Bedford & Strand is a bar, wine room and bistro situated in an attractively decorated basement, decorated in the style of a 1970s wine bar, with bottle-laden shelves, paper-covered tables and a beautiful, long, zinc bar. They offer an excellent, varied selection of wines as well as delicious food - well worth a visit.
Bedford & Strand
Bar in Covent Garden
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Opening Times
| Monday |
Open 12:00 - Closes 00:00 |
| Tuesday |
Open 12:00 - Closes 00:00 |
| Wednesday |
Open 12:00 - Closes 00:00 |
| Thursday |
Open 12:00 - Closes 00:00 |
| Friday |
Open 12:00 - Closes 00:00 |
| Saturday |
Open 12:00 - Closes 00:00 |
| Sunday | Closed |
All In London Review
Honest wines and food in the heart of tourist London
I am told by the manager that as much emphasis is placed on the food menu as the wine list, and a quick peruse reveals duck terrine and Bayonne ham with remoulade, as well as pies and pork chops. An interesting mix of British trad and Continental. They also, curiously, have a deli counter.
To start, we chose from the many fish dishes on the menu; a salad with scallops, capers, sliced apple and lettuce, with a lemon dressing was my healthy choice. The scallops were cooked just right, and the combination of apple, lemon and capers was a surprisingly delicious one. My friend’s potted crab was rich and creamy, and a rather large portion for her slices of toasted French bread - I was happy to help her finish it however.
With rain and chilling winds beckoning outside I decided to go for a hearty chicken pie for my main. A thin layer of pastry revealed underneath a tasty stew of chicken, mushrooms and carrots. A perfect dish for winter when something filling is required, especially with a plate of mash sprinkled with parsley. My dining companion was delighted with her smoked haddock fish cakes topped with a light layer of rich cream and parsley sauce, and accompanied by green beans.
Utterly stuffed, we shared a pear tart with prune d’Armagnac ice cream. The pastry was soft and drizzled with plenty of moreish syrup, whilst the flavoured ice cream was a perfect match. Whilst we sipped our post-dinner teas to aid digestion, we remarked on the sleek interior. Its discreet entrance and elegant use of dark wood set it apart from fellow pubs, and a partition between the bar and dining area is a nice touch.
The Bedford and Strand is more of a gastropub than the touristy spots that surround it, and punters are mostly suits popping in after work. All the staff that served us were decidedly friendly too, which always leaves a sweet taste, as well as the fact that a three course meal for two with wine comes to roughly £70. Very pleasing indeed.
Reviewed by Leila
Published on Feb 23, 2010
User Reviews
Sooz
Dec 20, 2010
Four of us went here for a pre-Christmas get-together. The place was packed. Two friends were late in arriving, but the waiting staff were very patient with us and didn't make us feel as though we were putting them out. The food was decent, the wine list was good (the house Merlot comes highly recommended!) and the service excellent. My main gripe would be that the total cost was still £50 a head which seemed steep for what was relatively basic food and surroundings.
Anonymous
Jan 14, 2009
Bedford and strand has great atmosphere fantastic wine list, good honest food and really friendly staff. my new favourite place.Great to find a bar in central london that does not rip you off.
ASherman
Aug 13, 2008
The good quality of the wine, food, atmosphere and decor could not make up for an evening spoiled by our rude treatment by the bar staff. To be avoided unless you enjoy being offended.
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