From the authentic London telephone booth in the front yard to the row of European flags on the roof, it is obvious before you even walk in the door that The British Pantry and Cafe is unusual. Located at 41153 John Mosby Highway in Aldie — just over the Fairfax County line — the store sells only British foods and gifts, which range in price from $2-25. The adjacent dining room serves traditional British meals.
Owned and managed by Gerri Middleton, The British Pantry and Cafe stocks a variety of British food products. There is a wide array of teas, which includes brands such as Yorkshire Teabags, Scottish Blend Teabags, and Lyons Teabags. British food items, such as Mackintosh's Yorkshire Toffees and Weetabix Cereal line the store's shelves. The remainder of the store contains a wide selection of British giftware, such as teapots and tea cozies, books and cookbooks, flags in varying sizes, clothing, and hats. The store is open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Sat. and 12-5p.m. on Sunday.
The cafe menu boasts of freshly baked scones, Shepherd's Pie, and the Full Monty, a popular breakfast dish. In addition to breakfast, the cafe serves lunch, or, diners can make reservations for an afternoon tea at the cost of $23.95 per person. "Afternoon teas are the most popular," says Middleton. "A group of women will come to the cafe and try on some of our hats while they have a 'tea party.'"
Middleton first opened The British Pantry in November of 1994. Originally, the shop was located in the reception area of her husband's British car company, where Middleton sold a small selection of British chocolates, bacon, and sausages. The business was a success and attracted many local Brits. The store moved to its current location two years ago. Middleton then opened the cafe, which is open from 11a.m. - 4p.m. Mon.-Sat., and 12-4 p.m. on Sunday. Due to the limited amount of seating, reservations are required. For more information or to make reservations, call 703-327-3215.