Far enough away from The Strand to escape the shopping bags and the orgies of theatre goers, Bedford & Strand (named after the street corners it's on) is all hustle and bustle of a different kind. Down the stairs the bar area is guaranteed to be packed with happy folk, some suited, some booted, and paper topped tables will be filled with wine drinkers. It's like a Parisian brasserie hiding underground in London, and it's great.

The wine list is large and affordable, but don't overlook the cocktails it is all about the classic drinks and celebrating smaller boutique brands. Drink a Mary Pickford made with Elements 8 Rum, pineapple juice, Maraschino Liqueur and grenadine, or the zesty Sidecar made with Merlet cognac, Merlet Triple Sec and lemon juice.

The food is delicious: take advantage of the deli counter and steak tartare on black pepper toast is THE way to wait for your train at Charing Cross. Finally, this is a great place to throw a party – the bar is long and the room is small. Plus the boys behind this place are naughty, so they'll let you run riot!