview tickets through :)

Yep, me too :)

Dear all,

Sakushi is opening on campo lane at the bottom end of west street just next to the Cathedral. It is not called nushi that is the company name and it has nothing to do with Nooshi of leeds.

Sakushi you could say is Yo!/wagamma but the food is hand made and the Chef is a japanese master with 30 years experience. So its actually the opposite when it comes down to authenticity and food quality, so they dont really compare just the principle of a noodle and sushi bar!
It is being built at the present time and the interior is modern and very classy.

You will have the option to sit at a conveyorbelt or sit at the restaurant tables for a longer more relaxed meal. The menu consists of 50+ dishes of sushi at the belt and you can order many other traditional side dishes like chicken yakitori. Also dont forget you can order big bowls of noodles to.

So if you want real japanses food in a upmarket environment than get down to Sakushi when it is opens. We are hoping late april or early may.

Website under construction but keep checking

Regards

Good luck with this, can't wait until we get the opportunity to try it out.

Keep us all posted on opening date!

Ade

Yep, me too :)

Likewise. I wish you could book though. Want to go with ~10 mates and don't really like queueing for food!

Where abouts in Sheffield is Wagamama's actually opening? Surely the people who have preview tickets must know!

Leopold Square

Dear all,

Sakushi is opening on campo lane at the bottom end of west street just next to the Cathedral. It is not called nushi that is the company name and it has nothing to do with Nooshi of leeds.

Sakushi you could say is Yo!/wagamma but the food is hand made and the Chef is a japanese master with 30 years experience. So its actually the opposite when it comes down to authenticity and food quality, so they dont really compare just the principle of a noodle and sushi bar!
It is being built at the present time and the interior is modern and very classy.

You will have the option to sit at a conveyorbelt or sit at the restaurant tables for a longer more relaxed meal. The menu consists of 50+ dishes of sushi at the belt and you can order many other traditional side dishes like chicken yakitori. Also dont forget you can order big bowls of noodles to.

So if you want real japanses food in a upmarket environment than get down to Sakushi when it is opens. We are hoping late april or early may.

Website under construction but keep checking

Regards

Is this Sakushi a kind of a conveyer belt sushi bar ?

Wagamamas is OK. I just don't rate it.

It's certainly not authentic Japanese food.

Oh for an authentic, affordable sushi bar here in Sheffield...

Their "gyozas" are quite authentic, I think. Oh, and their édamamé, too. However, a lot of their noodle dishes are not so authentic.

can't wait for this to open!

Well just been for a freeby preview meal at the long awaited Wagammama, and I have to say it was great. Although there were a few teething problems with one of the meals, this is only to be expected on the first night of a restaurant opening. My meal was delicious though - Katsu Curry if enyone's interested! :nod:The staff were lovely - helpful and friendly - and the service speedy. For a chain, it is really good and reasonably priced. I will definitely be paying it another visit soon.
Also really looking forward to trying Sakushi - just the kind of thing we need here in Sheff - the city just keeps on getting better as far as I'm concerned! :thumbsup:

I am off tomorrow lunch time-looking forward to it. Although at work all night, finish tommorrow 9am-just hope i don't fall asleep in my noodles! lol

Does anyone know-do you get the menu choice that is on their website?

I was there for the preview last night - really good - can't fault it really - get the Chilli Beef Ramen!

Yes - its the full menu.

Yep, went last night on the preview and the food was gorgeous...especially for free!
My only gripe was that the saki wasn't served warm, apparently they can't do it there :huh:

Morning all. Went to Wagamama's last night for one of the preview meals. I've eaten in their London and Amsterdam branches before, and first off loved the food. Great flavours, textures and well balanced dishes. The Wagamama "big concept" is that food should be cooked, served and eaten fresh, meaning dishes come at different times as soon as they're ready. Nice idea, but my main dish arrived fifteen minutes after my friend's. Now I like the idea of cooking something to order and getting it to me fresh, but a good restaurant will do that anyway and know how to cook dishes at the right time to be served together. It's a big black mark for laziness disguised as trendy concept cooking. Similarly, it's a bit superfluous for the waitresses to be scribbling dish numbers on our paper placemats if every other server still has to ask who's eating what when they bring it to the table.

