Chip Off the Old Block

When it comes to food, there are three things any self-respecting Englishman will search for no matter where in the world he finds himself: a good curry, a pint of bitter and a plate of fish and chips. While Baker St. Pub & Grill(5510 Morningside, 713-942-9900) doesn't serve curry, it does have excellent English beers and a plate of fish and chips ($9.75) worthy of any pub in the East End of London. Two flaky fillets of Icelandic cod are dipped in a beer batter that encases the fish when the exterior is fried to a smooth, crispy golden-brown. Steam gushes out as you break open each fillet. A pound of skin-on fries and lots of salt and malted vinegar add authenticity. Now if they only had an English newspaper to wrap it in…