Phoenix-area bars, pubs, restaurants gear up for the World Cup
Jun 15, 2018, 4:36 AM | Updated: Jun 21, 2018, 2:06 pm
PHOENIX — Even though the U.S. soccer team is not in the World Cup this year, bars across the Valley are gearing up for the fans who will turn out to watch the games.
David Wimberley, owner of the George and Dragon English Pub and Restaurant in Phoenix, said his pub will be open early for all the games that begin after 5 a.m. The earliest game kicks off at 3 a.m. local time.
Wimberley said his pub, which will have drink specials and serve breakfast, is the perfect place to watch the World Cup games.
“Whenever someone wants to watch soccer, this is where they go because everyone here appreciates it and everyone here understands it,” he said. “If you’re screaming and shouting for the game, other customers don’t get upset because you’re being loud. They’re expecting it.”
Wimberley said since the pub opened in 1995, they’ve hosted four World Cups.
“Last World Cup, there was a line around the back of the pub for the U.S. games and for the England games,” he said.
They’re expecting large crowds for the big games this year, as well, despite the U.S. not playing in the World Cup this year.
“If you’re going to want to come for the Mexico games and if you want to come for the England games, please get here when we open because it’s going to be first come, first served,” Wimberley said.
Other places across the Valley are also opening early to show the games, while others are showing the games during regular business hours. A few places are hosting all the games.
The Rose and Crown Pub in Phoenix said on its Facebook page it will be open for all the World Cup matches and is offering drink specials.
Rosie McCaffrey’s Irish Pub and Restaurant in Phoenix is showing some of the games, and is offering drink specials and breakfast. Fans who show up from 8-9 p.m. on July 18 will get a chance to meet former Manchester United player Denis Irwin, as well as a chance to win a signed Manchester United jersey and tickets to the Manchester United vs. Club America match.
A few places will open earlier than usual so fans can watch the games. The Brass Tap in Mesa will be open for games that start at or after 8 a.m. They’ll provide beer and food specials, as well as jerseys and soccer balls giveaways.
Other places will show the matches during regular business hours, including Four Peaks Brewing Co., Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery, Twin Peaks, and Thirsty Lion Pub & Grill.
And the Phoenix Rising Football Club is inviting fans to several watch parties at different locations across the Valley.