Banh Mi 25 Hanoi Menu: A Taste of Vietnam’s Iconic Sandwich

Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant capital, is a city where history and modernity intertwine, from the bustling alleys of the Old Quarter to the serene beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake. Amid its colorful streets, Hanoi’s culinary scene shines, offering a rich tapestry of flavors that reflect Vietnam’s cultural heritage. At the heart of this gastronomic landscape is banh mi, the beloved Vietnamese sandwich that blends French baguettes with local ingredients like pate, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. Among Hanoi’s many banh mi spots, Banh Mi 25 stands out as a culinary gem, renowned for its diverse and flavorful menu that caters to locals and tourists alike. For those eager to dive deeper into Vietnam’s food culture, Viet Rice Essence Restaurant and its Viet Rice Kitchen Cooking Class offer an unforgettable experience, combining authentic cuisine with hands-on learning. Join us on a culinary journey through the Banh Mi 25 Hanoi menu, exploring its offerings and celebrating Viet Rice Essence as a must-visit destination for food lovers.

Hanoi’s Culinary Soul: The Legacy of Banh Mi

Hanoi’s cuisine is a vibrant reflection of Vietnam’s history, weaving together indigenous ingredients with influences from Chinese, French, and Southeast Asian traditions. The city is celebrated for dishes like pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and banh cuon (steamed rice rolls), which balance sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, often accentuated by herbs like cilantro, mint, and Thai basil. Banh mi, meaning “bread” in Vietnamese, is a French-Vietnamese fusion that emerged during the colonial era, when French baguettes were adapted with local fillings like pork, pate, and pickled vegetables, creating a street food icon now loved worldwide.

The Old Quarter, a maze of 36 streets named after ancient trades, is Hanoi’s culinary heart, where banh mi carts and eateries thrive alongside bustling markets like Dong Xuan and Hang Be. These markets supply the fresh ingredients that define the sandwich’s authenticity, from crisp cucumbers to fragrant herbs. Banh Mi 25, located at 25 Hang Ca Street in the Old Quarter, is a standout in this vibrant scene, offering a diverse menu that blends traditional and creative banh mi options. For those seeking a deeper culinary experience, Viet Rice Essence Restaurant at 93 Phung Hung Street provides a refined dining setting and a cooking class that teaches the art of crafting banh mi and other northern specialties. Together, these destinations capture the essence of Hanoi’s food culture, making them must-visits for any culinary adventurer.

What Makes Banh Mi 25’s Menu Special?

Banh Mi 25 has earned its reputation as one of Hanoi’s top banh mi destinations, thanks to its diverse menu, fresh ingredients, and welcoming atmosphere. Since opening in 2014, the family-run eatery, founded by Phuong and Ha, has expanded to include additional seating at 30 and 32 Hang Ca Street, accommodating both locals and tourists. Key elements that set Banh Mi 25 apart include:

• Fresh, Local Ingredients: The restaurant sources vegetables, herbs, and proteins daily from Hanoi’s markets, ensuring vibrant, authentic flavors in every sandwich.
• Customizable Options: The menu offers a variety of banh mi fillings, from classic pork to vegetarian and vegan options, with add-ons like avocado, cheese, and eggs.
• Affordable Prices: Sandwiches range from 30,000–40,000 VND (US$1.20–1.60), with add-ons at 5,000–15,000 VND, making it accessible to all.
• Diverse Beverages: Fresh juices, smoothies, Hanoi beer, and coffee concoctions like sweetened condensed milk coffee complement the sandwiches, priced at 20,000–40,000 VND.
• Casual Ambiance: The open-fronted stall and cozy dining areas across the street offer a quintessential Hanoi street food experience, with small tables spilling onto the sidewalk.

With a 4.6-star rating on TripAdvisor from over 5,800 reviews, Banh Mi 25 is celebrated for its flavorful sandwiches, efficient service, and excellent value, though some note its tourist-heavy vibe. Its Hang Ca Street location, just minutes from Hoan Kiem Lake, makes it a convenient stop for exploring the Old Quarter’s culinary and cultural delights.

