Pho Tam rebuilding after Sinlaku, plans July anniversary promotions

While Pho Tam has reopened its doors following Super Typhoon Sinlaku, the popular Vietnamese restaurant says recovery remains a work in progress as it prepares to celebrate its fifth anniversary next month.

The restaurant sustained thousands of dollars in storm-related losses and damages, according to co-owner and executive chef Richer Ta.

"We estimated about, say, $15,000 from lost frozen goods. Our ceiling was destroyed," Ta said.

Ta said roof tiles were blown off during the typhoon, causing leaks and minor flooding inside the restaurant. Restaurant manager Joseph Solmarin said it took about two weeks to clean up the damage.

Pho Tam remained closed for roughly three weeks after the storm before reopening with generator power, a limited menu and shortened hours.

"We couldn't fully operate with our whole menu. Everything was limited," Ta said.

The restaurant initially operated only during lunch hours and offered takeout service. Despite the difficult conditions, customers continued to support the business.

"It seems like they missed us," Ta said. "It was surprising how much support we had."

Although commercial power has returned, Pho Tam is still dealing with supply-chain challenges and higher operating costs. Ta said the restaurant has reduced the number of freezers it uses in an effort to control electricity consumption.

As a result, only a portion of the restaurant's regular menu is currently available.

"We still have our soups, sandwiches, and appetizers. We don't have fried rice yet," Ta said.

Solmarin said customer traffic and sales have not yet returned to pre-Sinlaku levels.

"We're still feeling the effects of the typhoon," he said. "Many families and businesses in our community continue to face financial challenges."

He estimated business remains about 50% below normal.

The slow recovery has also delayed Pho Tam's expansion plans. Following the interview, Ta said plans for a second Pho Tam location along Hotel Street across from the Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan have been put on hold until tourism recovers and visitor arrivals return to more sustainable levels.

"We're waiting for the tourists to come back," Ta said.

One positive outcome from the recovery effort has been a partnership with T Bar, whose own location suffered storm damage. The beverage business has since sought shelter inside Pho Tam and now operates from the restaurant.

"So T Bar is actually—we're sharing space here," Ta said. "We thought it was gonna be just a temporary thing, but I think it's a good match now."

Ta said the arrangement may become permanent.

Looking ahead, Pho Tam is preparing for its fifth anniversary celebration next month and is encouraging customers to watch for upcoming announcements and promotions.

"We will also be celebrating our fifth anniversary on July 8th," Solmarin said. "Please follow our Facebook and Instagram pages [for] updates, special promotion, anniversary and announcements."

The restaurant is also working on introducing new menu items later this year.

"I think it's about time for us to get some new items out there—something fun," Ta said.

Ta thanked the community for supporting Pho Tam through the recovery process.

"I just want to say thank you very much for everybody for the support and all the loyal customers that's been following us for years and years," he said.

Pho Tam is located on Rosa Street in Garapan, right beside the Kristo Rai Church. It’s open from 10:30am to 8:30pm daily. For more information, call (670) 233-7878 or (670) 286-8787.