Top 10 Places for the Best Banh Mi in Hanoi You Must Try

Hanoi is a city where the rich history seeps into every bite of its vibrant street food scene. Amidst the bustling streets and aromatic alleyways, one culinary gem stands out-the banh mi. This humble yet exquisite sandwich captures the essence of Vietnamese culture, blending French influences with local ingredients to create an unforgettable flavor profile. But with so many options, finding the best banh mi in Hanoi can be a daunting task for any traveler or food enthusiast eager to indulge in an authentic experience. That's where we step in. At GTrip, we've taken on this mouthwatering mission to uncover the most delightful and unique banh mi that Hanoi has to offer. Explore a world of taste, from bold, spicy creations to comforting, time-honored dishes, all curated just for your palate. It also offers insights into what makes these sandwiches such an integral part of Hanoi's street food tapestry.

1. Banh mi 25

Tucked away on a narrow street in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter, Banh mi 25 has earned legendary status among both locals and tourists seeking authentic Vietnamese street food. This humble sidewalk stand creates banh mi sandwiches that perfectly balance the marriage of French and Vietnamese culinary traditions. Banh mi 25 stands out for its crispy yet soft bread and rich housemade pate and mayo that elevate every sandwich. Vendors pack the banh mi with herbs, pickles, and your choice of protein, creating a flavorful balance that shows why banh mi has won hearts worldwide.

• Address: 25 Hang Ca Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (25 Hang Ca Street, Hang Bo Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
• Price range: 30,000 - 45,000 VND | $1.15 - 1.72

This long-standing, family-run eatery has earned the trust of Hanoi locals thanks to its consistent quality maintained for over a decade. All ingredients are prepared fresh daily, preserving the authenticity of each dish. Compared to more touristy spots, the prices offer exceptional value for money-one of the many reasons residents keep coming back.

Banh mi 25 is a favorite choice for both locals and tourists

2. Banh mi Pho

Banh mi Pho represents a unique fusion in Hanoi's culinary landscape, incorporating the flavors of Vietnam's most famous soup into their sandwiches.. Their sandwiches feature tender, pho-seasoned meat with the classic crunch of Vietnamese baguettes, creating an experience that locals and tourists alike seek out.

With multiple locations scattered across Hanoi's bustling districts, banh mi Pho has established itself as a chain that maintains consistency while remaining affordable. The bread itself deserves special mention-crispy exterior giving way to a soft, airy interior that perfectly complements the savory fillings.

• Locations across Hanoi:
  • 57C Dinh Tien Hoang, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (57C Dinh Tien Hoang, Hang Bac Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)
  • 64 Hang Bong, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (64 Hang Bong, Cua Dong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)
  • 39 Hang Bai, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (39 Hang Bai, Hang Bai Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)
  • 78 Hang Giay, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (78 Hang Giay, Hang Ma Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)
  • 61E Hang Ma, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (61E Hang Ma, Hang Bo Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)
  • 94 Nguyen Khuyen, Ha Dong Ward, Hanoi (94 Nguyen Khuyen, Van Quan Ward, Ha Dong District, Hanoi)
  • Hall E T1 Terminal, Noi Bai International Airport
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• Price range: 20,000 - 50,000 VND | $0.77 - 1.91

With shops in tourist hotspots and the airport, Banh mi Pho offers travelers easy access to authentic Vietnamese street food on arrival or departure. The reasonable price point further cements its reputation as a must-try destination for food enthusiasts exploring Hanoi's culinary treasures.

Banh mi Pho stands out with its crispy golden-brown crust and generous fillings

Read more: Top 10 Places to Try Delicious and Authentic Pho in Hanoi

3. Banh mi Long Hoi

Nestled in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Banh mi Long Hoi blends Hoi An flavors with Hanoi’s authentic taste. What sets this establishment apart is its commitment to using freshly baked bread with a perfectly crispy exterior yet soft interior. It’s paired with their signature homemade pate that has been refined over generations. The balance of sweet, savory, spicy, and tangy elements creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that represents the best of Vietnamese sandwich craftsmanship.

