1. Banh Mi Hanoi Unwrapped: The Story Behind Vietnamese Sandwich

When exploring what to do in Hanoi, there’s no better starting point than tasting the city’s iconic street food - banh mi Hanoi. Whether you're strolling through the Old Quarter, hopping between museums, or searching for a cozy cafe in Hanoi to rest your feet, this delicious, portable sandwich will likely cross your path. Beyond being a quick snack, it tells a fascinating story of cultural fusion, blending French colonial influence with distinctly Vietnamese ingredients and flair.

1.1. What is Banh Mi Hanoi?

“Banh mi” is a traditional Vietnamese sandwich that has become internationally beloved for its combination of crunchy, light baguette and a variety of savory fillings. It blends French colonial influences with Vietnamese ingredients, making it a unique and flavorful dish. Here are key components of banh mi:

• Baguette: The sandwich is made with a French-style baguette, which is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s typically lighter and fairer than the French baguette, making it easier to bite into.
• Protein fillings: Grilled meats, cold cuts (gio cha), fried egg, etc.
• Vegetables & toppings: Carrots, cucumber slices, green onions, chilies, etc.
• Condiments: Pâté, sweet soy sauce, mayonnaise, etc.

Banh mi is a famous street food of Vietnam

Banh mi originated during the French colonial period in Vietnam (1858-1954). The French introduced their baguette, which was adopted and adapted by the Vietnamese. Over time, local ingredients like grilled meats, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs were added to the baguette, creating the sandwich known today as Banh mi.

After Vietnam's independence in 1954, it became a popular street food, especially in southern Vietnam. Banh mi gained international popularity as Vietnamese immigrants brought it to the world, evolving into a beloved global dish known for its unique blend of French and Vietnamese flavors.

1.2. Different Types of Banh Mi

There are many different types of banh mi, each offering unique fillings and flavors:

Banh Mi Thit Nuong (Grilled Pork Banh Mi)

• Filling: Grilled pork (often marinated and cooked on skewers).
• Toppings: Pickled carrots, daikon radish, cucumber, cilantro, and fresh chili.
• Flavor: Savory, smoky, and slightly sweet from the marinade.

Banh Mi Thit Heo (Pork Banh Mi)

• Filling: Slices of roasted pork or pork belly, sometimes with a bit of crispy skin.
• Toppings: Same as other varieties with pickled vegetables, herbs, and chili.
• Flavor: Tender and rich, with a good balance of fatty pork and fresh vegetables.

Banh Mi Gio Cha (Cold Cuts Banh Mi)

• Filling: Cold cuts (gio) like Vietnamese pork sausage (gio lua) or pork pâté.
• Toppings: Pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and chili.
• Flavor: Mildly savory, smooth, and slightly tangy from the cold cuts.

Banh Mi Pate (Pate Banh Mi)

• Filling: Pâté (liver spread) is the star of this version, often combined with some meats like grilled pork or chicken.
• Toppings: Pickled vegetables, cilantro, and cucumber.
• Flavor: Rich and creamy with a savory depth from the pâté.

Banh Mi Trung (Egg Banh Mi)

• Filling: Fried or scrambled egg, sometimes combined with meats like sausage or pork.
• Toppings: Fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, cucumber, and chili.
• Flavor: Mild and comforting with the richness of eggs and savory toppings.

Banh Mi Chay (Vegetarian Banh Mi)

• Filling: Tofu, mushrooms, or mock meat alternatives.
• Toppings: Pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and sometimes a special vegetarian pâté.
• Flavor: Light, fresh, and flavorful, with the savory depth from the tofu or vegetarian protein.

Banh Mi Bo (Beef Banh Mi)

• Filling: Thin slices of beef, sometimes grilled or cooked with spices.
• Toppings: Pickled vegetables, herbs, and sometimes a fried egg.
• Flavor: Savory and slightly tangy from the beef, with fresh crunch from the vegetables.

Banh Mi Ca (Fish Banh Mi)

• Filling: Grilled or fried fish, often mackerel or other local fish.
• Toppings: Fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and chili.
• Flavor: Light, savory, and a little spicy, with the fish adding a unique twist.

Banh Mi Xiu Mai (Pork Meatball Banh Mi)

• Filling: Vietnamese pork meatballs (xiu mai), often served in a tomato-based sauce.
• Toppings: Pickled vegetables, herbs, and chili.
• Flavor: Hearty and flavorful, with the meaty, savory taste of the meatballs.

Banh Mi Suon Nuong (Grilled Rib Banh Mi)

• Filling: Grilled pork ribs, often marinated with a flavorful sauce.
• Toppings: Pickled vegetables, herbs, and chili.
• Flavor: Tender, juicy, and smoky, with a slightly sweet and savory taste from the marinade.

Banh Mi Bot Loc (Tapioca Flour Banh Mi)

• Filling: Tapioca flour made from pork, shrimp
• Toppings: Pickled vegetables, herbs, and chili.
• Flavor: Savory, tangy and slightly sweet from the pickled veggies or a drizzle of sweet chili sauce.

