Peru fans sing ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifier match between New Zealand and Peru. Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images
Although it isn’t as widely recognized as New York, Seattle, Portland or LA, Chicago is a soccer city. The Fire, the city’s fútbol club, has a passionate following in Chicago, and every summer some of the top European teams stop at Soldier’s Field to play exhibition games. With its diverse population and multiple soccer bars, you won’t have trouble finding a World Cup party in the Windy City. But we’ve still made it easy for you. Here are eight venues you’ll want to visit this WC.
1935 W. Chicago Ave.
This neighborhood dive in Ukranian Village is not only an official Fire supporters bar, but also the place where the largest Bayern Munich supporters group gathers. Its wide selection of beers and large patio attract fans of all ages, guaranteeing a fun atmosphere for the World Cup games.
1865 N. Milwaukee Ave.
The tournament is a great excuse to learn more about the cultures of different countries, especially when it comes to food. If you haven’t tried Costa Rican cuisine yet, this is your chance. Irazú will host viewing parties for the Ticos’ first round games. Watching Keylor Navas fly to make impossible saves while enjoying gallo pinto is as close to Costa Rican perfection as you can get. Come with cash in hand, because Irazú does not take debit/credit cards.
622 N. Fairbanks Court
The US didn’t qualify for the WC, but Timothy O’Toole’s – home of US supporter group American Outlaws – is still a spot you want to hit up. The bar will have viewing parties for all Mexico games, with a Bloody Mary bar, drink specials and free scarves. Since Mexico is the US’ other American team, this bar is an ideal place to support El Tri.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BjLwiWzlvvi/?taken-by=mexicoinchicago
2528 S. Kedzie Ave.
Now, if you are looking for an all-Mexican crowd, Mi Tierra is a safe bet. This restaurant will host viewing parties for all of Mexico’s games complete with a live DJ, food and drink specials, and prizes.
1934 W. Irving Park Road
You know a bar is committed to soccer when it hosts a FIFA 18 tournament every Monday. Needless to say, the Globe Pub will air all World Cup games. You can even take on its “Menu Challenge” and fill a bracket of the tournament to win prizes.
4920 W. Irving Park Road
A staple of Colombian cuisine in Chicago since 1991, this steakhouse is a great place to cheer for Los Cafeteros while you enjoy a picada. Order a refajo and feel instantly transported to a barbecue in Bogota.
100 W. Grand Ave.
Although the Irish were broken hearted when its team narrowly missed the World Cup, they know how to enjoy the biggest sports event on the planet. Fadó, which means “long ago” in Gaelic, will feature all matches. If you are a soccer expert you can test your skills with its World Cup Predictor game and win money to spend on drinks.
3801 N. Ashland Ave.
The official home of the Liverpool supporters group of Chicago, this bar has two rooms and two patios to watch the 64 matches of the World Cup. The pub is no stranger to big crowds. It filled to capacity three weeks ago for the Champions League final, so make sure to arrive early.