Community and carbs: How a local restaurant fuels Richmond marathon runners, supports local business

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — For more than 20 years, Richmond Marathon runners have made a pit stop at Joe’s Inn the night before the race to enjoy a giant plate of spaghetti.

Managers said the tradition not only fuels runners but also brings the community together and boosts local businesses.

"As long as the marathon’s been going on, I’m sure people have been coming to Joe’s to eat spaghetti," said General Manager Lars Reisinger.

Reisinger said the event happens the night before what’s called “America’s Friendliest Marathon.” Runners pack the restaurant in the Fan District for one final carb-loading mission before taking on 26.2 miles.

"It has just about everything you would need to be ready for a marathon the next day. Lots of protein, lots of carbs," Reisinger said.

Reisinger said he's been working Marathon Fridays since 2010, and the crowd has only grown over the years.

"We get a lot of people from out of town to run the marathon, so they come here. They’re told to come here. It’s just kind of spiraled into this really big event that happens," he said.

But the tradition does more than fuel runners. Reisinger said the economic impact the spaghetti night brings is irreplaceable, as local restaurants like Joe's Inn are part of Richmond’s charm.

"Spaghetti sales are through the roof. I’m sure Olive Garden does some business, but this helps promote a small family," he said. "You know, this helps the people who run this business, the ones who work here. We’re a very tight-knit crew."

He added that while he doesn’t know exactly how much money the night brings in, Marathon Fridays are about more than just sales.

"Joe’s Inn is based in [the] community," Reisinger said. "It’s been getting busier every year."

The marathon, half-marathon and 8K kick off on Saturday, Nov. 15. Joe’s Inn opens daily at 9 a.m. for anyone looking to fuel up beforehand.