As the 2026 FIFA World Cup rapidly approaches, finding an environment to watch becomes ever so important. With ticket prices surging, attending the game seems unattainable for most fans, but that doesn’t mean you need to sit out on the fun.
Sports bars all across Los Angeles are already preparing for the hundreds of thousands of fans traveling to the U.S. for the tournament, and these are the two clear standouts close to CSUN.
The Fox and Hounds – Studio City
On the bustling Ventura Boulevard, The Fox and Hounds has a reputation for intensity. It is recognized by the Premier League as one of the top destinations to watch the sport and represents home for multiple supporter groups, including Chelsea, Manchester City and the largest group of the three, Arsenal. Energy here is unmatched, as chants can be distinguishably heard from outside the pub, with sometimes hundreds of fans singing in unison.
The food consists mostly of classic British pub cuisine. Meat pies, fish and chips, along with bangers and mash to name a few. Adding on an additional list of gourmet burgers, with names deriving from soccer lingo, this place truly eats, drinks and screams soccer.
Parking is scarce. There is street parking with meters and restrictions in place, along with a very tight parking lot behind the pub, fitting around five or six cars at once.
11100 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City, CA 91604
Taps Valley Gastropub – Northridge
The self expressed “best sports bar in Northridge” is coincidentally the closest to campus. While not necessarily a soccer bar like others mentioned, they will have World Cup matches on their screens at all times of the day. If rowdy crowds aren’t your speed, this is the place to go.
As a gastropub, they specialize in gourmet food. Custom burgers, crispy wings and very large servings are a few items you’ll find here. They serve wine cocktails, but mostly prioritize selling their wine and craft beer selection.
As it’s located in an outdoor shopping center, parking here is plentiful. The large parking lot is mostly utilized for a gym and grocery stores nearby, so there should always be a spot open for you and your friends.
18673 Devonshire St, Northridge, CA 91324
Notable Mentions:
Joxer Daly’s – Culver City
Pros: Very large space, but can fill up quickly. Lots of TV’s, providing optimal viewing experiences wherever you may be sitting or standing.
Cons: Culver City is far away from campus and parking here is difficult, as streetside parking is the main option.
The Cat and Fiddle – West Hollywood
Pros: Indoor and outdoor seating, but again, fills up quickly. It is evident through their food choices and ambiance that it is reminiscent of a classic British pub.
Cons: Scarce parking.
Cosm – Inglewood
Pros: One of the most unique fan experiences in the world, with a panoramic view imitating a live viewing experience. Craft drinks and food options are available.
Cons: Expensive. Tickets can range from $20 to over $200 each. For highly anticipated matches, do not be surprised to see a large price tag to forego your viewing experience. The location is also far away from campus.
It is important to note that due to high demand for seating at some of these bars, there may be a payment required to reserve a spot for the match.
