In a city where sports culture runs deep, Amsterdam Tavern has earned its place as the beloved gathering spot for soccer enthusiasts. Located at 3175 Morgan Ford Road in Tower Grove South, Amsterdam Tavern has become more than just a bar, it’s a gathering place where fans of all teams come together to celebrate the beauty of the game. Recently nominated for America’s Best Soccer Bar from the Men in Blazers podcast, the Tavern’s journey to this recognition is a testament to its commitment to both community and sport.
The nomination, a result of customer support and submissions, speaks to the Tavern’s loyal following and the unique atmosphere it cultivates. “Apparently, we had enough people from St. Louis that we were one of the final 10 bars,” shared co-owner Jeff Lyell, reflecting on the surprising yet gratifying recognition. With customers continuing to rally behind the Tavern, there’s a call for the community to show its support by filling out a simple submission form on the Men in Blazers website, ensuring that this well-deserved honor becomes a reality.
Amsterdam Tavern’s distinction as a soccer haven began long before this nomination. For nearly two decades, it has offered a welcoming space for seasoned and new fans to enjoy soccer together. Lyell recalled, “We’ve been around 17 years now … when we started, we were really small, but the customers that came in, they were so dedicated.” Over the years, Amsterdam Tavern has grown into a beloved staple of St. Louis’s sports scene, where soccer is more than a game – it’s a shared experience. “It’s more a reflection that we’ve given them their spot, and they’ve turned it into their home,” Lyell noted of the Tavern’s enduring success.
The Tavern’s appeal is evident in the vibrant, electric atmosphere it fosters – a place where soccer fans, regardless of allegiance, come together to enjoy the game in harmony. “The thing that makes us different is that everyone comes to our bar and we show all the matches, and everybody gets along,” said Lyell. Unlike other cities where rivalry can foster tension, Amsterdam Tavern is a rare gem, where the love of soccer transcends competition. “There’s no animosity like you can find in a lot of these other cities,” he added.
As the world of soccer continues to evolve, so too does the culture surrounding it. With the rise of U.S. soccer fandom, particularly in St. Louis with the introduction of St. Louis City SC, Amsterdam Tavern has embraced this shift, while staying true to its roots of showcasing European football. “Everyone’s excited about it … we’re packed, and it’s fun and it’s great … but we really concentrate on Europe,” said Lyell. Despite local enthusiasm, the Tavern remains a haven for international matches, where loyal fans gather to witness the world’s most renowned leagues.
As the Tavern continues to grow, Lyell remains humble, crediting the loyal customers who have helped shape Amsterdam Tavern into the institution it is today. “It’s really just a reflection on how great our customers are,” he shared. With the support of its community, Amsterdam Tavern’s future as one of the premier soccer bars in the U.S. looks brighter than ever.
Fans can join in the celebration by submitting their nomination to Men in Blazers – a small act that could make a big impact on a bar that’s become a home for soccer lovers in St. Louis. As Lyell encourages, “Just get on there and tell them why you love your local [soccer bar] … that’s all you’ve got to do.”
To show your support and submit your nomination, visit the Men in Blazers website and tell them why Amsterdam Tavern deserves to be America’s best soccer bar. For the latest match updates and to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of the sport, follow Amsterdam Tavern on Instagram or stay tuned to their website.
Editor’s note: As of Jan. 12, voting has closed.
This article appears in December 2024.