A Footy League Guide to the Best World Cup Bars: Toronto Bracket

Concerned looks everywhere? You’ve probably stumbled into a soccer bar! Photo: Scotland Yard

The 2026 World Cup is on the horizon — and we’re excited. 48 teams. 16 venues. 12 groups. One winner.

As we ramp up to the big event, The Footy League will be sharing all the information you need to know — plus plenty you didn’t know you needed. This guide shines a light on the best bars to catch a game if you’re in town without a ticket. Today’s edition: Toronto!

Footy’s Top Shelf | Toronto

Toronto didn’t discover soccer in 2007 when it landed an MLS team — it flashed a spotlight on what was already there. Immigrant communities made World Cup season a sacred ritual long before it was cool. This city has been living the beautiful game for decades.

With Toronto co-hosting the 2026 World Cup, the energy is about to hit another level. Expect spontaneous fan zones to form around street corners in Little Italy and along the Danforth, with downtown patios packed wall to wall. Toronto’s diversity shows up loudly in its soccer culture — English pubs, Italian trattorias, and bars flying flags from every corner of the globe — while big watch parties at Fort York and The Bentway pull the whole city together.

#1: Cafe Diplomatico

The Dip is Toronto’s spot to scoop up all the action this summer. Credit: The Dip

Address: 594 College St, Toronto, ON M6G 1B3

Why it’s great for World Cup games:
A Toronto soccer institution since 1968, Cafe Diplomatico — known locally as “The Dip” — is pure matchday tradition. Rooted in the city’s Italian community, it’s famous for its packed patio, big screens, and street-level energy that spills well beyond the front door during major tournaments. When the World Cup is on, College and Clinton feels like an open-air fan zone.

Best for: Classic World Cup atmosphere, outdoor viewing vibes, and fans who want the game to take over the entire block.

Good to know: Seating fills fast for big matches. Arrive early — and if you don’t get a table, the standing-room energy outside is part of the experience.

Instagram: Cafe Diplomatico

Website: Cafe Diplomatico

#2: Scotland Yard

Watch the game indoors, scream about your team losing outdoors. Photo: Scotland Yard

Address: 56 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5E 1A6

Why it’s great for World Cup games:
A fixture in Old Town Toronto since 1976, Scotland Yard is a true football pub — no gimmicks, just passion. Best known as a home base for Tottenham Hotspur supporters, it welcomes fans of every nation. Expect English accents, nonstop chants, and a room that lives and breathes the match. When it gets loud, it really gets loud.

Best for: Traditional pub energy, diehards, and supporters who want chants, nerves, and real football culture.
Good to know: Weekend mornings and marquee games fill up quickly — arrive early if you want a good sightline (or a seat).

Instagram: Scotland Yard

Website: Scotland Yard

This guide will be updated with more host cities as the 2026 World Cup approaches. Check out our Vancouver recs here.