Have you heard the one about the Italian fan at the British pub? Don’t get caught in a bar rooting for the wrong team. Here, the best places to watch your favourite footballers.
England at the Blarney Stone
Join British expats as they root for Rooney at the pub they’ve declared England House. When the Brits play, the bar opens at 10 a.m. to serve English breakfast and bacon butties. Plus: prizes, pints and live music. 216 Carrall St., 604-687-4322.
Italy at Falconetti’s
In 2006, Italy fans stopped traffic on Commercial Drive and you can expect the same this year. If Falconetti’s is packed, stop by another Italian café – our fave: Café Amici – instead. 1812 Commercial Dr., 604-251-7287.
Portuguese Club of Vancouver
The clubhouse for the Portuguese soccer community opens its doors for the World Cup. A liquor licence extension, entitling them to serve Portuguese wine and more for the 7 a.m. games is in the works. 1144 Commercial Dr., 604-251-2042.
Germany at Vancouver Alpen Club
This German community centre boasts the largest HDTV in Vancouver and will be showing all the games. Take a break from the madness for a spatzle or schnitzel and pint of Warsteiner in the Deutsches Haus Restaurant. 4875 Victoria Dr., 604-874-3811.
Any team at Red Card Sports Bar
Ossie Ardiles stopped by this heritage space in April to get the party started early. Perfect for the civilized sports fan, Red Card offers sophisticated cocktails, worldly beers and Italian comfort food. 900 Seymour St., 604-689-4460.
Image courtesy of Balakov.
