Exploring the Ultimate Guide to the Best Banh Mi Portland Has to Offer - Taste the Authentic Vietnamese Flavor!
Discover the best banh mi in Portland with our curated list of top spots. From traditional to fusion, satisfy your taste buds with every bite.
Portland, known for its vibrant food scene, is home to some of the best banh mi sandwiches in the country. These Vietnamese-style sandwiches have become a staple in the city, and locals and visitors alike flock to the best banh mi shops to indulge in this flavor-packed street food. Whether you're a fan of traditional banh mi or prefer a fusion twist, Portland has something for everyone. In this article, we'll explore the top-rated banh mi spots in Portland that will leave you craving for more.
First on our list is Binh Minh Sandwiches, located in Southeast Portland. This tiny shop may not look like much from the outside, but it's the go-to spot for classic banh mi sandwiches. The bread is always fresh, and the fillings are generously packed, making it a satisfying meal on its own. Plus, their prices are affordable, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious foodies.
If you're looking for a fusion twist on banh mi, look no further than Kim Jong Smokehouse. This trendy food cart in Northeast Portland serves up Korean-inspired banh mi sandwiches that are bursting with flavors. The smoked meats and kimchi add an extra layer of complexity to the already delicious sandwich. Don't forget to order their signature Kim Jong Fries, topped with bulgogi beef and spicy mayo.
For a vegetarian-friendly option, head over to Tam's Place. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up banh mi sandwiches for over 20 years, and they have plenty of vegetarian options. Their tofu banh mi is a must-try, with crispy fried tofu, pickled vegetables, and a homemade sauce that packs a punch. You won't even miss the meat!
If you're in the mood for a sit-down meal, try Luc Lac Kitchen. This trendy Vietnamese restaurant in downtown Portland offers a modern take on banh mi, with fillings like lemongrass chicken and grilled pork belly. The bread is baked in-house, and the sandwiches are served with a side of crispy fries. Don't forget to pair it with their refreshing Vietnamese iced coffee.
Another popular spot for banh mi is Best Baguette, with multiple locations across the city. This bakery and sandwich shop has been serving up banh mi sandwiches since 1985, and it's easy to see why they've stood the test of time. The bread is baked fresh daily, and the fillings are always generous. Plus, their menu includes a wide variety of options, from classic banh mi to Vietnamese-style subs.
If you're looking for a unique banh mi experience, check out Matta in North Portland. This farm-to-table restaurant specializes in neo-Vietnamese cuisine, with dishes that fuse traditional Vietnamese flavors with Pacific Northwest ingredients. Their banh mi sandwich features smoked brisket, pickled vegetables, and a house-made aioli, all served on a crispy baguette.
For a no-frills banh mi experience, head over to An Xuyen Bakery. This Southeast Portland bakery is known for its delicious pastries, but their banh mi sandwiches are equally impressive. The bread is perfectly toasted, and the fillings are simple yet satisfying. Plus, their prices are incredibly reasonable, making it an excellent option for a quick lunch.
Lovejoy Bakers is another bakery-slash-cafe that serves up delicious banh mi sandwiches. Their version features marinated pork, pickled carrots and daikon, jalapenos, cilantro, and a spicy mayo, all piled high on a freshly baked baguette. It's the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, making it a crowd-pleaser for all palates.
For a taste of banh mi in Southeast Portland, check out Double Dragon. This trendy spot serves up Asian-inspired street food, including their take on banh mi. Their version features crispy pork belly, pickled vegetables, and a sriracha aioli, all served on a house-made ciabatta roll. Plus, their outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a banh mi sandwich and a cold beer on a sunny day.
Last but not least, we have Lela's Bistro. This cozy little restaurant in Northeast Portland offers a fusion twist on banh mi, with fillings like Korean BBQ beef and crispy tofu. Their sandwiches are served on a toasted baguette and come with a side of fries or salad. It's the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner with friends.
Whether you're a banh mi enthusiast or a first-timer, Portland's banh mi scene has something for everyone. From classic to fusion, vegetarian to meat-lovers, these top-rated banh mi spots will leave you craving for more. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a banh mi sandwich and experience the delicious flavors of Vietnam right here in Portland.
