NFL in London

National Football League in London

NFL London

Bears London

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As the Chicago Bears make their way across the pond for another thrilling October NFL showdown in London, there’s no better time to explore all the “bear-y” fun that the capital of the UK has to offer. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Chicago Bears or just tagging along for the ride, London has plenty of bear-related sights and stories to entertain you before and after the big game. From historical bears to famous bear-related landmarks, here’s everything Chicago Bears fans need to know about the ‘other’ bears of London.

Fun Fact-Just because someone is wearing a Chicago Bears jersey, doesn’t mean that they know anything about the Bears. All you have to is say ‘Bear Down’ to them, and watch for the look on their face. 

Queen’s Bearskins

When in London, it’s hard to miss the stoic Queen’s Guard soldiers standing tall at Buckingham Palace. Whatever you do, don’t get up in their grill, or this could happen.

What might catch your eye more than their unflinching demeanor, though, are those giant fuzzy hats perched on their heads. Yes, those iconic headpieces are made of real Canadian bearskin! No Canadians were hurt in the process, although the bears were. 

The bearskin hat is a towering 18 inches tall and weighs about 1.5 pounds, and it’s as much a symbol of London as Big Ben or Tower Bridge. These towering hats were originally designed to make the guards look more imposing, and they date back to 1815 when British soldiers wore them to celebrate their victory at the Battle of Waterloo.

Of course, today’s hats are made with ethically sourced bearskin, and alternatives have been explored. But for now, these regal hats remain a reminder that bears are part of London’s royal heritage, and you can catch a glimpse of these bear-inspired accessories during the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Paddington Bear

It wouldn’t be a trip to London without mentioning one of the most beloved bears in British pop culture – Paddington Bear. Created by Michael Bond in 1958, this little bear from Peru found his way to London with nothing but a suitcase and his trusty marmalade sandwiches.

True bear fans will know that Paddington in Peru movie comes out in November, so this autumn truly is the place to be a bear in the capital. 

If you’re in the mood for some bear-themed sightseeing, head to Paddington Station where a bronze statue of the bear himself waits to greet visitors. Nearby, you can also visit the Paddington Bear Shop to grab some adorable souvenirs, from teddy bears to marmalade jars. For Chicago Bears fans, Paddington is a reminder of how the city of London embraces all things bear-related with open arms.

Globe Theatre, Bankside, Southwark the Bear Garden c1599 (1825). The Bear Garden was a site of bear-baiting.

The Bear Garden

Bear garden, not beer garden, although you’ll probably hit both during a successful London trip. Chicago has its Wrigley Field, and London has… the Bear Garden? It sounds like the perfect place for Bears fans to gather! In the Elizabethan era, bear-baiting was a popular form of entertainment (though thankfully no longer practiced today). Close to the famous Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, there once stood an arena known as The Bear Garden, where Londoners would watch bears fight against dogs in brutal displays.

Although bear-baiting is long gone (thank goodness), the site is worth visiting for history buffs who want to know more about the wild, colorful history of London’s past. Just imagine the fanfare of old London crowds rooting for their favorite bear to take down its opponent – quite the spectacle, but one best left in the past! Today, the area is a cultural hub dedicated to Shakespeare’s works, and you can catch a performance at the Globe Theatre to see how Londoners have shifted from violent bear spectacles to high culture.

Feel free to wear your Bears jersey, so that people know that you are a fan of both literature and sport. 

Winnie Pooh’s

While Paddington might be London’s official bear ambassador, Winnie the Pooh is another beloved British bear with strong connections to the capital. A.A. Milne, the author of “Winnie-the-Pooh”, was inspired by his son Christopher Robin’s love of a real bear at the London Zoo.

This bear, named Winnie, was originally from Canada and became a star attraction at the zoo after being adopted by British soldiers during World War I. Today, Pooh’s legacy lives on in books, movies, and merchandise that continue to delight fans of all ages. While there isn’t a specific Winnie the Pooh landmark in London, a visit to the zoo or a quick stroll through Harrods – where Pooh merch reigns supreme – will satisfy any bear lover’s appetite.

