Best Places to Watch the 2018 World Cup in La Paz, Bolivia
It’s finally here. Football fans around the world rejoice as the 2018 FIFA World Cup kicks off in Russia. Bolivia may not have a team in the playoffs, but that doesn’t discourage fanatical fans from converging on the city’s many sports bars to watch the action unfold. Check out any one of the following venues to get your much-needed football fix.
The English Pub
Bar, Bistro, Restaurant, European, Vegetarian
Boasting ample space and flatscreens in every corner, the centrally located English Pub is a popular spot for sports aficionados, and this year’s World Cup is set to be no different. Management offers generous drink specials during the most important matches, and there is a solid selection of well-prepared British comfort food to munch as you cheer on your favorite team.
Suit&Tie
Bar, American, Fast Food
The confusingly named Suit&Tie is actually one of the city’s few dedicated sports bars rather than a classy cocktail-type affair. Mouthwatering American style fast food adorns the menu, along with plenty of artisanal and mainstream beer. Naturally, sports is the focus here, which means you’ll never be too far away from a giant flat-screen TV.
German: Reineke Fuchs
Bar, Restaurant, German
La Paz’ favorite currywurst restaurant will be a great place to watch the cup, particularly for home games when the owners promise a free beer every time Germany hits the back of the net. Thinking back on 2014’s unforgettable 7-1 onslaught, the generous promotion is a risky maneuver by management, to say the least.
Factory Grill&Bar
Bar, Gastropub, American
Located in the recreational section of the city’s biggest mall, Factory has long been a Zona Sur favorite for affluent Bolivians to watch live sports on TV. The Tex Mex and fast food style menu always hits the spot, while the atmosphere is bound to be electric during the bigger fixtures. And meanwhile next door, popular Irish bar the Dubliner never fails to attract a crowd during important sporting events.
Shooters
Bar, Gastropub, American
This popular sports bar on the outskirts of Sopocachi is essentially a Hooters spin-off. If that’s not an issue, it’ll definitely be a lively spot to watch the World Cup action unfold. Come on an empty stomach because their fast food menu is exceptionally tasty and reasonably well-priced.
Beer Garden
Bar, Restaurant
A newcomer to La Paz’ drinking scene, this huge shrine to beer and sports opened its doors in May, just in time for the Mundial (World Cup). The pièce de résistance is a 12 sqm TV, the biggest screen in the city of any licensed venue. Flame grilled barbecue beef and plenty of beer tend to accompany each game.
Teatro al Aire Libre
Theater
Come finals time, La Paz’ centrally located open-air concert hall will be among the best places in the city to watch the big game. Capacity is huge, so you’ll likely find a seat even if you arrive well after kick off, like the rest of the crowd. Entry is free.