From tacos in CDMX to barbecue in Kansas City, the World Cup isn’t just about goals, it’s about great eats
When you’re bound for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, you might at first picture the roar of the crowd and the green of the pitch stretching beneath stadium lights. But if you’ve ever traveled for a major sporting event, you already know part of the thrill is what happens off the field. The tournament might be about 48 teams and 104 matches, but the cities hosting the games will also be kitchens, street scenes and cultural maps. So, whether you’re flying in for a match, or planning a fan-travel itinerary, it pays to sharpen your appetite.
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Atlanta
Atlanta’s food scene is a perfect reflection of the city itself, bold and diverse. For barbecue lovers, Fox Brothers Bar-B-Q is a must-visit, offering signature smoked brisket, pulled pork, wings and unique sides that will have you licking your fingers. The Korean BBQ twist at Heirloom Market BBQ brings slow-cooked Southern barbecue together with Korean marinades and spices, creating a fusion that’s irresistible.
For Spanish flavors, Cooks & Soldiers, near Georgia Tech, delivers authentic tapas and hearty Spanish dishes, while neighborhood gem Sun In My Belly in Kirkwood offers comfort food with a seasonal, fresh twist.
Boston
Boston is a seafood town through and through. Whether it’s a lobster roll by the harbor or fried clams on a sunny street corner, the city delivers. Row 34 sets the standard, with a raw bar that will teach you exactly which oysters came from which waters, a treat for seafood aficionados. For a lighter brunch, Saltie Girl offers inventive seafood dishes in a light-filled dining room near Newbury Street.
Boston wouldn’t be Boston without a visit to Union Oyster House, the nation’s oldest restaurant still in operation, where tradition meets taste. Don’t skip Mike’s Pastry for a cannoli or Legal Harborside for the quintessential clam chowder. And for something uniquely Bostonian, the Boston Cream Pie at the Parker House Hotel is a dessert worth planning your schedule around. Prefer cider over beer? Downeast Cider, brewed in East Boston, is a local favorite, its blackberry cider is exceptional.
Houston
Houston’s culinary landscape mirrors its multicultural identity, from Texas barbecue to Vietnamese, West African and Mexican cuisine. Soccer fans will find both great food and great atmosphere at Pitch 25, a beer garden and indoor soccer pitch right across from the Houston Dynamo stadium. With 100 beers on tap and 70+ TVs, it’s a place to grab a burger or wings and catch the action.
For a fine-dining experience, Hidden Omakase delivers a theatrical Michelin-recommended omakase, embracing Houston’s naturally fusion-forward style. And if steak is your game, Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, with locations downtown and in the Galleria, offers classic dry-aged beef, sides like creamed spinach and onion rings and a wine list curated by Michelin-awarded sommelier Stephen McDonald.
Kansas City
Kansas City is synonymous with barbecue, and the host cities wouldn’t be complete without a stop here. Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, formerly Oklahoma Joe’s, is a must for first-timers and barbecue aficionados alike. Located in a working gas station, the line starts forming well before opening at 11 a.m., but the tender brisket and pulled pork make the wait worthwhile.
For more classic KC flavor, Arthur Bryant’s has been a staple since the days of the Negro leagues and minor-league baseball, serving smoked meats in a casual diner atmosphere. LC’s Bar-B-Q offers an expansive menu of ribs, burnt ends, chicken wings, and combo platters that’ll keep you coming back.
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Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a city of culinary extremes, from classic deli staples to Southern-inspired Creole fare. Langer’s in Westlake is a must for pastrami lovers, the #19 sandwich is thick-cut pastrami between twice-baked rye, smothered in Swiss cheese and dressing. Philippe’s, downtown, claims to have invented the French dip sandwich, making it another LA institution.
For Southern comfort with a twist, Les Sisters’ in Winnetka serves New Orleans classics like gumbo, po’boys with crawfish, shrimp étouffée, and bottomless sweet tea in a spacious, welcoming setting. Over decades, it has become a neighborhood favorite. Los Angeles also offers world-class pizza and a kaleidoscope of international options, making the city a playground for food explorers and soccer fans alike.
