Undercover Diner Visits Bentley's

Photos: Undercover Diner

When friends come to town, the pressure to pick the right restaurant always rises. Luckily, Bentley’s on Bedford has become something of a go-to for my mom and me, so when a longtime friend visiting from out of state suggested trying someplace, she hadn’t been, we knew exactly where to take her.

My mom wisely snagged a 5:30 p.m. reservation on Saturday, which turned out to be a smart move. By the time we were finishing up our entrées, families were beginning to stack up at the door, waiting for a table. 

To start, my mom ordered a crisp glass of white wine while my friend and I looked to our server—who also happens to be an established and talented bartender—for guidance on mocktails.

My friend wanted something tropical, with coconut and pineapple. I asked for something light, bubbly, and not too sweet. Without hesitation, he crafted drinks that were spot-on. Hers was a mini vacation in a glass, mine a refreshing blend of ginger beer and elderflower syrup. Both proved that mocktails can be every bit as enjoyable as their spirited counterparts.

We eased into the evening with a warm baked brie appetizer, a house favorite that never disappoints. The cheese arrived bubbling beneath a golden crust, served with crackers, bread, and topped with orange marmalade and a sprinkle of thyme. It was decadent, shareable, and polished off quickly among the three of us.

For the main course, my friend and I found ourselves drawn to the Pan Seared Salmon. The fish was perfectly cooked, but the sides were the true stars: orange-glazed Brussels sprouts that were balanced sweet and savory, and a creamy Parmesan risotto that added a rich, comforting note. My friend cleaned her plate; I managed to restrain myself, boxing up half to enjoy the next day—and it held up beautifully.

My mom chose the Chicken Parmesan, and after the first bite declared it one of the best she’d ever had. A breaded chicken cutlet came blanketed with bright red sauce and melted fontina cheese; all served over a bed of fettuccine. 

We couldn’t resist dessert and opted to split a crème brûlée. With its crisp, caramelized sugar crust giving way to creamy custard beneath, it reminded me why it remains one of my all-time favorites. The three spoons scraping the bottom of the dish said it all.

Service, as always, was impeccable. We were lucky enough to land a table in the section of our favorite waiter, Brian, whose easy charm and attentive care elevated the evening. He strikes that perfect balance of being personable without hovering—something that sets the tone for a relaxed, enjoyable meal.

From start to finish, Bentley’s delivered exactly what we hoped for: a welcoming atmosphere, dishes prepared with care, and service that makes you feel like a regular, even if it’s your first time. For my friend, it was a new Lynchburg gem to add to her list. For us, it reaffirmed why Bentley’s remains one of our reliable favorites.