The freshly squeezed fruit and veg juices are great - a very refreshing appetizer. Didn't try the beers, probably a mistake since only the house wine was on offer and it was pretty naff. Our starters were both dumplings - great seasoning and spicing, and the little dipping sauces were great too. My friend had a coconut-soup-based noodle dish (forget the name) which was very filling and well spiced, but the noodles were on the undercooked side of firm.

The biggest disappointment is basically the restaurant design itself. When the chain started, their branches (notably the one near Piccadilly Circus) were architectural treats: clever, minimalist and well detailed. The Leopold Square complex has that depressing air about it that so many new Sheffield developments or refurbs have: the whole development has been clumsily converted from an old school with no attention to detail and absolutely joy in those little bits that make a building really beautiful to be in. Whereas Strada across the square have made a real effort to dress and decorate their dining room to create an ambiance and atmosphere, Wagamama's have basically slapped a coat of white paint to the builder's plasterboard and specified the cheapest skirting, tiles and a set of lighting tracks that look like they belong in an office. The original branches made the minimalist Japanese canteen concept cool and appealing. This branch's design just feels like a rush job. The premium Wagamama charges in its menu over East One or any of Sheffield's other noodle bars isn't justified by the atmosphere.

We were sat at the furthest end of the restaurant from the door, so I spent most of the evening looking at the bleak white wall that frames the old windows onto Leopold Street. There's nothing wrong with cutting through two floors to insert a new one-and-a-half-height space, but they missed a great trick here with some colour, some texture, maybe even exposed materials from the old building. We felt like we were in a white plastic box that was stuck inside an old building... no real connection from inside to out (so Hooters fans might regret not being able to ogle at the busty blondes who haven't heard of feminism :hihi: )

Finally, I appreciate the hard work put in by all the staff, and forgive any of the minor problems with service. It's a great idea to have trial nights to make sure everything runs smoothly. My only tip is the same I'd give to almost every server in this city: don't hover around diners so much waiting for us to clear our plates, and not to keep asking if our glasses are done with before they're not :rant:

So: great food, but the whole excitement about Wagamama is the style and concept, and both the Leopold Square units and the Wagamama designers have cut corners. I'd still say that East One in the West One complex does everything Wagamama does better, with a bigger menu, bigger portions and cheaper prices. And it does it without any failed aspirations to be a trendy minimalist canteen.

Cheers :thumbsup:

Nice review ara01jjb.

Also agree with the above review. We went today, food was nice, but meals arriving at different times isn't, when you're out eating as a couple. Neither is being squashed next to strangers.

On a minor point, I also didn't like the idea of the public coathanging, so no security for your coat and no chair back to hang it over.

Again, food nice, but design of restaurant means I wouldn't go there again for a meal; plenty of places offer just as good food and prices, and manage to present two meals together, and let you sit in your own groupings.

Went for the preview meal.
Food was nice and arrived a few minutes apart, fruit juice was fantastic. Staff were to quick to take away plates and glasses and it felt like the staff were watching to see if you had nearly finished as if they wanted to get rid of you quickly. Did not like the fact you were sat next to other people on uncomfortable benches - was looking forward to leaving as my back side was going numb by the end of the meal. Because of the seating arangements there was not much room on the table for the food without putting it infront of the person next to you. Would not go again just because of the seating arangement , impossible to have a conversation at the table or spread food out.

The biggest disappointment is basically the restaurant design itself. When the chain started, their branches (notably the one near Piccadilly Circus) were architectural treats: clever, minimalist and well detailed. The Leopold Square complex has that depressing air about it that so many new Sheffield developments or refurbs have: the whole development has been clumsily converted from an old school with no attention to detail and absolutely joy in those little bits that make a building really beautiful to be in. ::

Totally agree on that :thumbsup:

Been today and I have to say that yes the staff are new but if anyone is reading this from Wagamama then please tell your staff to stop hovering around customers.

