Rice Rice Baby
Monday11:30 am – 9:00 pm.
Tuesday11:30 am – 9:00 pm.
Wednesday11:30 am – 9:00 pm.
Thursday11:30 am – 9:00 pm.
Friday11:30 am – 9:30 pm.
Saturday11:30 am – 10:00 pm.
Sunday11:30 am – 9:00 pm.
When it comes to authentic Vietnamese fare, Rice Rice Baby in Hamilton doesn’t mess around. This lively joint serves up all the fun vibes, with bangin’ cocktails, a hint of nostalgia and a whole lot of genuine Vietnamese flavour. This isn’t just another great eatery; it's a manifestation of stories, memories, and generations-old family recipes straight from the heart of Vietnam.
With candy pink walls, retro cherry tablecloths, and accents of vibrant aquamarine, the decor literally screams ‘fun!’ Inspired by a vintage photo of a Vietnamese eatery from the 1960’s, it’s a visual time machine bridging decades with its eclectic charm. Funky neon signs, kitschy light boxes and furniture imported straight from Vietnam round out the one-of-a-kind space that's rich in niche details, and every Insta-fan’s dream come true.
The fit-out may be eye-catching with its iconic Miami Vice vibes, but it’s the menu that really steals the show. The culinary line-up is a passionate showcase of family recipes, handed down across generations. Moreish cauliflower bites are inspired by a little old lady with a push cart in Ho Chi Minh’s District Three, who sells only this signature dish. The authentic pho recipe is straight from a street food vendor in Vietnam (who also happens to be Chef Phu’s Uncle). Chef Anh serves up her Grandma’s special wontons, a recipe she’s been making since she was eight years old.
There’s nothing fusion about the dishes at Rice Rice Baby, authentic flavours cooked with love and a passionate dedication to the craft are what's on the table here. It’s no wonder that seasoned travellers and the health-conscious alike flock to this colourful little spot for their daily dose of ridiculously tasty, fresh Vietnamese fare. Perched on plastic chairs shovelling down rice noodles and juicy pork chops amid the bustling backdrop of everyday chatter and great tunes, it's essentially Vietnamese street dining – minus the traffic!
Words by Nicola Amy Hinman & Photography by Anna Briggs
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Location
21/20 Clyde Street, Hamilton East, Hamilton
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