Chicago is a city of bars. Fancy cocktail bars? Got ’em. Neighborhood dive bars? Every street corner basically. Sports bars? Take your pick. But another, very vibrant subset of the sports bars category sits Soccer Bars and trust us when we say Chicago has those in abundance as well. With the 2022 World Cup coming to a conclusion this weekend, we’ve put together a short list of our favorite footy watering holes for you and your lads to catch the Final match. But first, here’s your quick primer on what’s gone on during the tournament this year, and what you need to know heading into Sunday.
The United States competed but ultimately sucked. It didn’t ‘come home’ for England. Morocco has been the surprise of the tournament, having not conceded a goal yet and faces France in the semifinal for a chance to play Sunday. Germany went home early, so did Mexico, Belgium, and Denmark. The Final Four playing for glory are Argentina, Croatia, France, and Morocco. Two will move on, and here’s where you can watch them.
Fadó Irish Pub
100 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60654
When it comes to centrally-located soccer pubs in Chicago Fadó in River North is the crown jewel. They’ve dubbed themselves the ’22 Cup Headquarters, offering everything from World Cup Fantasy competitions with cash prizes, curated food and beverage menus, and get this, kids are allowed as long as they’re accompanied by an adult. Soccer is a global family event, and Fadó knows that. Seating is first come, first serve so get there early and start your Sunday of fright at Chicago’s best soccer bar.
The Globe Pub
1934 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60613
The Globe is a neighborhood pub & sports bar with European soccer on TV, a jumbo beer list & British fare. I personally have been here for soccer matches and would recommend highly recommend stopping by to catch a match. It’s a smaller cozy atmosphere, but so worth it.
Graystone Tavern & The Rambler
3441 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
4128 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Red Door Tavern Group locations The Graystone Tavern in Wrigleyville and The Rambler Kitchen + Tap in North Center will host viewing parties for most World Cup 2022 games beginning Monday, November 21. Both locations will open early for 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. games. For every World Cup game day, both Graystone Tavern and The Rambler will feature themed specials like an “Around the World” wings and shots menus.
Cleos Bar and Grill
1935 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
East Village mainstay Cleo’s is the kind of bar that is unapologetically dive-y yet is in a class all its own. An ivy-covered, 1,200 square-foot patio offers a respite from game-day crowds (sometimes). It is Chicago’s home of international soccer. They even post schedules of each Euro game that can be found here so you can make your plans accordingly.
Featured Image Credit: Papergirl PR