The largest half-marathon in the world is coming back to NE1 this month! If you’re one of the thousands of runners taking to the streets of Newcastle on 12th September then you’ll be in need of some lush food and drink on the day to get you over that finishing line.
Thankfully we’re a city that’s home to so many brilliant healthy restaurants and takeaways ready to fuel your big day.
Naked Deli
Located right next to Grey’s Monument, Naked Deli has quickly become the mecca of city centre healthy eating since setting up shop in Newcastle. They’re all about making clean, nutritious, natural food that tastes absolutely delicious. For a big eat before the race their famous Naked Bowls will do the trick. Simply choose your protein and two sides to create your own personalised pre-race health kick! If you’re looking for something a bit more grab-and-go then try the superfood smoothies; packed with protein and good stuff, they’re the perfect way to fuel up fast before the big race.
Zucchini Pasta Bar
Pasta is the classic fuel for runners, the key ingredient to getting the most out of your energy reserves on the day. But, just because it’s a classic it doesn’t have to be boring. And Zucchini Pasta Bar is anything but boring. Situated in Newcatle’s bustling 55 Degrees North that looks right over the Tyne Bridge, Zucchini is home to some of the most exciting and authentic pasta in the Toon. Made fresh every day, they’ve new takes on staple dishes like Spaghetti and Meatballs, as well as more adventurous plates like the Taglierini Shetland Mussel, Tomato & Smoked Salmon. This is a must visit for you pasta loving runners!
Shijo
Japanese street food might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re thinking about runner fuel - but hear us out, you’ll be glad you did. Shijo is one of the most popular bait spots in Newcastle with its generously sized portions of authentic Japanese food. Their bowls of delicious Katsu curry always hit the spot - sticky rice, a good portion of boiled veg, tender strips of breadcrumbed chicken and their famous Katsu sauce. They’ve also got spot on vegan alternatives for all of their dishes, featuring tender tofu and colourful veg. Healthy, hearty and bursting with flavour, you can’t go wrong with Shijo.
Snackwallah
We’re staying in the world of Asian street food for this next entry. We know it’s not your classic pre-race cuisine, but we can’t get enough of authentic vegan Indian food at Snackwallah. Hidden in Newcastle’s famous Grainger Market, this amazing little gem has built a reputation for super healthy food with an added spicy kick! Their chaat chickpea salads are the perfect dish to put a spring in your step this Great North Run. A mix of aromatic spices, chilli, onion, tomatoes, lemon and zingy chaat, this dish is bursting with colour and flavour. Snackwallah also do nutritious fresh fruit lassi shakes if you’re looking for a quick hit of energy! It’s a one stop shop for lush pre-race food.
Portofino
One of the most popular Italian restaurants in town, Portofino is the perfect place to indulge in a pre-race pasta binge the night before the big day. The Mosley Street restaurant is famous not only for its incredible Victorian grade 2 listed building, but also for its range of tasty authentic pasta dishes. Their menu is a pasta lover's dream, it's filled with rich and saucy dishes that are certain to hit the spot - elegant Italian food done the old fashioned way. If you’re feeling a bit naughty, why not treat yourself to an indulgent thin crust pizza? Go on, you’ll be working it off the next day anyway!
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