Bedford & Strand. Yes please!
We loved, loved, loved Bedford & Strand! It’s difficult to put a finger on why exactly, but the combination of location, atmosphere, service, menu and company on the night certainly had something to do with it. The evening started off in the fantastic Skylon bar above Festival Hall where a couple of (perfect) Martinis were washed down with a setting sun over the Thames in the background. We were due to go our separate ways for dinner but three rubber-armed companions were easily convinced to ditch their plans for a bite to eat in Chinatown and join us. A quick call to the restaurant to amend the booking, and we were off.
“So, what’s with the name? What does it mean?”, asked one companion as we wandered across the footbridge. “It’s that New York thing”, we stated, referring to the restaurant’s location on the corner of Bedford Street and the Strand. “Oh, it’s American. What kind of food is New York style, then?” “No”, we explained, “it’s to do with the location”. “What? Why is the location American?” Hmmmm, we were starting to wish we had never mentioned New York. Quickly, someone change the subject. “So, how long are you in London?”
The restaurant is located down a staircase in a basement but don’t let that put you off. It might be a horribly touristy part of town, but when you walk in it feels local, cosy and welcoming. “I wouldn’t say this was an American style restaurant, it has a more European bistro feel to it”. Oh God. “Yes, ok, I agree, it’s more European”. Please, someone take us to our table! A small bit of furniture rearranging and we were nicely seated next to the partition between the bar and the restaurant.
The wine list is conveniently divided into: honest, decent, good and staff picks, with prices ranging from £13.25 to £26.50. The food menu is honest and balanced. Everyone will find something that whets their appetite. We opted for the irresistible salt and pepper baby squid starter (three for sharing, please) and spaghetti al limone (simple but divine!). The butcher’s pork and leak sausages (£12), beer battered pollack and chips (£12.50), shepherd’s pie (£11.50) and chargrilled chicken caeser (£12.50) were all polished off by our happy diners. A few desserts to share was the inevitable finish to a delightful evening.
Bedford & Strand is a little gem. We will definitely be back.
Bedford & Strand, 1a Bedford Street, London WC2E 9HH, Tel: +44 20 7836 3033.
Straight-Six
Patito
saffygirl