Another fun fact is that the trademark on Winnie has expired, which is why you’ll see him in acting in low-budget horror flicks as of late, in case you were thinking he went full Nick Cage. 

Bears vs Jags 

And of course, the reason you’re here – to support the Chicago Bears in their London appearance, when they take on the Jacksonville Jaguars at Tottenham stadium. 

London has become a second home for the NFL over the last decade, with multiple games being played each season as part of the league’s International Series. The city’s stadiums transform into a haven for American football fans, bringing together die-hard supporters from all corners of the globe.

Make sure to immerse yourself in the local NFL culture, as Londoners have fully embraced American football. You’ll find Bears jerseys mingling with fans from all teams, creating a unique international atmosphere you won’t experience anywhere else. We will let you know the NFL events as they come out, so watch this space. From tailgate parties to interactive fan zones, to make the most of your London NFL experience, make sure you follow us for all the cool things to do in London. 

Bear Pubs 

Finally, no trip to London is complete without a pint (or 12) at a local pub. You might even stumble across a pub named after a bear, God knows they have enough lion themed pubs!
So if you’re looking to knock off a pub crawl of Bear-themed pubs, here are a few to consider:

The Bear-Paddington
The aptly named Bear near Paddington station is the perfect place to start your London pub crawl.
An independent pub since 2011, the pub serves up local and craft beers, as well as having its own private hire room.

The Bear and Staff-Soho
Located right in the heart of Soho, is this chain-pub boozer close to all the action. Dating back to 1714, the Bear and Staff has a fine selection of real ales, and is close enough to the Thames for those late night strolls to work off the pints.

Thirsty Bear-South Bank
Just across the river is the aptly named Thirsty Bear, which even offers self-serve taps at your very own table! A very busy pub that is famed for sport, hit the Thirsty if you’re looking to expand on your Bear-Themed pub crawl. 

Brown Bear-White Chapel
Head east young folks if you want to sample the traditional atmosphere of the Brown Bear in Whitechapel. With loads of live sport and whiskey, you might find the pub crawl stalling here for a bit.

White Bear-Farringdon
We love independent pubs, which is why the White Bear in Farringdon is such a sweet treat. With fresh artisan pizzas, rotating local beers, and yummy cocktails, it’s easy to see why this pub is such a popular haunt for locals, and tourists alike.

For Chicago Bears fans, it’s a chance to unwind in true British fashion. And who knows, you might even meet some UK-based Bears fans who share your love for the team – proving once again that “Bear Down” knows no borders. Unless of course you have no idea what that means.

Bear Down in London

London is ready to welcome Chicago Bears fans with open arms (and paws). Whether you’re exploring bear-related landmarks or just soaking in the city’s rich history and culture, there’s plenty to see and do before and after the game. From Paddington to Winnie the Pooh, the bears of London might not have the flash of Caleb Williams, but they’ll certainly add a fun twist to your NFL weekend abroad.

So grab your Chicago Bears jersey, prepare to Bear Down, and enjoy everything London has to offer – from royal bearskin hats to pint-sized Paddington Bear. It’s going to be a roaring good time!

Watch this space, as we will have loads more info here as we release it.

Chips McCoys!

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Great news for NFL UK fans, as legendary crisp maker McCoy’s has announced that they will be partnering with the league here for the next few seasons. Chips McCoy’s!

Britain is a nation of crisp (or chips) enthusiasts, and now British fans can double-dip all they want, with a fantastic array of flavours to suit every NFL fan.
Or do they?

Sure, McCoy’s has some amazing, and tasty options when it comes to flavour-town, but are there any truly team-centred chips to satisfy NFL UK fans?
There is now!

To help the McCoy’s team find some authentic tastes, we came up with a few team flavours unique to their fan base. Now British fans can rip open a bag, and support their team just by chowing down. 

Let’s take a look at some of the flavours we here at NFL in London have cooked up for the 2024 NFL season!

NFL UK Themed Crisps

Saints-Cajun Crawdad

What could be more NOLA than wet, river bugs? New Orleans is famed for it’s crawdad cookouts, and southern spices, so we present to you ‘Cajun Crawdad Flavour’.

