Since the kick off match between England and Fiji on the 18th of September, 972,821 people have attended the Rugby World Cup live. There has been 110 tries, 76 conversions, 16 yellow cards and the huge blow to Africa’s pride when Japan beat South Africa 34-32.
Despite not having an East African representative at the RWC, Ugandans all over Kampala throng bars to catch the games. If you’ve booked your stay using Jovago.com you might be able to catch the games without ever having to leave your hotel, but if you prefer to join the crowd here are the top five places to catch the RWC in Kampala.
Legends
The name itself gives it away. This is the most popular sports bar in Kampala. Legends is especially enjoyed by rugby lovers because of its pitch which hosts most tournaments in Kampala and of course, its fully stocked bar. Multiple screens are hung both inside and outside as well as a projector with a 2metre by 3metre screen for big games. Legends is known for good music and great food and is definitely worth a return leg on your rugby tour of Kampala.
Zone 7
Tucked away somewhere between Bugolobi and Mbuya, Zone 7 is a more family friendly experience. They have bouncy castles and a large play area for kids away from the screens inside. This way daddy can catch his games undisturbed while the kids are distracted by fun and face painting. Zone 7 is known for its muchomo platter and affordable drinks.
Riders Lounge
For the posh sports fan that enjoys bottle service, private tables and comfy seating, Riders is where to be. There are two branches of Riders Lounge, one in Village Mall Bugolobi, and the other on Acacia Avenue. This way you don’t have to cross town to get the Riders’ experience. Riders has multiple big screens to accommodate all the sports fans different affiliations. If you are going with a group, book a table in advance on their website with your specific requirements and enjoy world class service.
CityVille
A hidden gem in Bukoto, Cityville is one of the less known sports bars in Kampala. With the perfect location, perfectly priced drinks and an abundance of food to choose from, it is definitely a favourite for residents of the Bukoto/Naguru area. The service is swift, the drinks are cold and the screens are big; just how we like it.
Just Kicking (Rest in Peace)
Located in Kisimenti, it was the epitome of sports bars in Kampala. Great DJ, amazing food and enough screens to cater to all different sports fans from tennis to swimming. The ambience was perfect with a collection of flags hanging from the ceiling. Unfortunately JK as we fondly called it was demolished two weeks before the beginning of the RWC. Ugandans from all over Kampala came to pay their last repects during the demolition party on the 1st September. JK will forever be in the hearts of the Ugandans and expats that filled it’s benches on a daily basis.