If I want you I will come and speak to you or talk to you when you walk past. Go and spend some time at the branch in Manchester and you will see what I mean (i.e. they leave you alone!).

Also don't jump on us and ask us what we want to drink within 2 seconds of people sitting down.

Going to try the noodle bar at west one on monday as hear this is better.

I also went to one of the preview nights. food was served quickly, and we were lucky that ours came within 5 minutes of each other. Seating wasn't that bad, although I did feel a bit uncomfortable being able to hear other people's conversations, and them mine.

I had chilli beef ramen huge portion, i took 45 minutes to eat it, and had to give up in the end! very nice, but im not sure i would go again and pay the full price. However wagamama often have 2 for 1 offers, so i would maybe be tempted again.

Not going to mona at a free meal and drinks though, wish more places would do it!

Have to say I don't agree with most of the criticism here. I've been to quite a few Wagas in London and the Manchester one and Sheffield's new addition is at least equal to them. I didn't go to the free preview but was very pleased with the food and the staff. Desserts were excellent! :D

Must say I prefer Wasabisabi food, but Leopold Sq is nicer to visit than London Rd.

I was very disappointed to hear that there might not be a wagamamas in Sheffield after all the previous discussion on SF, so I was really, really pleased (yes I am a sad person) when I saw it today on my way to the tram stop.
And even better, that we will be getting a sushi place in town too :)

Fantastic news! :clap:

Went for the preview meal.
Food was nice and arrived a few minutes apart, fruit juice was fantastic. Staff were to quick to take away plates and glasses and it felt like the staff were watching to see if you had nearly finished as if they wanted to get rid of you quickly. Did not like the fact you were sat next to other people on uncomfortable benches - was looking forward to leaving as my back side was going numb by the end of the meal. Because of the seating arangements there was not much room on the table for the food without putting it infront of the person next to you. Would not go again just because of the seating arangement , impossible to have a conversation at the table or spread food out.

My only experience of Wagamama was going into one in London, sitting down with my wife, then walking out again without ordering as neither of us liked the seating arrangement on uncomfortable benches. We had had a long day in London and wanted somewhere comfortable to sit and have a meal.

Is the bench and long table arrangement something all Wagagmama branches have?

I went yesterday. I was excited that wagamama was coming as I had been before and I love love love noodles.

I think the seating is fine, it's as it would be in the noodle places in Japan and I don't think you're meant to linger so it's fine (for me) that it's not dead comfy. Utilitarian I guess is the word?

Didn't really notice if the skirting boards were cheap! But I'll have a look next time.

Overall, I liked it but didn't LOVE it. I think the ingredients (especially the salad) could have been fresher. Quite a bit fresher.

The service was fine - although I'd forgotten that annoying thing they do writing on your paper tablemat. What's that all about then? Pointless and irritating.

I'd probably go back once more to try another dish - but I was slightly disappointed. It's a shame ... my quest for noodles continues!

My only experience of Wagamama was going into one in London, sitting down with my wife, then walking out again without ordering as neither of us liked the seating arrangement on uncomfortable benches. We had had a long day in London and wanted somewhere comfortable to sit and have a meal.

Is the bench and long table arrangement something all Wagagmama branches have?

Yes it is, it's a fast food noodle place, not a comfy restaurant.

fast food at restaurant prices.

Cheap restaurant prices, and a higher class of fast food than most places that carry that description.

My only experience of Wagamama was going into one in London, sitting down with my wife, then walking out again without ordering as neither of us liked the seating arrangement on uncomfortable benches. We had had a long day in London and wanted somewhere comfortable to sit and have a meal.

Is the bench and long table arrangement something all Wagagmama branches have?
Yes, I think all Wagamama has this style because it's their basic concept. A lot of "noodle bars" or "rice shop" in SE Asia actually serve a specific type of clientele, with choices that is closed to a main meal but actually served in a fast paced environment.

