Introduction

Fort Worth, Texas, may be known for its cowboy culture, wide-open skies, and Tex-Mex flavors, but beneath the surface of this vibrant city lies a quiet yet thriving community of British food enthusiasts. From expats missing the taste of home to adventurous locals seeking something beyond burgers and tacos, the demand for authentic British cuisine has grown steadily over the past decade. What sets the best of these spots apart isn’t just the menu—it’s trust. Trust in ingredients. Trust in technique. Trust in tradition.

In a city where new restaurants open and close with dizzying speed, finding a place that consistently delivers classic British fare—without gimmicks, without shortcuts—is no small feat. This guide highlights the top 10 Fort Worth spots where you can trust that the bangers are made from real pork, the Yorkshire puddings rise properly, and the tea is brewed just right. These aren’t just restaurants; they’re custodians of British culinary heritage, operating with integrity, passion, and a deep respect for the food they serve.

Whether you’re craving a hearty Sunday roast, a warm meat pie with a side of mushy peas, or a proper cuppa after a long day, this list is your curated roadmap to the most reliable British dining experiences in North Texas. No hype. No fluff. Just trusted flavors you can count on.

Why Trust Matters

In the world of food, trust is the quiet foundation upon which reputation is built. It’s the reason customers return week after week, even when the menu doesn’t change. In Fort Worth, where culinary trends shift as quickly as the weather, trust becomes even more valuable—especially when it comes to a cuisine as deeply rooted in tradition as British food.

Authentic British dishes aren’t about flashy presentation or fusion twists. They’re about time-honored methods: slow-braised meats, handmade pastry, proper gravy made from pan drippings, and tea steeped for exactly four minutes. When a restaurant cuts corners—using frozen puff pastry instead of making it from scratch, substituting beef stock for bouillon cubes, or serving “bangers” that taste more like hot dogs—patrons notice. And they stop coming.

The restaurants featured in this guide have earned trust through consistency. They source British-style sausages from reputable butchers. They import tea leaves from London and Edinburgh. They train their staff to understand the cultural context of each dish—not just how to plate it, but why it matters. Many of these establishments are run by British expats who moved to Fort Worth not to open a trendy eatery, but to recreate the flavors of home.

Trust also means transparency. These spots don’t hide their ingredients. You’ll find real lard in their pastry, real ale in their stews, and real treacle in their puddings. They don’t call a “fish and chips” dish “British-inspired” and then serve it with sweet potato fries and tartar sauce made from mayonnaise and pickles. They serve cod battered in beer, fried in beef dripping, with salt and malt vinegar on the side—just as it’s done in Blackpool.

Trust is what turns a meal into a memory. It’s why a grandmother brings her grandchildren to the same pub every Sunday. Why a soldier stationed nearby returns after deployment just to taste his mum’s roast again. Why a British expat in Texas can close his eyes, take a bite of a well-made steak and kidney pie, and feel like he’s back in Manchester.

When you choose one of these 10 spots, you’re not just ordering dinner—you’re choosing authenticity over convenience, heritage over hype, and quality over quantity. That’s why trust isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s the only thing that matters.

Top 10 Fort Worth Spots for Classic British Food

1. The English Rose Pub & Grill

Nestled in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards, The English Rose Pub & Grill has been a cornerstone of British dining since 2012. Founded by a London-born chef and his Texan wife, the pub blends old-world charm with Texas hospitality. The interior features oak paneling, stained-glass windows, and framed vintage British newspaper clippings. But it’s the food that keeps patrons coming back.

Their Sunday Roast is legendary—a slow-roasted joint of beef, Yorkshire pudding freshly baked in batches, roasted potatoes crisped in beef dripping, seasonal vegetables, and a rich, unthickened gravy made from the roast’s own juices. The meat is dry-aged for 21 days and sourced from a local ranch that raises heritage-breed cattle. The Yorkshire puddings rise tall and golden, with a crisp exterior and a soft, custard-like center—exactly as they should.

