Introduction

Denver may be known for its mountain views, craft beer, and farm-to-table cuisine, but hidden within its bustling neighborhoods are quiet gems that serve some of the most authentic British food outside the UK. For expats, travelers, and curious food lovers, finding a truly traditional British meal in Colorado can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But it’s not impossible. Over the past decade, a small but passionate group of chefs, pub owners, and British immigrants have brought the flavors of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland to the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

What sets these spots apart isn’t just the menu—it’s the commitment to authenticity. From hand-rendered pork fat for perfect Yorkshire puddings to imported British sausages and real ale on tap, these restaurants prioritize tradition over trend. In a city where fusion cuisine dominates, these establishments stand out by refusing to compromise. They use British butter, treacle, and Marmite. They fry their fish in batter made with beer and flour, not shortcuts. They serve Sunday roasts with jus made from bone stock, not powder.

This guide isn’t about the most popular spots on Instagram. It’s about the places where British expats return week after week, where regulars know the chef by name, and where the food tastes like home—even if you’ve never been to the UK. Trust here isn’t earned through marketing. It’s earned through consistency, transparency, and deep respect for the cuisine. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 Denver spots for classic British food you can trust, backed by years of local reputation, ingredient sourcing, and customer loyalty.

Why Trust Matters

In the world of food, trust is the quietest form of reputation. It’s not about flashy signs or celebrity endorsements. It’s about whether the shepherd’s pie you order today tastes the same as the one you had last month. It’s about whether the butcher uses British pork belly, or just any pork that’s cheaper. It’s about whether the tea is brewed with loose-leaf Earl Grey from the UK, or a generic bagged version shipped from a warehouse.

When it comes to British food, authenticity is non-negotiable. Many dishes rely on specific ingredients that simply can’t be replicated with substitutes. For example, a proper full English breakfast requires Cumberland sausage, not any generic pork link. A traditional steak and kidney pie needs beef kidneys and suet pastry—neither of which are commonly stocked in American supermarkets. Without access to these ingredients, or without the knowledge to prepare them correctly, the dish becomes a shadow of itself.

Trust is built over time. It’s the chef who flies in British black pudding twice a year. It’s the pub owner who sources real British ale from microbreweries in Kent and Yorkshire. It’s the staff who know the difference between a Cornish pasty and a Devon pasty—and won’t serve one when you ask for the other.

Denver’s dining scene is vibrant and innovative, but innovation doesn’t always serve tradition. That’s why the restaurants on this list are rare. They don’t adapt British recipes to “local tastes.” They don’t swap out lard for vegetable shortening. They don’t serve mushy peas from a can. They do the hard work—finding the right suppliers, mastering the techniques, and staying true to the original. That’s why locals return. That’s why visitors leave raving. And that’s why you can trust them.

Top 10 Denver Spots for Classic British Food

1. The British Pub & Grill

Located in the heart of LoHi, The British Pub & Grill has been a Denver institution since 2011. Founded by a former London pub manager and his wife, a Yorkshire native, this spot offers the most comprehensive British menu in the city. The interior feels like a converted 19th-century English pub—dark wood, brass fixtures, and walls lined with vintage football memorabilia. The menu is divided into classic sections: breakfast, pies, platters, and Sunday roasts.

Must-try dishes include the traditional Full English Breakfast, featuring grilled British bacon (not smoked American bacon), baked beans in tomato sauce made from scratch, fried eggs, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and black pudding—all served on a pre-warmed plate. Their fish and chips are legendary: cod from sustainable North Atlantic fisheries, battered in a lager-flour mix and fried in beef dripping. Served with salt and malt vinegar, it’s the closest thing to a seaside chippy in the U.S.

They import their own British condiments: HP Sauce, Branston Pickle, and proper British-style brown sauce. Their Sunday roast changes weekly but always includes Yorkshire pudding made with a 72-hour rested batter, roast beef with horseradish cream, and seasonal vegetables steamed, not boiled. Regulars say the gravy is the best in town—made from slow-simmered beef bones, never powdered.

2. The Horseshoe Tavern

Tucked into a historic brick building in the Highlands neighborhood, The Horseshoe Tavern is a cozy, no-frills pub that feels like stepping into a Manchester neighborhood bar. The owner, a 30-year veteran of the British pub industry, opened the place after moving to Denver in 2014. He brought with him a handwritten recipe book filled with family dishes from Lancashire.

The menu is small but deeply authentic. Their signature dish is the Lancashire Hotpot—a slow-braised lamb and onion stew topped with sliced potatoes, baked until golden. It’s served in a traditional earthenware dish and comes with a side of buttered cabbage. Their meat pies are hand-raised with suet crusts and filled with beef and ale, chicken and mushroom, or venison and juniper.

