Bedford & Strand

Cosy and intimate, this is one of my favourite finds in all of London.

Originally went for a friends leaving do, but came back for dinner last week. I arrived early and had a drink at the bar (a delightful little cab/shiraz). The barman was warm and seamed very knowledgeable. When my companion arrived we were seated without the fuss I have come to abhor from the more commercialised bistros in the area. What the menu lacked in design, it makes up for in flavour. And although I found the cottage pie somewhat plain, the tartare was sublime.

I find the venue itself is summed up by its interior: classic, friendly, and intimate. I am certain that those who come expecting the ego-fanning pomp and elitism of high society will be happily disappointed by its simple layout and ethic. But the real highlight of my visit was the staff. They are real characters who know what they are talking about and are an absolute pleasure to engage with. I am so bored of lifeless, faceless waiting staff who would not dare crack smile, much less a joke. Here, thankfully, are real people who aren't afraid to stand up for their profession too. I watched one table of city-snoots who were being quite rude to our waitress, something about his cottage pie taking too long (this was a busy evening with almost every table full). Despite her apologies he seamed determined to lambast the poor girl on behalf of his appetite. She continued her attempts to placate the bear, now playing to his table as an audience, but he would not let her finish a sentence. I was about to lean across to liberate the young lady when she looked him square in eye and said "I appreciate what you are saying and have apologised, but do you know what is delaying it further? This conversation." She went on, "Now do you want me to go and get your main courses, or do you just want to sit there are shout at me some more?" As he fell silent, I damn near fell off my chair for laughing.

A great evening of fantastic wine, some good food and some spectacular entertainment.

Go to Bedford & Strand:
If you like an eclectic selection of wine at decent prices administered by some of the sharpest bar-staff in all of London. Relax and let your hair down.