Marathon Space
BackEspace Marathon has established itself as a go-to address for lovers of Portuguese cuisine in the heart of Luxembourg. Located at 63 Route de Thionville, in the Bouneweg-Süd district, this establishment combines the functions of a restaurant, cafeteria , and bar, offering a complete culinary experience for workers, families, and those curious to discover the authentic flavors of Portugal without leaving the Grand Duchy.
A Portuguese institution in Luxembourg
The establishment is closely linked to the Espetada Jantinhas brand, visible in official photos and recognized by the local Portuguese-speaking community. This identity is reflected in the culinary offerings: classic Portuguese dishes are featured, with a particular focus on spit-roasted meats (the famous espetadas) as well as convivial daily specials. Portuguese cuisine in Luxembourg has a long tradition, and Espace Marathon is fully part of this popular gastronomic culture that appeals to both expatriates and Luxembourgers seeking authenticity.
A versatile space for all times of the day
Thanks to its extended hours, Espace Marathon caters to its customers from lunch to dinner during the week. From Monday to Friday, the doors are open from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, making it convenient for both employees on their lunch break and diners looking for a full meal in the evening. On Saturdays, the restaurant opens at 10:00 am and closes at 6:00 pm, while on Sundays, the hours are slightly reduced from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. This wide range of hours makes it a reliable option for those seeking an accessible restaurant both midweek and on weekends.
A menu focused on the prato do dia and grilled meats
The menu features the famous prato do dia, the typical Portuguese dish of the day, a favorite with customers for its quick service and excellent value. This concept, deeply rooted in the culture of Portuguese-speaking cafes, allows diners to enjoy a different dish each day, accompanied by its essential sides: rice, fries, salad, and vegetables. Among the specialties that have made the restaurant famous, picanha holds a special place, although some customers have noted variations in the quality of the meat served. This does not detract from the careful seasoning of the dishes, which is unanimously praised by regulars.
Convenient takeaway options for customers in a hurry
For those who wish to enjoy Portuguese specialties at home or at the office, the establishment offers a takeaway service. This option is particularly useful for local employees looking for a quick and tasty meal to enjoy at their workplace. Grill lovers can thus enjoy espetadas and other meats prepared according to traditional Portuguese recipes, without having to wait for a table. It should be noted, however, that home delivery is not offered; takeout is limited to on-site pickup only.
A friendly setting for watching football
One of Espace Marathon ‘s distinctive features is its typically convivial atmosphere, which also makes it a popular meeting place for watching football matches. This social dimension, so prevalent in Portuguese café and cafeteria culture, transforms the space into a true gathering point during major sporting events. Customers can enjoy a cold beer or a glass of wine while sharing a moment of camaraderie, creating the warm atmosphere that is so characteristic of Portuguese community establishments across Europe.
A varied selection of drinks
The bar offers a fine selection of drinks to accompany every moment of the day. Those who prefer to eat in or take away can choose from a menu of beers, wines, and coffees. The quality of the coffee, in particular, is regularly praised by customers, who appreciate being able to stop by for a simple coffee break even outside of mealtimes. This flexibility makes Espace Marathon accessible at all opening hours, where you can enjoy anything from a quick espresso to a full meal with a glass of vinho verde.
A warm welcome in the heart of Bouneweg-Süd
The Bouneweg-Süd district, located in the municipality of Luxembourg City, is home to a large Portuguese community that has contributed to the development of a vibrant network of authentic restaurants and shops. Espace Marathon is part of this dynamic and benefits from the loyalty of a diverse clientele, comprised of both Portuguese speakers and Luxembourg residents or cross-border workers. The welcome is unanimously described as friendly and attentive, with staff who take the time to chat with regulars and make new visitors feel at ease.
Affordable prices for quality food
The price level, classified as moderate (level 2 out of 4), positions Espace Marathon as a particularly attractive option for those on a budget without compromising on quality. The “prato do dia” (set menu) remains one of the most economical options for a complete and substantial meal, while the grilled meats and other Portuguese specialties offer excellent value for money compared to other restaurants in the area. Food lovers will find here a great alternative to the more touristy establishments in Luxembourg City center.
Points to consider before your visit
A few things are worth noting to fully enjoy your experience. Firstly, some customers have reported discrepancies between the hours displayed on online platforms and the actual opening hours. It is therefore strongly recommended that you call the establishment at +352 27 99 47 58 before visiting, especially on your first visit or during weekends and holidays. Secondly, the menu may vary from one visit to the next, particularly regarding certain meats such as picanha: it can be helpful to ask the staff for advice on the daily specials to avoid any disappointment.
How to join Espace Marathon
The establishment benefits from a strategic location on the Route de Thionville, one of the main roads leading to the French border. Easily accessible by car and public transport thanks to the nearby bus lines serving the Bouneweg area, the restaurant is an ideal stop for cross-border commuters and residents of neighboring towns. Parking nearby is generally easy, which is a significant advantage in this urban area.
An address to remember for lovers of Portuguese cuisine.
Ultimately, Espace Marathon is a sure bet for anyone wanting to discover or rediscover traditional Portuguese cuisine in Luxembourg. Between its community atmosphere, convenient takeaway options, affordable “prato do dia” (a local snack), and football-themed ambiance, the establishment ticks many of the boxes that make Portuguese-language cafes so successful. Whether you’re an expat seeking familiar flavors or a curious newcomer eager to try new recipes, don’t hesitate to step inside this friendly spot for an authentic culinary experience. Just remember to check the opening hours by phone before you arrive, and get ready to enjoy a pleasant time in one of the most endearing Portuguese institutions in Luxembourg’s capital.
