Famed for their lively atmosphere and dedicated schedule showing all the games a sports fan could wish for, sports bars have become increasingly popular around the world. From taverns in Paris to an Eagles bar in Philadelphia, we’ve rounded up some of the best sports bars.
Use our guide to catch a game, eat hearty pub food and mingle with other sports fans abroad…
Café Kick, London
A former toyshop in Exmouth Market, Café Kick opened its doors in 1977 and became an instant favourite with the locals. Known as the home of table football, punters can do more than just watch their team try and score on one of their 5 big screen TVs. With their selection of world beers, a daily happy hour from 4-7pm and a delicious lunch menu on offer, you can easily spend an entire day here. Look around the bar to discover the sports memorabilia that covers the walls and all the flags that hang from the ceiling. Our tip: Check out the cafe’s counterpart, Bar Kick in Shoreditch too.
View this post on Instagram
Green Route, Stop: British Museum (Southbound)
Stout Flagship, New York
New York City’s largest Irish pub doesn’t disappoint. Located just steps away from Madison Square Garden, this three-story, towering establishment is home to over 150 bottled beers, 25 drafts and more than 65 Irish whiskies. It also has a menu full to the brim with all the hearty bar food you’d expect like burgers, steaks, pizza and fish & chips. What’s more, in addition to the numerous televisions dedicated to the sports channels (36 to be precise), there are pool rooms, dart alleys and private rooms complete with karaoke machines. Go here if you’re a sports fan wondering what to do in NYC.
View this post on Instagram
Blue Route, Stop: Madison Square Garden
The Moose, Paris
Perfect for drinking draft beers and watching sports, The Moose is a late-night Canadian bar worth popping into. There are 14 flat screen TVs dotted around the bar that showcase the very best in North American sporting events. And when you get thirsty, there are a range of IPAs, lagers, stouts and pale ales to choose from. If you’re travelling with someone who prefers wine or cocktails, there’s an entire selection of those too. Highlights from the food menu include the poutine, chicken wings and any of the homemade hamburgers. There’s something for everyone in this warm and friendly Paris tavern.
View this post on Instagram
Red Route, Stop: Notre Dame
Cheers Bar, Sydney
Having the philosophy that sports fans don’t sleep, Cheers Bar is one of the only sports bars in Sydney to open 24 hours. The most popular time to visit Cheers is around 9pm although happy hour is from 4-7pm daily and on Mondays to Thursdays there’s a selection of meals available for $12. The upstairs mezzanine area of Cheers has its own bar, as well as pool tables, high tables and lounge seating perfect for large groups of friends. 80s Proof sees the basement level of Cheers transformed into a slick and modern area that’s ideal for those who want to focus on the food and drink rather than the sports. Wherever you choose to grab a table at Cheers, the friendly staff and lively ambience are guaranteed to make you feel at home.
View this post on Instagram
Red Route, Stop: Chinese Gardens/Chinatown
Chickie's & Pete's, Philadelphia
Proud partners of the Philadelphia Eagles, Chickie’s & Pete’s is usually full of locals wanting to show support for their team. Whether you’re passing through Philly or happen to be a fan of soccer yourself, we recommend checking out the Spruce Street branch for an authentic American experience. Food is just as important as sports here, so if haven’t heard of crabfries, you’re in for a treat at Chickie’s and Pete’s. Feast on crinkle-cut French fries sprinkled with a secret blend of crabby spices all served with a cheese sauce that’s perfect for dipping. With delicious crab being the focal point of the menu, most people go for lunch and end up staying for dinner too.
View this post on Instagram
Blue Route, Stop: Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Scholars Lounge, Rome
A highlight of Rome’s nightlife, Scholars Lounge has been attracting crowds since it opened in 2005. Known as the most successful bar in Italy, those who pay it a visit can expect to watch sports from around the world on one of their 24 big screen TVs. Attracting more than just sports fans, Scholars is also home to a weekly live music night, karaoke sessions and an unrivalled pub quiz that sees locals and tourists coming together to compete for the top prize. Constantly evolving and pushing the boundaries for a bar in Rome, expansion is always on the cards at Scholars and no two visits are the same. Our tip: If you’re looking for a pint of Guinness in Rome; this place is your best bet.
View this post on Instagram
Red & Purple Route, Stop: Piazza Venezia
There you have it, our list of some of the best places to watch sports and drink craft beer or lager to your heart’s content. Choose any of these locations and confidently travel the world without ever having to miss your team on the TV. And when the desire to sightsee creeps in, be sure to hop aboard a Big Bus tour. With routes in over 20 world-famous cities, it’s the best way to take in all the landmarks and attractions at your own leisure.
