If you're like many, you've probably been swept up in the pride, pageantry and competition of the Olympic Games. And with all of the sweeping shots of London, the coverage is also giving viewers here a touch of British fever.
Fortunately there are ways to experience a little bit of across-the-pond culture without leaving Houston. Here's a rundown of some of our favorite British-themed spots around town.
Dine at Feast, a classic "nose to tail" restaurant (you're likely to find livers, hearts or tongues on the menu). The rustic Lower Westheimer eatery draws a loyal following for dinner, which features a wide assortment of British flavors in a decidedly Dickensian setting. Definitely try the sticky toffee pudding for dessert.
Premium cocktails, craft beer and small British-inspired plates are served to an enthusiastic crowd at the Queen Vic Pub & Kitchen. Here post-colonial British and Indian flavors are married for a unique gastropub menu. Try the short rib samosas, bullet naan, sausage and mash and flavor-packed chicken tikka masala.
The Black Labrador is an English pub perfect for enjoying a pint of ale, a game of darts and a bite. The kitchen isn't strictly English--burgers and Tex-Mex dishes turn up among the shepherd's pie, fish and chips, and bangers and mash. On the patio, a human-size chessboard is designed into the paving and even occasionally used. As the evening winds down, try the Scotch apple pie and a Samuel Smith Taddy porter.
Seeking the royal treatment? Head to the St. Regis Hotel where you'll enjoy a traditional English tea service. The hotel's legendary afternoon tea features petits fours, tea sandwiches, scones and Devonshire cream. A harpist performs daily while guests savor St. Regis' special blend and other premium loose-leaf teas.
A funky British pub downstairs, Rudyard's also features live music upstairs. The spot is a great place to see local and touring indie-rock bands and Rudyard's Comedy Workshops are on Tuesdays.
Those looking for authentic, UK-style Indian fare should head southwest to London Sizzler Indian Bar & Grill. The family-owned spot-just off Hillcroft and I-59-is popular with in-the-know foodies thanks to its bold flavors, spice and charcoal-oven Tandoori. Before you even step through the door, the aroma of cardamom and curry drift through the air-a sure signal of the good things to come.
Red Lion Pub owner Craig Mallinson makes it a point to give locals an authentic British experience with more than 20 English ales and imported beers on tap, as well as a serious menu filled with time-honored pub favorites. Enjoy popular items like shepherds' pie and English curry from the comfort of a red-leather covered banquette or at a table near the brick fireplace in back.
For a completely laid-back experience, Firkin & Phoenix offers Nintendo Wii, darts, billiards, MegaTouch, and GoldenTee in a pub meets sports bar setting. Sample some of the home country's famous dishes including bangers, beans and mash and scrumptious pot pies and catch a soccer game on one of their big screens.