“Cơm Tấm” – Saigon’s Iconic Dish at Dai Viet Restaurant

When talking about Saigon street food, one cannot overlook Cơm Tấm – a simple yet captivating dish that embodies the flavors of Southern Vietnam. From humble street vendors to upscale restaurants, Cơm Tấm has secured a special place in the hearts of diners for its rustic yet refined taste. At Dai Viet Restaurant, this dish is prepared following traditional recipes, preserving the authentic flavor of old Saigon.

Dai Viet Restaurant

The Origin of Cơm Tấm

Cơm Tấm originated in Southern Vietnam, born from the creativity and thriftiness of working-class people. “Tấm” refers to broken rice grains separated during milling, once sold at lower prices than whole grains. In the past, farmers and laborers often bought this rice because it was affordable yet filling and nutritious.

To make the meal more appealing, they paired it with simple sides like grilled pork chops, shredded pork skin (bì), steamed egg meatloaf (chả trứng), and sweet-sour fish sauce. Over time, Cơm Tấm became an iconic Saigon dish, loved by everyone — from early risers to late-night diners, from locals to food connoisseurs.

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The Core Elements of Traditional Cơm Tấm

A perfect plate of Cơm Tấm is not just about rice and meat — it’s a harmonious combination of textures and flavors that leave a lasting impression.

Rice – Grilled Pork – Shredded Pork – Egg Meatloaf: The Soul of the Dish

Authentic Cơm Tấm must be made from small, fragrant broken grains — tender yet fluffy, not too wet or dry.
The grilled pork chop is the star: marinated with garlic, shallots, fish sauce, honey, and sugar, then grilled over charcoal until golden brown and aromatic. The outer layer is crispy, while the inside remains juicy and flavorful.
The shredded pork skin (bì) is another highlight — made from boiled pork skin, thinly sliced, and mixed with roasted rice powder, fried shallots, and herbs. It adds a chewy, nutty texture that balances the richness of the dish.
The steamed egg meatloaf (chả trứng), soft and golden, combines minced pork and egg to create a savory-sweet balance that complements the grilled meat perfectly.

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Sweet-Sour Fish Sauce – The Heart of the Flavor

No Cơm Tấm is complete without sweet-sour fish sauce, the essence that ties the dish together. It’s made from premium fish sauce, sugar, vinegar, minced garlic, chili, and a splash of lime juice — creating a perfect balance of sweet, salty, tangy, and spicy. When poured over the rice, it seeps into every grain, blending with the meat and toppings to create an unforgettable taste.

Why Cơm Tấm Became a Saigon Symbol

Saigon, a vibrant and dynamic city, is the cradle of Cơm Tấm culture — and there are several reasons behind its fame:

Convenience: It fits perfectly with Saigon’s fast-paced lifestyle — quick, hearty, and suitable for any time of day.

Affordability: Despite its simplicity, a full plate of Cơm Tấm offers a rich, satisfying flavor at a reasonable price, making it accessible to everyone.
Variety: Every eatery in Saigon has its own secret marinade, fish sauce recipe, or presentation style — offering endless culinary experiences.
Cultural depth: Cơm Tấm reflects Southern Vietnamese cuisine — a beautiful blend of sweet, savory, sour, and spicy flavors that leave a lasting memory.

Enjoy Authentic Saigon Cơm Tấm at Dai Viet Restaurant

Amid countless Cơm Tấm spots in Saigon, Dai Viet Restaurant stands out with its commitment to authenticity and quality.
Here, every dish is prepared with fresh ingredients — the pork chops grilled over real charcoal, the bì made with care using traditional methods, the egg meatloaf soft and fragrant, and the fish sauce perfectly balanced. Each plate represents the chefs’ dedication to recreating the purest taste of old Saigon.

Vietnamese Dining Space on Bui Vien Street

Beyond great food, Dai Viet Restaurant offers an elegant Vietnamese atmosphere. The interior design reflects traditional aesthetics — warm, inviting, and filled with cultural charm.
Guests not only enjoy delicious Cơm Tấm but also experience authentic Vietnamese culinary culture. Friendly, attentive staff make every meal comfortable and memorable.

It’s the ideal place for family meals, friend gatherings, or even business lunches in a cozy yet refined setting.

Nutritional Value of Cơm Tấm

In addition to its flavor, Cơm Tấm provides great nutritional balance.
The rice offers carbohydrates — your main energy source. Grilled pork provides high-quality protein for muscle recovery, while bì and egg meatloaf add healthy fats and additional protein. Fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomato, and herbs contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber for better digestion.

The chili-garlic fish sauce not only enhances taste but also provides natural antibacterial benefits and boosts immunity.

To enjoy both taste and health benefits, it’s important to choose reputable restaurants like Dai Viet, where hygiene and ingredient freshness are always prioritized.

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Conclusion

Cơm Tấm is more than just a dish — it’s a symbol of Saigon’s culinary soul, blending simplicity and sophistication into a flavor that lingers in every memory. From humble broken grains, Cơm Tấm has risen to become one of Vietnam’s most beloved dishes, adored by locals and tourists alike.

At Dai Viet Restaurant, you don’t just enjoy a delicious plate of Cơm Tấm — you experience the essence of traditional Vietnamese cuisine in a warm, elegant setting. It’s the perfect place to share moments of comfort and joy over a truly Saigon-style meal.

Come and feel the difference — where Cơm Tấm is not just food, but a story of culinary passion and dedication in every detail!

Dai Viet Restaurant

Special Offer at Dai Viet Restaurant Chain:
Reserve your table today and receive 5% off your total bill.
Simply call +84 356154334 (Mrs. Ly) or +84 28 88887888 and let us know your preferred time. Our team will arrange the best table and prepare everything to ensure a delightful dining experience.
Offer applies to all Dai Viet Restaurant branches.