Chicago's bánh mì scene spans from Argyle Street to Pilsen, with legendary bakeries and modern shops serving crispy baguettes filled with pickled daikon, cilantro, jalapeños.
- Bánh mì thit: Grilled pork
- Bánh mì cha lua: Vietnamese ham
- Bánh mì dac biet: Combination
- Bánh mi chay: Vegetarian
Nhu Lan Bakery Top Pick
Widely considered as the best sandwich in Chicago. Fresh daily baguettes — crackling-crusty outside, light and airy inside. The classic special is loaded with house-made cold cuts, pâté, pickled daikon and carrot, fresh cilantro, jalapeño, and mayonnaise. Also offers grilled pork, chicken, and meatball versions. Remarkably affordable — some of the best value in Chicago dining.
Ba Le Sandwich
An Argyle-area institution serving exceptional bread with baguettes baked fresh in-house. The special (house special) is the standout — generous fillings, crisp golden bread. Also offers excellent Vietnamese coffee. Casual order-at-the-counter format that's efficient and friendly. Consistently high quality at very reasonable prices.
Banh Mi & Co.
Brings excellent sandwiches to the North Side beyond the Argyle area. Covers both traditional and creative options — the classic cold cut sandwich is authentic, while fusion options like bulgogi beef and Thai coconut curry chicken add variety. Solid bread, properly tangy pickled vegetables, and generously distributed in a modern, casual setting.
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Saigon Sisters
Located in the French Market in the West Loop, Saigon Sisters serves sandwiches that have earned a loyal following among downtown workers. High-quality ingredients — house-made pâté, well-seasoned meats, fresh crusty baguettes. The grilled pork banh mi is particularly good with beautiful char-grilled flavor. A bit pricier than Argyle spots, but the quality justifies it.