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Pasta, Please. Your Guide to Marathon Monday

Boston Marathon Monday is almost here—and whether you’re racing 26.2 or just cheering with 110% energy, you’re going to need fuel. Lots of it. 

The Fenway Foodies Club is turning up the heat (and the carbs) all week long with Mangia Mondays, pasta-powered plates, and comfort food favorites to keep you going strong. From pre-race pasta to post-race parties, here’s your guide to carb-loading like a champion in The Fenway. 

Need a guide for your next adventure in The Fenway?

🏁 A Quick Boston Marathon Primer 

The Boston Marathon is the world’s oldest annual marathon and one of the most prestigious road racing events in the world. Managed by the Boston Athletic Association and sponsored by John Hancock, this American classic stands out for its deep traditions, global recognition, and rigorous entry requirements (qualifying only!). 

Race Day: Monday, April 21 
Here are a few quick facts if you’re planning to watch: 

  • Start Line: Main Street, Hopkinton, MA 
  • Finish Line: Boylston Street, in front of the Boston Public Library 
  • Start Times: 
    • 8:50AM – Mobility Impaired 
    • 9:32AM – Elite Women 
    • 10:00AM – Elite Men 
  • DO: Take the T, cheer loud, and sneak in a mimosa somewhere along the route. 
  • DON’T: Bring a backpack or open container. 

👟 Pre-Marathon Fueling 

🍝 Mangia Marathon at MIDA 

PASTA LOVERS + MARATHON RUNNERS, THIS ONE’S FOR YOU! 

This Marathon Weekend, MIDA in The Fenway is dishing out the ultimate pre-race carb fix with a special Mangia Marathon Menu, available Sunday, April 20 & Monday, April 21

Whether you’re tackling Heartbreak Hill or just cheering from the sidelines, this pasta-packed feast has everything you need to fuel up right. 

Mangia Marathon Menu Includes: 

  • FIVE signature pasta dishes 
  • Fresh insalata 
  • Warm sourdough bread 
  • Heartbreak Hill Running Co. approved (@heartbreak.run

$80 | Serves Two 
Perfect for runners, spectators, and anyone who believes in pre-race rigatoni

🥤 Pressed

Fuel your morning with the Dark Chocolate Protein Smoothie Pack—a powerful blend with 30g of pea + chia protein, prebiotic fiber, and all the essential macros to keep your body race-ready and gut-happy. 

🦄 Marathon Monday (April 21): The Main Event 

⚾ Red Sox Marathon Monday Game 

On Monday, April 21, the Boston Red Sox face off against the Chicago White Sox at Fenway Park. First pitch is at 11:10AM—a perfect pre-race warm-up or mid-marathon break. Grab a sausage, catch a homer, and hit the streets to cheer the runners. 

🎉 Pre-Race Picks 

Cisco Brewers Fenway

Marathon Monday at Cisco Brewers Fenway is our new favorite tradition. Tucked into the ballpark scene with an island-meets-Back-Bay vibe, this pop-up beer garden is one of the best places to catch the post-race energy (or escape the crowds with a local brew in hand).

Expect good vibes, live music, crowd-favorite beers like Whale’s Tale and Grey Lady, and plenty of space to stretch those spectating legs. You don’t need to have just run 26.2 miles to justify a lobster roll and a cold one, but if you want to pretend—you’re among friends here. First-come, first-sipped. 🏁🍺

Yard House 
Early Opening @ 8AM 
Start the day with breakfast brews, comfort food, and a free half brookie if you’re rockin’ your race bib.

Loretta’s Last Call 
Doors Open @ 7:30AM 
Country vibes + carbs = race day bliss. Expect live music all day and a special early-morning menu that’ll stick to your ribs. 

🥳 Post-Race Parties 

Hojoko – Post-Marathon Bash 
Ran the race? Cheered too hard? Either way, come decompress with DJs, sushi, sake, and good vibes at this Fenway favorite. 

Time Out Market Boston – Marathon Monday Afterparty 
Refuel with your fave local vendors, cocktails, bites, and beats—an ideal wind-down (or second wind) after a big day in Boston. 

Sweet Cheeks Q 
End your Marathon Monday with one of Fenway’s sweetest finishes: a giant buttermilk biscuit or a monster scoop of banana pudding from Sweet Cheeks. You’ve earned it. 

🏃‍♂️ Purpose in Every Stride: Meet Team Fenway

Marathon Monday isn’t just about athleticism or day-drinking—it’s also about heart. Fenway Health is once again an official charity partner of the 2025 Bank of America Boston Marathon®, and this year’s runners are putting the “run” in run for something real.

Jean Elie, actor, writer, and producer (Insecure, Rap Sh!t, and more), is using his miles to raise critical funds for Fenway Health’s work with underserved communities, including LGBTQIA+ folks.

“One of my biggest goals this year? Running the Boston Marathon, and thanks to my LinkedIn community, I’ve joined Fenway Health’s team! Let’s make a difference—hit follow and donate to this amazing cause!”

Tyler Sanslow, who’s been part of Fenway’s Dental Department since 2018, is running for the community that’s both his workplace and chosen fam.

“Running and Fenway are two of my life’s biggest passions. I’m honored to raise funds that support the LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC communities—and I’ve never felt more motivated.”

And it’s working: Together, Jean, Tyler, and Fenway Health have already raised $17,994, smashing their $10K-per-runner goals. But they’re still chasing that next milestone—so if you’re feeling inspired (or just want to do a little good while you carb-load), drop a donation.

👉 Support Team Fenway here

Let’s cheer them on as they run toward a future where healthcare is inclusive, equitable, and accessible for all.

Come for the Carbs. Stay for the Celebration. 

Whether you’re running on adrenaline or Alfredo, The Fenway is the place to be this Marathon Week. Join us for a full-on flavor sprint packed with pasta, parties, and local love—and don’t forget to cheer loud on race day. Boston’s biggest moment deserves Boston’s best neighborhood. 

Welcome to The Fenway Foodies Club

The not-so-secret-secret club that dishes out all the delicious neighborhood dining tips, including off-menu items, scrumptious ways to save, and all the news hot of the grill. Want to be the first to know? Subscribe to The Fenway Foodies Club newsletter and follow along on Instagram!