They serve real ales from British microbreweries, rotated weekly. Their cask-conditioned bitter is poured using a hand pump, as it should be. They also offer a rare treat: Welsh rarebit made with mature Cheddar, mustard, and ale, grilled to a bubbly, golden crust. Don’t miss their sticky toffee pudding, made with dates imported from the UK and served with a warm butterscotch sauce that’s been simmered for hours.

3. The Royal Oak

With its red brick exterior and hanging ivy, The Royal Oak looks like it was airlifted from a Cotswolds village. Located in the Berkeley neighborhood, it’s a favorite among British expats and culinary purists. The chef, originally from Devon, trained under a Michelin-starred British chef before moving to Colorado.

The menu focuses on regional British specialties rarely found outside the UK. Try the Devonshire Cream Tea: scones baked fresh daily, served with clotted cream and strawberry jam made from British strawberries. Their Cornish pasties are made with shortcrust pastry and filled with beef, potato, swede, and onion—just as they are in Cornwall.

They also serve a rare dish: Toad in the Hole, where sausages are baked in Yorkshire pudding batter. It’s often misunderstood in the U.S., but here it’s perfected. The batter rises high and crisp, the sausages are juicy and seasoned with sage, and the whole dish is drenched in rich onion gravy. Their Sunday roast includes a traditional roast goose option during the holidays, with chestnut stuffing and cranberry sauce made from real cranberries, not jelly.

Their drink list includes over 20 British ciders and a rotating selection of real ales. They also offer a “British Tea Flight,” featuring Earl Grey, English Breakfast, Darjeeling, and a rare Assam from the Assam region of India—served with milk and sugar in proper porcelain cups.

4. The Crown & Anchor

Perched on the edge of the Art District on Santa Fe, The Crown & Anchor is a modern take on a British pub, but with unwavering respect for tradition. The interior blends industrial chic with classic pub elements: leather booths, wooden bar tops, and a large chalkboard listing daily specials.

They are known for their elevated British comfort food. Their Scotch eggs are handmade with free-range eggs, wrapped in seasoned pork sausage meat, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried to a perfect golden crust. Served with a tangy English mustard dip, they’re a weekend brunch staple.

One of their most beloved dishes is the Ploughman’s Lunch: a generous platter of mature Cheddar, pickled onions, crusty sourdough, and a wedge of apple, accompanied by a side of pickled beetroot and a generous pour of bitter. Their beef and ale pie is slow-cooked for 12 hours, then encased in a flaky, buttery pastry. The filling is rich, deeply savory, and never overly salty.

They source their sausages from a local butcher who works with a British supplier to replicate the exact spice profile of Lincolnshire and pork and apple sausages. Their dessert menu includes bread and butter pudding made with brioche, soaked in custard, and baked with raisins and a dusting of cinnamon. It’s served warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce.

5. The Wobbly Pint

Named after a classic British pub term for a slightly uneven table, The Wobbly Pint is a neighborhood favorite in Capitol Hill. It’s small, unassuming, and packed with locals who know the food is worth the wait. The owner, a former Royal Navy veteran, opened the pub after retiring to Denver and missing the meals of his youth.

They specialize in hearty, no-nonsense British fare. Their signature dish is the Bangers and Mash: thick, hand-ground pork sausages served over creamy mashed potatoes made with real butter and whole milk. The onion gravy is thick, dark, and deeply flavorful—made from caramelized onions and beef stock reduced for over six hours.

They also serve a rare British classic: Bubble and Squeak—a dish made from leftover roasted potatoes and cabbage, fried together until crispy. It’s often overlooked in the U.S., but here it’s a daily special. Their black pudding is made in-house using pork blood, oatmeal, and spices, a process that requires precision and care. It’s served sliced and lightly fried, with a side of apple sauce.

Their drink selection includes over 15 British ales and lagers, all served at proper cellar temperature. They also offer a “British Beer Flight” that changes monthly, featuring seasonal brews from the Isle of Wight, Edinburgh, and Cardiff. Their tea selection is curated by a British tea sommelier, offering single-origin black teas and herbal infusions like mint and chamomile.

6. The Red Lion

Located in the RiNo district, The Red Lion is a modern British gastropub that combines artisanal techniques with traditional recipes. The chef, originally from Glasgow, spent years working in Michelin-starred kitchens in the UK before relocating to Denver. He brings a refined touch to classic dishes without losing their soul.