I think the concept of Wagamama is meant to go down the Japanese route, and a bit of fusion with SE Asian theme. Again, I think a lot of people are buying the concepts and decor rather than the meals.

ara01jbb: Actually, that is a good critique and review. :thumbsup:
I remember going into a Wagamama for the first time, and did not rate their food very much. That was a long time ago now. My sister rave about it, but I remembered the lack of choices, and lack of authenticities when they first opened. I just remembered my friend raved about their Japanese-ness and concept being in the UK.

I can see how much they have changed their menus and added extras on top of their existing dishes. I've been to one in Zone 1 in London as well, and it is as you said very different, and to be honest, there has been many a version of this kind of place in the UK already. I remembered Tampopo in Manchester, and it flopped. It did not take off in a big way. Maybe Wagamama was packaged better. They also brought out a recipe book, which I thought was neither here nor there...

It is fusion food, and mixed concepts.

I just remember that their curries are not the same type of Japanese curries in Japan, as it has a more Malaysian taste to it! Not that your average curry eater will know the difference, but I'm a stickler to food from its origin.

Review in the paper today: Chopstick-y issues… (http://www.sheffieldtelegraph.co.uk/foodguide/Chopsticky-issues.4089967.jp)

I'd still say that East One in the West One complex does everything Wagamama does better, with a bigger menu, bigger portions and cheaper prices. And it does it without any failed aspirations to be a trendy minimalist canteen.


Agree with this comment 110%. And yes, I have eaten at both. My 'seafood ramen' at Wagamama supposedly came 'topped with grilled smooth dory, grilled black tiger prawns and grilled squid' - in actual fact it was ONE small piece of dory, ONE tiger prawn and ONE piece of squid!! A similar dish at East One would come absolutely piled with seafood. I have nothing against Wagamama's but it's no competition to East One. Like the sound of Sakushi too!

I can't think of anything good to say about my waga experience
We were pretty much rushed, I put it down to inexperienced staff.
Food was delivered by three or four different people none of them made eye contact, never a good start.
They started taking my plate away while my partner was still eating, not very good, but I let it ride, then they took the serving plate with food still on it and started taking my partners plate while her Chopsticks were still in her mouth.
While we were laughing about that they asked if we wanted sweet, "No Thanks" what about coffee "No Thanks" I'll get your bill. We were out on the street within 30 seconds.
I think the food was average I can't remember.

Took some family for a meal last night........ very disappointed.

Had to wait outside for 15 minutes and then when we got in the food was poor.

It felt like they just wanted us to sit down, pay, stand up and leave! forget the eating bit.

RUBBISH

Can't believe the Telegraph review. Seems very far removed from the experiences that are on this thread.

Review is a bit too gushy for my liking!

far be it from me to suggest it, but Telegraph criticism may be inversely proportional to the advertising spend

They always always give good reviews - best place to check out restaurants is right here on the Forum in my opinion!

Well, am giving it a try on Wednesday lunchtime and will post my verdict afterwards. So watch this space.

I bet it would have been better service in Hooters :love:

I bet it would have been better service in Hooters :love:
Am never going to live that down am I?

I would not bother if I was you. Just to up to East One. You will have a far better meal, not have swarms of staff around you when you don't want them and none when you do.

Should be cheaper as well.

I agree with you Malestrom.

I loooove Wagamama's. I think its no 42/43 that i always have as i love it so much. Not been to the sheffield one yet but i have been to Canterbury, Reading, Birmingham and London branches, and its top notch. Plus the green tea is free!

Am never going to live that down am I?

Nope. But I'm sure it was worth it for your 15 minutes of fame.

Am never going to live that down am I?

Indeed when I think of Hooters, I think of Suffy...!

I would not bother if I was you. Just to up to East One. You will have a far better meal, not have swarms of staff around you when you don't want them and none when you do.

Should be cheaper as well.

East One is similar in concept, but I always find the food very bland.

