The FIFA World Cup is quickly approaching, with the tournament set to begin on June 11.
Restaurants across Koreatown, Pico Union and Westlake are already preparing for the crowds they hope the matches will bring.
While Los Angeles is expected to host its own official viewing events and activations throughout the tournament, many local restaurants say they’re also planning to show games, offer food and drink specials and create spaces where fans can gather to watch together.
El Valle Oaxaqueño
1601 Vermont Ave #106, Los Angeles, CA 90006
At El Valle Oaxaqueño in Pico Union, owner Arturo Aguilar said the restaurant regularly keeps its televisions on for soccer matches and plans to show World Cup games, especially Mexico’s matches, which he expects will draw the most attention from customers.
Aguilar said the restaurant will continue serving its regular menu during the tournament, including its popular tlayudas. They will also be offering complimentary chips and mole during the games.
Casa Gish Bac Cocina Oaxaqueña
1436 S Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90006
At Casa Gish Bac Cocina Oaxaqueña in Pico Union, general manager Esther Ramos said the restaurant plans to show games on its televisions beginning with the tournament opener on June 11. Ramos said the restaurant will have a DJ before kickoff, plans to open at least an hour before the game starts and will offer food and drink specials, including $2 tacos and beer buckets priced between $25 and $30, alongside music during halftime.
Huicho’s Bakery
1250 Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90006
At Huicho’s Bakery, general manager Andrea Mogues said the restaurant is still finalizing its World Cup promotions but expects to show the games and introduce food and beverage specials during the tournament. Mogues said the business, which serves many Central American and Mexican customers, plans to build on existing meal deals and aguas frescas offerings.
El Colmao
2328 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006
El Colmao will be showing the World Cup games and will likely be offering a lunch special that includes a Cuban sandwich, fries and a soda for $13.95.
Escala
3451 W 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90020
At Escala in Koreatown, general manager Chino said the restaurant expects to have the games playing on screens. He added the restaurant may eventually introduce a World Cup-themed cocktail, though plans are still being discussed.
Sushi Zanmai
3465 W 6th St Ste 150, Los Angeles, CA 90020
At Sushi Zanmai, general manager Tiger Nakawake said the restaurant plans to show Japan’s World Cup matches during the tournament.
Nakawake added that the restaurant has not yet finalized any food or drink specials but they will confirm them before the games start.
BiergartenLA
206 N Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90004
BiergartenLA will be showing all of the World Cup matches, adjusting its hours around game times, and expects South Korea’s games to draw the biggest crowds. The gastropub may also offer a special World Cup-themed cocktail, according to the owner.
La Palmera Restaurante Guatemalteco
2023 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90057
In Westlake, La Palmera Restaurante Guatemalteco owner Lucia Damian said the restaurant plans to prioritize matches featuring Argentina, Mexico and Brazil while also offering beer specials during the tournament.
Pescado Mojado Seafood Grill
610 S Rampart Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90057
Pescado Mojado will be showing all of the games and say their staff are particularly excited about the Mexico, Argentina and Brazil games.
