Bánh bông lan — Vietnamese chiffon cake — is a beloved baked good known for its cloud-like texture and delicate sweetness. Seattle Little Saigon bakeries produce versions that rival anything in Vietnam, with pandan-flavored cakes being the most popular. Here are the best places to find this airy, fragrant cake in Seattle.
Than Son Tofu top-pick
Daily 7AM-6PM
Than Son Tofu pandan chiffon cake is exceptionally light and airy with a tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth. The pandan flavor is natural and aromatic, not artificial, and the cake stays fresh and soft for days. They also offer variations with coconut cream between the layers.
Saigon Vietnam Deli best-value
Daily 7AM-6PM
Saigon Vietnam Deli has been serving the International District for decades. Their plain chiffon cake is exceptionally soft and springy with a clean, buttery flavor that is not too sweet. They also make a popular version filled with pandan custard and topped with a light coconut glaze.
Huong Binh hidden-gem
Daily 7AM-9PM
Huong Binh offers a sponge cake that is taller and more substantial with multiple layers of airy chiffon cake separated by silky pandan custard. The cake is baked fresh daily with an exceptionally fine and uniform crumb. Available as whole cakes or by the slice.