What follows is our list of the best spots for watching football — not the made-in-America brand, the other kind — this month, no matter where your patriotism lies. The World Cup continues through July 11.
U.S.A.
Frankie’s Sports Bar and Grill. A staple for sports year round, Frankie’s is no different when the clock strikes FIFA every four years. And this year they’re going all out. Open for early games and with plenty of drink specials, Frankie’s also offers $1 shots anytime someone scores. Get there early — the standing-room-only crowd at the U.S. vs. England match looked like they could have used some seats after those two shots.
The Ginger Man. If you like a frosty brew with your soccer, and you go anywhere other than the Ginger Man to watch the World Cup, then we just assume you’re new to Dallas. That’s OK. That’s why we’re here: to tell you that the Boll Street bar will host its Eggs & Kegs party on Friday and June 23 at 8:30 am for the remaining early morning U.S. games of the first round. They’re still broadcasting any afternoon games, but their loyalty lies with the American side. If you also pledge your allegiance, you’ll be rewarded with eggs and beer — the breakfast of champions.
Trinity Hall Irish Pub. This place is like the Mecca of soccer watching in Dallas. They were one of the only pubs in Dallas in 2002 to show the games that were broadcasting as late as 3 am, 4 am, or 5 am (the event was held in South Korea and Japan that year). This time around, the games aren’t that insanely early, but Trinity Hall has still made no exceptions. They’ll remain open for all games throughout the remainder of the tournament, and they’re even clearing out tables and chairs because they firmly believe that more equals merrier.
McKinney Avenue Tavern. The MAT does sports well, and they’ve expanded their hours for the World Cup, open from 9 am to 2 am. Enjoy happy-hour drink specials, which include drafts and shot specials starting at $3. With a giant screen broadcasting the game surrounded by several other TVs everywhere you look, there isn’t a bad seat in the house.
England
The Londoner. If you’re a true England fan and want to surround yourself with like-minded folks, then the Londoner is the best local watering hole for the World Cup. Head to the authentic British pub for any and all games — they’ll be open. Enjoy $4.50 Stellas and $2.50 Coors Lights. If you’re English spirit is especially beaming with pride, order the Tower of London burger or some fish and chips. You can tell yourself it’s bringing your team good luck.
The Old Monk. We figure it’s common sense to suggest the Old Monk for English sports watching, but you can’t fault us for covering our bases, right? We’ll make up for our redundancy by filling you in on their drink specials. During all games, all Guinness, Harp, and Smithwick drinks will be $1 off. While they’re not opening early for most games, we can confirm that they will be open early for the U.S. games on Friday and June 23 at 8:30 am, and yes, brunch will be served.
Germany
Bavarian Grill. This cozy German grill is taking a calmer approach to World Cup viewing, but to each his own. If Germany’s your team, and you want to sit down in a diner with an authentic meal and not be interrupted by screaming sports fans, then Bavarian Grill has your name written all over it. They will show all Germany (and U.S. — how nice of them) games live, as well as other games throughout the tournament, and they humbly offer the traditional World Cup omelet or Bavarian cold cuts with fresh baked rolls and orange juice or coffee for $9.75.
The Netherlands
Henk’s European Deli & Black Forest Bakery. Although this Euro-diner serves everything from Bavarian omelettes and Polish sausages to Hungarian chicken and Lebanese bologna, Henk’s true loyalty lies with the red, white, and blue — of the Netherlands, that is. And it’s no secret, either. The Dallas Dutch have claimed Henk’s as their cheering post for homeland games, and conveniently so: the deli opens as early as 6 am for any Dutch games. There are daily breakfast and lunch specials alongside a humble two sizes of draft beers and wines by the glass, all under $4
Brazil/Argentina/Chile/Uruguay/Paraguay
Zaguan World Café and Bakery. We’re considering trading in our current team loyalty to get in on this great grub from south of the equator. (Kidding.) But if you’re a Latin American fan, you’re in luck. Zaguan opens early for the games and hosts watch parties using their big-screen TV. If it’s an early game, there are brunch or lunch specials. If it’s a later game, rest assured lunch specials await.
Greece
Stratos. This is the place for a Greece fan in search of authentic setting in which to enjoy the games. No, they won’t be open for the early games, but for any afternoon games, you’re golden. Choose from a long list of Greek wines that are half price on Wednesdays and Sundays after 5 pm. Pair that with some hummus while cheering for your homeland, and you have yourself a Grecian dream. Just don’t let the belly dancers distract you from the pitch.
