As the Chicago Marathon descends on the city this weekend, tourists and locals alike will head out to cheer on 45,000 runners from around the world. Chances are, you know someone who’s racing on Sunday. But even if you don’t, the energy around town—from Addison Street to 35th Street and Damen Avenue to Columbus Drive—is absolutely contagious. We’re making it easy to be a spectator this year with a guide on where to watch, eat and cheer along the route. On your mark, get set, go, Chicago!
Dollop Coffee & Tea
345 E. Ohio St. 312-929-4007
Drop off your runner and head straight to this coffee shop for caffeine and a pastry to fuel you through the day. 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday.
1547 N. Wells St. 312-624-9430
This French bakery is known for its colorful macarons, but their breakfast menu is packed with hearty offerings. 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sunday.
The Patio at Caf e Brauer
2021 N. Stockton Drive 312-742-2400
If you’re entertaining out-of-town foodies, this is the place to go. Plus, a view of the Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo is icing on the cake. 8:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday.
The Flower Flat
620 W. Addison St. 773-697-3682
You’ll want to spend an entire morning in this quaint cafe that serves flower-nicknamed dishes such as the Snapdragon ($6) with toasted hazelnut chocolate spread on challah raisin bread. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday.
Wheat’s End Artisan Foods
2873 N. Broadway St. 773-770-3527
Gluten-free spectators will love this bakery and coffee shop that serves up fresh English muffins, bagels, cookies and more. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday.
The Hampton Social
353 W. Hubbard St. 312-464-0500
If you’re looking for a sit-down affair and seafood-centric menu options, this new River North spot has you covered. 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday.
Meli Cafe
301 S. Halsted St. 312-454-0748
Watch all the action while sipping fresh juices and munching on tasty breakfast options. 6 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday.
Sweet Maple Cafe
1339 W. Taylor St. 312-243-8908
Leaving this casual breakfast spot without trying the pancakes would be a sin. 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday.
Lupita’s Restaurant
1723 S. Ashland Ave. 312-733-2866
Located just off the Pink Line’s 18th Street stop, this no-frills restaurant slings fresh breakfast options for cheap. 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday.
1515 W. 18th St. 312-421-1517
One of Chicago’s favorite Mexican restaurants happens to be on the race route. Just don’t tell your runner you stopped here. 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday.
Go 4 Food
212 W. 23rd St. 312-842-8688
If it’s Chinese food you’re craving while checking out the marathon, now’s a great time to check out this gem in Chinatown. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday.
Ferro’s Beef
200 W. 31st St. 312-842-0702
This Italian eatery offers the morning classics you crave, such as breakfast sandwiches, pancakes and skillets. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday.
Ameritalia
1303 S. Michigan Ave. 312-957-1310
Located just south of the finish line, the Italian-inspired spot has everything from strombolis to cupcakes. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday.
Yolk
1120 S. Michigan Ave. 312-789-9655
Order the pot roast benedict ($12.99) with two poached eggs and housemade hollandaise and tell your runners to meet you here after they cross the finish line. 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday.
