photo: courtesy of Bridget Cicenia; pictured: an early-morning match at Ginger's
Haven't gotten your paws on FIFA '09 for the Wii yet? Can't convince your roommates to shell out for the Fox Soccer Channel on digital cable? It can get tough out there for a penniless football (that's British football) fan following the UK action overseas—you're a very particular, cultivated and slightly obsessive breed—but it's getting easier. Pick your club and head to any of these festive spots, where patrons will feel your pain and your passion—and you won't need to explain the definition of "pitch" or "kit".
Ginger's Ale House
Join the loyal group of patrons who come early in the morn' to chow on a traditional Irish breakfast and watch a match or two (whether it's American MLS or European matches) on one of over 30 televisions and two giant screens in this English and Irish soccer pub. The energetic bar staff breathes football just as much as you do, and slings $5.50 pints of Carlsberg and hoppy, full-bodied ESB.
Globe Pub
The Globe Pub is a veritable treasure for football fans. The owners here cull a local soccer community by organizing a shuttle bus to Chicago Fire games and fervently sponsoring local amateur teams. On premise, league-lifers and early-risers gather from 8 a.m. on to catch the live broadcasts, which are also re-aired later in the week. Grab a pint of Boddington's ($5.50) and keep your eyes peeled: LA Galaxy hot-shot David Beckham has been known to stop in, and the bar's got the pictures to prove it. Also spotted (rather randomly, we might add): Rod Stewart.
Fado Irish Pub
Settle into Fado's hearth-like environs, grab a Guinness and cheer for your favorite team at this River North spot. Tables with television views are somewhat scarce and often bunched together, but the familial atmosphere adds to the fun. Patrons who can't take the pressure of a particular match, or are merely too tired to make it in at 9 a.m., should busy themselves with the (free to play) Ultimate EPL Fantasy League on fado.com. Score!
Fearon's Public House
Fearon's is sort of a celebrated underdog in the local soccer bar scene: It's not too flashy, not trying too hard and has a solid base of intense regulars. So, find a seat, order some surprisingly good food and kick back with Fearon's $5.50 bloody marys and watch a game from any of the eight plasma-screen TVs. Pass the chips!
Small Bar (Wicker Park)
This Wicker Park tap made a good decision when it chose to cater to football fans; the local hipsters (a dying breed) have certainly latched onto the sport. Not only that, but you'll be able to lure your beer-loving friends here with a wide selection on tap and in the bottle. Fancy a little Guinness and eggs? Small Bar's larger-than-life menu will hold your attention during lulls in the match.
Each week, Centerstage Chicago's crack staff will answer a question you have about the city, showing you some of the best places around in the process. Did we miss something? Tell us. Got a question you want us to answer? Ask us and we'll get right on it.
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