Best Bars to Watch Soccer in Minneapolis

Watching soccer at home works; however, it rarely captures the same excitement you feel in a packed bar full of fans. In Minneapolis, several pubs and sports bars turn regular matches into shared events where strangers celebrate goals together. From classic British-style pubs to lively supporter hangouts, the city offers plenty of places where the atmosphere matches the action on the screen. If you want the full matchday experience, these bars deliver exactly that.

The Rabbit Hole

The Rabbit Hole sits in the North Loop and instantly feels different from a typical sports bar. The place leans into a moody, underground vibe, which makes watching a match feel a bit more special. Instead of bright lights and blaring music, you get a lounge-like atmosphere where people actually focus on the game.

You’ll still find plenty of screens around the room, which means you don’t have to fight for a decent view. During big matches, staff usually tune several TVs to the same broadcast so everyone follows the action together. Also, the crowd tends to react collectively, creating the familiar matchday tension you expect from a good soccer bar.

What really sets the place apart, however, is the cocktail program. Many sports bars keep things simple with beer and basic drinks, but here the bartenders put real effort into their menu. That makes it a solid choice if you’re meeting friends who enjoy soccer but also appreciate a more refined drink than the usual pint.

The location also helps. North Loop already has a strong nightlife scene, so you can easily hop between spots before or after a match. You might start the evening at a louder spot, catch the game here, and then continue the night nearby. That flexibility makes The Rabbit Hole a surprisingly convenient soccer destination.

Brit’s Pub

Brit’s Pub has earned a reputation as the go-to soccer bar in Minneapolis, and once you walk in during a big match, it’s easy to see why. The place fills with fans wearing club jerseys, scarves, and sometimes full supporter gear. That collective energy turns even a regular league game into an event.

You’ll notice screens everywhere, which means you rarely struggle to find a clear view of the broadcast. Premier League mornings bring especially strong turnout, and the bar usually opens early so fans don’t miss kickoff. Also, the staff understands the schedule, so you rarely need to ask them to switch channels.

Another reason people keep coming back is the classic British pub atmosphere. Dark wood interiors, long bars, and comfortable seating make the whole experience feel authentic. You also get a menu that fits the theme, with hearty pub food that pairs well with a long soccer broadcast.

Then there’s the rooftop lawn bowling area, which adds something unique to the venue. It doesn’t directly relate to soccer; however, it gives the place personality. Many fans stick around after matches, grab another drink, and spend time upstairs. That social aspect keeps Brit’s Pub firmly rooted in the city’s soccer culture.

The Local

The Local sits right on Nicollet Mall and attracts a steady mix of downtown workers, tourists, and regular sports fans. During soccer matches, however, the identity of the place shifts a bit. The televisions switch to international leagues, and the crowd becomes noticeably more focused on the game.

Inside, the layout helps a lot. The bar features numerous screens around the room, so people rarely have to crane their necks to follow the match. That makes it comfortable even during busy games. Moreover, the lighting and seating strike a balance between sports bar and traditional pub.

The atmosphere usually lands somewhere in the middle of the spectrum. It’s lively enough that goals trigger cheers across the room, it rarely becomes chaotic. That works well for viewers who enjoy a social environment but still want to hear commentary and follow the flow of the match.

Food also plays a big role here. The kitchen serves reliable pub classics, which means you can comfortably settle in for a full ninety minutes without needing to relocate. Many groups come for lunch or dinner while watching a match, and the consistent service keeps people returning throughout the season.

Merlin’s Rest

Merlin’s Rest feels like stepping into a classic British neighborhood pub, which immediately makes it a natural fit for soccer fans. The décor leans heavily into traditional elements, including dark wood and cozy seating. Because of that design choice, the place creates an atmosphere that feels closer to a European pub than a modern sports bar.

Morning matches often bring dedicated supporters who show up early for Premier League broadcasts. Some fans arrive wearing scarves and club colors, which gradually transforms the room into a small community gathering. Also, the quieter environment allows people to focus on the match rather than the constant background noise.

Another highlight comes from the food and drink options. The menu includes traditional pub fare, and the beer selection reflects that same British influence. Watching a match with a proper pint in hand simply feels right in this setting, reinforcing the authenticity many soccer fans look for.

What really stands out, however, is the sense of familiarity. Regular visitors tend to recognize one another, and conversations often carry from one matchday to the next. That friendly environment makes Merlin’s Rest feel less like a crowded sports venue and more like a shared living room for soccer supporters.

Black Hart of Saint Paul

Black Hart of Saint Paul stands out because soccer sits at the center of everything they do. The bar built its reputation around supporting the sport, and that commitment shows every time a match airs. Walk in during a Minnesota United game, and you’ll immediately feel the enthusiasm in the room.

Supporter groups often gather here before and after matches, which gives the venue a strong sense of community. Fans discuss tactics, celebrate goals together, and occasionally debate referee decisions like longtime friends. Also, the bar regularly hosts events tied to the local club, which strengthens the connection.

Screens cover the walls, making sure nobody misses the action. Whether you arrive early or join halfway through the game, you’ll still find a comfortable spot to watch. The staff clearly understands the importance of soccer broadcasts, so they keep the main matches visible across the venue.

The energy peaks during MLS games and international tournaments. Chants sometimes break out after big moments, and the excitement spreads through the entire bar. However, the environment still feels welcoming to newcomers. Even first-time visitors quickly feel included in the sport’s celebration.

Wrap Up

Minneapolis offers plenty of great places to catch a soccer match, whether you prefer a loud crowd or a relaxed pub setting. Some spots focus on big watch parties, while others create a more laid-back atmosphere for regulars. The important thing is that each bar brings fans together. Grab a drink, find a screen, and enjoy the match with people who care just as much about the game as you do.