If you’re a fan of Vietnamese rice porridge (cháo), or simply crave hearty comfort food at any hour, Cháo Đêm in Garden Grove should be on your radar. Known for their late-night hours and authentic flavors reminiscent of Cháo Vịt Thanh Đa, this little gem specializes in steaming hot bowls of cháo that hit the spot—no matter what time it is. It’s especially ideal when you’re feeling under the weather or looking for something to warm you up during chilly winter evenings.

Important Note: They only accept cash, so make sure to bring enough with you!

Hearty Porridge & Generous Refills

The star attraction here is, of course, the rice porridge. One of the standout perks is their policy of offering one complimentary refill of porridge—they want to ensure you leave with a full belly! The consistency is perfectly balanced: not too thick and not too watery, with a comforting warmth that’s hard to resist. This makes it a fantastic option if you’re feeling ill or just need a nourishing meal to take the chill off late at night. Only apply for regular rice Porridge.

Shining Star: Steamed Chicken

We started with their Rice Porridge with Steamed Chicken and Salad. The steamed chicken arrives glistening in its shining yellow skin, a surefire sign of careful preparation. Tender, flavorful, and paired with a fresh, crunchy salad, this dish perfectly showcases Cháo Đêm’s dedication to quality. Plus, the contrast of textures—silky porridge and succulent chicken—makes each bite pure comfort.

For the Adventurous: Pork Organs Porridge

If you’re an offal enthusiast (or feeling adventurous), their Pork Organs Porridge is a must-try. The mix of organs blends into the porridge, infusing each spoonful with a depth of flavor you won’t find in a standard bowl. You also get a side of intestines, served separately, which adds a slightly chewy texture and rich taste. This dish is the true definition of “authentic,” and it’s a testament to Vietnamese cuisine’s bold use of all parts of the animal.

More to Savor

While cháo may be the star of the show, Cháo Đêm also offers a variety of other dishes if you’re looking to switch things up. You’ll find comforting soups, flavorful stir-fries, and a rotating roster of side dishes that reflect the restaurant’s commitment to traditional Vietnamese tastes. Don’t be shy about asking the staff for recommendations—they’re more than happy to guide you toward the perfect pick for your palate.

Pro Tip: Deep-Fried Dough Sticks

No bowl of cháo is complete without deep-fried dough sticks, often called giò cháo quẩy or youtiao. These crunchy, golden sticks soak up the porridge’s savory broth, adding a delicious textural contrast to each bite. Trust us: once you dip these into your porridge, you’ll never want to go back to plain cháo!

Late-Night Appeal & Variety

One of the best parts about Cháo Đêm is that it’s open late, making it the perfect go-to for a comforting meal after a long day—or an epic night out. With a variety of porridges and side dishes to choose from, even the pickiest eater in your group will find something that satisfies. And if you’re seeking a meal that can help nurse you back to health or warm you up on a cold evening, you really can’t go wrong with a steaming bowl of cháo here. The friendly and efficient staff round out the experience, ensuring you leave both well-fed and well-served.

Final Thoughts

Cháo Đêm is more than just a spot for rice porridge; it’s a warm, welcoming haven for anyone who loves authentic Vietnamese flavors and late-night eats. Whether you’re savoring every bite of succulent steamed chicken or exploring new textures with their pork offal selections, you’re bound to find a dish that hits all the right notes. Next time you’re in Garden Grove and craving a comforting bowl of cháo—day or night—make sure to drop by Cháo Đêm.

Just remember: bring cash (no cards accepted), and don’t skip those deep-fried dough sticks—they’ll take your porridge experience to a whole new level!