Located in an area of the Strand away from tourist theatre-goers, this basement bistro-cum-wine bar is a favourite with the after-work crowd anyone hankering for some privacy
The bistro side of the operation looks appealing, with white-paper tablecloths & bentwood chairs - with fast, on-the-ball service.
Regulars rate the ‘great steak' & other fairly priced dishes, although we choose to try differently!
We started on potted crab (£7.50) and Charcuterie Board for 2 (£12.00) both of which were divine. The potted crab came in a delightful little glass jar served with slices of toast. For mains we had Braised rabbit with mustart sauce (£14.50) and Chicken Pie (£11.50) The rabbit has to be one of the best dishes my guest had tried! We also shared side dishes of green vegetables and carrots which almost filled us up. We still made room for a cheese board for dessert though (£8) which was slightly disappointing as this only had a choice of 2 cheeses, but I was told the Deli Counter offers a board of up to 5 choice of cheeses which I would recommend.
If drinks & nibbles are what's needed, head for the Edwardian-style bar & a menu that features anything from smoked mackerel pâté & calamari tempura to deli boards.
Cocktail lovers are catered for with a classic selection ranging from Cosmopolitan to Vesper Martini, but Bedford is best known for its wine treasures which is one of London's best small lists. The massive range by the glass is divided by quirky headings such as ‘staff picks' or ‘honest', while each bin has a helpful note. Bargain pricing at the top end adds to the attraction - we had a bottle of Esporao (£22) which was perfect.
I would recomend as the place to meet friends after work as the vibe is excellent and the food is well priced.
Address: 1a Bedford Street London, WC2E 9HH
Website: www.bedford-strand.com