Banh mi has many variations with different flavour

2. Why is Banh Mi Hanoi Special?

Banh mi is special for several reasons, blending different culinary traditions, textures, and flavors in a unique and harmonious way:

• Flavor balance: The bread provides a crispy texture, while the fillings are rich and savory, complemented by fresh, tangy vegetables. The combination of flavors - spicy, savory, and refreshing - creates a satisfying bite.
• Convenient and affordable: It’s typically sold by street vendors in Vietnam for just about 15,000 - 35,000 VND/banh mi (USD 0.6 - USD 1.2/banh mi), making it an easy and affordable meal for people on the go.
• Versatile: There’s a wide variety of fillings and toppings to choose from, making it adaptable to personal tastes.
• Cultural significance: Banh mi has become a symbol of Vietnamese street food culture. It reflects the country's ability to adapt and combine influences while maintaining its culinary identity.

Its fusion of textures and flavors makes it a unique and satisfying sandwich

3. Top 10+ Spots for the Best Banh Mi in Hanoi

3.1. Banh Mi Ba Dan

• Address: No. 34 Lo Su Street, Ly Thai To Ward, Hoan Kiem District
• Opening time: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
• Price: 20,000 - 30,000 VND/slot

Banh Mi Ba Dan, with more than 40 years of operation, is one of the oldest and most famous grilled pork sandwich shops in Hanoi. The shop stands out with two types of sandwiches: grilled pork sandwich and pate sandwich. The bread is made following a traditional recipe and has its own distinct features with a crispy, airy crust and a generous filling, creating a special culinary experience.

It’s considered a specialty banh mi, and it has gained a following due to its distinct taste

3.2. Banh Mi Duc Long

• Address: No. 5H Luong Ngoc Quyen Street, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem District
• Opening time: This is the most special place to enjoy doner-style sandwiches. What’s interesting about this shop is that the sandwich filling is made from incredibly delicious grilled chicken which is chopped and marinated with a fragrant sauce.
• Price: 25,000 - 35,000 VND (USD 0.8 - USD 1.2/slot)

The shop uses a cream and garlic sauce instead of the usual sauce, creating a unique flavor for the sandwich

3.3. Banh Mi 25 Hanoi

• Address: No. 25 Hang Ca, Hoan Kiem District
• Opening time: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
• Price: 25,000 - 35,000 VND/slot (USD 1 - USD 1.4/slot)

This place is widely regarded as one of the best in Hanoi. Known for its perfect balance of ingredients. The grilled beef sandwich with cheese at the shop has a rich flavor, served with a layer of creamy cheese, creating an irresistible blend.

Banh Mi 25 offers a variety of fillings, including grilled pork, pâté, and fried eggs, all in a crispy baguette

3.4. Banh Mi Hai Map

• Address: No. 204 Hang Bong, Hoan Kiem District
• Opening time: 8:30 AM - 9:00 PM (Monday - Thursday), 8:30 AM - 10:00 PM (Friday - Sunday)
• Price: 45,000 - 59,000 VND/slot (USD 1.8 - USD 2.3/slot)

Banh Mi Hai Map shop combines the culinary cultures of Hanoi and Saigon, creating a unique and appealing style. The sandwiches here stand out with their novel flavors, offering 8-9 different fillings, providing variety and richness for customers. A highlight of the shop is the size of the sandwich, which is one and a half times bigger than regular sandwiches.

Banh Mi Hai Map is one of the most delicious banh mi in Hanoi

3.5. Banh Mi Hanoi P

• Address: 12 Hang Buom, Hoan Kiem District
• Opening time: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• Price: 15,000 - 35,000 VND/slot (USD 0.6 - USD 1.4/slot)

Banh Mi Ha Noi P offers a wonderful experience for customers. The bread crust is fried crispy and hot, while the inside remains soft, chewy, and delicious. You can enjoy a variety of sandwiches such as pate with fried shallots, pate with char siu, char siu with egg, egg sandwich mixed with pate, and many others.

The baguette is always fresh and crunchy, and the local clientele adds to the authentic experience

3.6. Banh Mi 59

• Address: No. 59 Chua Lang Street, Dong Da District
• Opening time: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
• Price: 25,000 - 39,000 VND/slot (USD 1 - USD 1.6/slot)

Local people in the Chua Lang area are no strangers to this delicious and affordable banh mi stall. The shop is famous for its minced beef sandwich, egg, and shredded pork, served with crispy, sweet pickled vegetables and a fragrant sauce. One hearty Hanoi sandwich is enough to keep you full for the entire afternoon.

