By now, you’ve probably watched at least a few World Cup matches. Maybe you’re lucky enough to have seen one in person; more likely, you’ve spent some time in crowded sports bars watching unfamiliar teams and waiting (patiently, Seattle-style) to order a drink. If you’re tired of that scene, we’ve got a few more unconventional places to watch the rest of the cup:
Seatango
🇦🇷 If you don’t know about this Argentinian bakery already, you’re missing out on some of the best empanadas and alfajores (cookie sandwiches) in the city. But the World Cup gives you an extra reason to head up to Lake City — they’ve put in a TV and will be showing all the matches that are on during regular hours, plus the Argentina games, no matter the time.
Know before you go: This is a bakery and cafe; unlike the other entries on this list, Seatango does not serve alcohol — but it will be serving a bunch of savory food for evening games, including milanesa sandwiches and choripan (sausages).
Paseo
🥃 Want to get some of the downtown buzz without actually entering the stadium? Head a few blocks south to Paseo’s SoDo location, where the longstanding Caribbean sandwich shop is going big: There’s a patio, an all-ages Tiki lounge, $2 shots after every goal, plus various giveaways you can enter before games or at halftime.
Know before you go: You can reserve a seat here, which is good — World Cup watch parties are often standing–room–only affairs.
Canlis
🌭 Seattle’s most famous fine-dining restaurant loves an opportunity to throw a quirky party, so during the World Cup, they’re turning their lower parking lot into an outdoor watching experience they’re calling Kickback. Ten bucks gets you into any given match, but it doesn’t include drinks or food — which in this case is hot dogs, burgers, and wings rather than the usual high-falutin’ Canlis fare.
Know before you go: Note that the event is 21-and-over only, and there’s no on-site parking available.
WeRise Wines
🍷 For a refuge from the beer-centric culture of watching live sports, check out this downtown wine bar and bottle shop dedicated to showcasing bottles from queer winemakers and winemakers of color. They’ll be streaming all the World Cup matches and offering a full food menu that includes flatbread, charcuterie boards, and paella.
Know before you go: They’re putting together some match-specific food specials (poutine with a sparkling rosé while you watch Canada, anyone?)
