This is one of those gems that I have been loathe to share. It’s perfect in every way. Ticks every box that makes eating out in the West End of London a pleasure. Right in the heart of Theatreland it has theatrical in its genes. You might think of Bedford & Strand as vaudevillian greats – The Sunshine Boys, if you like. Blink and you’d miss the doorway. It’s on the crossroads of Bedford Street and The Strand. That’s just a gentle growl away from The Lion King, and most certainly a golden ticket from Charlie and The Chocolate Factory. As you descend the stairs you are thrust into the warmth and limelight of a long-running hit show.
Read about Bedford & Strand’s Fondue Menu here.
For just a one-act meal you will do no better than the Cote de Boeuf (£20.50). It’s by far, the most expensive thing on the menu and well worth it. You’ll get a three course lunch or pre-theatre dinner here for £18.50. It’s a rib-eye on the bone, perfectly grilled and rested on the pass by talented Head Chef Tim O’Brien. The sizzle of the steak comes from chef’s use of spices and herbs, not seasoning. A sprinkle of white pepper tickles the tongue and nostrils – black pepper would be far too harsh – then delicate mace, thyme and the butter compound with finely shaved fresh garlic garnished with pea shoots sets the steak off nicely on a reliable Churchill plate. Rounded off with a rich Malbec and a round of applause.
juicy cote de boeuf
It’s a much more sophisticated palette pleaser than you’d expect with a simple steak and chips.
Bedford & Strand is a wine-bar and bistro serving traditional British and French dishes
The all-star team behind Bedford & Strand is restaurant connoisseur Jonathan Willy, Adrian Fillary of Lovebox and now married to Jade Jagger, Pernod Ricard’s Claire West, spirits entrepreneur Stuart Ekins, Havana Club Global Brand Manager Nick Blacknell, the very talented British chef Tim O’Brien, combining his Michelin star training with his west country culinary roots and last but not least, impeccable manager Kate.
With over 100 years of premium hospitality experience between them, it’s no surprise they have attained the success and growth they have year on year. Bedford and Strand really is a Covent Garden gem, that’s the heartbeat of the strand that will be around for many years to come.
Don’t miss this one.
Highly recommended.
The a la carte menu here
ADDRESS: 1A BEDFORD ST, LONDON, WC2E 9HH
TELEPHONE: 020-7836-3033
EMAIL: hello@bedford-strand.com
A LA CARTE MENU
Monday To Friday: 12 noon until 3pm and 5pm until 10.30pm
Saturday: 5pm until 10.30pm
Bedford & Strand – run, don’t walk!
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