Where to Buy British Food in the USA
If you’re living in the USA and constantly searching for a proper cup of tea, real British biscuits, or the brands you grew up with, you’re not alone. Thousands of British expats, UK families, and British food lovers search every month for where to buy British food in the USA and often struggle to find authentic options locally.
This guide explains the best places to buy British food in America, what products are hardest to find, and why ordering British food online is now the most reliable solution.
Why British Food Is Hard to Find in the USA
Although American supermarkets are large and well-stocked, British food is often missing or altered.
Common challenges include:
- UK brands not stocked in US stores
- American reformulations that taste different
- Limited choice in international food aisles
- High prices in specialty import shops
For many expats, substitutes simply don’t compare to the real thing.
Best Places to Buy British Food in the USA
1. Local British & International Food Stores
Some major US cities have British or European food shops.
Pros:
- Immediate availability
- No shipping wait
Cons:
- Very limited product range
- Often expensive
- Inconsistent stock
- Rare outside big cities
These shops can be useful but are rarely a complete solution.
2. American Supermarkets (Limited UK Items)
Large US supermarkets may stock a few British-style products.
What you might find:
- British-branded tea (limited selection)
- Occasional biscuits or chocolate
Downside:
Products are often adapted for the US market and don’t taste the same.
3. Online British Food Stores (Best Option)
For most people, the best place to buy British food in the USA is online.
Online British grocery stores offer:
- Authentic UK brands
- Much wider product selection
- Nationwide USA delivery
- Carefully packed long-life foods
This option works whether you live in New York, Texas, California, or a rural area with no specialty stores.
British Food You Can Buy Online in the USA
British Tea & Hot Drinks
- English Breakfast Tea
- Earl Grey
- Yorkshire-style blends
- Decaffeinated UK tea
Tea is the most searched British product among expats in America.
Biscuits, Chocolate & Sweets
- Digestive biscuits
- Custard creams
- Rich tea
- British chocolate bars
- Traditional UK sweets
British chocolate is especially popular due to its smoother taste and different ingredients.
Pantry Staples
- British baked beans
- Gravy granules
- Curry sauces
- Stock cubes
- Marmite
These staples are difficult to replace with American alternatives.
Crisps & Snacks
- Classic UK crisp flavours
- British savoury snacks
- Pub-style crisps
Many flavours simply don’t exist in the US market.
Why Ordering British Food Online Works Best
British food delivery to the USA has grown rapidly because it solves nearly every problem expats face.
Key benefits:
- Genuine UK products
- No American reformulations
- One order, many favourites
- USA-wide delivery
- Ideal for expats outside major cities
For most people, it’s the easiest and most reliable way to buy British food in America.
Is It Legal to Buy British Food in the USA?
Yes. Most packaged British foods are legal to import into the USA, including:
- Biscuits and snacks
- Chocolate and sweets
- Tea and coffee
- Canned and jarred foods
Fresh meat and dairy products are restricted, which is why reputable sellers focus on shelf-stable items.
British Food Helps Expats Feel at Home
British food isn’t just about taste, it’s about comfort and identity.
A single parcel of British groceries can:
- Reduce homesickness
- Help children grow up with British flavours
- Make holidays feel authentic
- Turn everyday meals into reminders of home
For many expats, British food is an emotional connection to the UK.
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering where to buy British food in the USA, online British grocery stores are the clear winner. They offer the widest choice, authentic UK brands, and convenient delivery across America.
From tea and biscuits to snacks and pantry staples, ordering British food online keeps your connection to home alive wherever you live in the USA.
FAQs – Where to Buy British Food in the USA
Where can I buy authentic British food in the USA?
The most reliable option is online British grocery stores that ship directly to the USA, offering genuine UK brands and a wide selection.
Can I buy British food in American supermarkets?
Some US supermarkets carry limited British items, but selection is small and many products are reformulated for the US market.
Is British food delivery available across the USA?
Yes. Online British food stores typically deliver nationwide, including major cities and smaller towns.
What British foods do expats miss the most?
Tea, biscuits, chocolate, baked beans, crisps, and traditional pantry staples are the most missed items.
Is it expensive to order British food online?
Costs vary by order size and shipping, but online stores often make it cost-effective by bundling long-life products.
Is British food safe and legal to import into the USA?
Yes. Shelf-stable packaged British foods are generally legal and safe to import when purchased from reputable sellers.