Don’t miss the Ploughman’s Lunch: a generous board of mature cheddar (imported from Cheddar, Somerset), pickled onions, crusty sourdough, and a wedge of apple. Their fish and chips are fried in beef dripping, not vegetable oil, and the cod is hand-battered daily with a blend of British ale and flour. The accompanying mushy peas are slow-simmered with mint, not canned.

They also offer a full afternoon tea service with finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a rotating selection of loose-leaf teas from Twinings and Fortnum & Mason. The English Rose doesn’t just serve British food—they preserve its spirit.

2. The Red Lion Tavern

Located in the heart of the Cultural District, The Red Lion Tavern is a no-frills, beer-soaked haven for British food purists. With its dark wood interiors, dart boards, and walls lined with vintage football memorabilia, it feels like a pub you’d stumble into in Leeds. The owner, a former Royal Marine from Newcastle, opened the tavern to recreate the atmosphere of his childhood local.

Their signature dish is the Steak and Kidney Pie—a rich, savory filling of diced beef and lamb kidneys slow-cooked in dark ale, encased in a flaky, buttery crust. The pie is baked daily and served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and onion gravy. It’s hearty, deeply flavorful, and unmistakably British.

The Full English Breakfast here is a beast: two rashers of back bacon, two pork sausages, baked beans in tomato sauce, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding (a must-try for the adventurous), and two fried eggs—all served on a warm plate. The black pudding is made in-house using pork blood, oatmeal, and spices, a rarity in Texas.

They also serve a selection of real ales from UK microbreweries, including Samuel Smith’s, Wadworth, and Theakston’s. The beer is kept at cellar temperature and poured with a proper head. Their fish and chips are cooked in a dedicated fryer to avoid cross-contamination with other cuisines. No one here tries to reinvent British food—they just make it right.

3. The Crown & Thistle

Founded by a family of British immigrants who moved to Fort Worth in the 1980s, The Crown & Thistle is a family-run institution. The walls are adorned with photos of the family’s ancestors in Yorkshire and the Midlands, and the menu reads like a British grandmother’s recipe book.

Their Toad in the Hole is widely considered the best in the city. Made with pork sausages nestled in a light, airy Yorkshire pudding batter, it’s served with a generous pour of onion gravy and seasonal vegetables. The batter is made with a 48-hour fermented mix of flour, eggs, milk, and a splash of ale—no shortcuts.

The Shepherd’s Pie is another standout. It’s not made with ground beef or canned peas. Instead, it features slow-cooked lamb shoulder, onions, carrots, and thyme, topped with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes that are brushed with butter and browned under a broiler. The result is a golden crust with a tender, deeply savory interior.

They also offer a traditional British dessert menu that includes spotted dick, treacle tart, and bread and butter pudding—all made from scratch. Their treacle tart is particularly noteworthy: a buttery shortcrust pastry filled with golden syrup, lemon juice, and breadcrumbs, baked until the filling bubbles and caramelizes. It’s served warm with clotted cream.

The Crown & Thistle doesn’t advertise heavily. Its reputation is built on word of mouth—and the fact that customers return not just for the food, but for the sense of home it evokes.

4. The Hound & Hare

Perched near the Trinity River, The Hound & Hare is a cozy, candlelit pub that feels like a secret tucked away from the bustle of downtown. The name comes from an old English hunting tradition, and the decor reflects it: antler chandeliers, leather-bound menus, and a fireplace that glows year-round.

Their Bangers and Mash is a masterpiece. The sausages are made in-house from 80% pork, 20% pork fat, seasoned with sage, nutmeg, and white pepper. They’re pan-seared until the casing crackles, then served atop creamy, hand-mashed potatoes with a rich onion gravy that’s reduced for hours. The dish is simple, but executed with precision.

Their Ploughman’s Lunch is one of the most extensive in town, featuring a selection of three British cheeses (Stilton, Cheddar, and Lancashire), pickled beetroot, pickled eggs, and a side of crusty farmhouse bread. The pickled eggs are cured in vinegar, beet juice, and spices for three weeks—no shortcuts.