Banh mi 59 is known for its unique blend of meats, including cold cuts, grilled pork, and pâté

3.7. Banh Mi Lan Ong

• Address: No. 8A Cha Ca Street, Hang Bo Ward, Hoan Kiem District
• Opening time: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Monday - Saturday), 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM (Sunday)
• Price: 15,000 - 35,000 VND/slot (USD 0.6 - USD 1.4/slot)

Founded in 1989, this is considered a childhood treat for many people in Hanoi. The most famous item at this shop is the pate. The rich, creamy, and flavorful taste of the pate is spread on each piece of bread, with added meat, sausage, shredded pork, and fresh herbs, creating an irresistible dish.

This place is known for its tasty Banh Mi packed with flavorful fillings

3.8. Banh Mi Pho Co - 38 Dinh Liet Street

• Address: No. 38 Dinh Liet Street, Hoan Kiem District
• Opening time: 7:30 AM - 12:00 AM
• Price: 15,000 - 65,000 VND/slot (USD 0.6 - USD 2.6/slot)

This Banh Mi Pho Co is spread with a layer of butter on the surface, creating a deliciously fragrant crust. When you bite into it, you can feel the crunchiness of the bread combined with the aroma of the butter. The meat inside is roasted to tenderness and full of flavor.

Their banh mi is served warm, packed with flavorful meat, and topped with fresh vegetables and herbs

3.9. Banh Mi Bao An Vegan

• Address: No. 66B Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoan Kiem District
• Opening time: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
• Price: 25,000 - 35,000 VND/slot (USD 1 - USD 1.4/slot)

For a vegetarian option, Banh Mi Bao An is the go-to spot. Their Banh Mi comes with a variety of plant-based fillings, from tofu to mushrooms, all packed with delicious herbs and pickled vegetables.

Vegan banh mi with char siu tofu

3.10. Banh Mi Mama

• Address: No. 54 Ly Quoc Su Street, Hang Trong Ward, Hoan Kiem District
• Opening time: 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
• Price: 25,000 - 45,000 VND/slot (USD 1 - USD 1.8/slot)

Unlike some street vendors, Bánh Mì Mama offers a more comfortable setting where you can sit and enjoy your meal, making it a great option for those looking for a quick but satisfying meal in a more relaxed environment. You can choose from classic fillings like pâté, grilled pork, and egg, or try some of their special creations that include unique toppings and sauces.

The restaurant stands out because it serves a variety of freshly made sandwiches with a mix of traditional and innovative fillings, all in a crispy baguette

3.11. Banh mi Hoi An - Bami Bread

• Address: No.98 Hang Bac Street, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem District
• Opening time: 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
• Price: 25,000 - 45,000 VND/slot (USD 1 - USD 1.8/slot)

Bami Bread is a renowned spot in Hanoi that brings a taste of the famous banh mi from Hoi An to the city. Banh mi Hoi An often features a variety of fillings such as grilled pork, chicken, beef, or even tofu for vegetarians, along with traditional toppings like pâté, pickled vegetables, cilantro, cucumber, and chili.

The blend of the fragrant herbs, the crunch of the bread, and the savory filling creates a satisfying, well-rounded sandwich

4. How to Eat Banh Mi Like A Local?

Eating banh mi like a local in Vietnam is not just about savoring the delicious sandwich but also about embracing the local culture and traditions surrounding it. Here’s how to eat banh mi as a true Vietnamese:

• Find a local vendor or shop: Seek out busy spots where locals gather; it’s a good sign of quality.
• Choose your filling: The traditional Bánh Mì includes a baguette filled with a variety of ingredients: Pâté, grilled pork, cold cuts, eggs. You can ask for what’s popular or try the one with all fillings for the full experience
• Customize the toppings: Locals often add pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, cucumber, and chilies to their banh mi. The balance of fresh herbs and spicy peppers with the richness of the meat and pâté is essential.
• Eat with your hands: Don't worry about using utensils. Banh mi is a hand-held sandwich. Grab it by the paper wrapper, and take bites directly, savoring the crunch of the baguette and the delicious combination of flavors.
• Add chili for extra spice: If you like it spicy, ask for extra chili or drizzle a bit of chili sauce. Locals love the added heat!
• Enjoy with a drink: A glass of cold sugarcane juice or iced tea complements your banh mi perfectly.
• Mind the etiquette: In Vietnam, it’s common to eat on the go or stand near the vendor, especially if it’s a busy street food stall. Don’t be shy - just grab your sandwich and enjoy!

Originally from Vietnam, banh mi Hanoi has become a global sensation, popping up in cities around the world. It’s celebrated for its unique blend of French and Vietnamese culinary influences, offering a delicious, easy-to-eat meal that showcases the best of Vietnamese street food culture.

And while you’re on your food journey, don’t miss out on other culinary gems like halal food in Hanoi for Muslim-friendly dining, or wrap up your meal with the famous egg coffee Hanoi is renowned for. These are not just meals, they're cultural experiences that make Hanoi one of Southeast Asia’s top destinations for foodies.

For detailed guides on other exclusive destinations, local delicacies, and travel tips, explore more articles from Vietnam Airlines. Stay updated on our latest promotions and services to make your journey even more exceptional!