Sure, we do have some flavours similar here in the UK already, but this popping crunch will make you say ‘Who Dat’ in every bite.

Vikings-Mead Herring

The Vikings are historically famed for many things, some good, a lot bad, but one thing that they were notorious for was their love of herring. And who doesn’t love a good smoked fish head for breakfast?
We’ve sweetened the flave for this one, by adding some mead to the mix, giving you Mead Herring-the crisp you never knew you needed.

But you do. You need it now.

Raiders-Rattlesnake Ramen

Check your boots Las Vegas NFL fans, because there might be a rattlesnake in one this season!

Combining the bite of a snake, and the fishiness of ramen, and you get the delictible “Rattlesnake Ramen” smacking you upside the head. No need for anti-venom for this one, but it does pair nicely with tequila and sunsets. 

Packers-Cheesy Feet

You know you’re in the midwest when the smells of ripened cheese, and feet are almost indistinguishable. Fear not Wisconsin fans, we have combined both of the flavours to give you Packers Cheesy Feet, foot shaped crisps that smell like an old locker. 

You might need some dip for this one, as it’s as cheesy as it is footy. 

Jets-Metlife Monster Crunch

NY Jets fans can attest to the monster that lives under the field at Metlife Stadium, so we thought we would honour that beast with it’s own taste. While the monster usually dines on ankles, knees and ACL’s, we’re hoping to tempt it from under the bed with some truly monstrous crisps in this bag. 

Chicago-Bear Meat

It’s hunting season somewhere, so why not satisfy the curious carnivore in you with some authentic Bear Meat? Chewy, tough, and with a gamey aroma, these might actually bring out your inner-vegetarian after a whole packet. Good thing they are made from potatoes! 

Ravens-Shiny Bits

Ravens and crows are notoriously entertained by shiny things, which makes them the perfect NFL fans! You’ll be shouting ‘nevermore’ from the rooftops, after biting into a bag of potato and metal bits. Trade your shiny bits for other food, or just attract a flock of admirers. Choking hazard? Definitely.  

Cardinals-Suet and Crickets

Another bird, another diet you need to try, as we present the Arizona Cardinals ‘Suet and Crickets’ flavoured crisps. Bugs are the future according to scientists, so we doubled down on taste so bold, you’ll be regurgitating it down the throats of your enemies. Flap your wings with pride Arizona, it’s Suet and Crickets time!

Chargers-Electric Eel

Let’s up the voltage with another flavour that will have even the Harbaugh brothers planning a reunion. The Chargers might have moved up the coast a bit, but that doesn’t mean they haven’t lost their sea legs. Shock yourself with each bite of ‘Electric Eel’ crisps, that will power your Sunday Fundays. 

Falcons-Peach Pellets

Nothing could be sweeter than a Georgia peach, unless you add some bird chunder to the mix, so we give you Falcons ‘Peach Pellets’ flavour. Bursting with peachiness and with a hint of falcon spew, this new McCoy’s crisp flavour could be bold enough to combine the sweetness of the south, with ornithology. 

Titans-Bacon Bourbon

Of all the flavours we concocted, this one actually looks really damn yummy! Combing the salty, crunch of bacon, with the boozy-oozy of bourbon, this is a crisp you won’t want to share. Especially with the kids, ‘cause of bourbon and all that. The perfect flavour for when your team is winning, losing, or on a bye week!

Giants-Rat Apple

Crisp scientists know it’s about finding that perfect taste balance that yields the greatest chip. 

Which is why the homage to the New York Giants brings in the tartness of apple, with the rodent aroma of a rat for ‘Rat Apple’. No tetanus shots are required to open a bag of these, although the rat flavonoids will attract more rats. 

Of course we’re kidding, for all of you folks who take things too seriously. 

We love the NFL, crisps, and everything that fits into the Venn diagram of the two. 

Good on you McCoy’s for joining forces with the NFLUK. We’re always ready with some flavour options. Just say the word. 

London To Do 2024

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With 3 London games on their way for 2024, many of you visiting the capital might be looking for some things to do when you’re here. Luckily, we have complied a list of some fun neighbourhoods, museums, walks and fun facts to make your stay here that much more British in our London To Do 2024. 