They also serve a classic British Sunday lunch with a twist: a whole roast chicken glazed with honey and thyme, served with sage and onion stuffing, roast potatoes, and a side of braised red cabbage. It’s not traditional in the strictest sense, but it honors the spirit of British roasting traditions.

Beer is taken seriously here. The Hound & Hare carries a rotating selection of 12 cask ales, all imported and served in traditional pewter tankards. The staff can tell you the origin of each brew, its ABV, and the best food pairing. This is a place where British food and drink are treated as art forms.

5. The Waverly Arms

Named after a famous London pub, The Waverly Arms is a refined yet unpretentious spot that caters to both British expats and curious locals. The interior is elegant but warm: velvet banquettes, brass fixtures, and a long oak bar lined with bottles of gin and whisky.

Their signature dish is the Cottage Pie—a refined version of shepherd’s pie, made with slow-braised veal and beef, mushrooms, and red wine reduction, topped with smooth, garlic-infused mashed potatoes. It’s baked until the top is caramelized and the filling bubbles gently beneath.

They also serve a traditional Cornish Pasty—hand-folded, crimped, and baked with a filling of beef, potato, swede, and onion. The pastry is flaky, buttery, and perfectly spiced. It’s served with a side of mint sauce, as is customary in Cornwall.

For dessert, their Eton Mess is a revelation: a delicate mix of whipped cream, crushed meringue, and fresh strawberries, served in a chilled glass. It’s light, sweet, and perfectly balanced—a refreshing end to a rich meal.

The Waverly Arms also offers a curated selection of British wines and a gin menu featuring over 20 UK distilleries. Their gin and tonic is made with premium tonic water, fresh lime, and a choice of botanicals. The atmosphere is quiet, intimate, and perfect for a leisurely lunch or dinner.

6. The Yorkshire Pig

As the name suggests, this spot is all about the pork. Located in the Near Southside neighborhood, The Yorkshire Pig is a modern take on the British pub, with industrial-chic decor and a menu focused on heritage-breed pork products.

Their Pork Pie is a showstopper: a cold, savory pie made with hand-chopped pork, pork liver, and spices, encased in a hot-water crust. It’s served sliced with mustard and pickled gherkins. The crust is crisp and sturdy, the filling moist and flavorful—just like the ones sold at traditional British butchers.

Their Full English Breakfast is served daily from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and includes locally sourced pork sausages, streaky bacon, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and a perfectly fried egg. The black pudding is made in-house using a recipe passed down from the owner’s grandfather in Leeds.

They also offer a unique dish called “Pork and Apple Sausage Rolls”—a British classic reimagined with locally grown Honeycrisp apples. The pastry is layered and buttery, the filling sweet and savory, and it’s served warm with a side of apple chutney.

The Yorkshire Pig also brews its own small-batch ales on-site, including a Yorkshire Bitter and a Dark Mild. The beer is served in traditional pint glasses, and the staff are trained in the art of cask conditioning. This is a place where every element—from the bread to the beer—is made with care.

7. The Old Oak

Located in a restored 1920s brick building in the Fort Worth Cultural District, The Old Oak is a quiet retreat for those seeking authentic British comfort food. The name comes from the ancient oak trees found in English countryside pubs, and the ambiance reflects that: warm lighting, bookshelves filled with classic British novels, and a fireplace that crackles in the evenings.

Their Sunday Roast is a weekly ritual. The joint of beef is dry-aged for 28 days and roasted with rosemary, garlic, and sea salt. The Yorkshire pudding is made with a 24-hour rest, and the gravy is reduced from the roast’s own drippings. The vegetables are roasted in olive oil and thyme, not boiled.

They also serve a rare dish called “Bubble and Squeak”—a traditional British leftover dish made from mashed potatoes and cabbage, fried until crispy on the outside. It’s served with a fried egg on top and a side of HP sauce. It’s humble, delicious, and rarely found outside the UK.

