By Betha Merit
The Cock & Bull, British Pub in Seabrook, Texas is more than a bar and more than a restaurant. It is a place for fun and adventure, too.
Owners Jeanette and David Walker have created an environment that provides both a neighborhood feel where everyone knows your name, with exciting events that include live music, themed British Balls, Jack the Ripper Party, and sponsored 5K Pub runs. And they major on the food by having two full time chefs. Chef John specializes in their British fare, and Chef Brent Evans amazes with American style.
Upon entering you will be greeted by their welcoming staff; Gen who manages the restaurant side, or Mac or Nick, who man the bar. “Service is everything,” says owner, Jeanette, “if we’re not doing our job, we want to hear about it.” Jeanette and David have lived in Bay Area Houston for decades, and love to support local businesses and the community. They also own Redfish Island Marine (www.redfishislandmarine.com) in Kemah, Texas, which provides a variety of boat services from maintenance to pump-out to concierge and delivery services.
Jeanette and David are originally from Australia and England, respectively. “Small communities are what we know and love, and why we choose to live, work, and raise our kids here,” says Jeanette. “We realized there wasn’t a nearby restaurant or bar that captures the typical British flair, and sends out the message, ‘Come in, have fun, be happy.’”
So they opened The Cock & Bull to meet that need in early 2012.
Decidedly British and eclectic in style, from the dark wood anchor bar, to the rich, deep red, leather upholstery and wall coloring, the feel is distinctly UK, yet comfortably casual. And, the goal really is to provide service and fun. “Every time you come in, you will see something new that you haven’t seen before,” says Jeanette. There are flat screen televisions for watching the game, perhaps football (we call it soccer in the U.S.) or cricket or rugby. David and Jeanette are Chelsea Football Club fans.
In addition to the large bar area, complete with tables and booths, the restaurant has a dining room with a bar, grand piano, and elevated seating section. A Dart Room is open for guests, with bar table seating and flat screen television as well. And the Library/Coffee Lounge is another room that offers sofas and upholstered chairs for a more intimate setting. Games such as dominoes, barrel of monkeys, checkers, and chess, are available for guests. They even have a “Cock & Bull” game that is easy and quick paced.
The Cock & Bull is a place where you can come as you are anytime, after work or a work out. And it is a pub after all, so it is important to mention that they have 15 beers on tap, from local craft beer to British beer to American light styles, and the selections vary. The wine list also changes, and you are sure to find one that suits both your taste and wallet. For drinks on the soft side, iced teas are available and coffee, espresso, cappuccino, and hot tea are offered.
The menu features British fare from Fish & Chips to Shepherd’s Pie with English Cheddar Mash, Bangers & Mash with Gravy and Peas and more. For the American palate, fine dining options range from filet mignon to lamb chops to a variety of seafood and more. Elegant appetizers and salads complete the menu with creative, flavorful side dishes included with the main course selections. A late night menu and happy hour menu are also available. Beginning March 17, Sunday Brunch will be an option and include a traditional British Breakfast as well as a British Carving Station and other choices.
Live music is offered on Fridays and Saturdays, Monday is Trivia Night, and Jazz Wednesday is an idea in the works. “We like to support local musicians, and mix it up,” says Jeanette. “I am keen on new ideas, and welcome any musicians who want to audition, or check us out.”
Jeanette and David live life to the fullest. Both are runners, bicyclists, and athletes into adventure. David is an avid kitesurfer and powered paraglider fan. He also is part of the Men Who Cook annual local event. Their energy permeates the environment at The Cock & Bull, where you can come in and meet them. Located at 3659 NASA Parkway, Seabrook, Texas, 77586; phone: 832.864.2131; www.thecockandbullbritishpub.com.