London is a city that perfectly blends history, culture, and modern-day excitement, making it a fantastic destination for any NFL fan visiting the UK. While London may not have traditional NFL tailgates or dedicated sports bars like in the U.S., it offers a wide array of experiences to explore the city’s rich history, vibrant neighbourhoods, and fascinating stories. Here’s a guide for NFL fans looking to make the most of their visit to London.

Hoods to Explore

London is a mosaic of diverse neighbourhoods, each with its own character, history, and charm. While the NFL games might be up north at Wembley and Tottenham, there is still plenty to see in the city.
For NFL fans looking to explore beyond the stadiums, these neighbourhoods provide a perfect mix of culture, food, and history:

Greenwich: A must-visit for any history buff, Greenwich is famous for its maritime heritage and scenic views. Start at the Royal Observatory, where you can stand on the Prime Meridian Line, marking the division between the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. NFL fans who love navigation, exploration, and historical tales will appreciate the National Maritime Museum and the restored Cutty Sark, a 19th-century clipper ship. The area’s charming streets and markets also offer great spots for leisurely walks and discovering unique souvenirs.

Notting Hill: Known for its pastel-coloured houses and the world-famous Portobello Road Market, Notting Hill is a lively neighbourhood with a mix of boutiques, antique shops, and cafes. NFL fans can enjoy a stroll through the market, where you’ll find everything from vintage clothes to rare books and collectibles. The neighbourhood’s quaint charm, combined with a vibrant atmosphere, makes it perfect for a laid-back day of exploring.

Southbank and Bankside: A walk along the Southbank is a fantastic way to experience London’s riverside culture. Start at the London Eye for a panoramic view of the city, then continue along the Thames Path towards the Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Tate Modern, and Borough Market. NFL fans interested in arts and history will find the Tate Modern’s contemporary art collection and the Globe Theatre’s nod to London’s literary heritage particularly engaging. In previous years, the NFLUK has hosted activities in Southbank as well. 

Islington: Just north of central London, Islington is a vibrant neighbourhood known for its independent boutiques, diverse dining scene, and cultural venues. Visit Camden Passage, an area famous for its antique shops and quaint cafes. The Emirates Stadium, home to Arsenal Football Club, is nearby for fans interested in exploring the stadium of one of England’s most storied soccer clubs.

Museum Tours 

For NFL fans who appreciate history, culture, and art, London’s museums offer a treasure trove of knowledge and experiences:

The British Museum: This iconic museum is home to over eight million artifacts that span the history of human civilisation. Highlights include the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the Egyptian mummies. NFL fans interested in epic tales, ancient sports, and the power dynamics of empires will find the British Museum an enthralling place to spend a day.

The Natural History Museum: Located in South Kensington, the Natural History Museum is one of the most beautiful buildings in London. NFL fans who love science, dinosaurs, and the natural world can explore its vast collection, including the famous Hintze Hall with its giant blue whale skeleton. The museum offers interactive exhibits and is a hit with visitors of all ages.

The Imperial War Museum: This museum offers a comprehensive look at conflicts involving Britain and the Commonwealth from World War I to the present day. NFL fans with an interest in strategy, leadership, and history will appreciate the personal stories, artifacts, and immersive exhibits that bring history to life.

The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A): The V&A is the world’s leading museum of art, design, and performance. NFL fans interested in design, fashion, and cultural history will enjoy the museum’s extensive collections, which range from Renaissance sculptures to modern-day photography.

Walking Times

London is a city where history is around every corner. It’s amazing how much you can soak up just by ambling down some of London’s streets.
Here are some must-visit landmarks for NFL fans who want to delve deeper into the city’s past:

The Tower of London: A visit to the Tower of London is like stepping back in time. This historic fortress has served as a royal palace, prison, and treasury. NFL fans interested in stories of intrigue, rebellion, and power will find the tales of the Tower’s famous prisoners and the Crown Jewels captivating. Don’t forget to meet the famous Beefeaters (Yeoman Warders) and learn about their role in guarding the Tower.

