Throw on Your Jersey and Get Ready to Chant, “U-S-A!”
Undeniably one of the greatest spectacles in all of sports, the FIFA World Cup stands apart in its prestige, competition and popularity on a worldwide level. And with the tournament taking place all the way on the other side of the globe in Qatar, soon, millions will be gathering in pubs, parks, homes and even stadiums to watch “the beautiful game” at its highest level. But what makes the World Cup really special is that it is truly an international spectacle—one that unites nations and sends the eyes of the world to a single place to share in a single moment. So whether you’re a casual soccer fan or a fútbol connoisseur, read on to hear about our picks for the best places to gather and watch the 2022 FIFA World Cup right here in Orange County.
El Torito
As far as food, fútbol and fanfare goes, El Torito, one of Orange County’s premier Mexican restaurant chains, does not disappoint. With a pledge to broadcast all US and Mexico World Cup games this fall—even opening the doors early in case of a morning kickoff (at the Orange and Anaheim locations)—as well as an excellent array of authentic Mexican cuisine, El Torito serves as a perfect place to gather with friends and catch all the action. There will be amazing food and drink specials ranging from $4 to $10, which include everything from margaritas and draft beers to Mexican pizza and more. And with multiple big-screen TVs displayed throughout the cantina, there’s not a bad seat in the house!
Location: Multiple OC Locations
The Harp Inn
Capturing all the charm of England’s neighbors to the north, The Harp Inn is Orange County’s premier Irish pub, and no true pub experience would be complete without excellent beer, live music and a host of passionate fans cheering on their favorite international team. Luckily, The Harp Inn in Costa Mesa has all three in abundance, and with nearly every World Cup match airing inside their quaint yet jovial restaurant, it’s the perfect place to gather with your mates, grab a beer and cheer on your home nation.
Location: Costa Mesa
12/20
Mozambique
From Nov. 21 until Dec. 18, head straight to Mozambique in Laguna Beach for some epic World Cup watch parties. There’s a $10 cover, and you’ll receive coffee or tea along with donuts and croissants for these morning games! Bar beverages are also available for purchase. After watching the game, head up to the rooftop for ocean views and a refreshing cocktail. You’ll want to cheers to that!
Location: Laguna Beach
The Dog Pawrk Brewing Company
There’s no place like a local brewery to cheer on your favorite international soccer team. The Dog Pawrk Brewing Company has no shortage of beer and good vibes for the big event. Plus, they have special hours to accommodate all 11 a.m. World Cup matches. Be sure to take a peek at their Instagram to view their most up-to-date schedule. Did we mention you can bring your pup?!
Location: San Juan Capistrano
The Olde Ship
Paying perfect homage to the lively, thriving British pub scene, Fullerton’s The Olde Ship has all the atmosphere, energy and appetizing entrees that any fútbol fan could want. With nearly 30 years of experience under its belt, The Olde Ship prides itself on providing a quintessential pub experience at an exceptional level of quality. With special deals on pints as well as British favorites, such as their crispy, chef-forward take on fish and chips, The Olde Ship is the perfect place for those looking to watch the World Cup with an ice-cold beer in hand while surrounded by a crowd of cheering, passionate fans.
Location: Fullerton
Acapulco Restaurant y Cantina
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With mouthwatering specials nearly every day of the week, fresh, authentic cuisine and some of the most decadent and extravagant cocktails in all of OC, Costa Mesa’s Acapulco Restaurant y Cantina is the perfect place to settle in and cheer on your home nation. Featuring ongoing weekly specials, including $3 Margarita Mondays, daily happy hour and Taco Tuesdays, it’s easy to see how this OC staple has been able to keep customers coming back since 1960. Don’t forget to try their marg served tableside in a freshly carved pineapple chalice!
Location: Costa Mesa
Phoenix Club
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Known primarily for its riotous annual Oktoberfest celebration, Anaheim’s Phoenix Club is a one-of-a-kind German banquet hall. Starting on Nov. 27, the Phoenix Club will be hosting a lively, big-screen watch party inside their very own German pub, The Bierstube. Here, visitors can watch the games on a massive projector screen and grab a stein of their favorite German brew. Additionally, visitors can enjoy authentic Bavarian classics like bratwurst, pretzels and pub cheese while taking part in all the fanfare that the Phoenix Club has to offer.
Location: Anaheim
