Family-run chain Pasta Brown offers a range of reasonably priced Italian food in a couple of convenient, central locations.

The Venue
Just off The Strand, Pasta Brown is located on Bedford Street, right in the middle of the West End, making it an ideal restaurant to combine with a trip to the theatre. Its central location also makes it a good spot for lunch. The space is light and pleasant, with neutral, modern decor. There’s plenty of seating, although some of it is quite close together, as tends to be the way with popular, central restaurants where space is at a premium.

The Atmosphere
There’s a clean, fresh feel about Pasta Brown which attracts all sorts of people from visitors passing through to local office workers. Because of its location and friendly, accessible style, it tends to be busy. The bustle and the proximity of some of the tables make it more suitable for lunch or dinner with family and friends than a romantic meal. It’s one of those places that are good for taking older children, because of the relaxed atmosphere and the good selection of uncomplicated food.

The Food
Pasta Brown serves all the well-loved Italian staples, from pasta and pizza to salads, steak, chicken and fish. The Caesar salad with chicken is a good choice for a light lunch - it has a light, garlicky sauce, the chicken is tender and there’s lots of it. Spaghetti carbonara is cooked in the proper, Italian style – not swimming in cream sauce and with plenty of flavour. Pan-fried swordfish with a parmesan crust is pretty tasty, if a bit pricier, and comes with new potatoes and green salad. If you’ve got time, desserts from ice cream and tiramisu to cheesecake and torta di cioccolato won’t leave you disappointed.

The Drink
The Italian theme continues with a choice of wines available by the bottle and by the glass, including Chianti and Pinot Grigio or champagne if you feel like splashing out. There’s also Peroni beer and all the standard soft drinks, teas and coffees.

The Last Word
A great pre- or post-show restaurant with a good selection of tasty Italian food and a lively atmosphere.

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