I suppose I could add my review as well, we went a few weeks ago, at a non peak time.

Service was good, food came quickly, bill was correct and the staff were all fine (except one who wandered off when I asked him to get the bill instead of going to get it).
Food was fine, ordered too much as we normally end up doing, the mains are so large that you don't really need sides. Not the most amazing food in the world, but for <£20 for two of us it was pretty reasonable. I think I had chicken noodles of some sort, and there was plenty of chicken in it.
I'm looking forward to the sushi place though, I'd choose sushi over noodles anyday.

Cyclone
19040 posts in 4 years, is this a record

Don't believe it is, there are several posters with more posts in less time.

have a ****. another chain in sheffield. whoo hoo!

Review in the paper today: Chopstick-y issues… (http://www.sheffieldtelegraph.co.uk/foodguide/Chopsticky-issues.4089967.jp)

:rolleyes:
I think food reviews in The Star is quite bad, but this one is not the best either! I'd prefer reviews from The Observer. At least the writer pays tribute to the origin of the food, and knows what he is writing about.

I went in there eventually to try out the place with my cousin, and we definitely thought that the waiting staff rushed us, and I know that it's a very small place, and they wish to get in as many people as possible, but still. From beginning to end, we were hardly there for more than 1.5 hrs, and it took the food 30 minutes and more to arrive. How can the staff expect us to gobble the food without chit chats? :hihi:

I don't know if Wagamama is ready for Sheffield yet, since we don't have a high number of people coming and going like some places in London. Other than the rushing, the food was okay, but not the best I've tried. Decor is okay. Similar to all the other Wagamamas. It's a very small place though.

If the star food critic is still Martin Dawes then he only likes about half a dozen restaurants in Sheffield. He has very little understanding of food tastes and wants all foreign food anglesising (if that is a word).
The stupid thing is he can make or break a business, especially a new one finding its feet.
It must be pretty annoying when the Star rep. has been selling you a boat load of advertising to get a put down by the critic.
Its a hard world out there if you don't have anything good to say, then keep quiet.
Constructive criticism is good. New bars and restaurants need support, not knocking all the time

If the star food critic is still Martin Dawes then he only likes about half a dozen restaurants in Sheffield. He has very little understanding of food tastes and wants all foreign food anglesising (if that is a word).
The stupid thing is he can make or break a business, especially a new one finding its feet.
It must be pretty annoying when the Star rep. has been selling you a boat load of advertising to get a put down by the critic.
Its a hard world out there if you don't have anything good to say, then keep quiet.
Constructive criticism is good. New bars and restaurants need support, not knocking all the time

I think you exaggerate slightly, show me a reataurant that Martin Dawes shut down with a bad review and I'll show you one that wouldn't have made it anyway. Any restaurant that believes an advert in the Star is a good idea is barking up the wrong tree.

New bars and restaurants need support but they also need to be professional about what they do. Too many get the basics wrong and wonder why they are empty.

Oh dear... another chain restaurant shaped nail in the coffin of good food. :(

Couldn't agree more Tony. But, we are in the minority and risk being called "snobs" or something worse for not following the herd.

The facts are that most folks enjoy these awful high street chain restaurants. Heaven knows what they would do if they ever had the opportunity to try a proper Vietnamese/Thai/Chinese restaurant serving authentic top quality fare. Actually, they probably wouldn't like it.

I'm about as excited about Wagamama coming to Sheffield as I would be about getting free tickets to see the Osmonds on tour. These places serve average food to average people.

Funny, my other half is Chinese/Thai, we eat genuine Thai and Chinese food cooked by her parents, or with her parents in the restaurants they prefer, yet we also like Wagamama. For what it is, it's not a restaurant at all, it's a ramen bar, fast food noodles. So long as you understand what you are getting there's no reason to dislike it, nor to be pretentious about it.

