Bánh khọt — the tiny crispy savory cupcakes from southern Vietnam — are a beloved snack in San Jose's Vietnamese community. The best versions are cooked in cast-iron molds until golden on the bottom and custardy in the center, topped with a whole shrimp, and served with a generous lettuce-herb plate for wrapping.
Banh Xeo Quang Vinh top-pick
Mon-Sun 10AM-9PM
The banh xeo specialist naturally excels at banh khot — same batter cooked in individual cast-iron molds. Perfectly crispy on the bottom and edges, custardy in the center, topped with a whole shrimp. Generous lettuce and herb plate for wrapping, excellent nuoc cham.
Nem Nuong Khanh Hoa best-value
Mon-Sun 10AM-9PM
The most refined banh khot in San Jose — smaller, more delicate cups with a higher shrimp-to-batter ratio. Coconut-forward batter for a sweeter, more fragrant cup. The herb plate includes perilla, adding an earthy note that elevates the wrapping experience.
Mien Tay hidden-gem
Mon-Sun 10AM-9PM
Southern Vietnamese home-style banh khot — slightly larger, more generously coconut-milked, with a sweeter nuoc cham. Less crispy but more custardy, a trade-off many Vietnamese diners prefer. Grand Century Mall location is convenient.