World Cup 2026: A Culinary and Viewing Guide for New Jersey and NYC

As the world gears up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, New Jersey is set to become a major hub for soccer fans, with eight of the 104 matches taking place at the iconic MetLife Stadium. Located just nine miles from Manhattan, this venue will kick off the tournament with a thrilling match between Brazil and Morocco on June 13 and culminate in the grand final on July 19. With ticket prices soaring, many fans are turning to local events and dining experiences to celebrate the spirit of the game.

Where to Watch the World Cup Around NYC

New York City is brimming with restaurants and bars that will be screening the matches. Here’s a curated list of some of the best spots to catch the action:

1. Berber Street Food

• Location: 100 Pearl Street, Financial District
• Details: This African halal food stand will host viewing parties for various African teams, offering dish specials that celebrate their culinary heritage.

2. Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden

• Location: 29-19 24th Avenue, Astoria, Queens
• Details: A massive beer garden that plans to screen every single game, complemented by a menu of brews, pierogi, and schnitzels.

3. Eckhart Beer Co.

• Location: 545 Johnson Avenue, East Williamsburg, Brooklyn
• Details: This brewery’s taproom will feature many World Cup games, along with food and drink specials.

4. Ernesto’s

• Location: 259 East Broadway, Lower East Side
• Details: A Basque restaurant that will screen select games while serving pintxos and drinks.

5. Golden Hof

• Location: 16 W. 48th Street, Midtown
• Details: Hosting a viewing party for the Korea vs. Mexico game, this Korean restaurant will offer a special ticket that includes a raffle and cocktail special.

6. Honey Fitz

• Location: 30-09 Broadway, Astoria, Queens
• Details: An Irish bar that will serve as a home base for Cape Verde fans, celebrating the team’s Irish roots.

7. Kabin

• Location: 300 Spring Street, Soho
• Details: This Norwegian bar will offer free shots whenever a Scandinavian team scores, along with a special seafood menu.

8. Lucky Strike

• Location: Times Square and Chelsea Piers
• Details: Both locations will host watch parties featuring themed cups, activities, and bowling.

9. Meju

• Location: 5-28 49th Avenue, Long Island City, Queens
• Details: This Michelin-starred Korean restaurant will host exclusive watch parties for the Korean team.

10. Superbueno

• Location: 13 First Avenue, East Village
• Details: A Mexican cocktail bar screening every USA and Mexico match, with themed drink specials.

Fan Events and Dining Deals

FIFA is also hosting fan events across the five boroughs and in Harrison, New Jersey. Key locations like Rockefeller Center and the Bronx Terminal Market will screen select games, offering activities, food, and drinks. For those looking to explore NYC’s culinary scene during the tournament, Mayor Zohran Mamdani has introduced a $26 dining deal program. Participating restaurants will offer special food and drink combinations, making it easier for fans to enjoy the flavors of the countries represented in the World Cup.

Where to Eat and Drink in New Jersey

If you’re in New Jersey for the games, here are some top dining spots to consider:

1. African Pride

• Location: 1895 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn
• Details: A general West African restaurant recommended for fans of Cape Verde.

2. Chez Ma Tante

• Location: 90 Calyer Street, Greenpoint, Brooklyn
• Details: A cozy spot for Canadian cuisine.

3. Kabab Cafe

• Location: 25-12 Steinway Street, Astoria, Queens
• Details: A popular choice for Egyptian dishes.

4. Sevilla

• Location: 62 Charles Street, West Village
• Details: A Spanish restaurant perfect for fans of Spain.

5. Zikrayat Restaurant

• Location: 24-17 Steinway Street, Astoria
• Details: A Middle Eastern restaurant that will screen the Egypt vs. Brazil game.

Exploring NYC’s International Cuisine

New York City is a melting pot of cultures, and the World Cup is a perfect opportunity to explore its diverse culinary offerings. Here’s a quick guide to where you can eat to honor each participating country:

• Algeria: Kasbah Cafe
• Argentina: La Fusta Restaurant
• Brazil: Berimbau Brazilian Table
• Germany: Zum Stammtisch
• Mexico: Taquería Coatzingo
• South Africa: Kaia

This World Cup promises to be a vibrant celebration of soccer, culture, and community, with New Jersey and New York City at the heart of the action. Whether you’re watching the games live at MetLife Stadium or enjoying the atmosphere at local venues, there’s no shortage of excitement and flavor to savor.