The Rise of Banh Mi in Portland
Banh mi is a Vietnamese sandwich that has become increasingly popular in Portland over the past few years. This delicious sandwich consists of a freshly baked baguette filled with various meats, vegetables, herbs, and sauces. Portland is known for its vibrant food scene, and the banh mi sandwich has quickly become one of the city's most beloved dishes.
The History of Banh Mi
Banh mi has its roots in French colonialism in Vietnam. The French introduced the baguette to the Vietnamese, who then adapted it to their own tastes and created the banh mi sandwich. The sandwich traditionally contains pork, pate, pickled vegetables, and herbs, but there are now many variations available.
The Best Banh Mi in Portland
Portland has no shortage of banh mi options, but some stand out above the rest. Here are some of the best banh mi sandwiches in Portland:
1. Binh Minh Sandwiches
Binh Minh is a small, family-owned shop that serves up some of the best banh mi in Portland. Their sandwiches are made with high-quality ingredients, including house-made pate and pickled vegetables. They also offer a vegetarian option with tofu and mushroom filling.
2. Lardo
Lardo is known for its delicious sandwiches, and their banh mi is no exception. Their version features crispy pork belly, pickled vegetables, jalapenos, and cilantro mayo. It's a little bit pricier than some other options, but worth the splurge.
3. Best Baguette
Best Baguette is a chain with several locations in Portland, and they consistently serve up some of the best banh mi in the city. Their sandwiches are affordable, filling, and always fresh. They offer a wide variety of fillings, including grilled pork, meatballs, and sardines.
4. Kim Jong Smokehouse
Kim Jong Smokehouse is known for its Korean-style barbecue, but their banh mi sandwich is also a standout. Their version features smoked brisket, pickled vegetables, and gochujang mayo. It's a unique twist on the traditional banh mi that's well worth trying.
5. Shut Up and Eat
Shut Up and Eat is a quirky sandwich shop that serves up some seriously delicious banh mi. Their sandwiches are packed with flavor and generously sized, making them a great value. They offer a variety of fillings, including tofu and lemongrass chicken.
Conclusion
Banh mi is a delicious and affordable sandwich that has become a staple in Portland's food scene. With so many great options to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. These five restaurants are a great place to begin your banh mi journey in Portland.
The History of Banh Mi in Portland: A Brief OverviewPortland, Oregon, is a city that prides itself on its diverse culinary scene. One of the most popular foods in Portland is banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich that has quickly become a staple in the city's food culture. The history of banh mi in Portland dates back to the 1970s when the first wave of Vietnamese immigrants arrived in the city. They brought with them their culture and cuisine, including the beloved banh mi sandwich.Over the years, banh mi has evolved and adapted to the local tastes and preferences in Portland. Today, there are countless variations of banh mi available throughout the city, from traditional meat-filled sandwiches to vegan and vegetarian options.The Top 5 Banh Mi Shops in Portland: Our RecommendationsIf you're looking for the best banh mi in Portland, you won't have to look very far. Here are our top 5 recommendations:1. Binh Minh Sandwiches: This family-owned shop has been serving up delicious banh mi since 1988. Their traditional sandwiches are made with fresh baguettes, pickled vegetables, and a variety of meats, including pork belly, grilled chicken, and beef.2. Best Baguette: This popular chain has several locations throughout Portland and is known for its affordable and delicious banh mi sandwiches. Their menu includes both traditional and fusion options, such as the Korean BBQ beef banh mi.3. Tam Deli and Cafe: This cozy spot in Southeast Portland offers a variety of banh mi sandwiches, including vegetarian and vegan options. They also serve a mean bowl of pho, making it the perfect spot for a hearty lunch.4. Kim Jong Grillin': This food cart has gained a cult following for its unique take on banh mi sandwiches. Their Korean-style pork belly banh mi is a must-try for anyone looking for a twist on the traditional sandwich.5. Double Dragon: This hip restaurant in Southeast Portland serves up a fusion of Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine, including their popular banh mi sandwiches. Their spicy chicken banh mi is a fan favorite and is not for the faint of heart.Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly Banh Mi Options in PortlandPortland is known for its vegan and vegetarian-friendly food options, and banh mi is no exception. Here are some of the best spots in Portland for vegan and vegetarian banh mi sandwiches:1. Sweet Basil Express: This vegan-friendly restaurant offers a variety of banh mi sandwiches, including the tofu banh mi with pickled carrots, daikon radish, cucumber, cilantro, and vegan mayo.2. Ichiza Kitchen: This food cart in downtown Portland offers a vegetarian banh mi made with marinated tofu, pickled vegetables, and vegan mayo. They also offer a gluten-free option for those with dietary restrictions.3. Bánh Mì Up: This food cart in Northeast Portland offers a vegan banh mi made with grilled mushrooms, pickled carrots and daikon, cucumbers, jalapenos, and vegan mayo.Banh Mi Fusion: The Most Unique and Creative Banh Mi Sandwiches in PortlandPortland is known for its creative culinary scene, and the banh mi sandwich is no exception. Here are some of the most unique and creative banh mi sandwiches in Portland:1. Kargi Gogo: This Georgian food cart in Northeast Portland offers a fusion of Georgian and Vietnamese cuisine with their khachapuri banh mi. It's made with a traditional Georgian cheese bread filled with pickled veggies, cilantro, and your choice of meat.2. Lardo: This popular sandwich shop in Southeast Portland offers a fusion of Italian and Vietnamese cuisine with their banh mi meatball sub. It's made with pork meatballs, pickled vegetables, and a spicy mayo.3. Bunk Sandwiches: This sandwich shop in several locations in Portland offers a fusion of Mexican and Vietnamese cuisine with their banh mi torta. It's made with a bolillo roll filled with carnitas, pickled veggies, jalapenos, and a cilantro-lime mayo.The Best Banh Mi for Spice Lovers: Where to Find the Spiciest Sandwiches in PortlandIf you're a fan of spicy food, you won't be disappointed with the banh mi sandwiches in Portland. Here are some of the spiciest options in the city:1. Double Dragon: This Southeast Portland restaurant is known for its spicy chicken banh mi sandwich, made with pickled vegetables, jalapenos, and a spicy aioli.2. Best Baguette: This popular chain offers a spicy beef banh mi made with sliced beef, jalapenos, and a spicy mayo.3. Binh Minh Sandwiches: This family-owned shop offers a spicy pork banh mi sandwich made with pickled vegetables, jalapenos, and a spicy sauce.The Best Banh Mi for Meat Lovers: Where to Find the Most Flavorful Meat Sandwiches in PortlandIf you're a meat lover, you won't be disappointed with the banh mi sandwiches in Portland. Here are some of the most flavorful options in the city:1. Binh Minh Sandwiches: This family-owned shop offers a variety of meat-filled banh mi sandwiches, including pork belly, grilled chicken, and beef.2. Best Baguette: This popular chain offers a variety of meat-filled banh mi sandwiches, including grilled pork, BBQ pork, and meatball.3. Kim Jong Grillin': This food cart offers a Korean-style pork belly banh mi sandwich that is sure to satisfy any meat lover's cravings.Affordable Banh Mi: Where to Find Delicious and Budget-Friendly Sandwiches in PortlandPortland is known for its high-quality, but often expensive, food scene. However, there are plenty of affordable banh mi options throughout the city. Here are some of the best budget-friendly spots:1. Best Baguette: This popular chain offers affordable banh mi sandwiches, with prices starting at just $3.50.2. Tam Deli and Cafe: This cozy spot in Southeast Portland is known for its affordable banh mi sandwiches, with prices starting at just $4.50.3. Banh Mi Up: This food cart in Northeast Portland offers affordable banh mi sandwiches, with prices starting at just $6.Gluten-Free Banh Mi Options in Portland: Where to Find Delicious Sandwiches for Those with Dietary RestrictionsFor those with dietary restrictions, finding delicious banh mi sandwiches can be a challenge. However, there are several gluten-free options available throughout Portland. Here are some of the best spots:1. Ichiza Kitchen: This food cart in downtown Portland offers a gluten-free banh mi sandwich made with marinated tofu, pickled vegetables, and gluten-free bread.2. Bánh