Los Angeles is a city containing 10 cities, hundreds of cultures, and about 10 million people. It has everything you could possibly want, and some things you might not want, too.

It’s been my home for 8 years. I convinced my whole family to move west as well. I’m based in Culver City and can be found playing football in Playa Vista, Venice, or Griffith Park. My hope for Copa América is that it provides a glimpse of the passion that will be present for the 2026 World Cup, but also unveils a rich, diverse culture led by the massive Spanish-speaking community in North America that has evolved into so many forms of creative expression.

EAT.

The Bolo Bao sandwich is elite at Arroz & Fun and the crew here love footy, often opening their space up for morning European viewing parties. They’ll more than likely be doing the same all summer. Football is a theme at N10 too, where there’s a massive photo of Alessandro Del Piero as you walk in (this Italian restaurant in mid-city is owned by him.) It’s worth a visit purely to roll the dice to see if ADP pops in to say hi to his clientele, which happens pretty frequently.

Tucked away in Mar Vista, you’ll find Cafe Brasil – an authentic colourful cafe serving creative Brazilian cuisine. Don’t sleep on the fried plantains. They’ll also be showing A Selecão in action, naturally.

Alternatively, Grand Casino is an Argentinian staple in the heart of downtown Culver City. They’ll be serving milanesas, dulce de leche, and empanadas.

DRINK.

Apt 200 in West Hollywood was founded by self-proclaimed “unprofessional footballer” Zach Macklovitch who kicks around with the creative football collective Ringleaders FC. This has become one of the best places for music and drinks in the city. Don’t be surprised to see some Copa América inspired nights either. If you want a slice of the Amalfi Coast & Napoli, head instead to Capri Club in Eagle Rock, an aperitivo bar that also has a Diego Maradona shrine in the back.

WATCH.

If you only do one thing when visiting LA, head west towards the water for Venice Beach Football Club. They’ll be throwing plenty of viewing parties and hosting events at their new clubhouse on Windward Ave. Keep an eye out for a special party (and some special guests) when the Brazilian national team come to Sofi Stadium on June 24.

With 3 hugely supported clubs in LAFC, LA Galaxy, and Angel City FC, there are honestly too many places to watch. A few special shoutouts include La Cita Bar in Downtown LA for watching El Tri, and Anglophile footy staples include Joxer Daly’s in Culver City, The Fox and Hounds in Studio City, and Ye Olde King’s Head in Santa Monica.

PLAY.

VBFC is famous for their Sunday afternoon pickup matches in a futsal winner-stays-on format. You’ll find some of the best players in Southern California at Estadio de Dogtown, sandwiched between the Venice skate bowls and basketball courts. Besides this, Football For Her is a great organization for those who identify as female or non-binary to play every Friday in Pacoima and Gardena, CA. Saturdays Football also do free to play pickup games in Glassell Park. A few other popular pickup spots include MacArthur Park and Lafayette Park in Downtown Los Angeles, the Santa Monica Airport Fields, and Playa Vista Soccer Field.

SHOP.

At 424 On Fairfax, the founder Guillermo Andrade is mad about fútbol. You’ll find some pieces inspired by the beautiful game in his Fairfax high fashion meets streetwear brand store. Otherwise, try the VBFC Clubhouse and the Football Boutique for some of the most wearable & stylish football apparel out there. Similarly, at Saturdays Football you’ll find vintage kits galore.