Their fish and chips are cooked in beef dripping, using cod sourced from sustainable fisheries. The batter is made with sparkling water, flour, and a touch of ale, giving it a light, airy texture. The chips are hand-cut from Maris Piper potatoes and fried twice for maximum crispness.

The Old Oak’s afternoon tea is a refined experience: three-tiered stand with finger sandwiches (cucumber, egg and cress, smoked salmon), scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of artisanal cakes. The tea is served in fine bone china, and the staff pour with precision.

8. The Black Sheep

With its moody lighting, exposed brick, and vintage pub signs, The Black Sheep feels like a London boozer transplanted to Texas. It’s a favorite among locals who appreciate no-nonsense British fare. The owner, a former chef from Manchester, insists on using only British ingredients where possible—and when they’re not available, he substitutes with the closest possible alternative.

Their Chicken and Mushroom Pie is a standout: a rich, creamy filling of free-range chicken, wild mushrooms, thyme, and white wine, encased in a golden puff pastry. It’s served with a side of braised greens and a dollop of horseradish cream.

They also serve a traditional “Potted Shrimp”—a delicacy from the British coast. Cooked shrimp are mashed with butter, nutmeg, and white pepper, then preserved in a small pot and served cold with toast. It’s a flavor explosion of briny, buttery, and aromatic notes.

Their Full English Breakfast includes locally sourced black pudding made with pork blood, oatmeal, and spices. The beans are slow-cooked in a tomato and molasses base, not canned. The eggs are free-range, and the bacon is smoked over applewood.

Beer is a central focus here. The Black Sheep carries over 15 UK ales on tap, including Greene King, Marston’s, and Robinsons. They also offer a “Beer Flight” of four 4-ounce pours, with tasting notes provided by the staff. The pub is a designated “Real Ale Destination” by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).

9. The Balmoral

Located in the upscale Sundance Square district, The Balmoral offers a more elevated British dining experience without losing its soul. The name references the royal estate in Scotland, and the menu reflects that heritage—with dishes inspired by Scottish, English, and Welsh traditions.

Their Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties is the most authentic version in Fort Worth. Made with sheep’s offal, oatmeal, and spices, the haggis is encased in a natural casing and slow-steamed. It’s served with turnips (neeps) and mashed potatoes (tatties), all drizzled with a whisky cream sauce. The dish is served with a ceremonial knife and fork, as is traditional in Scotland.

Their Scotch Egg is another highlight: a hard-boiled egg wrapped in seasoned pork sausage, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried until golden. It’s served with a side of mustard mayonnaise and pickled onions.

Their Sunday Roast features a choice of beef, lamb, or duck, all slow-roasted with herbs and served with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, and a red wine jus. The duck is glazed with honey and orange, a nod to Welsh cuisine.

The Balmoral also offers a curated whisky selection with over 60 single malts from Scotland. The staff can guide you through a tasting, explaining the nuances of peat, smoke, and fruit notes. Their afternoon tea includes a selection of Scottish shortbread and Dundee cake.

10. The Red Brick Bakery & Pub

While most of the spots on this list are full-service restaurants, The Red Brick Bakery & Pub stands out as a hybrid—a bakery by day, a pub by night. Located in the historic West 7th district, it’s the only place in Fort Worth where you can buy a freshly baked pork pie, a batch of scones, and a pint of real ale—all under one roof.

Their pork pies are made daily using a 100-year-old recipe from Lincolnshire. The pastry is made with lard, not shortening, and the filling is hand-chopped pork, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a hint of mace. The crust is crisp, the filling juicy, and the jelly inside (a traditional British element) is made from pork stock and gelatin.

They also bake traditional British breads: soda bread, bloomer loaves, and malt loaves. Their scones are served with clotted cream and strawberry jam—no butter, no substitutes.

