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If you're running the London Marathon this year and suddenly find yourself suffering from a case of last-minute nerves, we've got two words that'll make you feel instantly better: Free. Food.
Yep, those who cross the finish line at the 26.2-mile race this Sunday will leave with more than just a medal and some seriously aching limbs. Restaurants across London are offering FREE food to marathon runners, so just remember that when you're struggling to recall why the hell you signed yourself up in the first place.
Chipotle
After running all those miles, you're seriously going to need to refuel. Luckily, Chipotle's burritos have got all the main food groups covered (yes, cheese is a food group) and they're giving them away for free to anyone who finishes the course. Just head over to your nearest branch on April 25 or April 26 from 4pm and flash them your medal to get a free burrito, burrito bowl, or some tacos. Sure, you won't be able to get one straight after the race, but there's a big chance you may want to spend Sunday afternoon in the foetal position on your sofa, so that's not necessarily a bad thing.
Orso
Why does anyone run the Marathon? To raise money for charity? To get fit? Or just for the glory? They're all valid reasons, but we all know that the real reason is the excuse to carb-load the heck out of endless plates of pasta. And after you've completed the race, you'll need to get those energy levels back up. Luckily, Italian restaurant Orso is offering runners a free plate of pasta, risotto or pizza on April 24. All you have to do is show your medal and make sure you bring along one friend who's prepared to shell out for their own meal. Orso is at 27 Wellington St, WC2E 7DB.
The Royal China Group
Fed up of pasta? Head over to one of The Royal China Group's branches, where they'll be giving marathon runners free dim sum on April 24. Take your pick from rice noodle rolls with peanut sauce, steamed prawn and chive dumplings and honey-roast pork puffs. Branches across London.
Meat Liquor
Obviously running the Marathon is no joke, but neither is organising the whole thing and making sure it goes smoothly, which is why the folks at Meat Liquor are giving away free burgers to both runners and volunteers. Bring on the meat sweats. Meat Liquor off Bond Street or Meat Market in Covent Garden.
GBK
If one free burger isn't enough for you, head over to GBK and make it two. They're giving away free cheeseburgers to anyone who brings in their Marathon medal on April 24 and April 25. Bring your team of loyal supporters and, as long as they all order a main meal, they'll all get a free beer, too. All London branches.
Here's everything you need to know about the London Marathon.