Long Hoi stands out for its meticulous attention to the bread-to-filling ratio, ensuring every bite delivers the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The establishment has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike, often resulting in lines during peak hours. Their distinctive Hoi An-style banh mi incorporates elements from central Vietnam, creating a unique offering in Hanoi's competitive street food scene.

• Address: 01 Hang Dau, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (1 Hang Dau, Hang Bac Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)
• Opening hours: 6:30 AM - 10:00 PM
• Price range: 40,000 - 60,000 VND | $0.77 - 1.53

The convenient location near Hoan Kiem Lake makes it an ideal stop during sightseeing adventures around the Old Quarter. While slightly pricier than some street vendors, the quality ingredients and comfortable seating justify the modest premium. For the best experience, visit during mid-morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds while ensuring the freshness of ingredients.

Banh mi Long Hoi is a favorite choice for both locals and tourists

4. Banh mi Lan Ong

Nestled in the historic heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter, Banh mi Lan Ong stands out for its meticulously crafted sandwiches that honor traditional Hanoi flavors. Unlike the more common southern-style banh mi, their version features a lighter bread with a delicate crust, paired with leaner cuts of meat and a subtle pate that never overwhelms. What truly distinguishes this modest storefront is its special homemade mayonnaise, slightly tangy with hints of local herbs. This creates a perfect harmony with the crisp vegetables and savory fillings.

This family-run establishment has perfected its craft over three generations, maintaining the authentic taste that locals have cherished for decades. Though small with limited seating, the steady stream of locals and tourists shows its strong reputation. Their signature grilled pork banh mi is their crowning achievement. This dish features perfectly seasoned meat with a subtle char that complements rather than dominates the other ingredients.

• Address: 8 Cha Ca Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (8 Cha Ca Street, Hang Dao Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)
• Opening hours: 6:30 AM - 11:30 PM, all day on Tuesdays
• Price range: 15,000 - 35,000 VND | $0.57 - 1.34

Despite its growing popularity among tourists, Banh mi Lan Ong remains committed to quality and tradition. It never compromises on the ingredients or preparation methods that have made it a beloved local spot in Hanoi's vibrant street food scene.

Banh mi Lan Ong is a must-try spot when visiting Vietnam

5. Banh mi Dan To

Banh mi Dan To stands as a nocturnal beacon for Hanoi's night owls, offering a unique late-night dining experience that sets it apart from other banh mi vendors in the capital. Unlike the typical morning-focused banh mi stands, this establishment has carved out its niche by serving hungry patrons throughout the night until dawn. The special touch at Dan To comes from its perfectly balanced combination of crispy-crusted bread with a pillowy interior, generous fillings, and a proprietary sauce. This unique blend results in a distinctive flavor profile you won't find elsewhere in the city.

• Address: 32 Tran Nhat Duat Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (32 Tran Nhat Duat Street, Dong Xuan Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)
• Opening hours: 6:00 PM - 5:30 AM
• Price range: about 30,000 VND | $1.15

Dan To has evolved from a small sandwich stand to a nationwide phenomenon, serving thousands of sandwiches daily while maintaining consistent quality. The bread achieves that perfect Vietnamese banh mi texture-shattering crust with a light interior that doesn't overwhelm the fillings. Their proprietary meat preparations strike the ideal balance between traditional flavors and modern food safety practices.

For travelers exploring Hanoi's vibrant nightlife or simply suffering from jet lag, Banh mi Dan To provides a delicious, affordable option when most other eateries have closed their doors. The bright, welcoming storefront on Tran Nhat Duat Street is easy to spot even at midnight, making it an accessible choice for visitors unfamiliar with the city's layout.

Banh mi Dan To offers an authentic Vietnamese banh mi experience in the heart of the city

6. Bami 34

For night owls seeking authentic Hanoi street food, Bami 34 stands as a beacon in the bustling Old Quarter. What distinguishes this late-night gem is its perfect balance of crispy exterior and fluffy interior bread, paired with a secret sauce recipe passed down through generations. Unlike many daytime vendors, Bami 34 specializes in a slightly spicier variant of the classic banh mi, catering to those seeking a more adventurous flavor profile after dark. The nocturnal atmosphere adds to the unique experience, with locals and tourists mingling under dim lights while enjoying freshly prepared sandwiches.

