Sofitel Philadelphia embraces French flair for World Cup match day festivities

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The colors bleu, blanche and rouge are visible throughout the city as the Sofitel Philadelphia leans into its French roots, transforming match day into what staff called a "fanzone avec sophisticate."

"We will be featuring by the glass, champagne Tettigen, which is the official champagne s sponsoring the World Cup," a staff member said during preparations.

From themed prizes to gourmet bites, fans attending the hotel's watch party were greeted with a full celebration of French culture - no passport required. The Liberté restaurant and bar offered specialty drinks, including the French 75 bleu, created to match the national team's colors.

Gameday food also received a French twist. One featured item, the "nugget royale," was described as a chicken nugget topped with caviar. During halftime, the hotel planned to raffle off official France jerseys.

"It's all about FIFA bringing people together. Hospitality brings people together. So what we want is to bring France and a bit of Paris to Philadelphia," said Pierre Jotterand, the hotel's general manager.

The celebration extended to the bar, where staff planned to serve a limited-edition Don Julio FIFA World Cup tequila - a product available at only a few locations.

The hotel's French-themed festivities were designed to give fans a taste of Paris as they gathered to cheer on their team.