The Best Soccer Bars in Philadelphia to Watch FIFA World Cup Matches
Philadelphia is a growing soccer city, and with FIFA fever taking over, there’s no shortage of places to catch a match. Which is quite lucky, because this isn’t a plop-down-on-the-couch event. No, no, it's a stand-up-when-someone-hits-the-post event. A spill-your-drink-after-a-90th-minute-goal event. A lose-your-voice-because-your-team-survived-extra-time event.
And, thank God for soccer fans, Philadelphia knows how to watch a tournament.
The city has spent years building a soccer culture that stretches far beyond Subaru Park. If you're looking for somewhere to celebrate, commiserate, or scream at a referee, these are some of the best soccer bars to do so in Philadelphia.
Lion Sports Bar
For pure soccer energy, begin with Lion Sports Bar. The Chinatown sports bar has embraced its role as one of Philadelphia's premier soccer destinations, decked out with dozens of TVs and a reputation for showing every major match.
Misconduct Tavern
Fans who want a classic sports bar experience with plenty of screens and a lively crowd should make their way to Misconduct Tavern, as both Center City locations remain a few of the most reliable game-day destinations. The combination of large viewing areas, food specials, and downtown locations make them an easy choice when major matches kick off.
Fadó Irish Pub
Few bars in Philadelphia have a stronger soccer reputation than Fado Irish Pub. Long known as a gathering place for Premier League supporters, Fadó regularly opens early for major international matches and has been repeatedly mentioned by local soccer fans as one of the city's best places to watch the sport.
Cavanaugh's Rittenhouse
Big screens and a central location make Cavanaugh's a solid option for World Cup viewing. Local soccer fans frequently mention the Rittenhouse location among places that consistently show major matches and draw a strong sports crowd.
New Deck Tavern
Soccer and New Deck Tavern go together like a late winner and a packed pub. The Scottish-inspired spot has been a fixture on Philadelphia soccer pub lists for years and remains one of the city's most authentic places to watch a match with fellow fans.
The Plough & The Stars
Old City's soccer home, The Plough & The Stars has built a loyal following among supporters groups over the years. With its long standing soccer culture and dedicated fan base, there’s no doubt this will be one of the city’s most visited watch party locations.
Brauhaus Schmitz
Brauhaus Schmitz has been one of Philadelphia's premier soccer haunts for years. Between the massive European beer selection, communal atmosphere, and loyal soccer following, it consistently appears on local and national lists of the city's best places to watch international matches.Tir na nÓg
Tir na nÓg has earned a reputation as one of Philadelphia's soccer-friendly Irish pubs. Alongside Fadó and Brauhaus Schmitz, local fans regularly recommend it as a destination for major international tournaments and European matches.
O'Neals Pub
A South Street favorite, O'Neals delivers the kind of neighborhood pub atmosphere that makes tournament soccer fun. Grab a drink and settle in for ninety minutes of stress.
Final Whistle
The best part about watching FIFA matches in Philadelphia is the crowd reactions, the chants, the heartbreak, the celebrations, and the feeling that every match matters. Whoever you’re cheering for, just make sure you’re doing it at one of these excellent picks.
Once the match is over and the celebrations (or heartbreak) settle down, keep the night going. Our article, Philadelphia's Next Great Night Out Starts With a Stand-Up Set, has the laughs you may need.
