Bangers and Mash, Bubble and Squeak--if you are familiar with these terms then you are either from the other side of the pond or you have visited the Lion and Rose English Pub on Broadway.

The Lion and Rose is a traditional pub that has been open in San Antonio for a little over a year and, in that short time, has become not only a place to see and be seen, but a place to enjoy some darned good food as well.

Good food in a pub? Is that possible? If it is an authentic pub, it isn't just possible, it's expected. "A pub should have great food, not just a great bar," says manager James MacKay. "There are a lot of places that call themselves a pub that are really just centered around the bar."

The term "pub" actually comes from the term "public houses" which in Europe were literally people's homes. They would hang out a shingle inviting people in to eat, drink and hang out in order to make some extra money. "That is why pubs are so comfortable," explains MacKay. "A pub is an atmosphere, a feeling, a place for people to get together."

Although you might not think of San Antonio as much of an English Pub town, the city has really embraced the Lion and Rose. It has drawn a large following from locals and European transplants alike. "I didn't know we had that many Europeans around, but they come out of the walls when they find a good place," says MacKay.

Part of what keeps them coming is the great menu, which combines authentic British fare with traditional American favorites. The Shepard's Pie is a crowd favorite and the Fish and Chips were declared by one patron to be "the best this side of the pond." Those who want it really authentic will love the aforementioned Bangers and Mash, a traditional British sausage made with the Lion and Rose's own special recipe and served with mashed potatoes. And the Bubble and Squeak? That is the name given to cabbage and mashed potatoes that are cooked together. The name comes from the sounds they make while cooking. Of course there are the usual steaks, sandwiches, soups and seafood, and there are daily specials. They even offer a private meeting room for conducting those working lunches. If you're not working, wash your meal down with one of the Lion and Rose's vast selection of beers. They boast a draft selection from all over Europe and the world. Guinness is the number 1 seller, but Stella Artois from Belgium is a wonderful choice for those who would like to try something different.

In addition to the great food and brew, folks love the Lion and Rose for the sports. There is not a seat in the house where you cannot see a television, and the Lion and Rose is one of the few (if not the only) places in town where you can watch the European soccer matches. "We get huge crowds for the soccer games," says MacKay. "A lot of the teams over there are really popular." The NFL and of course the Spurs are big crowd pleasers as well and, with so many televisions available, everyone can watch what they want.

For those who would rather play games than watch them, there are real (as opposed to electronic) dartboards and an antique pub billiards table. This table is unique in that it is very narrow and, unlike a pool table, it is played on only one end. This design allowed for it to fit easily into the narrow public houses in Europe. It also differs from pool in that it is based on a time and point system, but MacKay says it is easy to learn to play and that he or any other of the staff will be glad to teach guests.

In true English style, the Lion and Rose is the perfect place to hang out. With its dark wood, large bar and cozy seating, it provides an inviting atmosphere that is conducive to kicking back with friends.