Menu of Tam's Kitchen in Ballina, New South Wales, Australia

Menu Overview

Tam’s Kitchen, nestled in Ballina Central Shopping Centre, offers a genuine taste of Vietnam right in the heart of Ballina, NSW. The restaurant’s atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for both quick lunches and leisurely dinners. From the moment you step in, the aroma of fragrant herbs and spices signals the authentic culinary journey ahead.

The standout on the menu is undoubtedly the Beef Pho. This traditional Vietnamese beef noodle soup captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine with its rich, slow-simmered broth, tender slices of beef, and perfectly cooked noodles. The balance of fresh herbs like basil and mint, along with a subtle hint of star anise and cinnamon, elevates the broth to an experience rather than just a meal. It’s no surprise that visitors like Amy Harvey, who have traveled extensively through Vietnam, call it one of the best Beef Pho they’ve ever had.

Equally impressive is the Hainan Chicken with Rice, a dish that showcases simple yet refined Vietnamese home cooking. The chicken comes crispy on the outside, juicy inside, accompanied by fragrant steamed rice and an intriguing nước mắm chấm dipping sauce infused with fresh ginger — a unique twist that adds depth without overpowering. This innovative touch did not go unnoticed by customers and highlights Tam’s Kitchen’s ability to adapt traditional flavors with a creative flair.

Among the entrees, the assortment of spring rolls—from pork and vegetable to vegetarian options—offers fresh, crispy bites that serve as excellent starters or snacks. Their rice dishes, such as broken rice with Vietnamese-style pork chop and fried egg or stir-fried diced beef with rice, emphasize robust flavors and textural contrasts that comfort the palate.

Noodle salads and Vietnamese baguettes further diversify the menu. The grilled pork noodle salad and classic traditional pork or chicken baguettes are packed with herbs and balanced sauces that bring an authentic street-food feel.

While most customers celebrate the food quality and authenticity, some feedback points to opportunities for improvement. For instance, seasoning in stir-fries could be enhanced with more mint and basil leaves to heighten aromatic freshness. Service moments might benefit from sharper product knowledge and attentiveness, ensuring smoother ordering and order accuracy.

Overall, Tam’s Kitchen successfully marries traditional Vietnamese recipes with subtle innovations and presents them with heart. It’s a food lover’s haven for those craving genuine Vietnamese flavors, crafted with care and vibrant ingredients. Whether you’re drawn by the unforgettable Beef Pho or the delightfully crisp Hainan Chicken, Tam’s Kitchen promises to keep your taste buds intrigued and satisfied.