German FIFA fan gets grilled online after eating at Denny's in Toronto

The food scene in Toronto has been recognized by many as one of the best in the entire world, boasting an expansive diversity of cuisines and calibres, from mom-and-pop Ethiopian spots on the Danforth to Michelin-starred Italian eateries.

Not everyone who comes to Toronto particularly cares about that, though, and one German soccer fan in town for the World Cup is learning the hard way that not taking full advantage of the food scene while in town might land you in hot water with locals.

Let's be real: generally speaking, neither I nor any of my fellow Toronto residents particularly care where visitors choose to line their stomachs. But the case of the German soccer fan known only by his online moniker, Freddy, is sort of an extenuating circumstance.

After going viral on X when a cancelled flight nearly meant he'd miss Germany's game against the Ivory Coast in Toronto on Saturday, June 20, Freddy got the attention of former NFL star JJ Watt, who arranged a flight to Buffalo for the fan to attend the match just in the nick of time.

With all that to-do just to get to Toronto, you'd think that the fan would make the most of finally being in the city, especially after Germany's win. But, no. Freddy instead took himself out for a meal at Denny's, of all places, after the victory.

Celebrating Germany’s win with dinner at Denny’s😋 pic.twitter.com/uuSt0egQ7X

— Freddy🇩🇪 (@FreddyLA7) June 21, 2026

Toronto residents on X were quick to offer their opinions on Freddy's choice of a chain restaurant for his victory dinner.

"Freddy you're in toronto, you can do better than Dennys my guy," one person responds.

"What happened to appreciating the local culture? Getchu the poutine," writes another.

"Just a ridiculous choice. Had to be 15 things better wherever you are," another X user comments.

In fairness to Freddy, it seems like he took some of this criticism — constructive or otherwise — to heart, heading next to Niagara Falls and posting a video watching a match outside with a hefty bowl of poutine perched in his lap.

Will Freddy continue to deepen his exploration of Canadian culture as the World Cup continues, or is he doomed to endure even more online flagellation for his culinary choices? I don't really follow soccer, but this is one World Cup story I will be keeping my eyes on.