Meet Chef Tuệ Nguyễn

Broken Rice from the Internet’s Breakout Chef

Chef Tuệ Nguyễn (@TwayDaBae) is one of the fastest-rising stars in the digital food world, captivating millions with her fresh takes on Vietnamese staples.

After culinary school and staging at the renowned Spago, Tuệ turned to social media during the pandemic to tell the culinary story of her culture and upbringing.

Through her viral recipes, pop-ups, best-selling cookbook, Di An, and first restaurant, ĐiĐi, in West Hollywood, Tuệ has built a reputation for crafting Vietnamese food for the next generation.

Chef Tuệ has now teamed up with Local Kitchens to bring you Tấm Tấm Rice—a fresh take on Vietnam’s beloved broken rice plates.

Sweet · Savory · Spicy · Sour · Salty · Unforgettable ·

Sweet · Savory · Spicy · Sour · Salty · Unforgettable ·

What are Broken Rice Plates?

Broken rice (or cơm tấm)
is a cherished symbol of resilience and resourcefulness in Vietnam. Born as byproduct from the milling process, this humble dish was initially delegated to poorer farmers and families as it was considered less desirable than the “perfect” whole grains.

Yet, the “imperfect” nature of the grain is the key to its deliciousness, due to its unique texture and ability to absorb bold flavors.

To Chef Tuệ, broken rice represents the rich history and flavors of her heritage and upbringing. While Vietnamese staples phở and bánh mì have become household names in the U.S., cơm tấm remains few and far between. With Local Kitchens, Tuệ is bringing broken rice into the spotlight.

Learn more about Broken Rice from Chef Tuệ herself

Enter the Test Kitchen

Meet the dynamic duo behind the menu, Chef Tuệ and Chef Ashley Torrijos, Local Kitchen’s Head of Culinary.

Together, Tuệ and Ashely worked to develop a cohesive menu with unapologetically Vietnamese flavors that our guests will love.

Grab a Bite of Tấm Tấm Rice

Sweet, salty, savory, spicy, and sour.

We didn’t hold back.

Savor Tuệ’s beloved broken rice plates, The Broke Chick Tấm and The Rich Pork Belly Tấm, featuring bold marinades, sweet heat sauces, and a rainbow of fresh sides.

Or discover Vietnamese street food staples like the refreshing Tamarind Jackfruit Salad, the iconic Spicy Pork Belly Fried Rice, and the savory Vietnamese Pork and Egg Quiche (Chả trứng).