Let me begin by saying that this restaurant is without a doubt one of my favourites in Calgary. Anyone looking for something "different" in terms of ethnic cuisine will no doubt appreciate Marathon's unique Eithiopian fare.
Though I have never actually ordered individual dishes, the combination platters are without a doubt the best choice, as you get to share several dishes with your friends. These tasty platters are served on HUGE traditional trays and are accompanied with a side of injera (a fun and spongy sourdough flatbread) with which you then proceed to eat with your hands. It's a messy affair, which means it's as much entertaining as it is delicious. A platter for two could easily feed 3-4 people...and then some!
That being said, don't go to Marathon if you are hungry. Instead, go EXPECTING to be hungry, as the restaurant's unapologetic and almost painfully slow service will have you practically dying for a crumb by the time you get it. Order a Ethiopian coffee or an aromatic tea while you wait for the inevitable feast to come your way.
VERDICT: Always tasty, but with slow service and a pricey menu (though comparable with other Calgary restaurants). A great place to go on a first date, as you will have plenty of time to get to know one another, without all the pretense of fancy things...like cutlery.