By Joseph M. Conley, Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker
The FIFA 2022 World Cup is officially underway! The calendar of matches extends through December 18, providing plenty of opportunities to see the best of the best play.
Notable group stage matches include Portugal v. Ghana on November 24; USA v. England on November 25; Argentina v. Mexico on November 26; Spain v. Germany on November 27; and Brazil v. Switzerland on November 28. The knockout stages start on December 3, with the final taking place on December 18 at 10:00am E/T.
Whether you’re rooting for the United States—returning to the World Cup for the first time since 2014)—supporting any of the other 31 international teams, or just wanting to soak in the lively atmosphere, here are just a few of the best NYC bars and pubs to catch a match.
Manhattan
Legend’s and the Football Factory (Midtown)
Centrally located on 33rd Street between 5th and 6th Avenues, Legend’s is arguably the soccer-watching headquarters of NYC. It is home to over 30 NYC Supporter Clubs and claims to have the largest collection of football memorabilia in the country. Legend’s televises over 100+ live soccer matches each week, meaning it is well-equipped for the month-long World Cup tournament
Smithfield Hall (NoMad/Chelsea)
The “other” headquarters for soccer watching in Manhattan, Smithfield Hall is conveniently located on West 25th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues. It features ample TVs and friendly, fast bartenders who will help keep your nerves calm.
Buenos Aires Restaurant (East Village)
2022 is likely the last chance for Lionel Messi—the greatest footballer of all time—to lift the World Cup trophy. Buenos Aires NYC wants to know: Where will you be if that happens?
Brooklyn
Paddy’s (Park Slope)
Tucked away on 13th Street in Park Slope is Paddy’s Pub. Opened in 2015, this Irish pub has become the unofficial home of Brooklyn’s Arsenal FC supporters. Go Gunners!
Banter (Williamsburg)
Banter is unofficial football hub of Brooklyn. Named one of the 10 best sports bars in America by CNN, Banter features a great craft beer selection and savory pies. Located in Williamsburg, be sure to reserve your seat at the bar or in the extended Boot Room.
The Commissioner (Park Slope)
While not typically known as a football pub, The Commissioner knows how to throw a party. Located on 5th Avenue in Park Slope, the Commissioner’s friendly bartenders, beers on tap, and creative drinks—try the "Frosie O’Donnell"—make it a great choice to watch a big game.
Bar Tabac (Cobble Hill)
Calling all fans of Les Bleus! Bar Tabac is a lively neighborhood bistro located on bustling Smith Street in Cobble Hill. Every July, Bar Tabac serves as the anchor of the neighborhood’s massive Bastille Day festival. When France won the 2018 World Cup, the celebrations at Bar Tabac were epic. And given the high expectations of the French team in 2022, Bar Tabac will be hopping.
Queens
Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden (Astoria)
A community fixture in Astoria, the Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden is one of the largest outdoor drinking spaces in all of New York City. Even though this year's World Cup kicks off in November rather than June, Bohemian remains a great option for watching a match. Drink and food specials will be offered for select games.
Bar 43 (Sunnyside)
Bar 43 is an official pub partner of NYCFC. Multiple TVs and generous seating means you can bring a large group of friends.
The Bronx
Bronx Alehouse (Kingsbridge)
Bronx…ale…any questions? This Bronx mainstay has a wide selection of beers on tap, plenty of TVs and a large projector.