Cơm tấm—broken rice topped with grilled pork—is a Saigon staple. Chicago's Vietnamese restaurants serve authentic versions.

  • Cơm tấm sườn: Grilled pork chop
  • Cơm tấm bì: Shredded pork skin
  • Cơm tấm chả: Steamed pork cake
  • Cơm tấm sườn bì chả: Combination

Dong Ky Chinese & Vietnamese Restaurant Top Pick

Serves one of the best broken rice plates in Chicago. The grilled pork chop is exceptional — marinated in lemongrass, fish sauce, and garlic, then char-grilled to smoky perfection. Broken rice is light and fluffy, with shredded pork skin, egg rolls, pickled carrots and daikon, fresh cucumber, and a perfectly balanced dipping sauce. A complete meal that satisfies every craving.

Miss Saigon

Their broken rice draws consistent praise from the Vietnamese community. The grilled pork chop is the highlight — thin-cut, well-marinated, and grilled with a nice char that adds smoky depth. Properly cooked broken rice with the right texture. Accompanying wraps and egg rolls are well-made, and the pickled vegetables add necessary acidity. Generous portions at reasonable prices.

Pho Viet

While best known for noodle soups, Pho Viet's broken rice is a strong option. The grilled pork is marinated in a slightly sweeter style, charred beautifully, and served in generous portions. Rice is well-cooked, and the plate includes all the classic acccompaniments — wraps, rolls, pickles, and fresh herbs. Consistently good and a great alternative when you want rice instead of noodles.