THE BEST BANH MI IN HANOI

THE CRUNCH HEARD AROUND THE GLOBE

Potentially the best lunch-on-the-go on planet earth, the humble Banh Mi comes in all shapes and sizes (and textures). Though it seems impossible to mess up, there are more bad Banh Mi than transcendent ones in Hanoi.

To get it right, the purveyor has to understand the holy "bread-toppings" ratio, not leaning too heavy or too meagre. The bread should be light as an air pocket, but crispy enough. There should be a decent mix of pickled, fresh, savoury and spicy elements to not concentrate too much on any one element.

Below are our favourite Banh Mi places scattered around Hanoi. Some are a stones throw from famous tourist sites, some are in quiet alleyways, and other still in slightly awkward locations. If you really are on a quest for sandwich love, then try visit them all. If not, stick to the first two and you'll be more than satisfied.

BANH MY MAMA

Despite being slap bang next to one of Hanoi's biggest tourist (dis)tractions, this tiny alleyway stall makes cracking Banh Mi. Try the ones with an omelette and pork.

BAMI BREAD

Runner-up for our favourite sandwich in Hanoi. Pretty much a perfect representation of a Banh Mi.

BANH MI TRAM

Famous for their red wine beef stew to dip crusty Banh Mi in, though it's a bit sweeter than we generally care for, it's an institution and should be supported.

BANH MI NGOC THUOC

Hidden in a quiet alleyway, this lady knows how to make a Banh Mi. Slightly heavier on the pate than other spots, but worth hunting down if you're doing a Banh Mi-athon.

BANH MI 25

If the sight of backpackers and tourists standing in line gives you the heebie-jeebies, then avoid this spot at all costs. The banh mi is actually quite good, but due to the aformentioned situation, we generally avoid it.

Food is forever evolving, and sometimes it devolves. Owners change, locations change, chefs change. We can only assure you that when we visited, we liked it.