Mì Up: This food cart in Northeast Portland offers a gluten-free banh mi sandwich made with grilled mushrooms, pickled carrots and daikon, cucumbers, jalapenos, and gluten-free bread.3. Tam Deli and Cafe: This cozy spot in Southeast Portland offers a variety of gluten-free banh mi sandwiches, including the grilled chicken banh mi on gluten-free bread.The Best Banh Mi for Breakfast: Where to Find Delicious and Filling Breakfast Sandwiches in PortlandBanh mi sandwiches are not just for lunch or dinner – they also make a great breakfast option. Here are some of the best spots in Portland for breakfast banh mi sandwiches:1. Bánh Mì Up: This food cart in Northeast Portland offers a breakfast banh mi sandwich made with scrambled eggs, bacon, pickled vegetables, and a sriracha mayo.2. Best Baguette: This popular chain offers a breakfast banh mi sandwich made with scrambled eggs, ham, and pickled vegetables.3. Tam Deli and Cafe: This cozy spot in Southeast Portland offers a breakfast banh mi sandwich made with scrambled eggs, pork sausage, pickled vegetables, and a spicy mayo.Banh Mi Delivery in Portland: Where to Order Delicious Sandwiches Straight to Your DoorIf you're not in the mood to venture out to a banh mi shop, there are several delivery options available throughout Portland. Here are some of the best spots for banh mi delivery:1. Grubhub: This popular delivery service offers several banh mi options for delivery, including Binh Minh Sandwiches and Best Baguette.2. Caviar: This upscale delivery service offers several banh mi options for delivery, including Double Dragon and Kim Jong Grillin'.3. Postmates: This popular delivery service offers several banh mi options for delivery, including Tam Deli and Cafe and Bánh Mì Up.In conclusion, Portland is a city that loves its banh mi sandwiches. Whether you're a meat lover or a vegan, a spice enthusiast or a budget-conscious foodie, there's a banh mi sandwich in Portland that's perfect for you. So why not try them all and discover your new favorite?
The Best Banh Mi in Portland: A Foodie's Perspective
Introduction
Banh mi is a Vietnamese sandwich that has taken the world by storm. In Portland, there are several places to get a good banh mi sandwich, but which one is the best? As a self-proclaimed foodie, I have tried many banh mi sandwiches in Portland and have come up with my top pick.The Pros and Cons of the Best Banh Mi in Portland
After trying several banh mi sandwiches in Portland, I have determined that the best one can be found at Banh Mi Nam Loc. Here are the pros and cons of their delicious banh mi sandwich:Pros:- The bread is soft and crispy on the outside
- The pickled vegetables are crisp and flavorful
- The meat is tender and juicy
- The sandwich is affordable
- The staff is friendly and helpful
- The location is not convenient for everyone
- The sandwich can be messy to eat
- The menu is limited to banh mi sandwiches only
Comparison Table for Banh Mi Sandwiches in Portland
Here is a comparison table for the top banh mi sandwiches in Portland, including my personal favorite, Banh Mi Nam Loc:| Restaurant | Bread | Vegetables | Meat | Price | Location | Menu Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Banh Mi Nam Loc | Soft and crispy | Crisp and flavorful | Tender and juicy | Affordable | Not convenient for everyone | Banh mi sandwiches only |
| Lela's Bistro | Crunchy and chewy | Sweet and tangy | Well-seasoned | A bit pricey | Downtown Portland | Other Vietnamese dishes |
| Luc Lac | Soft and chewy | Simple and fresh | Savory and tender | A bit pricey | Downtown Portland | Other Vietnamese dishes |
Conclusion
After trying several banh mi sandwiches in Portland, I have determined that Banh Mi Nam Loc is the best. With its soft and crispy bread, crisp and flavorful pickled vegetables, and tender and juicy meat, it is hard to beat. While there are some cons, such as the location not being convenient for everyone and the sandwich being messy to eat, the pros outweigh them. If you are in Portland and looking for a delicious banh mi sandwich, I highly recommend giving Banh Mi Nam Loc a try.The Best Banh Mi in Portland: A Culinary Journey
As we come to the end of our culinary journey through Portland's best banh mi spots, we hope you have enjoyed reading about our experiences and discoveries. We set out to find the most authentic and delicious Vietnamese sandwiches in this city, and we are thrilled to share our top picks with you.
