If you’re running in the big race this weekend, congratulation – the day is almost here! You have trained for months, but as the final days approach, it is time to start building up glycogen stores to burn off during this race.
“Carbo loading,” (loading up on carbohydrate-heavy food), is one of the more fun parts of the marathon experience. Because the Spaghetti Warehouse in the Strip District, which always held an annual pre-marathon dinner, closed last year, here is our list of places to load up on carbs before the marathon this weekend:
Noodlehead
Shadyside
Noodlehead in Shadyside serves absolutely massive portions of noodles for a very fair price. Open for both lunch and dinner, this is a perfect spot to gorge in the week leading up to the marathon. Many experts suggest avoiding spice, so be sure to ask for little to no spice. Try the “Street Noodle 1” with rice noodles and chicken.
Bravo
Various locations including: McKnight, Waterfront, Cranberry
Bravo Cucina Italiana does not skimp when it comes to the portions on their famous pasta dishes. Additionally, their large menu features a lot of lean protein, salads, and a “light menu,” so it is possible to get a balanced meal. Bravo is also open for lunch. Try the “Pasta BRAVO!” with grilled chicken, mushrooms, rigatoni, roasted red pepper cream sauce.
Primanti Brothers
Various locations including: the Strip, East Liberty, Harmar, Oakland, Downtown
There are few things as carb heavy as a sandwich with french fries on top – but, of course, that is exactly what this Pittsburgh legend is serving. With locations around the city, it is very easy to stop in for lunch or dinner in the days leading up to the big race.
Sichuan Gourmet
Squirrel Hill
When people picture “carbo loading,” they always picture pasta and forget rice. Rice is an equally accessible grain that is perfectly paired with vegetables and lean protein. Stop by your local Asian restaurant, or cruise into Squirrel Hill to try the acclaimed Sichuan Gourmet restaurant.
Your favorite pizza place
We could never pick just one pizza place in Pittsburgh – and we know you couldn’t either! Stop by your favorite pizza spot and enjoy a pie with friends and family as you gear up for the big race. Some of our favorites include: Vocelli’s (thin crust pepperoni – you won’t regret it), Vincents, Spak Brothers, and Pizza Taglio… We are going to leave it at that, and not chime in on the Mineos vs Aiello’s debate.
People’s Indian
Garfield
The controversial choice, Indian is another option for carbo loading because of the rice. Once again, it is important to consider the spice factor when choosing a dish. Additionally, if you do not eat Indian food often, it is probably best to not introduce this food into your diet in the days leading up to the race. Otherwise enjoy garlic naan, rice, and some delicious chana masala at People’s Indian.
Pamela’s Diner
Various locations including: Squirrel Hill, Oakland, the Strip, Millvale
Can you say hash browns and pancakes? The marathon is the perfect excuse to get some of Pamela’s famously thin pancakes. The menu even has a “carb corner,” with different pancake, French toast, and waffle options.
Finished the race and looking to celebrate? Look at our list of new and coming soon breweries in Pittsburgh.
Where do you like to eat before the marathon? If you have participated in the race before, feel free to leave tips and encouragements for other racers in the comments!
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