The Vietnamese bahn mi sandwich is a master class in texture. At different bites, the sandwich can deliver a crunchy, pickled, or satisfyingly fatty taste. The sandwich is traditionally constructed out of a French baguette (introduced to Vietnam during the French colonial period), with pickled daikon and carrots, cucumber, jalapeño, sometimes mayonnaise, butter or soy sauce, and various main fillings (pork belly is a popular option, as well as pate).
There's good news for the bahn mi enthusiast: Now that the sandwich is increasingly popular in the D.C. area, bahn mi production is ramping up like never before. This map largely focuses largely on traditional versions, but there are plenty of other spins out there, like a vegetarian offering at Tryst. Of note: another Eden Center favorite, Banh Ta Deli, is currently closed for renovations, but has plans to reopen soon.
While some restaurants may be in the city and others in the suburbs, they all share a common emphasis on the popular, and usually affordable, sandwich. Here are several standout bahn mi sandwiches to try now.
Have another favorite banh mi? Share in the comments.
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