Bedford Soda & Liquor Has Reopened As Richmond

Fourteen years ago, Bedford Soda & Liquor threw open its doors in the shiny new Ponsonby Central. There were cocktails in fish bowls, flowers on everything, and meatballs galore. It was new and cool and remained as one of the city's go-to spots for a great drink and a good night until it closed for renovations earlier this year. 

Well, this is part obituary, part new opening announcement, because while Bedford Soda & Liquor is no more, the same team has reopened a new concept in the same space: Richmond. It holds the same spirit as Bedford: fun energy, good food, and great drinks, but it's got a little more sophistication to it, and a dash of 2026 thrown in for good measure. 

Image Credit: Richmond | Supplied

The meatballs are gone but not forgotten (there's a little nod to them in the food menu). In their place sits dishes like burrata with chilli crisp, muhamarra and foccacia, jalapeño poppers and the dish that people are already raving about: bone marrow with chimichurri and sourdough. 

Cocktails, meanwhile, continue on Bedford Soda and Liquor's legacy, holding tight to a list of classics that have been shaped by some of the country's best bartenders over the years. That means the Chilli Pineapple Marg remains, as does the Agua Fresca Americano and the At Your Spritz End. There's also a strong non-alcoholic offering too, including the signature chilli pineapple margarita (or, notagarita as the menu lists it). 

Image Credit: Richmond | Supplied

Richmond sits as part of the recently reopened and completely rejuvenated central Lane at Ponsonby Central. With vaulted glass ceilings, a distinct indoor-outdoor flow, and a real sense of place, sitting outside at Richmond feels like you're truly at the heart of something. 

Bedford Soda & Liquor is dead, long live Richmond.