Well i haven read this whole thread but I went last night with my friend - thought the staff were super friendly (especially our waitress - Mercedes, in case she's a forum member, you never know) and the food was great. Didn't feel rushed but guess 7pm on a Tues isn't particularly rush time. I think soft drinks are a tad overpriced but i was delivered a glass of ice cubed tap water when i didn't want to pay a second 1.80 for a can sized bottle of coke.

I just love the cherry hoi sin sauce!

Gets on my nerves when people slag off places like wagamamas - You CHOOSE to go there, no one forces you in. If you don't like it that's cool but it doesnt mean that the people who DO like it are average or stupid...or incapable of going somewhere else if thats what they fancy....i thought variety was meant to be the spice of life eh??

Have the green tea, it's free.

If the star food critic is still Martin Dawes then he only likes about half a dozen restaurants in Sheffield. He has very little understanding of food tastes and wants all foreign food anglesising (if that is a word).
The stupid thing is he can make or break a business, especially a new one finding its feet.
It must be pretty annoying when the Star rep. has been selling you a boat load of advertising to get a put down by the critic.
Its a hard world out there if you don't have anything good to say, then keep quiet.
Constructive criticism is good. New bars and restaurants need support, not knocking all the time
I don't follow Martin Dawe's reviews religiously. I know that some family members do take his opinions a little bit more seriously, whereas I don't rate his opinions as a foodie to be honest. I thought that is what being a food critic should be all about? To rate the food on its merits and not to be biased on personal preferences.

There may be a reason why food was more anglocised historically, but there is no reason why it should be so any more, especially when it is easier to source ingredients from across the world. If this isn't the case, then certain type of cuisine like Japanese would not be available in this country. We wouldn't be able to source some of the fish that should be with this type of cuisine.

I agree that its hard to survive in this industry, but shouldn't the ones which do survive survive because of its food, and not because of its value for money? Actually, I think that the criticism by David Blunkett a while back was quite spot on. Why pay more for mediocre food, when your money can be stretched to pay for something of a higher standard? Is this snobby? No way! I say this is only because if you venture to other cities, you get more value for your money. Fresher, cleaner tastes, more exotic ingredients. Better services etc.

Is this city, I still put up with burnt food which I pay for a few pounds. I really wanted to send them back and really make a fuss, but then it's hard to actually do so when in company. I think politeness draws back the progress of this industry. Even if food is bad, or service is bad, I still put on a fake "yes, everything is fine, thank you". If I was the person working there, I should know whether it was good or not. If I can't bring myself to eat it, or to accept it, then why expect others to do so?

Cyclone
my oh is thai as well, I was happy enough with the food, perhaps expected more of a restaurant than a noodle bar.
I'll give it another try this weekend.

Funny, my other half is Chinese/Thai, we eat genuine Thai and Chinese food cooked by her parents, or with her parents in the restaurants they prefer, yet we also like Wagamama. For what it is, it's not a restaurant at all, it's a ramen bar, fast food noodles. So long as you understand what you are getting there's no reason to dislike it, nor to be pretentious about it.

I think you make a fair point. It's not really a restaurant at all - it's a fast food bar selling noodles. And I'm sure they taste fine. I agree entirely with what you say about "so long as you understand what you are getting there's no reason to dislike it" and I don't. In fact, I'd be happy to go there and enjoy some noodles if the fancy took me.

But the bit about "pretentiousness" cuts two ways. You may think I'm suggesting that Wagamama isn't good enough food for someone like me - I'm not at all. I'm saying that the original thread which heralds the arrival of this place makes it sound like we are oh so lucky to have this wonderful restaurant opening in our city. And my response is, "so what?" Most other big cities have got one already, it's basically an o.k. fast food outlet, and it doesn't excite me one jot. I think it would be far more pretentious if we got all excited about another high street fast food outlet arriving here.

Now, if you said that we were going to open a Thai/Chinese/Vietnamese restaurant in Sheffield to rival the international standard ones that can be found in Manchester I'd be really excited. Because that's exactly what Sheffield doesn't have and badly needs.

But, I'm non-plussed about Wagamama I'm afraid.

