As noted before, this year’s ECM races are being run in conjunction with a new event,  Escalante Heritage Days.  Because of this, the pre-race dinner will be more along the lines of typical southern Utah fare than the traditional pasta dinner.

That said, I want to let those seeking pasta or another type of sit-down pre-race dinner know that there are several options around Escalante.  A list follows the Heritage Days dinner information.

The Heritage Days dinner will take place at the Escalante City Park picnic pavilion, 100 North Center Street from about 3:30 pm to 9:00 pm.  The dinner is being catered by the Boots Café, it will be very informal, and the cost is $8/plate.  Here’s the scoop:

Friday night food –

Entrees or sandwiches:  smoked meatloaf, pulled pork, cheesesteak (pick one)

Sides:  coleslaw, macaroni salad, baked beans, and maybe mashed potatoes (pick two)

Drinks:  water or Coke products ($1)

Saturday morning food – For friends and families of runners looking for sustenance on race day morning, breakfast will also be served on the picnic pavilion.  Price will depend on what you choose.  It will include breakfast burritos, granola and yogurt, biscuits and gravy, and sandwiches to go, along with water, coffee, and juices.

Post-race food for runners – fruit, boiled eggs, homemade pumpkin pie, bagels, water, and lemonade

Now for the pre-race dinner options.  From west to east, these restaurants are all found on Highway 12 (Main Street in Escalante).  They’re generally open until 9 p.m. for dinner, although you might want to call or google to make sure.

North Creek Grill – American, pizza, vegetarian friendly — 3680 W Highway 12, 435-616-4999

Devil’s Garden Grill – American, Southwestern, vegetarian friendly — 530 W Main St, 435-826-4800

Circle D Eatery – American, vegetarian friendly — 485 W Main St, 435-826-4125

4th West Pub — fresh pub food — 425 W Main St, 435-826-4525

Escalante Outfitters Café – American, pizza, vegetarian friendly — 310 W Main St, 435-826-4266

Escalante Mercantile – American, vegetarian/vegan friendly, groceries — 210 W Main St, 435-826-4114

Canyon Country Lodge – Mexican — 760 E Highway 12, 435-826-4545

We hope you find something you enjoy!