SFReview
photo credit: Melissa Zink
Saigon Sandwich
Included In
Just outside of Little Saigon in the Tenderloin is Saigon Sandwich, a cash-only institution that’s been around for decades, and for good reason—it’s home to the best bánh mì in San Francisco, hands down.
The Vietnamese counter-serve spot on Larkin runs a tight ship. There’s usually a line around lunchtime, but it moves pretty quickly. And after you place your order, your sandwich will be made, tightly wrapped, and handed to you, seemingly within seconds. The short menu consists of bánh mì with different fillings, from roast chicken or tofu to a special combination with ham and thick pâté, plus a swath of creamy mayo, pickled carrots and daikon, cilantro, and jalapeño.
We’re not being hyperbolic when we say we’ve never been disappointed with anything here. The proteins are tender and well-seasoned, the French rolls are crackly and fresh, and each sandwich is loaded with an impressive amount of filling. It all adds up to a fantastic lunch that we consider picking up at least once a week. Plus, at around $5 each, one bánh mì will cost you less than an hour of parking on Hayes St.
Food Rundown
photo credit: Melissa Zink
Roast Chicken Bánh Mì
photo credit: Melissa Zink
Roast Pork Bánh Mì
photo credit: Melissa Zink
Combination Bánh Mì
Meat Ball Pork Bánh Mì
photo credit: Melissa Zink