A new British pub just opened in downtown Colorado Springs – aptly named The Brit Pub – and it’s sure to be a hit.

For starters, let’s talk location. The Brit Pub is located directly next to Weidner Field – the stadium for the Switchbacks soccer team – and even offers a view of the pitch from its second floor. While it’s the perfect spot for pre-gaming or a post-game beer, it’s already clear that soccer won’t be the only aspect of The Brit Pub that draws patrons in (though The Brit Pub will be opening early for futbol around the world, serving a full brunch).

Behind a large wooden door, good vibes await. Upon entering, guests are greeted with a red phone booth like those in London, sure to offer a popular photo op while also serving as a preview for the rest of the decor.

Wood heavy with moody lighting, The Brit Pub indeed captures the feeling of a British pub, perhaps with a bit of a sports bar flair.

Tap offerings include Strongbow, Guinness, Smithwick’s, Harp, Kilkenny, and more, plus there’s a tasty cask ale for those with a palate for beer made the ol’ fashioned way. It’s also worth noting that drafts are served up as Imperial pints.

That’s enough about the setting though – let’s talk food.

Whatever fare one expects from a British pub, The Brit Pub likely meets that and exceeds it. The kitchen aims to capture “a real taste of Britain,” and the expansive menu shows just how special cuisine from that part of the world is.

The Brit Pub probably hasn’t been open long enough to establish true ‘fan favorites’ quite yet, but here’s my best guess as to what will become the restaurants’ most popular dishes: steak and ale pie; chicken tikka masala; bangers and mash; braised beef shortrib; sausage rolls; scotch eggs; poutine; Welsh rarebit; tikka chips; and of course, a massive portion of fish ‘n’ chips.

But wait, there’s more – that list doesn’t even touch the ‘From the Grill’ section that features various steaks, the ‘Traditional Sunday Roasts’ (prime rib, chicken, lamb, pork belly), desserts (tarts, a crumble, and sticky toffee pudding) or the expansive brunch menu, which includes salmon Wellington, a breakfast pie, a full English breakfast, and more. At time of publishing, the menus feature more than 50 items combined, and any pick seems like it would be a win.

Screaming English authenticity from the food to the decor to the ownership, The Brit Pub is sure to be a hit. While it only opened late-October, it’s sure to be a place that captures an eclectic mix of diners – from those seeking a neighborhood spot for a pint to those looking for a fancy night out to soccer fans and everyone in between.

If I seem excited about this spot in my writing, it’s because I am. I haven’t been this excited about a new spot that’s opened up in Colorado Springs in a long time. The Brit Pub brings something new and much-needed to the local downtown dining scene, and I’ve got no doubt it will become a place where a sense of community forms over food and drink.

It’s also worth noting that those seeking out authentic British cuisine who are looking for a quicker ‘grab and go’ option should swing by Codswallop! on the western end of Old Colorado City. It’s part of the same ownership group with menu items including fish ‘n’ chips, meat pies, sausage rolls, and more.