North Texas store kicks off England’s World Cup match with authentic British snacks
As North Texas gears up for Wednesday’s FIFA World Cup match between England and Croatia at Dallas Stadium, one local business is bringing a taste of Great Britain to the area.
The British Emporium first opened in Grapevine in 1992 when a pair of friends who moved here to North Texas in the ‘80s wanted a good cup of tea and some biscuits to go with it.
“The whole thing started after a cup of hot tea, and that still is the hottest item,” owner Sheela Bailey told the Star-Telegram. “People do go abroad, and they visit Great Britain, and they find a tea or marmalade or cookie that they love, and they are so charmed to find it in a vintage British store here in Grapevine.”
The store has become a community gathering place for expats and North Texans who want to experience authentic snacks they had during a trip or who want to try the latest viral English food trend on TikTok.
On special occasions, customers may also be greeted by a corgi named Teddy, who is the unofficial mascot of the store. The corgi mascot is a nod to Queen Elizabeth II, who loved the breed and was known to keep many as companions throughout her reign.
During the World Cup, the store also has snacks and fan gear available. The flagship store is located at 140 North Main St., and its proximity to DFW Airport means the shop has become a place for tourists to visit throughout the tournament.
“Having England play just down the street from our store is a very special occasion for our customers and us,” Bailey said. “We’re looking forward to welcoming supporters, helping them gear up for the match, and giving visiting fans a taste of home while they’re here.”
Store employee Xavier Flieringa, whose grandfather Johan Flieringa was a rookie player for the Dutch team, said soccer has always been a big part of his life.
The store will be playing the match and will have meat pies, pigs in blankets and other snacks. Those items are available in the store in the freezer ready to bake.
Shoppers can also find everything from black teas and chocolate to jam to spread a “little bit of English sunshine on your toast” at both the Grapevine and Richardson locations.
“The biscuits, the shortbread, we have essential British groceries like cereal, we have all the condiments to HP sauce,” Bailey said. “We have a wealth of pickles, and even the snack section is very popular. The British potato chips in weird and wonderful flavors, snacks in crazy shapes, people really miss all that.”
This story was originally published June 17, 2026 at 1:41 PM.