
Banh Mi
Bánh Mì
Hanoi's take on Vietnam's beloved street sandwich — a crispy French baguette stuffed with cold cuts, pate, pickled vegetables, cucumber, cilantro, and chili sauce.
Photos
What's in it
- French baguette
- pate
- cha lua (pork sausage)
- pickled daikon
- pickled carrot
- cucumber
- cilantro
- chili sauce
- mayonnaise
Best moments to enjoy it
Any time of day — especially popular for breakfast (6–9 AM) and as a midday snack.
Origin & history
Banh mi evolved from the French baguette introduced during colonial rule (1887–1954). Vietnamese bakers adapted the recipe to use local rice flour, producing a lighter, crispier bread. After 1954, banh mi became a popular street food across both North and South Vietnam, each region developing its own filling style.
How to order & pay
Point to desired fillings or say 'banh mi thit' for meat version. Say 'them ot' for extra chili or 'khong ot' for no chili.
Usually 20,000–50,000 VND. Always cash. One of Vietnam's best value meals.
Allergens, nutrition & health
Allergens
Contains gluten (wheat baguette), pork, and eggs (pate). Vegetarian versions available at some stalls.
Nutrition & benefits
Balanced combination of carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables. Pickled vegetables aid digestion.
Health notes
Relatively balanced meal. The pickled vegetables reduce the glycemic impact of the bread.
Best spots in Hanoi
- 4.9
Bu Banh Mi
Bự Bánh Mì
14 P. Lý Thái Tổ, French Quarter, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 10000, Vietnam
- Hours
- 7:30 AM - 10:30 PM
- 4.4
Banh Mi 25
Bánh Mì 25
25 P. Hàng Cá, Phố cổ Hà Nội, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam
- Hours
- 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Stories about Hanoi

How to Get from Hanoi to Ha Giang: Complete Transportation Guide
Discover how to get from Hanoi to Ha Giang by sleeper bus, limousine, private car or motorbike, with travel times, prices and useful travel tips.

What Is the Best Way to Travel from Hanoi to Sapa? A Complete Transportation Guide 2026
Discover the best ways to travel from Hanoi to Sapa in 2026, including sleeper buses, limousines, luxury trains and private cars, with prices and booking tips.

2 weeks in Vietnam itinerary: a balanced north-to-south route
Plan a balanced 2 weeks in Vietnam itinerary from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, with transport costs, hotels, food, best time to visit, and budget.