The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben: The iconic clock tower, often referred to as Big Ben (though technically it’s the bell inside), and the Houses of Parliament are symbols of British democracy. NFL fans can take a guided tour to learn about the UK’s political history, witness debates, and explore the building’s stunning architecture.

The Churchill War Rooms: A hidden gem beneath the streets of Westminster, the Churchill War Rooms offer a unique insight into Britain’s wartime leadership. NFL fans with an interest in military strategy and history will appreciate exploring the underground bunkers where Winston Churchill and his team made critical decisions during World War II.

St. Paul’s Cathedral: An architectural marvel designed by Sir Christopher Wren, St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most famous landmarks. NFL fans can climb up to the Whispering Gallery or the Golden Gallery for stunning views of the city. The cathedral’s rich history and grandeur offer a peaceful yet awe-inspiring experience.

Fun Historical Facts for NFL Fans

London is full of intriguing historical stories that connect, even loosely, to American culture and sports. So if you’re looking to impress some of your friends while your out and about in the city, try some of these on:

The Great Fire of London and The Monument: In 1666, a devastating fire swept through London, destroying much of the city. Today, you can climb *The Monument* to the Great Fire of London, built in the late 17th century to commemorate the event. NFL fans interested in resilience, rebuilding, and architectural history will enjoy the climb and the panoramic views at the top.

The Crystal Palace and Early American Football: The original Crystal Palace, which was destroyed by fire in 1936, hosted some of the earliest American football games in London in the early 20th century. These games were a novelty at the time and laid some of the groundwork for the sport’s growing popularity in the UK.

London’s Old Roman Wall: While NFL fans are used to stadiums surrounded by modern infrastructure, London offers a unique chance to explore remnants of its Roman past. Part of London’s Roman Wall still stands today near the Museum of London. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the city’s ancient history and shows how London evolved from a Roman outpost to a modern metropolis.

Market Days

London’s markets offer an authentic taste of local life, providing NFL fans with a great way to experience the city:

Borough Market: One of London’s oldest and most renowned food markets, Borough Market is perfect for food lovers. NFL fans can enjoy diverse culinary delights, from traditional British pies to international dishes like paella and Thai street food. It’s a great spot to grab a bite and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Greenwich Market: Nestled in the heart of Greenwich, this market is known for its handmade crafts, antiques, and street food. It’s a smaller, more intimate experience compared to other markets, perfect for NFL fans looking to pick up unique gifts or enjoy some artisanal treats.

Columbia Road Flower Market: Held every Sunday, this market is a vibrant display of flowers, plants, and gardening supplies. NFL fans who appreciate local culture and charming streets will love wandering through this colourful market in East London.

Park Life

There’s nothing better than a good old park to soak up the sun, and draw out the hangover.
For a relaxing day away from the bustling streets, London’s parks offer NFL fans a serene escape:

Hyde Park: One of London’s largest and most famous parks, Hyde Park is perfect for a stroll, a boat ride on the Serpentine Lake, or simply lounging on the grass. NFL fans can enjoy the mix of natural beauty and historic monuments, such as the *Serpentine Gallery* and the *Diana Memorial Fountain*.

Richmond Park: A bit further from the city centre, Richmond Park is known for its wild deer and expansive green spaces. It’s an excellent spot for NFL fans who enjoy nature and want to experience the quieter side of London.

Hampstead Heath: Located in North London, Hampstead Heath offers stunning views of the city from Parliament Hill. It’s a great place for a hike, a picnic, or just soaking in the natural beauty and enjoying a break from the city’s hustle and bustle. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try to take a dip in one of the ponds.

That gives you a bit of a list from our London To Do 2024, hopefully there are a few things here to tickle your fancy. Feel free to reach out for any questions.

London offers NFL fans an incredible mix of history, culture, and unique experiences, even if it doesn’t have the traditional NFL scene like in the U.S. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Greenwich, delving into the world-class exhibits at the British Museum, or enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of London’s markets, there’s something for every fan to enjoy. Bring your adventurous spirit, discover London’s rich heritage, and enjoy everything this diverse city has to offer! Oh yeah, and enjoy the NFL!

