Banh Mi 25 in Hanoi | Test, review and price of this essential banh mi
In the beating heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, a small sandwich shop tirelessly attracts crowds. At any time of day, you’ll see a line of foreign tourists, menus in hand, their eyes curious and enthusiastic. Its name? Banh Mi 25. A place that has become a cult favorite… but does it really deserve its reputation and the long waits?
A tourist phenomenon that has become iconic
Located on Hang Ca Street, Banh Mi 25 is the banh mi shop most frequented by Western tourists in Hanoi. Thanks to word of mouth and online recommendations, it has become a must-visit for many travelers. The restaurant is divided into two sections: one for takeout orders, the other for those who wish to dine in a relaxed atmosphere. From the moment it opens, it’s packed. Some days, the line stretches several meters, especially in the late morning or evening.
During our visit on a Saturday at 11 a.m., the wait was20 minutes for two sandwiches – a relatively short wait compared to peak times during holidays or vacation periods, when waits can beover an hour.
Friendly service despite the crowds
Despite the crowds, the staff remains smiling, attentive, and helpful . Customers are given a number and called in order. Menus are distributed as they line up, allowing them to make their choices in advance. The service is well-oiled, smooth, and efficient. A plus for those who dread tourist chaos!
What’s the banh mi at Banh Mi 25 really like?
The menu offers more than 20 variations: roast pork, beef, chicken, egg, vegetarian… not to mention the house drinks (smoothies, juices, Vietnamese coffee). The buns are beautifully packaged, presented in a cardboard box with a napkin. On site, everything is served on pretty wooden platters.
We chose two classics:
- Roast Pork Banh Mi (45,000 VND): Good overall taste, tasty meat but a little salty.
- Mixed Banh Mi (40,000 VND): Pate, char siu, smoked sausage – a balanced, pleasant combination.
Each sandwich is topped with fresh vegetables (papaya, grated carrot, cucumber, cilantro) and a homemade sauce. The bread is crispy, but a little small compared to other local establishments.
Is the price justified… or touristy?
With prices ranging from 35,000 to 75,000 VND, Banh Mi 25 is a bit above the market price. But the location, service, presentation, overall experience, and location in the Old Quarter explain this difference. For a tourist, it’s still a small sum for a typical and refined culinary experience.
Tip: Pay in cash only!
Verdict
Banh Mi 25 doesn’t revolutionize the world of banh mi… but it does offer a refined, accessible, and well-thought-out version for foreign visitors. If you’re looking for an authentic, local immersion, other, more discreet stalls await you. But if you want to experience the “banh mi ritual” the touristy Hanoi way, Banh Mi 25 is a great place to stop—as long as you’re not in a hurry.