Mexico City
Mexico City is a sprawling food paradise with some of the best street food in the world. At Sting Tacos in Roma Norte, tacos cost a mere 29 cents each, with grilled onions and enough flavor to keep you coming back nightly.
For pastries, Rosetta Bakery in Roma Norte is a must-visit, the lines are long, but the granola and baked goods are worth every minute. And for a splurge, Pujol in Polanco is both dreamy and iconic, featured on Netflix’s Chef’s Table. Dining here is an elevated experience, with elegant interiors and refined service, perfect for celebrating a big win or just savoring the city’s rich culinary culture.
Miami
Miami is inseparable from Cuban culture, and the food scene is a reflection of that heritage. Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop serves the iconic Cuban sandwich along with hearty daily specials, while El Palacio de los Jugos offers a buffet-style array of soups, rice, beans and freshly made fruit juices like mamey and papaya. For seafood enthusiasts, Michael’s Genuine delivers excellent oysters, and Yardbird is known for outstanding fried chicken.
New York/New Jersey
New York is a city where the food options are as diverse and energetic as the fans filling stadiums for the World Cup. L’Industrie Pizza, 4 Charles, John’s of Bleeker Street, Scarr’s Pizza, and Lucali represent the city’s pizza elite. For soul food, Sylvia’s in Harlem has been serving classics like chicken and waffles and fried shrimp since 1962.
Burger aficionados will find heaven at Red Hook Tavern, known for its thick, juicy patties, or Hamburger America, where each burger pays homage to regional American flavors. And for fine dining, the Michelin-starred Jungsik, Eleven Madison Park, Masa, Le Bernardin, and Per Se continue to define New York’s global culinary reputation. Eating in New York is almost as thrilling as watching a last-minute goal at the stadium.
Not to be outdone, New Jersey also sports some of the best pizza in the country.
De Lorenzo’s Tomato Pies in Robbinsville serves incredible tomato pies, featuring chunky tomatoes on top, thin, chewy crusts and lots of mozzarella. Razza in Jersey City has been acclaimed by many publications as one of the best in the country. Opened in 2012, Razza makes pizza that is airy and crisp, topped with choice ingredients such as roasted heirloom squash, fresh mozzarella and shaved onions.
Philadelphia
Cheesesteak lovers will be in heaven in Philadelphia. Angelo’s, John’s Roast Pork, and Dalessandro’s are must-visits for the authentic, melt-in-your-mouth sandwiches that have made Philly famous. Every bite is a reminder that simple ingredients, thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and fresh rolls, can create something legendary.
San Francisco Bay Area
San Francisco blends tradition with trendsetting culinary creativity. Tony’s Pizza and Golden Boy are award-winning pizza institutions, while House of Prime Rib serves classic prime rib with all the trimmings. Zuni Cafe is famous for its roasted chicken with bread salad, and Trick Dog offers inventive cocktails alongside standout small plates. In this city, every street is a potential flavor adventure.
Seattle
Seattle is as much about coffee and seafood as it is about innovation. The Hart and the Hunter elevates brunch with items like cinnamon French toast and fresh house-made lemonade. Pike Place Chowder offers a rich selection of chowders, including New England Clam, Smoked Salmon, and Crab & Oyster. Umi Sake House delivers traditional Japanese omakase in an intimate setting, while Un Bien offers legendary sandwiches for fans on the go.
Toronto
Toronto is a melting pot of flavors, offering everything from classic Canadian treats to international fare. Carousel Bakery in St. Lawrence Market is famous for the peameal bacon sandwich, while Torch Sushi delivers Oshizushi-Aburi-style sushi with premium ingredients. Khao San Road is the spot for traditional Thai, and Pigeon Cafe and Bar serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee, and cocktails downtown. For Jamaican flair, Chubby’s serves jerk chicken, shrimp, and fresh fried plantains that pack big flavor.
Vancouver
Though smaller than some other host cities, Vancouver is a hub for west-coast culinary exploration. Fans can enjoy everything from fresh seafood to artisanal pastries, with Monterrey (Guadalupe) and Guadalajara (Zapopan) offering a taste of authentic Mexican flavors in the city.
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