The Best North American Food in the UK

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Ah, Britain. Land of fish and chips, mushy peas, and… tacos?
That’s right, folks.
The culinary landscape of the UK is changing faster than you can say “God save the Queen”, oh it’s King now?
North American fast food chains are invading the British Isles like it’s 1776 all over again, but this time with less tea in the harbour and more burgers on the high street.
So let’s take a look at The Best North American Food in the UK!

So, you’re in the UK, yearning for that sweet, greasy taste of home—something that says “America” without literally slapping you with a bald eagle. The good news? North American food is making serious waves across the pond, with some of your favourite chains setting up shop. The bad news? Well, let’s just say not everything translates across the Atlantic. Here’s a rundown of the best, the weirdest, and the downright disappointing North American food you can find in the UK.

We’ve asked our NFL audience, queried oodles of expats, and even done some taste tests with our team (such hard work), so that you folks of Britain get to know what really tastes like home to a North American,

Let’s take a whirlwind tour of the best North American grub you can stuff your face with in good ol’ Blighty.
And no, you don’t have to put brown sauce on everything.

Top 5 

1. Wendy’s: The Square Deal

Wendy’s, the ginger-pigtailed temptress of the fast food world, has finally graced British shores. With a slimmed-down menu that still packs all the American staples, Wendy’s is hitting the UK market like a well-aimed Frosty to the face.

Starting with dark kitchens (which sound more like Batman’s lair than a place to make burgers), Wendy’s has now set up shop in prime locations like Camden and Wood Green. It’s clear they’re targeting the youth and inner-city demo, probably because they know millennials will do anything for a good Instagram shot of a Baconator.

What sets Wendy’s apart? Well, in a sea of burger joints that all taste like slightly different variations of cardboard, Wendy’s stands out by actually tasting… good? Revolutionary, I know. Plus, their square patties are a geometry teacher’s dream come true.

Wendy’s is a breath of fresh, greasy air in a market saturated with sameness. Plus, their fresh menu items stand out in a way that makes Brits wonder if they’ve been overcooking everything all along.

2. Popeyes: Clucking Hell, It’s Good

If there’s one thing Brits love more than complaining about the weather, it’s fried chicken. Enter Popeyes, the Louisiana-born chain that’s here to show KFC how it’s really done.

Popeyes has taken the UK by storm, opening 50 branches faster than you can say “extra crispy.” They’re serving up 125,000 of their Shatter Crunch Chicken Sandwiches each week, which is probably more than the number of times the average Brit says “sorry” in a day.

What’s the secret to their success? Well, apart from the fact that Britons tend to overcook chicken until it resembles shoe leather, Popeyes offers something revolutionary: juicy chicken. It’s like they’ve discovered a magical formula that keeps moisture inside the meat. Witchcraft, I tell you!

3.  Dunkin’ Donuts: The Hole-y Grail

Dunkin‘ is back in the UK, and this time, they mean business. They have outlasted Bennifer 1.0 AND 2.0, which means there’s more than cream in them donuts. They’re starting small, probably because they remember what happened the last time they tried to take on British tea culture. (Spoiler alert: It didn’t end well.)

But now, with Brits inexplicably willing to pay pub-round prices for a 10-pack of donuts, Dunkin’ might just have a shot. Their Soho location is busier than a pub on payday, proving that in these times of economic crisis, a coffee and donut is the new three-course meal.

Best of all we don’t have to watch Ben Affleck and Tom Brady setting up their Dunkin’ rap duo over here. There’s already enough horrible boy bands in the UK to fill a 12 pack. 

4. McDonald’s: The OG of UK Fast Food

Ah, McDonald’s. The granddaddy of them all. Celebrating 50 years in the UK, McDonald’s has been here so long it probably deserves a British passport by now. One of them new ones, not one that gets you banned by Spain. 

While other chains have come and gone faster than a Premier League manager, McDonald’s has stayed the course. They’ve adapted to local tastes, trumpeting their use of British farmers and produce. It’s like they’re saying, “Look, we may be American, but we’re practically wearing tweed now!”

With plans for 200 new restaurants in the next four years, McDonald’s is expanding faster than a Brit’s waistline after a night at the pub.

Call it ‘Maccie’s’, ‘Mickey D’s’, or just crawl to your phone and order it for delivery, Rotten Ron is officially British now. 

