Welcome back to The Slice – our exclusive guide to what’s on in London, where we bring you trusted reviews, sneak previews, and amazing deals and discounts. Football season is officially in full swing, with England set to play Croatia tonight, and one question on the country’s lips: Is it finally coming home?
If you’re looking for somewhere to watch the match in the capital, there are loads of options, from a German-inspired pub offering free pints with every goal to Michelin-starred restaurants with pre kick-off happy hours. If club nights and DJ sets are more your thing, we have that covered too — or you can even get a haircut while meeting some of the beautiful game’s most iconic players.
Where to watch the World Cup in London
Here are some of London’s best World Cup watching, dining, and drinking spots.
German Kraft Brewery
Best for: Free beers (if we’re lucky!)
German Kraft Brewery at Mercato Metropolitano are going out with a bang for their final summer before closing down with a World Cup fan zone. Get £10 1L steins of tank-fresh beer and graze on street food from over 50 different cuisines. The best part? The first 10 pints after every England or German goal will be free. Free entry. Mercato Metropolitano, Elephant & Castle.
Cinnamon Kitchen
Best for: World Cup feasting
Indian food with a competitive twist? Yes please. Cinnamon Kitchen Battersea are giving you all the FIFA action this year. Just book a table for a match they’re showing and let them know who you think will win and the final score. If you guess the winning team correctly, you’ll get 25% off drinks. Get the exact score right, and it’s 50% off your drinks! Good luck. Cinnamon Kitchen, Battersea.
Rae’s Summer Sports Lounge
Best for: Watching the footie in the sun
Sunny roof terrace. Every England game shown live. Beers brought to your table. Sounds like a hat-trick to us! Rae’s Summer Sports Lounge is showing every England fixture across eight large screens throughout the venue. Formerly the legendary nightclub O’Meara, Rae’s still boasts a club-level sound system, a huge drinks menu, and table service so you don’t have to worry about missing the action while you queue at the bar. Packages from £7.50 with every ticket including a complimentary drink.
Ruffians barbers
Best for: Meeting your football heroes…while having a haircut
Iconic football legends, Harry Redknapp and John Barnes, will be headlining ‘World Cuts’ — a pop-up celebrating the culture, nostalgia and personalities of football. Alongside the Q&As, expert barbers will be recreating some of the most memorable looks from World Cup history. Temporary styling options and football-inspired looks will also be available, giving fans the chance to step into their football idol’s shoes for the day. Entry is free and can be booked online or walk in on a first-come, first served basis.
The Blue Posts
Best for: Happy hour and Michelin-quality food
Nestled in Soho’s Chinatown, The Blue Posts Pub will host live screenings throughout the World Cup, with opening hours extended until for all England matches and finals. Fans can warm up before kick-off with the pub’s daily £5 pint happy hour (4pm to 6.30pm), alongside £5 sausage rolls created by Michelin-starred chef Seamus Sam. Walk-ins only or book a private space.
Permit Room
Best for: Private parties and stylish offerings
Dishoom’s Permit Room Portobello is screening every World Cup fixture, with the aim of offering a more elevated alternative to the traditional pub. Groups can book a semi-private space, while smaller parties can reserve tables or walk in on a first-come, first-served basis. Rather than ordering a pint, there will beer towers at the table to order or try their signature cocktails alongside grills and savoury snacks while praying England get through the group stages.
Café Boheme
Best for: If you prefer cocktails and Champagne over pints!
Café Boheme brings a touch of Parisian charm to World Cup viewing in Soho, screening France and England matches throughout the tournament. The beloved bistro’s mosaic floors, leather banquettes and brass bar provide a stylish backdrop for cheering on Les Bleus or the Three Lions. The menu features classic French favourites that can be paired with a glass of Champagne. 13 Old Compton Street.
Padella Soho
Best for: Classic Italian dishes (that are affordable in London!)
Padella Soho is offering a steal when it comes to pre-game deals. Every day from 5pm to 6.30pm until July 19, guests can enjoy a pasta dish alongside a beer or spritz for just £15. There’s also a TV screening matches inside, so you won’t miss any of the action. 2 Kingly Street, Carnaby.
Carousel
Best for: Club vibes
Celebrate England’s final World Cup group-stage fixture with {PAIRED} MOUNT KIMBIE (DJ) x JOHN JAVIER for a special World Cup edition on June 27. The evening begins at 5pm with a multi-course menu by virtuoso chef John Javier, followed by a DJ set by Kai Campos until kick-off at 10pm, when guests can go upstairs and watch England take on Panama. 19-23 Charlotte Street, Fitzrovia.
Uncle Hon’s BBQ
Best for: Street-food and big views
Uncle Hon’s BBQ is hosting a series of live England World Cup screenings following England all the way to the final. For each match, the kitchen smokes a signature dish from the opposing nation’s cuisine. Watch the matches live on a huge 150-inch screen while tucking into street food style barbecue. Then after the final whistle, stay on for DJ and dancing. Doors open at 5pm on all match days. Uncle Hon’s BBQ The White Building, Hackney.
