Boston may be famous for its clam chowder and baked beans, but there’s a growing appreciation for British cuisine in this historic city.
From cozy pubs serving fish and chips to bakeries offering authentic Cornish pasties, Boston’s culinary scene is embracing flavors from across the pond.
Whether you’re a Brit craving a taste of home or an American eager to explore new dishes, Boston’s British food spots provide a delicious journey through traditional and contemporary fare.
Dive into this guide to discover where you can savor the best British foods in Boston. We’ll explore some top-rated establishments where you can indulge in classic dishes like bangers and mash, savory pies, and even afternoon tea.
From trendy restaurants to hidden gems, our guide ensures you won’t miss out on the finest British culinary experiences Boston has to offer.
So, whether you’re planning a casual meal or a sophisticated dining experience, prepare to embark on a flavorful adventure through Boston’s British food scene.
Top 10 Best British Foods in Boston
Boston has a rich and diverse food scene, and British cuisine is no exception.
Here’s a guide to 10 of the best traditional British dishes, from savory pies to fish and chips:
1. Fish and Chips: British Delights
Location: 63 Powers Rd, Westford, MA
At British Delights, you’ll find the traditional fish and chips, a quintessential British comfort food that has stood the test of time.
They offer pre-packaged versions you can take home, which feature flaky, white fish coated in a crisp, golden batter, perfectly paired with chunky, hand-cut chips.
Serve it with a generous helping of tartar sauce, a wedge of lemon, and don’t forget the malt vinegar for an authentic British seaside experience, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Another local favorite is **The Haven** in Jamaica Plain, known for its classic Haggis and Full English Breakfasts.
Featuring authentic black pudding, eggs, and sausages, The Haven offers a true taste of Britain right in Boston.
2. Cornish Pasty: Lucky Shamrock
Location: 263 Beale St, Quincy, MA
The Cornish Pasty is a beloved staple in Britain, and at Lucky Shamrock, you can enjoy this flaky, handheld pastry filled with savory meats and vegetables.
Traditionally filled with beef, potatoes, onions, and rutabagas, this pasty is a portable meal originally made for miners in Cornwall. Today, it’s a comfort food enjoyed by many.
Its thick, crimped edge makes it easy to hold, while the filling offers a hearty, warming bite of history and tradition.
Lucky Shamrock’s version remains true to its roots, offering an authentic taste of Britain right in the heart of Boston. This savory delight is perfect for both a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner.
3. Yorkshire Tea: Elizabeth’s Market
Location: 4 Blue Hill Ave, Boston, MA
For a truly authentic British tea experience, Elizabeth’s Market carries Yorkshire Tea, one of the UK’s most popular tea brands.
Known for its strong, malty flavor, this tea has been a fixture in British homes for decades. Whether you’re brewing it strong with milk or enjoying it black, Yorkshire Tea promises a full-bodied, robust cup that’s perfect for accompanying your morning routine or as a soothing afternoon pick-me-up.
Pair it with a slice of cake or some biscuits for the full British experience. Afternoon tea aficionados will also appreciate the selection of classic British biscuits available.
From Digestives to Hobnobs, Elizabeth’s Market ensures that you can recreate a cozy British tea time right in Boston.
4. Sausage Rolls: AJay’s Market
Location: 166 Walpole St, Norwood, MA
A British party isn’t complete without Sausage Rolls, and at AJay’s Market, you can indulge in these savory bites.
Each roll is made from seasoned pork sausage wrapped in buttery, flaky puff pastry, making them irresistible whether served warm or cold.
These versatile snacks are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as party appetizers, and are often enjoyed with a dollop of ketchup or mustard.
They’re easy to make at home or pick up freshly baked from the market. Additionally, AJay’s Market offers an array of other British favorites, from savory Scotch eggs to rich, meat-filled Cornish pasties.
You can also find traditional British sweets like flapjacks and Bakewell tarts, ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Whether you’re hosting an authentic British dinner or simply yearning for a taste of the UK, this market has everything you need to bring British culinary delights to Boston.
5. PG Tips Tea: Brits R U.S
Location: 16 Armory St, Northampton, MA
Brits R U.S is well-known for its wide selection of British teas, including PG Tips, one of the UK’s most iconic tea brands. This rich, full-bodied black tea is perfect for those who prefer a strong brew.
Typically enjoyed with a splash of milk, PG Tips is a daily staple for many Brits, offering a classic, no-nonsense cup of tea. Its pyramid-shaped tea bags are designed to give the tea more room to infuse, resulting in a better-tasting cup.
On top of their tea offerings, Brits R U.S also stocks a variety of quintessential British snacks and foods.
From savory items like pork pies and Cornish pasties to sweet treats such as Jaffa Cakes and Cadbury chocolates, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
This store is a haven for expats longing for a taste of home and for anyone curious about British cuisine. Whether you’re throwing a themed party or simply exploring new flavors, Brits R U.S has all your British food needs covered.