The night market ambiance surrounding Bami 34 creates an unforgettable dining experience. As you bite into their signature sandwich, you'll notice the aromatic blend of traditional Vietnamese herbs alongside modern interpretations of classic fillings. Owner Nguyen Van Minh takes pride in sourcing ingredients from specific markets around Hanoi, insisting that night-harvested herbs provide a more intense flavor profile.

• Address: 34 Luong Ngoc Quyen Street, Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (34 Luong Ngoc Quyen Street, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)
• Opening hours: 4:00 PM - 3:00 AM
• Price range: 20,000 - 50,000 VND | $0.77 - 1.92

Bami 34's strategic location makes it perfect for post-sightseeing hunger pangs or late-night cravings after exploring Hanoi's vibrant nightlife. The tiny storefront might be easy to miss during daylight hours, but after sunset, the wafting aroma and gathering crowds serve as natural navigation points. Their moderately priced menu offers exceptional value, particularly their signature "Midnight Special" that incorporates a unique blend of three different meat preparations in one sandwich.

Bami 34 is the perfect choice for a quick yet high-quality meal
 

7. Banh mi Pho Co

Nestled in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter, Banh mi Pho Co offers a uniquely traditional take on Vietnam's beloved sandwich. What distinguishes this humble establishment is its commitment to preserving the original Hanoi banh mi style-less embellished but intensely flavorful. The bread here is exceptional, with a perfectly crisp exterior that shatters upon first bite, revealing a cloud-like interior that soaks up the savory fillings without becoming soggy. Unlike their Southern counterparts, Pho Co's banh mi features a more restrained filling profile that allows each ingredient to shine through without overwhelming the palate.

The pate at Banh mi Pho Co deserves special mention-it's made fresh daily using a closely-guarded family recipe that combines traditional Vietnamese spices with French culinary techniques. This creates a rich, umami-packed spread that forms the foundation of their exceptional sandwiches. Their classic version includes thinly sliced Vietnamese cold cuts, cucumber, pickled daikon and carrot, fresh cilantro, and a light touch of chili, harmonizing perfectly with their signature pate.

What visits Banh mi Pho Co particularly special is the setting. The shop is housed in an ancient building with architecture dating back to French colonial times. You'll often find locals stopping by for a quick breakfast or lunch, a testament to its authentic quality that has stood the test of time despite the rapidly changing food scene in Hanoi.

• Address: 38 Dinh Liet Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (38 Dinh Liet Street, Hang Dao Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)
• Opening hours: 7:30 AM - 12:00 AM
• Price range: 20,000 - 40,000 VND | $0.77 - 1.53

Banh mi Pho Co is a must-try spot when visiting Vietnam
 

8. Banh mi chay 10 Quan Su - Vegetarian bread

In a city famous for its meat-filled banh mi, Banh My Chay at 10 Quan Su stands out as a rare vegetarian haven. This modest shop has perfected plant-based banh mi without sacrificing the explosive flavor profile that makes Hanoi's sandwiches legendary. What distinguishes their dishes is the creative use of tofu, mushrooms, and fresh vegetables. These ingredients are marinated in traditional Vietnamese spices to mimic the rich umami flavor typically found in pork or pate. The bread itself deserves special mention-exceptionally crisp exterior with a cloud-like interior that serves as the perfect vehicle for the flavorful vegetarian fillings.

• Address: 10 Quan Su Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (10 Quan Su Street, Hang Bong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 8:30 PM
• Price range: About 25,000 VND | $0.96

Ms. Linh, the owner, spent three years perfecting her vegan pate recipe, enriching the flavors of plant-based cuisine and delighting even meat-eaters. The sandwich construction follows the classic Hanoi style, with minimal but intentional ingredients, allowing each component to shine rather than competing for attention.

For vegetarians or anyone wanting a break from meat-heavy dishes, this small shop is a great choice in Hanoi. It's budget-friendly for travelers, yet the quality and authentic Vietnamese flavors still impress even the pickiest eaters with a compassionate touch.

