World Cup Time made today’s twosome want to bike to a shop – or pub – where they could watch the 9:00 first half of the game between Switzerland and Ecuador.   We first visited the World Cup Beer Garden on NW 21st, but arrived a half hour before game-time, and as it was chilly, it wasn’t a compelling place to hang without a game to watch.  So off to the comfortable Umbria in the Pearl where a cozy L section has 8 small tables set aside for talking and/or watching soccer games.

This modern Italian style shop has big windows looking out front to the street and great lighting, a welcoming counter at which to order, and enough space so you don’t feel rushed.

The crowd was mostly attentive, the game was well played, and our team – the underdog Ecuador – was ahead at the half 1-0, so we left buoyed by our outing.  (Unfortunately, Switzerland tied the game in the second half and won it dramatically just before the final whistle.)      303 NW 12th    http://www.caffeumbria.com