One standout is their haggis, neeps, and tatties: a traditional Scottish dish featuring haggis made from lamb offal, oatmeal, and spices, served with turnips and mashed potatoes. The haggis is not only authentic—it’s better than most found in Scotland, thanks to the chef’s meticulous spice blend and slow-cooking method.

They also serve a rare dish: Cullen Skink, a creamy Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions. It’s silky, rich, and deeply comforting. Their shepherd’s pie is layered with ground lamb, peas, carrots, and a thick layer of creamy mashed potatoes, baked until golden. The topping is brushed with egg wash for a perfect crust.

Their dessert menu includes a treacle tart made with golden syrup imported from the UK, baked in a shortcrust pastry and topped with a dusting of lemon zest. It’s served warm with clotted cream. Their gin and tonic selection features over 12 British gins, including Plymouth, Hendrick’s, and a rare batch from the Isle of Man.

7. The Duke of York

Found in the Cherry Creek neighborhood, The Duke of York is a refined British dining experience with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s the only spot on this list with table service and linen napkins, but it never feels stuffy. The owner, a third-generation British pub owner, opened the restaurant to bring the elegance of a London club to Denver.

They specialize in elevated British classics. Their fish pie is made with cod, haddock, and prawns in a creamy dill sauce, topped with mashed potatoes and baked until bubbling. Their Sunday roast includes a choice of beef, lamb, or duck, served with roasted root vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and a rich red wine jus.

One of their most unique offerings is the British-style platter: a curated selection of cured meats including Wiltshire ham, Stilton cheese, pickled eggs, and a wedge of chutney. It’s perfect for sharing and pairs beautifully with their selection of English sparkling wines.

Their afternoon tea is a major draw. Served in a vintage porcelain set, it includes finger sandwiches with cucumber and dill cream cheese, scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of British pastries including Victoria sponge and bakewell tart. The tea is steeped to exact specifications—three minutes for black tea, five for herbal.

8. The Flying Pig

Located in the East Colfax neighborhood, The Flying Pig is a casual, family-run pub that has quietly become a local legend. The name comes from a British saying—“when pigs fly”—a nod to how unlikely it seemed that authentic British food would thrive in Denver. But it has.

Their menu is simple but deeply satisfying. Their pork pies are made with a hot water crust pastry, filled with seasoned pork, and served with a side of mustard. Their steak and kidney pudding is steamed for six hours in a traditional cloth, resulting in a tender, rich filling encased in a soft, moist pastry.

They also serve a rare British delicacy: jellied eels, made with eels simmered in spiced vinegar and set in a gelatinous broth. It’s an acquired taste, but regulars swear by it. Their mashed potato and onion pie is a humble but delicious comfort food, layered with caramelized onions and topped with a crisp crust.

They brew their own small-batch British-style ales in the back, including a mild ale and a bitter that’s been named one of the best in the Rocky Mountain region. Their Sunday roasts are legendary—slow-roasted for hours, carved tableside, and served with all the trimmings. Their gravy is made from the pan drippings of the roast, thickened with a roux, and finished with a splash of port.

9. The Balmoral

Nestled in the Baker neighborhood, The Balmoral is a Scottish-inspired pub with a focus on highland traditions. The name comes from the royal estate in Scotland, and the decor reflects that—tartan accents, antler chandeliers, and a stone fireplace.

They are the only restaurant in Denver that serves Cullen Skink regularly, and their version is widely regarded as the best in the state. Their haggis is made with organic lamb, oatmeal, and a secret blend of spices, and is served with neeps and tatties as a main course or as a starter.

They also offer a Scottish breakfast: a hearty plate of Lorne sausage (a square-shaped pork sausage), baked beans, black pudding, toast, and a fried egg. Their Scotch eggs are made with free-range eggs and a blend of pork and venison sausage meat, giving them a unique, gamey depth.

Their dessert menu features Cranachan, a traditional Scottish dessert made with toasted oats, whipped cream, raspberries, and a splash of whisky. It’s light, fragrant, and deeply comforting. Their whisky selection is extensive, with over 50 single malts from Islay, Speyside, and the Highlands—all served neat or with a drop of water, as the Scots prefer.

10. The Old Country Kitchen

Located in a converted 1920s bungalow in West Denver, The Old Country Kitchen is the most unassuming but most beloved spot on this list. It’s run by a British grandmother and her granddaughter, who moved to Denver in 2016 to escape the high cost of living in London. They cook everything from scratch, using recipes passed down through generations.

They don’t have a printed menu. Instead, the specials are handwritten on a chalkboard each morning. One day it’s a lamb stew with dumplings; the next, a beef and Guinness pie. Their Sunday roast is legendary: slow-roasted rib of beef, roasted potatoes, carrots, and parsnips, with Yorkshire pudding that rises tall and crisp.