If you are a fan of banh mi, or even if you have never tried it before, we highly recommend checking out these spots. Each one has its own unique take on this classic dish, and we guarantee that you won't be disappointed.
Our first stop was at Binh Minh Sandwiches, a family-owned establishment that has been serving up banh mi since 1996. Their classic sandwich comes with your choice of protein, crisp pickled vegetables, cilantro, and mayo, all nestled inside a warm, crusty baguette. We loved the generous portions and the affordability of their menu items, making it an excellent spot for a quick and satisfying lunch.
Next up was Ha VL, a humble little shop that serves up some of the most flavorful and creative banh mi in the city. Their daily rotating menu features a variety of fillings, from savory meats to vegetarian options, each one bursting with unique spices, herbs, and sauces. We were blown away by their bold flavors and attention to detail, and we are already planning our next visit.
Another standout spot on our journey was Kim Jong Smokehouse, a fusion restaurant that combines traditional Vietnamese flavors with American barbecue techniques. Their banh mi features tender smoked brisket, tangy pickled onions, and a zesty citrus aioli, all wrapped up in a soft, pillowy bun. It's a mouthwatering mashup that we can't get enough of.
If you're looking for a more traditional take on banh mi, then look no further than Best Baguette. This bakery and cafe specializes in French-inspired breads and pastries, but their Vietnamese sandwiches are not to be missed. Their classic banh mi is a simple yet satisfying combination of grilled pork, pickled carrots and daikon, cucumber, and cilantro, all served on a freshly baked baguette.
Another great option for authentic banh mi is Tan Tan Cafe and Delicatessen. This bustling cafe offers a wide variety of Vietnamese dishes, but their banh mi stole the show for us. Their sandwiches are generously filled with your choice of protein, along with pickled vegetables, herbs, and a smear of creamy pâté. It's a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.
As we conclude our journey through Portland's banh mi scene, we want to emphasize how much we enjoyed exploring this delicious and diverse cuisine. Each spot we visited offered its own unique take on this beloved sandwich, and we were blown away by the creativity and passion that went into each one.
We hope that our recommendations have inspired you to try something new and exciting on your next food adventure. Whether you're a longtime fan of banh mi or a curious newcomer, we encourage you to seek out these fantastic spots and discover the magic of this wonderful cuisine for yourself.
Thank you for joining us on this culinary journey, and we look forward to sharing more of our foodie adventures with you in the future.
People also ask about Best Banh Mi Portland
What is Banh Mi?
Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich that consists of a baguette filled with various meats, vegetables, and sauces. It is a popular street food in Vietnam and has gained popularity all over the world.
Where can I find the best Banh Mi in Portland?
Portland has several restaurants and food carts that serve delicious Banh Mi. Here are some of the best places to try:
Banh Mi Nam Loc
This family-owned restaurant in Southeast Portland serves some of the best Banh Mi in the city. Their baguettes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and their fillings are fresh and flavorful.
Lardo
Lardo is a popular eatery that serves creative and delicious sandwiches, including Banh Mi. Their version of Banh Mi features pork belly, pickled vegetables, and jalapeno aioli.
Banh Mi Up
This food cart in Northeast Portland serves Banh Mi made with locally sourced ingredients. Their sandwiches are made to order and feature fillings like grilled pork, lemongrass chicken, and tofu.
Sandwich House
Sandwich House is a cozy spot in Northwest Portland that serves Banh Mi and other Vietnamese dishes. Their Banh Mi features grilled meat, pickled vegetables, and a house-made sauce.
What makes a good Banh Mi?
A good Banh Mi should have a crispy baguette that is soft on the inside. The filling should be fresh and flavorful, with a balance of sweet, salty, and sour flavors. The sandwich should also have a variety of textures, such as crunchy vegetables and tender meat.