By George McIntire

The greatest sporting event in history approacheth and it’s time you figured out where you’re going to be consuming all the World Cup soccer madness in the city. While it may be easy to catch the games in most generics sports bars around town, we’ve put together an unbeatable list of the best places to watch World Cup games in the city. The atmosphere at each of our selections (some of which come recommended from local soccer blog FootySF) could almost make you you feel like you’re in Brazil — but without the humidity and $2,000 plane ride. And unlike past championships, no waking up at 5 a.m. to watch, as all games will either be on at 9 a.m., 12 p.m., or 3 p.m. PST. The games begin on Thursday and go through July 13.

Soma Streat Food Park & FunCheapSF

(428 11th St.)

This is the complete deal. Over 12 big screens, your pick of delicious food trucks, and a beer garden. The only drawback is how crowded this place could get, so plan accordingly.

Mcteagues’ Saloon

(1237 Polk St.)

It’s the official SF bar of The American Outlaws, which is a US soccer fan group. Go here for the US games if you want to surround yourself with true diehard fans.

The Holy Haight Trinity

(530 Haight St., 770 Stanyan St., 668 Haight St.)

Kezar, Mad Dog, and Coyle’s are the go-to spots in SF for European soccer, probably because they look exactly like English pubs. Just remember that if you go to one of these places, don’t call it soccer — it’s football!

Civic Center Plaza Presented By America Scores

(Polk & Grove)

Watch the World Cup the way it’s meant to be seen, with hundreds of screaming people in an open-air plaza.

Hi Tops

(2247 Market St.)

Experiencing the World Cup in the self-proclaimed first and only gay sports bar is something you cannot miss.

The New Parkway Theater

(474 24th St. Oakland.)

And if you find yourself in the East Bay, head over to this cinema/pub for theater-style viewings.

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Photo from SOMA Streat Food Park