Banh mi - a representation for Vietnamese rich and sophisticated cuisine
Saigon, or Ho Chi Minh City, is a bustling city in Southern Vietnam. It is not only renowned for its history and culture but also for its mouthwatering cuisine. One of the most famous dishes of Saigon is the bánh mì. While the West is used to “sub” sandwiches, this sandwich was voted top 100 in the world and comes not only with flavor but with an interesting history as well.
Pro tip: keep reading and we’ll share some of the best places to enjoy a bánh mì.
The history of bánh mì
The word "banh mi" translates to "bread" in Vietnamese, noting its European influence. During the French colonial rule in Vietnam in the 19th century, the French introduced baguettes to the locals. Vietnamese people quickly adopted this bread and added local flavors and ingredients, creating the famous bánh mì.
You’ll find a banh mi vendor every 5 minutes walking on a Saigon food tour!
The bánh mì became so popular that vendors were able to sell them on the street to workers going about their day. The sandwich became a staple in the daily lives of the Vietnamese people which is an ode to their resilience and ability to adapt to new influences while staying true to their own culinary flavors.
The flavors of the bánh mì
What sets bánh mì apart from other sandwiches around the globe are the savory, spicy, and sweet flavors that come together in each bite.
Hungry yet? We’ll break down the core ingredients that make the bánh mì so tasty.
The Famous Baguette: The base of bánh mì is a crusty baguette with a light and airy interior.
Fillings, fillings, fillings! Bánh mì offers a wide range of savory fillings that cater to different taste buds and dietary preferences.. Some popular fillings include:
Grilled or barbecued pork: Similar to the taste of bún chả, the tender and juicy pork is marinated in a fragrant blend of spices that adds a rich and smoky flavor to the bánh mì.
Pâté: A smooth and creamy spread handmade from liver adds a silky smooth texture to the sandwich.
Vietnamese sausage (chả lụa): This steamed pork sausage adds not only flavor but texture to the bánh mì
Tofu or egg: For vegetarians and vegans, bánh mì can be filled with crispy fried tofu or sunny side egg. Both ingredients perfectly soak up the flavors on the bánh mì.
The balance in tastes is the essence of the best Banh Mi in Saigon
The MUST haves! Now that you have your base it’s time for the toppings to perfect the best bánh mì in Saigon.
Fresh vegetables and herbs (you’ve probably figured out we love our veggies and herbs!):
Pickled carrots and daikon radish: Tangy and slightly sweet, these pickled vegetables add a refreshing crunch to the bánh mì..
Cucumber slices: Crisp and cool, cucumber slices provide a refreshing element and balance out the richness of the other ingredients.
Cilantro: The aromatic herb adds a burst of freshness and a hint of citrus to the banh mi, elevating its flavors.
Don’t forget the sauce! Many in the West love mayo or mustard on their sandwiches. The bánh mì has a Vietnamese twist when it comes to sauces such as:
Soy sauce: A drizzle of soy sauce enhances the savory flavors and adds depth to the sandwich.
Calling all spice lovers! For those who enjoy a spicy kick, chili sauce can be added to give the bánh mì a fiery punch.
Pro tip: For an even spicier kick, add fresh chilies. You won’t be disappointed.
The Best Bánh Mì in Saigon
Saigon is known for the best and oldest Banh Mi in Vietnam
When it comes to experiencing the best bánh mì in Saigon, we have created a guide with some of the best spots. While Saigon is littered with street food stalls, cafes, and restaurants that serve this famous sandwich, these are some of our favorites:
Banh Mi Huynh Hoa: Located in the heart of Saigon's District 1, Banh Mi Huynh Hoa is a legendary banh mi stall that has gained somewhat of a cult following among locals, expats, and tourists alike. Here we can guarantee your bánh mì will be filled with a generous amount of flavorful fillings like barbecued pork, pate, cucumber, pickled carrots, and cilantro. The combination of savory and tangy flavors come together perfectly making sure you get the full bánh mì experience.
Banh Mi Hoa Ma: If you’re wanting not only a delicious banh mi experience but to go back in time, Banh Mi Hoa Ma is the spot for you. Opened by a Hanoian couple in 1958, Hoa Ma is one of the oldest banh mi stalls in Saigon and continues to be run by generations of family members. What might surprise you is the banh mi itself. Instead of the traditional sandwich, you’re served a steaming pan which includes cold cuts, sausages, fried eggs alongside a hot, crispy loaf of bread, and a plate of sliced pickles.
Banh Mi 37 Nguyen Trai: If you're looking for a bánh mì experience with a twist, Banh Mi 37 Nguyen Trai is the place to go. This modern banh mi shop offers a range of innovative flavors and fillings, such as grilled pork with lemongrass, crispy fried tofu, and even a bánh mì burger. The fusion of traditional Vietnamese flavors and contemporary twists makes this spot a favorite among those seeking something a little different.
Banh Mi Op La: Bánh mì for brekky? Look for signs that say Banh Mi Op La. This banh mi can be found at various street stalls throughout the city. Banh mi op la, or a fried egg bánh mì, is a sandwich that boasts a perfectly cooked sunny-side-up egg, accompanied by a choice of meat, such as ham or sausage (or keep it veggie!). The combination of the runny yolk, meat, and crispy baguette along with a Vietnamese coffee is a great way to fuel your day.
A culinary experience
Bet you could not find anything like Banh Mi in the world!
While it may not seem foreign for a sandwich to be a culinary experience, we can assure you Saigon's bánh mì is just that. The combination of flavors, from the crispy baguette to your choice of fillings, fresh vegetables, and a range of sauces, each bite has a mix of unique and delicious flavors. Whether you want to enjoy the traditional flavors or explore innovative and contemporary twists, Saigon offers a bánh mì for every palate. When you find yourself in Vietnam, be sure to indulge in this world famous sandwich. Or join us on tour and we’ll show you make sure you have the best bánh mì in Saigon.