Banh mi Chay 10 Quan Su even wins over meat-eaters with its delicious plant-based options

9. Banh mi Mama

Hidden in the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, Banh mi Mama offers a distinctive take on Vietnam's beloved sandwich that sets it apart from other vendors. The banh mi here may seem simple, but the crispy crust, soft inside, and a three-generation pate recipe give it a distinct, unforgettable charm. Unlike many places, Mama focuses on quality, using fresh local veggies and slow-cooked premium meat. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that represents the authentic essence of Hanoi's culinary tradition with a modern twist.

Their signature creation features caramelized pork belly with a hint of five-spice, complemented by housemade mayonnaise infused with local herbs. Each sandwich is meticulously constructed to ensure every bite contains the perfect ratio of meat, vegetables, and sauce. What truly distinguishes Banh mi Mama is their commitment to preserving traditional techniques while adding subtle innovations that elevate the humble banh mi to gourmet status.

• Address: 54 Ly Quoc Su Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (54 Ly Quoc Su Street, Hang Trong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)
• Opening hours: 6:30 AM - 9:30 PM
• Price range: 20,000 - 30,000 VND | $0.77 - 1.15

For travelers with dietary restrictions, Mama offers customization options including less spicy variations and the ability to add or remove ingredients according to preference. Though small, the shop offers a few plastic stools for guests to enjoy their banh mi while watching Hanoi’s street life go by.

Banh mi Mama uses fresh, locally-sourced ingredients daily to create the perfect flavor

10. Banh mi Bami - Bami Bread

Banh mi Bami has earned its reputation as one of Hanoi's most sophisticated banh mi chains, distinguishing itself through its commitment to artisanal bread-making techniques. Unlike traditional banh mi vendors, Bami Bread takes pride in its bread recipe, crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside. What sets Bami apart is its balanced flavors, with house-made pate and mayo that highlight, not overpower, the fresh veggies and quality fillings. Their consistency across multiple locations has made them a reliable favorite for both locals and tourists seeking a premium banh mi experience in Hanoi.

Branch locations by area:

• Ba Dinh - Hoan Kiem area:
  • 88B Tran Hung Dao Street
  • 25 Hang Ca Street
• Dong Da - Cau Giay area:
  • 128 Giang Vo Street
  • 204 Hoang Quoc Viet Street
• Thanh Xuan - Hoang Mai area:
  • 328 Nguyen Trai Street
  • 93 Kim Dong Street
• Ha Dong - Nam Tu Liem area:
  • 215A Be Van Dan Street
  • 148 Luong The Vinh Street
• My Dinh - Cau Dien area:
  • Kiosk 2 - B6 Nguyen Co Thach Street
  • Villa BT6-5 Nguyen Xuan Khoat Street (Ngoai Giao Doan)
• Bach Mai - Hai Ba Trung area:
  • 506 Bach Mai Street
  • 342 Lac Trung Street

Operating hours & pricing: 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Except Wednesdays) | 7:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Wednesday)

Price range: 30,000 - 45,000 VND (approximately $1.15 - $1.72)

Bami Bread's extensive network of locations makes it incredibly convenient for visitors to find their signature sandwiches regardless of which district they're exploring in Hanoi. Bami maintains consistent quality across all locations, from the Old Quarter to modern districts. Their long opening hours make it easy for travelers to grab an early breakfast or a late-night bite after exploring the city.

Bami Bread maintains consistent quality across all its branches  

Exploring the vibrant streets of Hanoi in search of the best banh mi is more than just a culinary quest, it's a journey into the heart and soul of Vietnamese culture. This exploration rewards you with flavors uniquely balanced between rich traditions and modern creativity. As you savor each bite, you're embracing an authentic experience that connects memories to present stories told through bread, meats, and herbs. By discovering where to find these iconic sandwiches in Hanoi, you gain both a gastronomic delight and an insight into local life that only food can offer. Our time spent diving into this guide has enriched your travel plans and sparked inspiration for future culinary adventures with GTrip. Should any questions linger or curiosity grow about what else Hanoi holds for intrepid explorers like yourself, there are always more stories waiting just around the corner.