11-12 Bear Street,
Covent Garden,
London,
WC2H 7AX
(020) 7321 0814
The ViewLondon Review
A surprisingly relaxing pub in the heart of the hustle and bustle of Leicester Square.
The Venue
With its traditional pub feel, dark floorboards and red ceiling there is a feeling of intimacy and relaxation which could fool you into thinking you’re not in central London but somewhere more rural. There is also a second floor, which is devoted to more formal dining, and it’s a very pleasant room with large windows letting in lots of light and great views of the area. Lots of fresh flowers and decadent lighting gives a feeling of luxury. Charlie Chaplin was - apparently - a regular here and lots of photos are shown, indeed the restaurant is named after him.
The Atmosphere
There is a real mixed bag of people visiting this pub; it is popular with shoppers, local workers, tourists and theatre and movie goers. As it is spitting distance from the Leicester Square Odeon cinema it is a handy spot for pre-curtain sharpeners or post-credits drinks.
The Food
Pub food and bar snacks are available downstairs. Sandwiches cost from £5.95 and starters and sharers cost around £4.75 for something like the chicken and chorizo skewers with watercress and salsa on the side. There is a selection of salads, including warm halloumi salad, or the seasonal grilled asparagus, mushroom and mixed leaf salad at a very reasonable £6.95. Other favourites include the braised pork confit (£10.95), a dish of tender pork braised in Aspall Suffolk cider, with bacon, mashed potatoes, broccoli, carrots and glazed apples.
The Drink
There is a great choice of unusual ciders, and several bottled beers. Draft beers and ales are also not forgotten with choices including Stella Artois, Tribute Ale and Staropramen. They have made it nice and easy for you to choose wine with sub headings to give you an idea of dryness and sweetness. A white sauvignon blanc is £3.20/£10.95, with a chablis costing £22.95 a bottle. The prosecco is £3.05 per glass and £15.95 a bottle, but if you prefer the real thing a bottle of Moet will set you back £37.50 with the rose equivalent priced at £50.
The Last Word
A pretty little pub that’s reasonably priced. Both admirable attributes given the location.
The Bear and Staff has been reviewed by 1 users