While they might speak the same language and overlook the same ocean, the people of Great Britain are very different from Americans. One of the most striking distinctions is in the restaurant menus of these countries. If you’re eager to see what they nibble on in pubs across the pond, try one of these traditional menu items.

3 British Foods to Enjoy in a Pub

1. Scotch Eggs

Introduced in British culture as a convenient traveling snack for the wealthy, Scotch eggs are now a staple in any English restaurant. They consist of a fried, hard-boiled egg encased in sausage meat and breadcrumbs, and can come in variations featuring soft-boiled eggs and alternative meats. 

2. Fish & Chips

First seen in the UK around the 1860s, this meal is seen on restaurant menus and street food tents alike. This fried fish, usually cod or haddock, and fries combo is traditionally served in a newspaper cone, and is comparable to the American tradition of chicken fingers and French fries. Unlike its American counterpart, the white fish is fried in a light, flaky batter, and enjoyed with lemon juice or vinegar to add a hint of acidity.

3. Bangers & Mash

This typical British and Irish comfort food is a pairing of mashed potatoes and sausages made of lamb, pork, or beef. This standard supper is both cooked at home and served in pubs, often with green peas and/or gravy. People first started referring to sausages as “bangers” during WWI, when short supplies of meat forced manufacturers to use more water, causing the sausages to pop when cooked. For a complete British meal, try pairing your bangers and mash with a cold pint of Guinness.

If you’re craving an authentic pub experience close to home, stop by Mad Dogs & Englishmen in Tampa, FL. Minus the grey skies and constant drizzle, this English restaurant has everything you need to feel like you’re enjoying a meal in the UK. With cold pints of beer, classic dishes, and live music, this pub will transport you to another land. Learn more about their menu items on their website, or call (813) 832-3037 to inquire about catering.