"C'est anglais, mais c'est bon." I smiled when I saw the latest ad for McVitie's Digestive Biscuits on the métro. My (French) wife finds it hilarious too. She keeps quoting the other line on the poster: "Croquez Anglais sans rougir!" Then she tries to bite my neck. Of course, the ad is based on the cliché that English food is terrible. But French people who still believe that are usually basing their opinion on one visit to England when they were schoolchildren. If English food were truly bad, the Champs-Elysées branch of Marks & Spencer would not be packed with Parisians loading up on curry sauce, scones and marmalade.
I love French food, but I can't honestly say I prefer pot-au-feu or choucroute to roast beef or fish and chips. I would also point out that the London restaurant scene is vibrant and innovative. Next time you're there, try Hix Soho, Tramshed or The Wolseley. A couple of weekends ago I took my wife to a pub called The Newman Street Tavern, where we ate like royalty (venison with pepper sauce) and received service to match. However, I have to admit that the average English person lacks the true passion for food that most French people have. I once overheard two Parisian businessmen arguing in the street over which restaurant they should go to for lunch. Their final choice was based solely on the quality of the bread. Now that's a food culture.