Exploring the Banh Mi 25 Hanoi Menu

The Banh Mi 25 menu is simple yet diverse, focusing on classic Vietnamese flavors with options for customization. Below is an overview of its offerings, based on available information and reviews:

Banh Mi Options

• Classic Pork with Pate: A traditional Hanoi-style banh mi filled with pork liver pate, barbecued pork (char siew), pickled carrots, daikon, cucumber, cilantro, and a drizzle of fish sauce or soy sauce, priced at 30,000–40,000 VND. Reviewers praise its robust marinade and crunchy vegetables.
• Honey Grilled Chicken: Features tender chicken marinated with honey, paired with pate, pickled vegetables, and herbs, often with optional avocado or cheese for 5,000–10,000 VND extra. A favorite for its sweet-savory balance, priced at 30,000–40,000 VND.
• Barbecued Pork with Sausage: A hearty option with char siew, Vietnamese sausage, pate, and vegetables, noted for its bold flavors, priced at 30,000–40,000 VND.
• Beef with Pate and Egg: Includes sauteed beef, a sunny-side-up egg, pate, and vegetables, priced at 65,000 VND for the combo, offering a richer, indulgent taste.
• Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Four vegetarian choices, including tofu, king oyster mushrooms with spicy sweet sauce, and mushroom floss, customizable with avocado or cheese. Priced at 30,000–40,000 VND, these are popular among plant-based diners.
• Egg and Cheese: A breakfast favorite with a fried egg, cheese, pate, and vegetables, praised for its simplicity and affordability, priced at 30,000 VND.

Customers can customize their banh mi by adding extras like eggs, pate, or avocado, and staff confirm vegetable preferences (e.g., excluding cilantro) to accommodate dietary needs.

Beverages and Sides

• Fresh Juices and Smoothies: Options like passion fruit, lychee, and mango, priced at 20,000–40,000 VND, provide a refreshing complement to the sandwiches.
• Coffee: Sweetened condensed milk coffee (ca phe sua) and iced coffee (bac xiu) at 25,000 VND, ideal for Hanoi’s warm days.
• Hanoi Beer: Cold local beer, priced at 20,000–30,000 VND, pairs well with banh mi.
• Craft Popsicles: Frozen fruit and yogurt popsicles in various flavors, perfect for Hanoi’s heat, priced at 20,000–30,000 VND.
• Lotus Tea: Often served complimentary, adding a fragrant, sweet touch to the meal.

The menu’s affordability and variety, combined with fresh, high-quality ingredients, make Banh Mi 25 a go-to spot for banh mi lovers, though some reviewers note that its popularity can lead to queues during peak hours.

How to Make Banh Mi: A Hanoi-Style Recipe Inspired by Banh Mi 25

Crafting an authentic banh mi at home or in a cooking class like Viet Rice Kitchen’s is a delightful way to connect with Hanoi’s food culture. Below is a Hanoi-style banh mi recipe inspired by Banh Mi 25’s classic pork pate version, with tips for achieving its signature flavors.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• Baguette: 4 small Vietnamese baguettes or French baguettes (8–10 inches each), with a light, airy interior and crispy crust.
• Pork Filling:
  • 1 lb (450g) pork loin or shoulder, thinly sliced.
  • 2 tbsp fish sauce.
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce.
  • 1 tbsp honey.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced.
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper.
• Pate: 4 oz (115g) pork liver pate, store-bought or homemade.
• Pickled Vegetables:
  • 1 cup carrots, julienned.
  • 1 cup daikon radish, julienned.
  • ½ cup rice vinegar.
  • ¼ cup sugar.
  • ½ tsp salt.
• Fresh Vegetables:
  • 1 cucumber, thinly sliced lengthwise.
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro sprigs.
  • 2–3 Thai chilies or jalapeños, sliced (optional).
• Sauces:
  • 4 tbsp mayonnaise (preferably Vietnamese or Kewpie).
  • 2 tbsp fish sauce or soy sauce for drizzling.
  • Sriracha or chili sauce (optional).
• Butter or Oil: For spreading on bread.

Equipment

• Mixing bowls.
• Skillet or grill pan.
• Oven or toaster oven (for warming bread).
• Knife for slicing.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pickled Vegetables (30 minutes or overnight):
   In a bowl, combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, stirring until dissolved. Add julienned carrots and daikon, ensuring they’re submerged. Let sit for at least 30 minutes (or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor). Drain before use. Banh Mi 25’s pickles add a tangy crunch, essential for authenticity.
   
2. Marinate the Pork (30 minutes):
   In a bowl, mix fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and black pepper. Add pork slices, coating evenly. Marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 2 hours. This savory marinade mirrors Banh Mi 25’s barbecued pork style.
   