5. Chipotle: The Burrito Bunch

Chipotle has been slowly but surely taking over London like a delicious, guacamole-laden invasion. They now have 17 locations across London and Greater London, proving that Brits are willing to pay extra for meat in a wrap as long as they can watch it being made.

Chipotle prides itself on having no frozen food, which in Britain is practically a superpower. Their menu boasts 53 ingredients, which is coincidentally the same number of words a British person uses to apologise for accidentally brushing against someone on the Tube.

While Chipotle may be overpriced and occasionally flavourless, it’s still leagues ahead of what passes for Mexican food in most of Britain. Let’s face it, when your country’s idea of spicy is a mild cheddar, any amount of jalapeño is going to seem exotic

Yes, it’s overpriced. Yes, the wraps are sometimes as bland as British weather. But for those who crave a customisable burrito that won’t kill you, it’s a decent option.

Honorable Mentions:

  • Gerry’s Hot Subs: For those times when you want a sandwich that doesn’t taste like it was made by someone who hates food. Founded by the guy who created Bodean’s BBQ, this Canadian institution serves up hot dogs, brisket, and poutine. Get in!
  • Detroit Pizza: With only 2 London locations, they have yet to deliver across the UK. Founded by a Canadian who missed authentic Michigan pizza. Because sometimes you want your pizza to be as thick as a Scouse accent.

Timmy No’s

While we’ve celebrated the successes, it’s only fair to pour one out for our fallen comrade: Tim Hortons.

Oh, Timmy’s. You tried, you really did. This Canadian donut shop decided to cross the pond and set up shop in the UK. But somewhere along the way, they seemed to have lost their map, their menu, and their minds.

Instead of bringing their iconic doughnuts and double-doubles to Britain, Tim Hortons inexplicably opened as a burger and fries joint. It’s like they got halfway across the Atlantic and thought, “You know what? Let’s just become an entirely different restaurant!”

To make matters worse, they avoided London initially altogether, focusing mainly on Scotland. Perhaps they thought the Scots wouldn’t notice the difference between a hockey puck and their hamburgers.

The menu at UK Tim Hortons would make any Canadian scratch their head in confusion. It’s as if they took everything that made Tim Hortons popular in Canada, threw it out the window, and replaced it with food that’s about as fresh and appealing as a used nappy.

The fact that most of their food is reportedly made in a microwave is the final nail in the coffee cup. Tim Hortons in the UK is to Canadian cuisine what haggis is to fine dining – a curious experiment that perhaps should have been left in the lab.

So, while we celebrate the triumphs of Wendy’s, Popeyes, and others, let’s take a moment to remember Tim Hortons UK. May it serve as a cautionary tale to all North American chains with dreams of British domination: know thyself, and for the love of poutine, stick to what you’re good at!

Wings?

Despite all these successes, one thing remains elusive: great wings. For some reason, the UK hasn’t quite figured out how to replicate the spicy, crispy, messy glory of a proper batch of buffalo wings. And don’t even get me started on the “North American” sections in UK grocery stores—if you’ve ever wondered how far off the mark a country can be about your favorite foods, just take a stroll down that aisle.

So, while these North American chains are making waves in the UK, there’s still room for improvement. We’re still on the hunt for truly great wings and perfectly cooked burgers. And let’s not even start on the abomination that is the “North American Food” section in UK grocery stores. (No, we don’t all subsist on Pop-Tarts and spray cheese, thank you very much.)

Word is Carl’s Jr will be opening here, as well as Dave’s Chicken, so we will wait and see how those go. Even Mary Brown’s Fried Chicken from Canada is looking to peck out some scratch in Blighty. Taste is coming to Britain!

That’s our list for The Best North American Food in the UK for 2024, but give us new places to eat that reflect authentic North American fare. We’ve judged wing and burger contests, and our main man Wade is an award-winning BBQ’r. We know what the haystack we are talking about!

So, next time you’re in the UK and feeling homesick for a taste of North America, fear not! You can now get your fix of familiar flavours, all while enjoying the uniquely British experience of queueing for hours in the rain.
God save the Queen, and pass the hot sauce!