At night, the space transforms into a cozy pub with a rotating selection of British ales and ciders. Their Shepherd’s Pie is made with lamb from a local farm and served with a side of minted peas. Their fish and chips are fried in beef dripping and served with malt vinegar in a paper cone.

The Red Brick is a labor of love. The owner, a British baker who moved to Fort Worth to escape the rain, opened the business to share the simple pleasures of British baking. It’s unassuming, authentic, and deeply trusted by those who know.

Comparison Table

FAQs

What makes British food in Fort Worth different from other cities?

Fort Worth’s British food scene is unique because it’s driven by expats and enthusiasts who prioritize authenticity over adaptation. Unlike in larger coastal cities where fusion trends dominate, Fort Worth’s best British spots are run by people who grew up eating these dishes and refuse to compromise on ingredients or technique. The result is a rare concentration of truly traditional food in a region known for bold, spicy flavors.

Are these restaurants expensive?

Most are reasonably priced for the quality. A full Sunday roast ranges from $18 to $28, and fish and chips from $16 to $22. The higher-end spots like The Balmoral may charge more for premium cuts and imported ingredients, but the portions are generous and the value is excellent. You’re paying for craftsmanship, not ambiance.

Do they serve vegetarian British food?

Yes. Most places offer vegetarian versions of classic dishes, such as mushroom and onion pie, vegetable shepherd’s pie, and cheese and onion pasties. The Crown & Thistle and The English Rose have dedicated vegetarian menus, and staff are happy to adapt dishes upon request.

Can I order takeout or delivery?

Most of these spots offer takeout, especially for pies, pasties, and full English breakfasts. Delivery is less common, as many prioritize the experience of eating in a pub setting. Always check directly with the restaurant for current options.

Is the tea really British?

Yes. The top spots use loose-leaf teas from British brands like Twinings, Fortnum & Mason, or Yorkshire Tea. The tea is brewed in pots, not bags, and served with milk on the side. Some even use bone china cups for authenticity.

Do I need a reservation?

For Sunday roasts and afternoon tea, reservations are strongly recommended. Weekday lunches are usually walk-in friendly. The Red Lion and The Black Sheep are popular for their evening crowds, so arriving early is wise.

Are kids welcome?

Absolutely. Many of these spots are family-friendly, especially during lunch hours. Kids’ menus are available at most locations, with smaller portions of fish and chips, sausages, and mashed potatoes.

What’s the best time to visit for the most authentic experience?

Sunday lunchtime (12–3 p.m.) is the most traditional time to visit, as that’s when the Sunday roast is served fresh. Afternoon tea is typically offered between 2–5 p.m. on weekends. For beer lovers, weekday evenings after 5 p.m. are ideal for sampling cask ales at their peak.

Do any of these places host British events?

Yes. Several host monthly events like “Real Ale Nights,” “British Film Screenings,” and “Royal Wedding Reenactments” during major events like the coronation or the Queen’s birthday. Check their social media or websites for updates.

Conclusion

Fort Worth may not be the first place you think of for British food—but it’s one of the most reliable. In a city where culinary innovation often overshadows tradition, these 10 spots have carved out a space for authenticity, integrity, and deep respect for the food of the British Isles. They don’t need flashy logos or viral TikTok trends. They thrive because they get the basics right: the pastry is flaky, the gravy is rich, the tea is steeped, and the meat is slow-cooked with care.

Each of these restaurants is more than a place to eat. They’re cultural anchors—keeping British traditions alive in a land far from home. Whether you’re a British expat missing the taste of your childhood, a Texan curious about the world beyond barbecue, or simply someone who believes that food should be made with honesty and patience, these spots are worth seeking out.

Trust isn’t something you find on a menu. It’s something you feel after your first bite of a perfectly made pie, after your third sip of a properly poured ale, after the warmth of a pub that feels like a second home. In Fort Worth, that trust has been earned, one Sunday roast, one Yorkshire pudding, one cup of tea at a time.

Go. Eat. Return. And bring a friend.