Cơm Tấm (broken rice) is a beloved staple of Vietnamese cuisine, originating from southern Vietnam where rice broken during milling was turned into one of the country's most iconic dishes. At Bolsa Restaurant, we serve it topped with Sườn Nướng — a marinated grilled pork chop that has been prepared in a classic Vietnamese marinade of fish sauce, lemongrass, garlic, shallots, and caramelised sugar before being char-grilled to perfection.
The result is a pork chop with beautifully caramelised edges, a tender, juicy interior, and a deep savoury-sweet flavour that pairs perfectly with the subtly fluffy texture of broken rice. The plate is completed with a tangle of lightly pickled daikon and carrot, a perfectly cooked fried egg (optional), fresh cucumber slices, and a small bowl of our house nước chấm dipping sauce to drizzle over everything. It is a filling, deeply satisfying Vietnamese plate for lunch or dinner in Calgary SE.
The Unique Appeal of Vietnamese Broken Rice
Cơm Tấm (broken rice) has a slightly different texture than regular long-grain steamed rice — the smaller broken grains absorb sauces more readily and have a subtly softer, clingier texture that makes every bite more flavourful. It is the ideal canvas for a saucy, caramelised grilled meat, and it is the reason why Cơm Tấm has become one of the most iconic rice dishes in Vietnam and a Calgary favourite at Bolsa Restaurant.
The Perfect Weekday Lunch Plate in Calgary SE
Cơm Tấm Sườn Nướng is one of Bolsa Restaurant's most popular choices for a quick, satisfying weekday lunch. Served quickly and at a price that represents genuine value in southeast Calgary, this rice plate is ideal for professionals on a lunch break from Macleod Trail-area businesses, or for anyone who wants a filling, flavourful Vietnamese meal without a long wait. Our kitchen is fast and efficient even during busy lunch hours.
Takeout or Dine-In at Macleod Plaza, Calgary
Cơm Tấm Sườn Nướng is an excellent takeout option — the rice plate holds up well during transport and is easy to enjoy at home or the office. For dine-in, Bolsa Restaurant's comfortable, fully licensed dining room at Macleod Plaza (180 94 Ave SE) is open Monday to Saturday. Order online through our ordering portal and pick up your meal fresh from the kitchen.
