The Bear And Staff
Victorian pub with pavement tables and dining room named after former customer, Charlie Chaplin.
About
Tucked away just off Leicester Square, The Bear And Staff in London is the kind of pub that makes you wonder if you've stumbled through a secret portal to Old World Britain. This isn't just another tourist trap in central London – it's a proper British pub that's somehow managed to keep its soul despite being in one of the city's busiest spots.
The moment you cross the threshold of The Bear And Staff, you're greeted by that unmistakable pub perfume – a centuries-old mixture of polished wood, proper ales, and stories waiting to be told. The ground floor buzzes with the kind of energy that only London's historic pubs seem to master, where the chatter of locals mingles with the gentle clinking of pint glasses and the occasional burst of laughter from a corner table.
Let's talk about what makes this place special, shall we? While other nearby establishments might be falling over themselves to appear "authentic," The Bear And Staff in London's theatre district quietly goes about its business of being the real deal. The building itself has more character than a West End play, with its Victorian architecture and those gorgeous bay windows that flood the space with natural light. And unlike some of its neighbors who've succumbed to the siren song of modernization, this pub has kept its traditional charm while still managing to serve a mean gin and tonic (complete with fresh strawberries, if you're feeling fancy).
Upstairs, you'll find a dining room that feels like your posh aunt's sitting room – if your aunt happened to be exceptionally good at creating cozy spaces perfect for tucking into proper British fare. The aroma of freshly baked pie crusts wafts through the air, mingling with the rich gravy that accompanies their legendary steak pies. The rabbit pie, topped with creamy mashed potatoes rather than pastry, has developed something of a cult following among regulars. It's comfort food that doesn't just comfort – it gives you a warm, reassuring pat on the back and tells you everything's going to be alright.
The beer selection deserves its own paragraph, really. The cask ales are kept at exactly the right temperature (somewhere between "British cellar" and "actually cold"), and the bar staff know their stuff without being pretentious about it. You can ask questions about the different ales without feeling like you're being judged by a beer sommelier with a superiority complex.
Here's a bit of insider knowledge: while the ground floor can get wonderfully lively (especially during pre-theatre hours), the upstairs dining room is your secret weapon for a quieter experience. The background music is kept at just the right level – enough to create atmosphere but not so loud that you have to shout "WHAT?" across the table every two minutes. And those window seats upstairs? They're prime real estate for people-watching over Bear Street while nursing a pint.
Speaking of location, you're practically tripping over London's entertainment district here. The Bear And Staff sits in that sweet spot where you can escape the tourist chaos of Leicester Square while still being close enough to dash to a show. It's become a favorite haunt for theatre-goers looking for a pre-show meal that won't break the bank but still feels special. The reasonably priced menu and efficient service mean you won't miss your curtain call.
The outdoor seating area is a particular triumph – a little slice of calm in the heart of London's West End. On warmer days, watching the world go by from one of their outdoor tables feels like you're in on a secret that the rushing crowds haven't discovered yet. And yes, they're dog-friendly, so your four-legged friend can join you for that al fresco pint.
Let me leave you with some practical advice: if you're planning to visit The Bear And Staff in London's theatre district, consider booking ahead for dinner, especially if you're going pre-theatre. While you can usually squeeze in for a drink at the bar, the dining room can fill up faster than a tube station at rush hour. Come between 3 and 5 PM for the sweet spot of quieter service and your pick of tables. And whatever you do, don't skip the sticky toffee pudding – it's the kind of dessert that makes you temporarily forget about all your other life commitments.
Get yourself to The Bear And Staff. Whether you're a London local looking for a reliable pub that hasn't lost its way, or a visitor wanting to experience a proper British pub without the tourist trappings, this is your spot. Just remember to raise a glass to those of us who tried to keep it our little secret.
Contact Information
Address
10-12 Bear St, Greater, London WC2H 7AX, UK
London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (the)
Phone
+44 20 7321 0814Website
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