Lucky Fox: Review
In September 2014, Sheffield's Devonshire quarter gained yet another quirky independent business in the form of Richard Ledger's American-inspired cafe, Lucky Fox. The self-proclaimed diner, dive bar and deli serves up a whole host of treats ranging from breakfasts and coffees, to fried chicken and desserts.
Lucky Fox has a very laid-back, intimate feel to it with only a handful of tables and an open kitchen too. The decor is very stripped back using reclaimed wood and cold, industrious concrete to create an effortlessly cool appearance which is brought to life with the chalkboards, skateboards and posters that don the walls, as well neon signs which give it that classic dive bar edge.
One of the things I like the most about Lucky Fox is the atmosphere and vibe of the place. There's something about the soulful blues music that plays in the background that makes you feel very comfortable yet it's low-key enough not to intrude on the conversation and the feeling of intimacy.
The service in Lucky Fox matches its laid back appearance and vibe; it's friendly but minimal and casual. You're welcomed to stroll in and pick yourself a table, peruse the menu and then head over to the counter at the edge of the open kitchen to place your order. Soft drinks in cans are in a mini fridge on the counter for you to help yourself to once you've ordered and glass bottles of free drinking water are brought over as you're seated - always a nice touch.
The menu draws heavily on Lucky Fox's American influences with a focus around their signature double-dipped fried chicken, extending to nachos, burgers and even a quinoa salad for any health-conscious calorie counters. They also have a range of sandwiches and quick bites that are available to take away which seem to be very popular with city centre workers.
I opted for the Luckybox - a banquet for one consisting of 3 pieces of double-dipped boneless chicken, 2 wings, fries, BBQ beans and homemade slaw (£9.95). The boneless chicken pieces, although quite small, were full of flavour and really succulent. The coating itself was well-seasoned, delicately spiced and really crispy - a result of the double-dipping process.
Unfortunately I wasn't so impressed by the chicken wings. They weren't very crispy at all and I found them to be quite slimy in texture. They were drizzled in a tangy hot sauce which I didn't like and would have been better as an optional dip. Underneath the chicken was the homemade slaw which was pleasant with a nice tangy flavour and a bit of crunchy bite.
The portion of fries was generous and they were well-seasoned, however I think they could have benefitted from a little more time in the frier to crisp them up a bit. The BBQ beans were packed with flavour, had a really good smokiness running through them and, again, the portion was generously sized. The beans also doubled up as a great dip for the chips and chicken.
Despite not being a big fan of the chicken wings, I still enjoyed my meal and would definitely return, however I would in future stick to ordering their signature double-dipped chicken; after all. I think Lucky Fox has a lot of potential and is definitely going to be one to watch over the next year or so as they find their feet and learn to tweak and perfect their dishes. I'm just pleased to see another great independent Sheffield eatery that is full of character. It's these little establishments that play host to a kind of atmosphere that can never be replicated by soulless chain restaurants.
Lucky Fox
72 Division Street
Sheffield
S1 4GF
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