The Tour de France is well underway. With the flat stages behind them, the peloton has now moved on to the mountains—the most exciting stages to watch. Even if you don’t fancy yourself a race fan, watching the group of riders power up the Pyrenees and Alps is a breathtaking sight. So if you’re looking for a good place to hole up and watch the battle for the polka dot jersey, look no further. Here are five great spots to watch Le Tour—and have a beer or espresso while you do it.
Velo Rouge Café: This great bicycle-centric café on Arguello is showing The Tour de France twice a day. If you want to catch the stages live, they’re open at 7 am. Settle in with a coffee and breakfast and the other die-hard race fans. Or grab a happy hour beer with them and watch the rebroadcast around 5 pm. (798 Arguello, at McAllister)
Caffe de la Presse: Want to experience Le Tour like the locals? Head over to this French café in Union Square. They’ll be showing the Tour live, starting at 7:30 am. Grab a coffee and croissant and catch a chunk of the stage before work.
(352 Grant Street, between Sutter and Harlan Pl.)
Mad Dog in the Fog: This Irish sports bar is showing the replay of the Tour every evening. For the first time ever, a Brit is positioned to win the Tour de France, so Mad Dog is an exciting place to watch it this year. Grab a slightly warm but delicious beer and toast to the Brit wearing the yellow leader’s jersey.(530 Haight Street, at Fillmore)
Kezar Pub: This great Cole Valley spot is showing the Tour in the evenings. Saddle up to the bar to watch the exciting stages. If they’re not showing it when you arrive, just ask the bartender to put it on. (770 Stanyan Street)
Phoenix: Mission District sports fans know the Phoenix is one of the best spots to watch games. It’s no exception for the Tour. With plenty of TV’s to choose from, you’ll certainly find one or two dedicated to the men in spandex. (811 Valencia Street, at 19th)