If you want your restaurant featured, or would like to have us down to sample your fare, or promote your joint. Contact us!

Promote Your NFL Nights

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Are you a bar owner looking to attract NFL fans and create an unforgettable atmosphere for American football in your venue? Whether you’re in London, Manchester, Glasgow, or anywhere across the UK, now is the time to capitalize on the growing NFL fanbase. The NFL’s popularity in the UK is bigger than ever, and your bar could be the go-to spot for fans to catch the action.
As the largest NFL promoter in the UK, we’re here to help you promote your NFL nights!

At “NFL in London”, we’re here to help you make that happen. With over 17 years of experience promoting NFL events across the country, we know exactly what UK fans want. We are the most experienced NFL social group in the UK, run by authentic North Americans who live and breathe the game. From London games to Thanksgiving, the Super Bowl, and everything in between, we can help you transform your venue into the ultimate NFL destination. We even have some amazing wings recipes if that’s what you’re after!

Here’s how we can help you:

Unmatched Reach & Expertise

When you partner with us, you’re not just getting an ad space or a mention. You’re gaining access to a passionate community of NFL fans across the UK. Our website has a weekly reach of over 1.3 million, and our podcast attracts more than 30,000 listeners every month. If you want to promote your NFL nights and reach fans directly, we have the audience and expertise to do it.

Our deep understanding of the NFL and its fanbase means that we know what works. We can tailor your promotion to create the perfect NFL experience, from the menu to the entertainment. With over 17 years in the game, we’ve seen it all and can guide you to ensure your venue stands out.

No Venue Too Big or Small

It doesn’t matter if you own a large sports bar in London or a cozy pub in a small town – we work with bars of all sizes and budgets. Whether you’re looking to host regular NFL nights, promote special events like the Super Bowl, or even organize fundraisers around NFL games, we’ve got you covered. We just want to make sure what you do is authentic, and shows respect to the fans and the games.

We offer flexible packages tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re just starting out and need some guidance on hosting NFL events or already have an established NFL crowd and want to take it to the next level, we can create a marketing plan that works for you.
From one-0ffs, to full event listings every week on our events page, we got you covered!

Full Support for NFL Events

NFL in London isn’t just about promotion – we’re all about helping you create an authentic NFL experience. Our team can come to your venue and set up, host, and even run your NFL nights. We know what NFL fans love, and we’ll bring that energy directly to your bar.

From setting up fantasy football leagues to keep your patrons engaged all season long, to hosting NFL trivia nights that bring fans together, we’ve got all the tools to make your NFL nights a hit. We can even provide tips on crafting an authentic menu that will make your customers feel like they’re at an American tailgate party!

Promoting Major NFL Events

The NFL season is filled with can’t-miss events, and your bar can be the centre of the action. Whether it’s promoting the London games, Thanksgiving Day matchups, or the grand finale of the Super Bowl, we can help you make your venue the place to be for these huge events.

Fans flock to bars to watch their favorite teams during these events, and we’ll ensure your venue is on their radar. Let us handle the promotion and marketing, so you can focus on delivering an incredible experience to your customers.

We can even bring in some authentic North American comedians, so that your halftime show is full of laughs, and with continuous action.

Why Choose Us?

– Proven Expertise: Over 17 years of experience in NFL event promotion.

– Extensive Reach: Reach 1.3 million NFL fans weekly and 30,000 podcast listeners monthly.

– Comprehensive Support: From small pubs to large sports bars, we can work with any budget to create a custom marketing plan.

– Authentic Experience: With a team of North Americans who know NFL culture inside and out, we can help make your NFL nights truly authentic.

We’re passionate about growing the NFL community in the UK, and we want to help you be a part of it. If you’re ready to take your NFL nights to the next level, reach out to us today. Together, we can create an unforgettable NFL experience for fans across the UK.

Let’s Get Started!

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to become a go-to destination for NFL fans in your area. Contact us now to discuss how we can help promote your NFL nights and make your bar the home of American football in the UK.

Let NFL in London help you make your bar the ultimate destination for NFL fans. Get in touch now, so we can promote your NFL nights before the season starts in September!