Looking for a solid, no-fuss meal that hits all the right spots with flavor? If you're craving a hearty bowl of com tam, or broken rice, and want it served the way it's meant to be—fresh, flavorful, and with a side of home—you might have already heard of Com Tam Thien Huong. This little gem tucked away in San Jose, California, is a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike who want a real taste of Vietnam without the fuss. It's more than just a restaurant—it's a comfort zone wrapped in the aroma of grilled meats, fragrant rice, and warm broth.

Whether you're a student on a budget, a working professional looking for a quick lunch, or someone who just wants a solid dinner without the wait, Com Tam Thien Huong checks most of the boxes. The menu is packed with Vietnamese favorites like pho, bun, and of course, their signature com tam dishes. And yes, the portions are generous—so much so that you might find yourself taking leftovers home even if you're hungry.

What really sets this place apart, though, is consistency. Some restaurants might nail the broth or the grilled pork, but drop the ball on the rice or veggies. Not here. Everything from the tender BBQ meats to the pickled veggies and steamed rice comes together in a way that feels intentional, not just thrown together. That’s why it’s become such a staple in the area, especially among folks who know their Vietnamese food isn’t just about flavor, but about balance and comfort too.

• Goldie Hawn

Table of Contents

• Location, Menu, and Atmosphere
• Why Com Tam Thien Huong Stands Out
• Visiting Tips and What to Order
• FAQ Section

Location, Menu, and Atmosphere

Com Tam Thien Huong is located at 1759 Capitol Expressway, San Jose, CA 95121. It’s pretty easy to find if you're in the area, and parking is manageable, which is a win in a city like San Jose where space is at a premium. The place is small but clean, with a modern setup that feels welcoming, not cramped. It’s not the kind of spot where you’ll find fancy decor or soft lighting, but you don’t really need that when the food speaks for itself.

The menu is straightforward—no confusing options or over-the-top descriptions. Just classic Vietnamese dishes done right. Here’s a quick peek at what you can expect:

• Com Tam Special: Grilled pork chop, shredded pork, egg, veggies, and broken rice.
• Pho Bo: Beef broth with soft rice noodles, herbs, and your choice of meat.
• Bun: Vermicelli noodles with grilled pork, herbs, and peanut sauce.
• Trung Vit Muoi: Salted duck egg, a traditional side dish.
• Ca Phe Sua Da: Vietnamese iced coffee, strong and sweet.

For dessert or a quick pick-me-up, they also serve fresh fruit smoothies and traditional Vietnamese pastries. The drinks menu is simple, but the iced coffee is worth a try—it’s bold, sweet, and exactly what you want after a heavy meal.

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Why Com Tam Thien Huong Stands Out

Let’s face it—Vietnamese restaurants are not exactly hard to find in San Jose. So why do people keep coming back to Com Tam Thien Huong, even during busy hours?

Well, for starters, the food is consistently good. Some places might have one or two standout items, but this spot nails almost everything on the menu. The broken rice is cooked just right—not too dry, not too soft. The meats are grilled fresh, not sitting under a heat lamp for hours. And the veggies? Crisp, flavorful, and not just an afterthought.

Another big plus is the service. It’s quick, friendly, and not rushed in a way that makes you feel like you’re being pushed out the door. You can order at the counter, grab a seat, and have your food in front of you in under 10 minutes, which is a big deal if you're short on time.

And the price point? Totally reasonable. A full meal with drinks and maybe a side of dessert will usually run you around $10–$15. That’s a solid deal, especially when the quality is high and the portions are generous.

For those who like to take food to go, the to-go packaging is sturdy, and the food holds up well. No soggy rice or spilled broth here, which is a small but important win when you're eating off a plastic container at your desk or in your car.

Visiting Tips and What to Order

If you’re planning your first visit, here are a few tips to make the most of it:

1. Go during off-peak hours if you want a quiet experience. Lunchtime can get pretty packed, especially on weekdays.
2. Try the Com Tam Special. It’s the star of the menu and a great way to sample a bit of everything.
3. Don’t skip the iced coffee. It’s strong, sweet, and the perfect complement to the savory dishes.
4. Bring cash. While they do accept cards, it’s always a good idea to have cash handy, just in case.

Some folks swear by the salted duck egg as a side—it adds a nice umami kick and balances out the richness of the meats. Others go for the fresh spring rolls if they’re looking for something lighter. But if you’re new, the Com Tam Special is your best bet. Once you’ve got a baseline, feel free to branch out and try other dishes.

FAQ Section

Is Com Tam Thien Huong open for takeout and delivery?

Yes, they offer takeout, and delivery is available through apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats. Just keep in mind that during busy times, wait times might be a bit longer, so plan accordingly.

Are there vegetarian options on the menu?

While the menu is mostly meat-focused, they do offer some veggie-friendly dishes like tofu vermicelli (bun dau) and vegetable pho. Just let the staff know if you need modifications.

What are the operating hours?

They’re open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, though hours can vary slightly depending on the day. It’s best to call ahead or check their Facebook page for the most up-to-date info.

Final Thoughts

If you're looking for a solid, satisfying meal that doesn’t require a lot of fuss or a big budget, Com Tam Thien Huong is worth a visit. It’s the kind of place that feels like a neighborhood favorite, where the food is reliably good and the service is always friendly.

For more Vietnamese food recommendations, you might want to check out some of our other local guides. You can also learn more about traditional Vietnamese dishes here. And if you're curious about how Vietnamese cuisine has evolved in the U.S., you can read up on it here.