As every soccer fan in the entire world knows, and has known for the last four years, the 2026 FIFA World Cup began Thursday, June 11, with the Mexico v. South Africa match, which Mexico won 2-0. (In our case, it was a terrific excuse to eat tacos and cheer ourselves hoarse alongside other revelers at La Calle in Fells Point, as pictured above.)
For the next 39 days across the USA, Canada, and Mexico, the greatest soccer (sorry, football) tournament of all will play out not only in stadiums across North America, but also in local bars, restaurants, sports hubs, taquerias, and community greenspaces.
Here are the best Baltimore-area hangouts to quench your cravings—for eats and drinks and for what most of the planet considers the best of all sports.
La Calle: If Mexico’s first game was any indication, this Fells Point taqueria—which uses a massive projector to play the action live—is going to be well populated the next few weeks. Snag a seat, tip back a beer, and chow down on bites that showcase the flavors of the chef/owners’ native Puebla. 623 S. Broadway.
Claddagh Pub: Billed as Canton’s original soccer bar, with roots dating back to 1995, Claddagh has long been known for its hyped-up watch parties. Head to the O’Donnell Square pub for static specials during every game, including $4 Michelob Ultras, $5 Stella Artois bottles, $5 Nutrl seltzers, and $18 Michelob Ultra buckets for a crew. 2918 O’Donnell St.
The Duchess: Hampden’s English-inspired pub was born for this. During every match, take advantage of 50 percent-off drafts and a special snack of the day. Games will be on as early as 3 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and as late as 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. 1002 W. 36th St.
Guilford Hall Brewing: Big screens and big beers. What more could you ask for? This community hub near Penn Station offers multiple spaces with indoor/outdoor seating and plenty of screens. Plus, game-day grub and discounts on its house-brewed pints. For the first Team USA game on June 12 🇺🇸, expect $18 Baltimore Pilsner and Guilford Lager pitchers, as well as a roster of food specials. 1611 Guilford Ave.
Milloh!: As an Argentine-fusion concept, it makes sense that this pop-up purveyor is going all out for the tournament. The first of many local watch parties it plans to host will be at Mobtown Brewing Company in Canton on June 12 🇺🇸. Pair your beer with a signature smash burger, and stay tuned via Instagram for more events to be announced soon. 4015 Foster Ave.
Monument City and Key Brewing: The breweries’ Highlandtown homebase is transforming from the Baltimore Brewers’ Haven to the Baltimore World Cup Haven for the next few weeks, when regulars can expect an interactive fan zone with live music, activities, and eats and drinks during all USA games and all matches that occur Thursdays through Sundays. In true Brewers’ Haven fashion, the teams will be collaborating on the watch parties with neighbors Motte, Urban Axes, and Old Line Spirits. And a new beer is dropping for the occasion, too. (Duh!) Be sure to sample the World Cup-inspired Extra Time, a 3.5 percent ABV summer ale. 1 N. Haven St.
R. House: The community gathering spot in the heart of Remington is ready to party. Try to arrive early to snag a seat at R. Bar for drink specials (like $8 Crushes for the first Team USA match on June 12 🇺🇸) and a prime view. 301 W. 29th St.
Sláinte Irish Pub: Soccer is religion at this Thames Street staple on the water in Fells Point. Here, the staff has dreamed up an entire menu of clever cocktails and “Sideline Snacks” to enjoy while rooting for your team. Among them are the vodka and lemon-infused Strawberry Striker served in a soccer chalice, the Final Whistle Margarita, and a flavored 34-oz. Hat Trick Crush bucket. Snacks are inspired by participating countries, with options like Rio yucca fries, Bavarian beer brats, jàmon and gruyere puffs, and, of course, all-American sliders. 700 Thames St.