After many hours of continuous exertion on the night course, the body significantly depletes glycogen, loses water, and muscles endure substantial stress. Beyond water and electrolytes, supplementing with carbohydrates and protein post-race aids the energy regeneration process. In one of the country's most vibrant cities, it is not difficult to find dishes that are both familiar and excellent for a runner's recovery needs.

Runners stride on the VnExpress Marathon Ho Chi Minh Midnight 2025 night course. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Broken rice

Broken rice (com tam) is a popular choice for many runners seeking a satisfying meal after crossing the finish line. A hot plate of grilled pork ribs, shredded pork skin, and steamed egg meatloaf not only provides a full feeling but also helps the body quickly regain energy.

The white rice provides essential carbohydrates to replenish muscle glycogen. Grilled ribs, steamed egg meatloaf, or fried eggs add protein, supporting muscle recovery after prolonged exertion. Pickled vegetables and fish sauce help replenish sodium lost through sweat. For a more balanced meal, runners should prioritize lean meat, limit fat, and avoid excessive sweet fish sauce to prevent consuming too much sugar and fat.

Broken rice eateries open late, popular among locals, include: Com tam Co Phuong (234 Ly Tu Trong), Com tam De Tham (269 De Tham), Com tam Co Giang (24 Co Giang), or those along Tran Dinh Xu street—a favorite spot for night owls. Each serving costs from approximately 40,000 dong.

Broken rice is a common dish but has long been a culinary signature of Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Bui Thuy

Sticky rice

In Ho Chi Minh City, sticky rice (xoi) is a versatile street food. For runners needing a quick energy boost, sticky rice is a convenient and calorie-rich option.

The glutinous rice grains provide a high amount of carbohydrates, helping to quickly regenerate energy. Compared to Hanoi's sticky rice, which leans towards milder flavors like xoi xeo, xoi lac, or xoi gac, Ho Chi Minh City's sticky rice is commonly savory, featuring numerous toppings such as shredded chicken, Vietnamese pork sausage, Chinese sausage, pate, shredded pork, and a generous pour of sauce. Consequently, a serving is not only rich in carbs but also provides a relatively complete protein supplement. However, because sticky rice is quite dense and energy-rich, runners should eat in moderation and drink enough water for better absorption.

Many sticky rice vendors operate throughout the night along brightly lit and bustling streets like Tran Binh Trong, Nguyen Trai, and Nguyen Thi Minh Khai. Each serving typically costs from around 30,000 dong.

Noodle soup

If the body is still sensitive or not ready for a heavy meal, a hot bowl of noodle soup (hu tieu) is a gentler option. The rice noodles provide moderate carbohydrates, less dense than rice or sticky rice, making them easier for the stomach to absorb after high-intensity exercise.

The hot broth helps rehydrate and replenish electrolytes, while lean meat, shrimp, or eggs provide a sufficient amount of protein. For many runners, a warm bowl of hu tieu also helps the body gradually calm down after the excitement of crossing the finish line.

Runners should prioritize clear, low-oil hu tieu broth for easier digestion and rehydration. Photo: Huynh Nhi

Runners can visit Hu Tieu Heo Ga (160 Tran Binh Trong), He - Hu Tieu Nam Vang (22B Ky Dong), or choose from the mobile hu tieu vendors operating at night in District 1, District 3, and District 10. Each bowl costs approximately 50,000-70,000 dong.

Beyond these specific dishes, runners also need to develop a nutrition plan for several days to weeks after the race. Prioritizing green vegetables, fruits, quality protein sources, and adequate hydration will help the body recover more effectively.

Saigon banh mi

For runners needing a quick meal before heading home or to their hotel, banh mi is an ideal choice. The lightly crispy baguette provides carbohydrates, while fillings like eggs, cold cuts, or xiu mai (pork meatballs) add protein, aiding muscle regeneration.

Accompanying pickles and vegetables contribute vitamins and provide a refreshing sensation after prolonged exercise. To avoid excessive fat intake, runners should opt for less butter, less sauce, and prioritize lean meat or egg fillings.

Each banh mi costs from 25,000 dong, suitable for a light meal or breakfast. Photo: Tam Linh

Banh mi shops at 75 Nguyen Thai Hoc, the Banh Mi Xanh chain, or banh mi stalls along Cach Mang Thang Tam street are popular late-night spots, with prices starting from approximately 25,000 dong per serving.

After a long race, as the city lights still glow brightly, a plate of broken rice, a bowl of hu tieu, or hot sticky rice not only fills the stomach but also allows runners to experience the sleepless rhythm of Ho Chi Minh City after conquering the night course.

Hai Long

The VnExpress Marathon Ho Chi Minh City Midnight 2026, taking place on 22/3, is Vietnam's largest night race. In its fourth season, the event is expected to attract 12,000 athletes from both within Vietnam and abroad. Running past Ho Chi Minh City's iconic landmarks such as: Tao Dan Park, Independence Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Nguyen Hue Walking Street at night promises a unique experience, helping runners achieve breakthroughs in both performance and mental strength. Interested runners can register here.