Another high street fast food outlet, the type that can be found on a high street in almost every town and city in Britain, finally arrives in Sheffield.

Better late than never maybe.

I think you probably hit the nail on the head Dippy they should have opened on fargate, its a bit faster than leopold square.

I went to Wagamama's last week and was not impressed at all, the service was terrible -15 mins after ordering drinks (and not getting them) and trying to get the attention of 3 waitresses i finally managed to get someone to take our order. The food was terrible too, i ordered the chilli chicken ramen soup, it tasted like salty dishwater and the 'freshly grilled chicken' most certainly was not. I am a fan of East One and will never waste my time going to Wagamama's again.

OH and myself went today at lunch time, no one else in, food was fine, service was OK they didn't rush us, however we were in and out pretty quickly.
I think the whole problem I have here is the style of furniture. Its like a works canteen, you are not sat comfortably, hence you don't really relax, you simply eat and leave.

I'm in two minds about wags to be honest - went with friends friday lunchtime for the first time, they are big fans.
I had miso soup (I always wondered) and the chicken/veg/noodle/coconut soup, and we shared some duck gyoza too. The food was ok, but I HATED the writing on the menu thing they've got going on, and while the seating was ok for us during the day when it was quiet, I wouldn't want to go in the evening when it's busier and be sat next to other people on the same table. Good hangover food I think but thats about it.
A fair point about it being about fast food not long drawn out meals but it also felt totally soulless, no attempt to make the restaurant any different from any of their other branches (thats how it felt anyway, not speaking from experience!)

I've been twice since it opened and I have to say my experiences were pretty mixed. The first time was only a week after they'd opened but there were just far too many teething problems to be overlooked - bland Ramen with undercooked noodles, undercooked and cold Gyoza... We were given money off the bill but I wasn't very impressed!

Went again on Monday this week and it redeemed itself... the food was excellent and I left feeling pretty satisfied.

I can understand why people may not like the canteen style seating and writing on the paper mats - it is a bit annoying I suppose, but it is supposed to be Asian fast food, not somewhere to linger for a relaxing evening. I will go back, but I think for atmosphere and value for money there are better places in Sheffield... Pha 68 on London Rd is fantastic :thumbsup:

Having been once, I'll never go again. The food is average at best and somewhat overpriced for what it is.

What I really disliked about it was the over the top service that bordered on pestering. I was asked four times if the food was OK, always when my mouth was full. We must have been asked six or seven times if we wanted any more drinks when it was obvious our glasses had plenty in. If we had accepted every drink we were offered, we'd have left there on hands and knees! I don't blame the waitresses I guess they're ordered to push drinks on people.

If i'd known it was a chain restaurant, I'd have known to expect all the above and wouldn't have considered going.

Not wanting to compare it to other resteraunts, more to the point, this is the worst Wagamammas I've ever been to. I always liked the chain but won't bother with this one again.

My other half is vegan so when we just wanted to double-check something with her, not only did the waitress seem to have no understanding of the word, she went to get the manager or whoever who then came over and greeted us with 'which one of you is the fussy one?'. I very nearly greeted him with 'which one is about to get a kick in the ********?'.

I noted that their menu was actually quite small in comparison to some other branches. The manager pointed out that because they were a small branch, they didn't have room for a full size kitchen.

I agree they shouldn't have opened in Leopold Square but am now thinking that, if they didn't have room for a proper kitchen, perhaps they shouldn't have bothered opening at all.

I'll wait until I'm in Leeds before I bother with Wagamamas again! Can we really not even get a chain fast food place right in Sheffield? Bah.

check out yama sushi. nice fish , great sides

Yo! Yama Sushi is the best if you want a more homely atmosphere and the sushi is superb too!

I went to Wagamamas last night - I'm a bit slow as its been open about 2 yrs... I know...I really enjoyed it actually, we all enjoyed our choices and the side dishes, although i would probably avoid the fat noodles next time - a bit too slug like for me.
The service was great too.