Excitement is building as the FIFA World Cup kicks off on June 11th. Soccer fans around the globe are gearing up for the event.
For the first time in three decades, it’s easier for American football enthusiasts to catch a game without traveling far.
The tournament is co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with 11 out of 16 venues located in the U.S. MetLife Stadium in New Jersey will wrap up the festivities by hosting the final on July 19, 2026.
The U.S. team will begin its pursuit of World Cup success on June 12th against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
However, many people might be more focused on teams like Spain, who are favorites alongside France, England, and Brazil, the latter of which will face Morocco at MetLife on June 13th.
It seems the World Cup is quite accessible for New Yorkers this time around, yet ticket prices can still be steep, starting at around $2,500.
To help soccer fans in the tri-state area enjoy the tournament without breaking the bank, a selection of great bars has been gathered.
Perfect for: Fans who enjoy soccer without a specific team in mind.
Football Factory at Legends in Midtown
No home team? No problem. Football Factory (6 W. 33rd St.) welcomes supporters of 38 different clubs, ensuring every match is shown, resembling a gathering of a soccer-focused United Nations.
“We’re excited to welcome fans from all over,” said owner Emmett Keenan. “If you can’t make it to MetLife, this is definitely the next best spot.”
Though it may seem crowded, with over 50 TVs across three levels—plus large projectors and outdoor screens—the venue is fully equipped for the influx of fans. Alternatives for the team-less include places like Red Lion on Bleecker Street and Houston Hall on Houston Street.
Perfect for: Dedicated supporters of Team USA
Rivercrest, Queens
Feel that team spirit?
Despite the U.S. not being traditionally seen as a soccer powerhouse, Rivercrest (33-15 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria) serves as a home for U.S. soccer fans. It’s where the American Outlaws, an unofficial supporter group for both the men’s and women’s national teams, gather.
“When the Outlaws show up, there’s a real sense of community,” co-owner Ciara Hunter shared. Rivercrest features 18 TVs and a large projector screen, and they open early or stay late based on game schedules. Fans can also score special deals, like a bucket of five Miller Lite for $26 as a nod to 2026.
Perfect for: Catching Messi’s potential farewell
Boca Juniors, Queens
Fans are hoping to witness Lionel Messi’s last World Cup adventure. Unfortunately, his opening match on June 16th against Algeria in Kansas City isn’t accessible for Tri-State supporters.
No worries though. They can enjoy the atmosphere at Boca Juniors (81-08 Queens Blvd., Elmhurst), named after the famous Argentine club, filled with spirited fans and memorabilia, including images of soccer legends. Dine on delicious skirt steak, chimichurri, empanadas, and more while cheering Messi on.
Perfect for: Witnessing the most successful World Cup squad
Beijia Flor (Long Island City)
New York is a fantastic place to feel connected to your favorite team’s culture without leaving the city.
Beijia Flor, a Brazilian bar and restaurant in Long Island City (38-02 29th St.), is a prime spot to watch Brazil, the team with the most World Cup victories. They will kick off their tournament against Morocco on June 13th.
Fans can enjoy local delicacies like crispy tapioca and top sirloin while savoring every moment on the venue’s giant screens with a caipirinha in hand.
Perfect for: British fans at heart
Smithfield Hall, Hell’s Kitchen
You can feel like you’re part of a World Cup celebration at Smithfield Hall (138 W. 25th St.) in Hell’s Kitchen.
Known as the “home of English football in NYC,” this bar is popular with Union Jack-clad fans, but it hosts various World Cup matches as well. Its diverse menu includes everything from wings to an all-day Irish breakfast.
Perfect for: Enjoying the games with the world’s top team
Socarrat Paella Bar, New York
The Spanish tapas bar, with three locations in Chelsea, Nolita, and Midtown East, will be airing all matches featuring the Spanish team, along with other World Cup games. Instead of mundane beer promotions, they offer special deals on delectable Iberian dishes.
Their game day offerings include four incredible tapas for the Preliminary Pack and a combo pack featuring tapas and paella for the final.
Perfect for: Classy French soccer enthusiasts
Felix, Soho
If sports bars feel too casual to you, consider Felix (340 W. Broadway) to cheer for Team France.
This location will be particularly inviting with its traditional French menu. As France takes on Senegal at MetLife on June 16th, the atmosphere promises to be filled with camaraderie and exquisite cuisine.
“This isn’t just about watching a game,” they noted on Instagram. “It’s about celebrating every goal together with great food and vibrant company.”
Perfect for: A viewing party for Ronaldo’s milestones
Portugal Bar & Restaurant
New York’s diverse bar scene reflects many cultures, but for Portuguese fans, the most lively scene is in Newark, just across from MetLife Stadium.
Portugalia Bar & Restaurant (280 1/2 Ferry Street) broadcasts every match of the Portugal team and is the perfect setting to witness Cristiano Ronaldo playing presumably his final World Cup.
Though he might not be in peak form anymore, the food remains top-notch, featuring dishes like grilled steak and savory barbecue chicken.
Perfect for: German-style beer celebrations
Black Forest, Brooklyn
For a true German soccer watching experience, plenty of beer and traditional food are essential. Black Forest in Fort Greene (and another location in Cobble Hill) provides both, featuring delicious Bavarian beer served in boot-shaped glasses.
Fans can enjoy the games on large screens in the Fort Greene venue, while the Cobble Hill location offers a cozier viewing option with private outdoor booths each equipped with their own TV.
Entry is $12, guaranteeing access, communal seats, and a welcome drink.
