Today, we woke up in Denver but had lunch in England… without flying there. We just drove south about 65 miles to The Broadmoor to enjoy the traditional food in an authentic English pub, The Golden Bee. As one of 11 restaurants at this world-class resort, this one actually dates back to the early 1800s in London.
It first was shipped to New York City’s British district in the 1940s, then was found in a Chicago storage unit in 1958. Three years later, it was transported to Colorado and remains as an authentic pub to this day, from its pressed metal ceiling and its etched glass windows to its striking African mahogany wooden bar and gaslight fixtures. We lunched in style, surrounded by yards of beer, Pimm’s Cups, and a few local Brits who visit here often to get a taste of jolly old England.
We tucked our napkins to our chins and dug into a vast array of pub food we’d enjoyed in past trips to England, New Zealand and Australia. First, there was a hearty bowl of Devonshire Cheddar Cheese Soup so thick the spoon literally stood straight up. This was followed by huge bowls of Chicken Pot Pie and Shepherd’s Pie that were perfectly cooked, delicious and accompanied by freshly baked marble rye bread. We also munched on a Tuna Salad Sandwich on Cranberry Walnut Raisin Bread, which was equally yummy.
In the grand British tradition of carrying on to the very end, we ordered the English Trifle. It was three against one and the Trifle never had a chance as we devoured the chunks of white cake, custard, blueberry, raspberry and strawberry –– all topped with thick whipped cream.
With moderate prices ($8.50 to $11.95) for lunch or dinner, an authentic atmosphere, attentive service, and a chance to dine in a 19th century room, if you’re anywhere near Denver or Colorado Springs, a trip to the Golden Bee is worth the drive for a memorable meal.
Plus, it’s a centuries apart from the ordinary because it’s located on the hallowed grounds of The Broadmoor, truly one of the world’s great resorts.
W: The Golden Bee at The Broadmoor.
A: 1 Lake Avenue (next to the International Center), Colorado Springs, Colorado 80906
T: (719) 471-6188 — reservations are not necessary.
Hours: 11:30 am to 1:30 am daily.