Where to eat and drink along the Chicago Marathon route this weekend

The Chicago Marathon is taking over the city this weekend as runners trek 26.2 miles across the north, west and south sides. For those cheering on the sidelines, there’s a lot of time to pass between the brief waves you’re able to exchange as runners pass by and when they pass the finish line. Whether you’re craving a full meal, a quick bite or a mid-marathon pick-me-up, these restaurants and bars along the Chicago Marathon route have you covered.

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Best for a sit-down meal: Kindling Downtown Cookout & Cocktails

Kindling is known for its live-fire cooking, courtesy of James Beard Award-winning chef Jonathon Sawyer. At mile 13, Kindling inside the Willis Tower is an ideal spot for having a sit-down meal. It’s also right next to miles two and three, so you’d be able to watch runners pass through mile three, head to Kindling, then catch runners entering the 13th mile as soon as you’re done eating.

Address: 202 S Franklin St, Chicago, IL 60606

What to order: You can’t go wrong with any of the wood-fired plates, but we recommend opting for a sandwich, like the Super Baja grilled chicken sandwich, served with Nueske bacon and salsa verde. Plus, if you’re celebrating here after the marathon, a 20% discount will be offered to anyone who shows their medal or marathon ticket on Friday, Saturday and the following Monday.

Expect to pay: $50-100 per person

Best for brunch: R.J. Grunts

A little farther north, R.J. Grunts is located between miles five and six. This gives you enough time to enjoy brunch after runners make their way through Lincoln Park before spotting them on their way south at down Sedgwick Street at mile 10.

Address: 2056 N Lincoln Park W, Chicago, IL 60614

What to order: The breakfast burrito and pancake breakfast sandwich are always hits. You may enter a food coma shortly after, but at least you’re not expected to run a marathon!

Expect to pay: $20-30 per person

Best for beer: Good Times Brewery + Kitchen

If you’re looking for a palace to plop down and nurse a cold one during the marathon, head to Good Times, which is conveniently situated where the course turns south down Broadway at mile 8. Even if you’re just here to cheer on strangers, it’s a lively spot to be parked on marathon day.

Address: 3827 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60613

What to order: Good Times’ menu features a selection of Indian-American fusion items, like chicken tikka pizza and butter chicken sandwiches. Pair with one of the nine house craft beers, including the tart ORD Cherry Altbier and citrusy Woo! Woo! Witbier.

Expect to pay: $20-30 per person

Best for caffeine: Gathers Tea Bar

Cheering on runners isn’t an easy job, so stop by Gathers Tea Bar on Taylor Street at mile 18 for a dose of caffeine in the form of matcha, lattes, teas and more. Runners turn south down Loomis Street just two blocks away, so you’ll have just enough time to grab a drink before they pass.

Address: 1214 W Taylor St, Chicago, IL 60607

What to order: Gathers is known for its match. Multiple variations, such as strawberry, banana and ube, are on offer. The traditional and fruit teas are also worth a try.

Expect to pay: $6-8 per person

Best for a hearty meal: Qing Xiang Yuan Dumplings

Runners will head east down Cermak Road before taking a right down Wentworth Ave in Chinatown. Although not directly along the marathon route, this turning point just before mile 21 is close enough to Qing Xiang Yuan Dumplings, just a stone’s throw away. Plus, the route heads north up Michigan Avenue, just three blocks away, so you’d be heading toward the finish line anyway.

Address: 2002 S Wentworth Ave #103, Chicago, IL 60616

What to order: QXY serves some of the best dumplings in Chicago. We love the pork and cabbage, and Wagyu beef and onion dumplings, both pan-fried. The menu is extensive, so there’s something for everyone.

Expect to pay: $20-30 per person

Best for a quick bite: Harold's Chicken

Harold’s Chicken is located at the point where runners finally turn north and make a dash for the finish line. If you’re cheering on a runner, you’re probably planning on joining them to indulge in celebratory carbs after the marathon, so a quick bit at Harold’s Chicken near mile 23 will tide you over until then. 

Address: 124 E 35th St, Chicago, IL 60616

What to order: You obviously have to order chicken here. The tenders and wings never disappoint—just make sure to get enough of Harold’s signature sauce for dunking!

Expect to pay: $10-20 per person