Hi Bánh mì, I’m back from vacation. Yes, of course I missed you. I only thought of you… Shh, shh… no more questions. Now let’s go get something to eat.

Saigon Sandwich almost always has a line out the door. And it’s a line worth waiting in. A true hole-in-the-wall, the modest shop has been belting out the best Vietnamese sandwiches for some time now. The place is no secret. Vehicles pull up to let passengers out; it is apparent the patrons don’t live in the neighborhood. The line can move fast or the line can move slow depending on how many sandwiches are ordered; people like to stock up. Waves of people leave as orders are filled, and the cars that are circling the block pick up the other half of the sandwich team. The day grows long, the bánh mì move out the door, and my Special Combination awaits.

Bánh mì is the new burrito not only because of the choices that exist amongst shops, flavors and types, but also because places like Saigon Sandwich exist. The place deserves its reputation. However, like any good food experience, options exist. If the line is too long on any particular day, the neighborhood is filled with quality second options, such as Lee’s or even Wrap Delight. But it is Saigon Sandwich that is the star of Larkin Street.

My Special Combination bánh mì starts with the obligatory daikon, carrot and cilantro topping, but the trio of meats nestled underneath are a perfect combination. Roast pork, steamed pork and pâté combine to make an insanely delicious sandwich. A generous amount of pâté forms the base of the sandwich, while the tender roast pork contrasts nicely with the steamed pork. Spice is provided by sliced jalapeños. Slathered with mayonnaise and held together in a crunchy rice flour baguette, the whole thing is a sloppy explosion of delicious proportions.

It’s a rare pleasure to walk by Saigon Sandwich and see only a couple of people inside. Popularity after all, breeds more popularity. In this case it also breeds satellite success; most of the surrounding bánh mì shops provide excellent substitutes. A similar thing was once true about San Francisco taquerias, but there is no denying that at some point many have gone downhill. However, I know they’re still out there; I still find plenty of good Mexican food, but I’m still looking for a burrito I can rely on. In the meantime, I plan on spending a little more time with bánh mì on the side.

Bánh mì and Burrito: I guess you two are just going to have to learn how to get along.

Sincerely,
Super Burrito Bánh mì Burrito Bánh mì