17 January, 2026
corktown-tavern-launches-world-cup-cafe-for-soccer-fans

Corktown Tavern, a well-established bar located at 1716 Michigan Avenue, is set to unveil a new concept called the World Cup Cafe. This cafe will provide a dedicated space for fans to gather and watch the upcoming soccer matches, particularly during the FIFA World Cup scheduled from June 11 to July 19. Currently, only the bar area is operational, serving a limited menu of burgers and fries on Fridays and Saturdays.

The World Cup Cafe aims to enhance the tavern’s offerings and is expected to open fully in the first or second week of February 2024. Owner Joe Brincat described the launch as a significant event, akin to a grand opening. The cafe will cater to the anticipated increase in visitors during the World Cup, providing a vibrant environment for soccer enthusiasts.

The dinner menu at the cafe will feature a variety of appetizers, including french fries, mozzarella sticks, and chicken strips, along with a daily soup selection. Main courses will encompass hamburgers served with chips, chicken kabob over rice, hot dogs, and kafta with hummus on pita. This diverse menu is aimed at satisfying both casual diners and dedicated soccer fans.

Corktown Tavern is strategically situated near the heart of the neighborhood, surrounded by other popular establishments such as Street Beet and The Last Chance Saloon. Additionally, it is conveniently located across from The Corner Ballpark, which regularly hosts sporting events, including baseball and soccer matches.

Brincat confirmed that details regarding the exact grand opening date for the World Cup Cafe will be shared by the end of the upcoming weekend. In the meantime, Corktown Tavern continues to operate under its regular hours: Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday from 6:00 p.m. to midnight, Thursday from 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., Friday from 5:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., and Saturday from noon to 2:00 a.m.

For updates leading up to the full opening of the World Cup Cafe, patrons can check the Corktown Tavern’s official Facebook page. The addition of this cafe marks an exciting development for the local community, promising to create a lively atmosphere for soccer fans in Corktown.