No matter who you’re supporting at this year’s World Cup, if you live in New York, you have more options than ever when it comes to viewing parties.
There used to be a time when finding a bar to watch the World Cup in New York felt like a scavenger hunt. But in the last 10 years, the number of soccer-specific bars in the city has grown exponentially. Other bars have taken note, and now it’s safe to say that you can walk into almost any bar on June 14 and you’ll be able to watch the inaugural game.
But not all bars are created equally. Here are some of the favorite dwellings of soccer fans in (and immediately surrounding) the city.
1
Legends
6 W. 33rd St., Manhattan
When the beloved Nevada Smiths closed its doors in 2015, Legends was one of the places who picked up the mantle. Now, it hosts more than 30 supporter clubs from all over the world, including River Plate and Sao Paulo, which makes for a diverse crowd for international soccer games. Its location, just steps from the Empire State building, also attracts tourists.
2
Boca Juniors
81-08 Queens Blvd., Queens
It doesn’t get more Argentinian than Boca Juniors. This steakhouse – named and decorated in honor of the popular Buenos Aires club – is one of the favorite places of Argentinians to watch its national teams (unless you’re a fan of crosstown rivals River Plate.) For Argentina games, the fans sing and cheer with such enthusiasm that you’ll feel as though you’re in La Bombonera.
3
El Basurero
32-17 Steinway St., Astoria
Although Colombians have plenty of places to watch its team take on Japan, Senegal and Poland, the kitschy decor of El Basurero – with bikes, traffic signs, and all sorts of stuff hanging from the ceiling – gives an extra touch of nostalgia that makes for a fun atmosphere. Order a pandebono and enjoy the dance moves of James Rodriguez and co.
4
Syndicated Bar (June 16 and 17)
40 Bogart St., Brooklyn
On June 16 and 17, you can turn up with Remezcla at Syndicated, a bar that has its own movie theatre. Starting at 11 a.m., you can join us to cheer on Peru, Mexico, and Brazil. Learn more here.
5
The Well (June 23)
272 Meserole St., Brooklyn
If you want more Remezcla, you can also join us at The Well on June 23, where we will see El Tri take on South Korea at 11 a.m.
6
Our Wicked Lady (June 24)
153 Morgan Ave., Brooklyn
The Remezcla Sports Club will meet at Our Wicked Lady starting at 1 p.m. for the Colombia-Poland match.
7
Mulligan's
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10204565463816219&set=pb.1822536096.-2207520000.1528828223.&type=3&theater
159 1st St., Hoboken, New Jersey
In a town so passionate for soccer that it has a members-only, social club for Juventus fans, Mulligan’s is one of the best places to catch a game. Make sure to check out the wooden World Cup trophy at the entrance. Too bad you can’t lift and kiss it.
8
Zum Schneider
107 Ave. C, East 7th Street, Manhattan
This Bavarian-style bierhaus was one of the best places to watch the World Cup back in 2014 and since Mexico is playing the current champions, it might be a good option to see the competition up close. The venue will have a special World Cup menu and will raffle a trip to Germany for two among its patrons.
9
Woodwork
583 Vanderbilt Ave., Brooklyn
This soccer bar has made a name for itself thanks to its neighborhood bar atmosphere and creative menu. Although it’s usually frequented by Arsenal supporters, it markets itself as friendly to all who enjoy soccer.
10
Paley Center
25 West 52 St., Manhattan
If you want to watch the World Cup on the big screen (the way it was meant to be seen), then you can head to the Paley Center in New York or Los Angeles. Paley will show Fox’s broadcast, and for Latin American games, it will switch to Telemundo. Learn more here.