They make their own pickled onions, chutneys, and marmalade. Their treacle tart is made with golden syrup from a family supplier in Kent. Their sticky toffee pudding is the best in the city—dense, moist, and drenched in warm sauce. They serve tea in mismatched china cups, and the pot is always refilled before it’s empty.

Regulars come not just for the food, but for the warmth. The owners remember your name, your favorite dish, and whether you take sugar in your tea. This isn’t a restaurant. It’s a home. And that’s why it’s the most trusted.

Comparison Table

FAQs

What makes British food in Denver different from other U.S. cities?

Denver’s British food scene is unique because of its combination of passionate British expats, access to specialty importers, and a community that values authenticity over trends. Unlike larger cities where British food is often diluted into “pub grub,” Denver’s top spots prioritize traditional recipes, proper ingredients, and slow-cooked techniques. Many chefs here have trained in the UK or come from families who’ve cooked these dishes for generations.

Are these restaurants expensive?

Most are reasonably priced for the quality. A full English breakfast ranges from $16–$22, and a steak and kidney pie is typically $18–$24. Sunday roasts are often $25–$32. While not budget meals, they offer exceptional value for the portion size, ingredient quality, and preparation time. Many are more affordable than upscale American restaurants serving similar portions.

Can I get vegetarian or vegan British food here?

Yes, though traditional British cuisine is meat-heavy, most of these restaurants now offer vegetarian adaptations. Look for vegetable pies, mushroom and onion pasties, lentil stew, and vegetarian haggis (made with lentils and grains). Some also offer vegan sticky toffee pudding and dairy-free custard. Always ask—the chefs are happy to accommodate.

Do they serve real British beer and cider?

Yes. Every restaurant on this list serves real ale, lager, or cider imported from the UK. Many have rotating selections from small British breweries. Some even brew their own British-style ales on-site. Cask-conditioned ales are poured using hand pumps, as they are in Britain.

Is it necessary to make a reservation?

For Sunday roasts and afternoon tea, reservations are highly recommended—many spots fill up weeks in advance. For lunch or weekday dinners, walk-ins are usually fine, but popular spots like The British Pub & Grill and The Old Country Kitchen often have waits. It’s best to call ahead.

Do they offer takeaway or delivery?

Most offer takeaway for pies, pasties, and roast dinners. Delivery is less common due to the nature of the food—many dishes are best served fresh and hot. Some use local delivery services for larger orders, especially for Sunday roast boxes.

Are the portions large?

Yes. British meals are known for their hearty portions. A single pie or roast often serves one person generously. Many diners find they have leftovers, especially with the Sunday roast. It’s common to see people taking home containers of gravy or extra potatoes.

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

Sunday lunch is the pinnacle. That’s when the Sunday roast is served, the kitchen is at its busiest, and the atmosphere is most lively. Many regulars say the food tastes best on Sundays because the chef has had time to prepare everything from scratch. Afternoon tea is also a traditional experience best enjoyed between 2–4 p.m.

Do any of these restaurants have outdoor seating?

Yes. The British Pub & Grill, The Crown & Anchor, and The Red Lion all have patios. The Royal Oak and The Wobbly Pint have small sidewalk tables. In warmer months, outdoor seating adds to the authentic pub experience.

Can I buy British groceries or condiments at these places?

Some do. The British Pub & Grill and The Royal Oak sell jars of HP Sauce, Branston Pickle, and British teas. The Horseshoe Tavern occasionally hosts pop-up markets with British imports. It’s worth asking—they often have limited stock and are happy to share sources.

Conclusion

In a city where culinary innovation is celebrated, it’s remarkable that ten restaurants in Denver have chosen to preserve tradition instead. These aren’t themed pubs or tourist traps. They’re labor of love. They’re the result of years spent sourcing the right ingredients, mastering the right techniques, and serving food that tastes like it was made in a kitchen in Leeds, not a kitchen in Denver.

Each of these spots has earned trust—not through advertising, but through consistency. Through the quiet dedication of chefs who wake up before dawn to make Yorkshire pudding batter. Through the owners who import British treacle by the case. Through the servers who know your name and your favorite tea blend.

Whether you’re a British expat missing home, a curious foodie seeking authenticity, or someone who just wants to taste what real British food tastes like, these ten restaurants are your gateway. They’re not perfect. They’re not flashy. But they’re real. And in a world of fast food and fusion, that’s worth more than a Michelin star.

Visit one. Then visit another. Try the fish and chips. Order the pie. Sip the tea. Let the flavors speak for themselves. You’ll understand why, after all these years, Denver’s British food scene isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving.