Located in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Can Tho is famous for its floating markets, Ninh Kieu Wharf, and orchards laden with fruit. For runners participating in the VnExpress Marathon, it's also a unique culinary destination, where rustic dishes offer both nutritional replenishment and an immersive experience of the river region's culture.

Can Tho's cuisine features fresh ingredients like river fish, dried shrimp, and garden vegetables, combined with traditional spices. The dishes are not only rich in energy needed by athletes, but also reflect a simple lifestyle connected to nature. Here are eight specialties runners can enjoy during their race journey on 14/9.

Duck in fermented tofu is a popular choice for visitors to Can Tho. Photo: VnExpress

Duck in fermented tofu is a popular choice for visitors to Can Tho. Photo: VnExpress

Grilled snakehead fish

Considered a signature rustic dish of the Mekong Delta, grilled snakehead fish is appealing for its simple preparation. Fresh river snakehead fish is grilled over straw, preserving its natural sweetness, firm texture, and low-fat content. This dish often evokes the flavors of the riverside countryside. Visitors can enjoy it at Quan Man (184 Huynh Cuong), Quan Dong Xanh (211 Nguyen Van Linh), or Hiep Thanh Grilled Snakehead Fish (759A Nguyen Van Cu noi dai).

Duck in fermented tofu

This dish features Muscovy duck cooked with fermented tofu, taro, and Mekong Delta spices. The rich broth and tender, sweet duck create an unforgettable flavor. Thanh Giao restaurant in alley 1, Ly Tu Trong Street, is known to many visitors for serving duck in fermented tofu for over 20 years, alongside field crab hotpot and fried frog.

Cai Rang grilled pork rolls

Grilled pork rolls are made from minced pork, grilled over coals, and served with vermicelli noodles or steamed rice cakes and fresh herbs. This is a balanced meal of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins. Visitors can find authentic local flavors at Co Trang Cai Rang Grilled Pork Rolls on Tran Chien Street.

Spotted goby fish hotpot

Spotted goby fish hotpot is a prominent Mekong Delta specialty, known for the tangy flavor of "la giang" (a type of sour leaf) combined with the sweet, fresh fish. Served with fresh vermicelli noodles and wild vegetables, this dish is both delicious and provides a warm, communal dining experience. Visitors can try it at Lau Ca Keo 86 (86 Nguyen Van Cu, Ninh Kieu District), Quan Ao Sen (197A Nguyen Van Cu, An Hoa Ward), or Quan Ba Bay in the 91B residential area.

Several crab noodle soup restaurants in the center of Can Tho are highly rated for their crab flavor and sweet and sour broth. Photo: VnExpress

Several crab noodle soup restaurants in the center of Can Tho are highly rated for their crab flavor and sweet and sour broth. Photo: VnExpress

Beef in vinegar hotpot

Beef in vinegar hotpot features a mildly sweet and sour broth with thinly sliced fresh beef, served with greens and vermicelli noodles. This dish is both flavorful and easy to digest, suitable for group meals while traveling. Visitors can find it at Ngoc Phat Beef in Vinegar Hotpot, with two branches on 3/2 Street and Tran Hoang Na Street, Ninh Kieu District.

Cai Rang dried shrimp noodle soup

A unique dish of Cai Rang Market, with a sweet and light broth made from dried shrimp, combined with crab meat, fish cakes, and various other toppings. A bowl of hot noodle soup helps diners feel full and rehydrated during their exploration. Visitors can find it at food stalls around the floating market area.

Rice noodle with shredded pork skin

A familiar breakfast or snack, rice noodle with shredded pork skin features soft rice noodles served with shredded pork skin, fresh herbs, and rich coconut milk. Hoi Ky Restaurant (12/10B Mac Thien Tich, Xuan Khanh Ward) is one of the long-standing establishments recommended by many.

Crab noodle soup

A rustic yet popular dish, crab noodle soup in Can Tho is made with crab meat, served with fresh vermicelli noodles and a sweet and light broth. A bowl of crab noodle soup is both light and easy to enjoy during the summer. Visitors can try it at Bun Rieu Cua Dong at 45 3/2 Street or Bun Rieu at 8 Vo Thi Sau Street.

Trong Trung

The first season of VnExpress Marathon Can Tho will kick off on the morning of 14/9. The route is expected to pass through Ninh Kieu Wharf, Can Tho Bridge – a symbol of the city, riverside streets, and local residential areas. The race promises to bring runners a unique experience, conquering the course while immersing themselves in the characteristic river life of the Mekong Delta.

Readers can find news here.