6. McVitie’s Digestives: Hampshire Market
Location: 117 Hampshire St, Cambridge, MA
If you’re looking for a perfect tea companion, head to Hampshire Market to pick up a pack of McVitie’s Digestive Biscuits.
These lightly sweetened biscuits are a British favorite, loved for their simple, wholesome flavor. Made from whole wheat flour, they have a crumbly texture and are often enjoyed dipped in tea.
Whether you’re looking for the plain variety or the indulgent chocolate-covered option, these biscuits are a timeless treat in British homes.
For a savory snack, visit Cardullo’s Gourmet Shoppe in Harvard Square, where you can find Walkers Shortbread. This traditional Scottish shortbread is buttery and delectable, perfect for any occasion.
7. Heinz Baked Beans: Bread ‘n Butter
Location: 1562 Tremont St, Boston, MA
At Bread ‘n Butter, you’ll find Heinz Baked Beans, a classic British pantry staple. These beans, coated in a lightly sweet tomato sauce, are an essential part of a traditional English breakfast, commonly served on toast or alongside sausages, eggs, and bacon in what’s known as a “Full English.”
While beans on toast might sound unusual to American palates, this simple yet satisfying dish has been a beloved comfort food in Britain for over a century.
For a taste of hearty British pies, visit The Haven. This charming eatery offers an array of flavorful options, from steak and kidney to chicken and leek, perfect for a cozy meal.
And no British culinary experience would be complete without fish and chips. Head over to The Chippy, where the crispy battered fish and golden fries are sure to transport you straight to the streets of London.
8. English Cheddar: Cardullo’s Gourmet Shoppe
Location: 6 Brattle St, Cambridge, MA
Cardullo’s Gourmet Shoppe offers an impressive selection of imported cheeses, including authentic English Cheddar.
Known for its sharp, rich, and creamy texture, English cheddar pairs perfectly with crackers, bread, or fruit like apples.
It’s often served on cheese boards or as part of a Ploughman’s Lunch, a British pub favorite consisting of cheese, bread, pickles, and cold meats.
Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or melted into a sandwich, English cheddar brings a depth of flavor that’s unmistakable.
Another noteworthy spot in Boston is The Haven, a Scottish pub that offers a delightful array of British dishes. Here, you can savor classics like fish and chips, bangers and mash, and hearty meat pies.
9. Savory Pies: American Provisions
Location: 613 E Broadway, South Boston, MA
American Provisions specializes in artisanal goods, including savory British pies like Steak and Ale Pie. This comforting dish features tender chunks of beef cooked in a rich ale gravy, all encased in a flaky, golden pastry crust.
These pies are hearty and satisfying, perfect for a warming meal on a cold day. You’ll also find other varieties such as chicken and leek or lamb and mint, offering a little slice of Britain in the heart of Boston.
Additionally, tea enthusiasts can delight in the wide selection of British teas available, featuring classic blends like Earl Grey and English Breakfast.
For those with a sweet tooth, the shop also stocks traditional treats such as shortbread, scones, and clotted cream.
This makes American Provisions a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience authentic British flavors without leaving Boston.
10. Afternoon Tea: Cornish Pasty Co (Formerly)
Location: 51 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA
While Cornish Pasty Co has since closed, it once offered an authentic Afternoon Tea experience that drew in fans of British tradition.
This elegant afternoon ritual included a selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of pastries and cakes, all served with your choice of tea.
Afternoon tea remains a beloved British pastime, perfect for celebrating special occasions or enjoying a leisurely afternoon treat with friends.
Though the establishment has closed, many local places still carry on this cherished tradition. A visit to Boston can still satisfy your craving for British delicacies.
For instance, the classic bangers and mash at The Haven in Jamaica Plain are renowned for their authenticity.
Additionally, you can find an excellent selection of British ales and a cozy ambiance that makes you feel like you’re in a pub back in the UK.
Other local spots like The Briar Group’s City Table and Cornwall’s in Kenmore also offer British-inspired menus that keep the tradition alive.
Whether you’re seeking a hearty meal or a simple scone and tea, Boston has a variety of options to enjoy classic British fare.
Conclusion
Boston boasts a variety of places to enjoy British foods, catering to tastes both traditional and modern.
From stores like British Delights and Lucky Shamrock to gourmet shops like Cardullo’s, the city is a haven for British expatriates and food lovers.
Bakeries and markets spread across neighborhoods offer convenient shopping and authentic products, creating a little piece of the UK within Boston.
Whether it’s a craving for Cadbury chocolates, HP Sauce, or savory Cornish pasties, Boston provides an extensive selection that ensures everyone can enjoy the rich flavors of British cuisine.
Local pubs such as The Haven and The Druid provide an atmospheric setting to savor classic British dishes like fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and bangers and mash. With these diverse offerings, it’s easy to indulge in British comfort food without leaving Boston.
Timothy Russell Dewart