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If the idea of running 13.1 miles sounds ambitious, why not try it with a steady stream of bagels, pizza and oysters along the way? That’s the pitch behind the first-ever L.A. Food Run, a new “social half marathon” hitting the streets on May 17—and it might be the only race where stopping to eat is the entire point.
Created by Copenhagen- and New York-based media company Tipster (the team behind NYC’s viral Bakery Run, held last year), the event will turn Los Angeles into a moving tasting menu. The route winds through Highland Park, Echo Park and Silver Lake, with pit stops at some of the city’s most in-demand kitchens, including Courage Bagels, Quarter Sheets, Found Oyster, Amboy and Sqirl.
The food is free. You skip the lines. And while there’s no prize waiting at the finish line, you’ll be rewarded with bragging rights and the memory of what might be the most L.A. way to “carb-load” ever conceived.
“It’s about experiencing the DNA of L.A. through the people and kitchens shaping what it tastes like right now,” said Tipster’s founder, Simon Evers. “L.A. gave us the freedom to go a bit wilder, moving across neighborhoods and cuisines that reflect the city’s energy and evolution.”
The concept has already proven wildly popular. More than 17,000 people entered the lottery for the NYC Bakery Run, and expectations are similarly high for L.A., even though just 100 participants will ultimately get in. Spots are awarded via lottery (in pairs, so bring a running buddy), with entries closing May 6 at 11:59 pm PT and winners announced the following day.
The run itself is designed to be approachable, with three pace groups—advanced, intermediate and beginner—so you don’t need to be chasing a personal record to take part. In fact, the vibe is less marathon, more moving block party, with food acting as both fuel and destination.
“What started as a way to explore food through running has grown into a series across New York, Copenhagen and Amsterdam,” Evers said. “In L.A., we’re spotlighting a scene defined by both legacy spots and a new generation pushing it forward.”
Participation is free, but getting in is the hard part. For everyone else, consider this your sign to map your own DIY version, no lottery required.