World Cup: Where To Watch It In Toronto

I still vividly remember watching my first World Cup game. Surrounded by a sea of Italians at my uncle’s house in Montreal, I went through every emotion known to mankind. It was, in all likelihood, one of the most intense World Cup finals of all time: the Brazil vs Italy final in 1994. Having only lived in Canada for a couple of years, it was also my first experience watching a sporting event en masse. And although the game left me with tears streaming down my face (Brazil defeated Italy 3-2), my love for football was ignited in that living room. Not much has changed since that first experience, the same emotions rush through me when I watch the World Cup here in Toronto. Filled with diehard fans supporting every participating country, our bars and restaurants become the living rooms of our city. Here are a few of my favourite spots:

  ITALY Café Diplomatico 594 College St.

The Vibe: If you want to be in the heart of all the action, there’s nowhere else in Toronto where you’ll feel completely engulfed by fans. Thousands of Italian supporters gather at the corner of College and Clinton to cheer on their beloved team. The patio is lined with big screens and fills up fast. This year the resto also plans to broadcast the games at The Royal.

What to Eat/Drink: Sangria, Pizza (also being served at The Royal) and Spicy Mussels.

  PORTUGAL Bairrada Churrasqueira 1000 College St.

The Vibe: A relaxed, family-friendly backyard oasis (think European beer garden). Portuguese supporters huddle together at the picnic tables to watch the games unfold on the outdoor screens. Don’t let the zen-like garden fool you, the fans and staff are incredibly passionate about football and are quite animated during the games.

What to Eat/Drink: Flaming Sausage, Sardines and Frango no Churrasco (BBQ chicken) with their house-made peri-peri sauce. Sumol for the kids!

  BRAZIL Copacabana Brazilian Steakhouse 230 Adelaide St. West

The Vibe: Okay, I’m cheating a bit with this one. While I haven’t watched a World Cup game at Copacabana on Adelaide (the resto just opened a few months ago), I predict it will be a hot spot this year. Why you ask? It’s a Brazilian restaurant (host country), they serve all-you-can-eat grilled meats and did I mention that they have beautiful samba dancers? Expect a celebration of all-things-Brazil. The steakhouse has plenty of TVs upstairs and also plans to project the games on a big screen.

What to Eat/Drink: Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon, Picanha, Salmon and the Moroccan Seasoned Chicken. Oh and definitely try the Blue Abacaxi and Caipirinha cocktails.

  ARGENTINA Sky Ranch 2473 Dufferin St. 

The Vibe: It’s not much to look at from the outside, but as soon as you step foot into this Argentine restaurant you’ll know why it’s on my list. Proudly donning their Messi jerseys, locals crowd around a small TV at this charming steakhouse to cheer on their team. It’s cozy, unpretentious and bursting with energy: a great place to catch a game surrounded by loyal football fans.

What to Eat/Drink: Parrillada (a plate loaded with various grilled meats – from Argentine steak and blood sausage to beef ribs and sweet breads).

  ENGLAND The Queen and Beaver Public House 35 Elm St.

The Vibe: With queen paraphernalia, plush armchairs and floral china, this upscale pub is a tad eccentric and oh so British. English football fans flock to the upstairs bar year-round, but the energy level kicks up a few notches during the World Cup. There’s always a strong feeling of camaraderie in the room as supporters clink their glasses, deliberate calls and belt out football chants with a united voice.

What to Eat/Drink: Beer (great selection of draughts and bottles), Fish & Chips, Hand Chopped Burger & Chips, Sticky Toffee Pudding & Vanilla Ice Cream.

As one of the most multicultural cities in the world, I am convinced that Toronto is the best place to watch the World Cup unfold. Regardless of what team you’re cheering for, you’re bound to find a restaurant or watering hole that flies your flag. It’s quite a special feeling to gather under the roofs of these establishments with new friends and old to celebrate victories and mourn losses together. So bust out your jersey, drape your flag around your shoulders and get ready to cheer until you lose your voice. Happy World Cup season to you all!