3. Cook the Pork (10 minutes):
   Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil. Cook pork slices for 2–3 minutes per side until caramelized and cooked through. Set aside. The smoky, tender pork is a hallmark of Hanoi’s banh mi.
   
4. Prepare the Baguette (5 minutes):
   Preheat an oven or toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice baguettes lengthwise, leaving a hinge. Lightly toast for 2–3 minutes to crisp the crust while keeping the interior soft. Spread a thin layer of butter or oil on the cut sides, followed by a generous smear of pate on the bottom half and mayonnaise on the top half. Banh Mi 25’s warm, airy baguette is key to its appeal.
   
5. Assemble the Banh Mi (5 minutes):
   On the bottom half (with pate), layer cooked pork, pickled carrots, daikon, cucumber slices, cilantro sprigs, and sliced chilies (if using). Drizzle with fish sauce or soy sauce and a touch of sriracha for heat. Place the top half (with mayonnaise) and press gently. Slice in half for easier eating. This recipe captures Banh Mi 25’s classic pork pate banh mi.
   
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve immediately with a side of extra pickled vegetables or a passion fruit juice, as offered at Banh Mi 25. Enjoy the sandwich while soaking in the vibrant energy of Hanoi’s streets, real or imagined.
   

Tips for Success

• Bread Quality: Use Vietnamese baguettes from Asian markets or French baguettes with a thin, crispy crust for authenticity.
• Fresh Herbs: Cilantro is essential; add mint or Thai basil for variation, as Banh Mi 25 allows customization.
• Flavor Balance: Adjust fish sauce, chili, and pickles to achieve a harmony of savory, tangy, and spicy notes.
• Prep Ahead: Pickled vegetables and marinated pork can be prepared a day in advance to save time.

This Hanoi-style banh mi recipe, inspired by Banh Mi 25, is lighter and savory, perfect for capturing the essence of their menu. For hands-on learning, Viet Rice Kitchen Cooking Class offers expert guidance in crafting this sandwich, ensuring participants master authentic techniques.

Banh Mi 25: A Culinary Landmark in Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Banh Mi 25, located at 25 Hang Ca Street, Old Quarter, is a family-run eatery that has become a Hanoi institution since its opening in 2014 by Phuong and Ha, named after their family’s house number. The original stall has expanded to include two additional seating areas at 30 and 32 Hang Ca Street, offering a cozy, open-fronted space where diners can enjoy their banh mi while watching the bustle of Hanoi’s streets. The restaurant’s cheerful yellow and white storefront, small sidewalk tables, and inviting atmosphere make it a magnet for both locals and tourists.

Menu and Experience

Banh Mi 25’s menu is a celebration of Vietnamese street food, with a focus on customizable banh mi that cater to diverse tastes. The restaurant’s commitment to fresh ingredients, sourced daily from local markets, ensures every sandwich is packed with flavor. Reviewers praise the variety, from traditional pork pate to vegetarian options like king oyster mushrooms, and the ability to add extras like avocado or cheese. The sandwiches are served in freshly baked baguettes, praised for their light, airy texture and crispy crust, a nod to Hanoi’s northern banh mi style.

The dining experience is casual and authentic, with options to sit at sidewalk tables, a small indoor space, or a larger seating area across the street. The open setting, cooled by fans, immerses diners in Hanoi’s vibrant street life, though some note it can feel tourist-heavy. Service is fast and friendly, with staff confirming preferences to accommodate dietary needs, such as excluding cilantro or adding extra chili. Priced at 30,000–65,000 VND, the banh mi are affordable, and the complimentary lotus tea adds a sweet touch to the meal.

Reputation and Appeal

Banh Mi 25’s 4.6-star rating on TripAdvisor, with over 5,800 reviews, reflects its status as one of Hanoi’s top banh mi spots, though some debate its authenticity compared to less touristy stalls. Food bloggers and travelers consistently rank it among Hanoi’s best, praising its fresh ingredients, generous portions, and value. The restaurant’s popularity can lead to queues, but the efficient service ensures quick turnaround. Its Hang Ca Street location, minutes from Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter’s cultural landmarks, makes it a convenient stop for foodies exploring Hanoi.

Hanoi’s Banh Mi Culture: A Culinary Tapestry

Hanoi’s banh mi culture is a testament to the city’s ability to transform a French colonial import into a Vietnamese icon. Originating in the early 20th century, banh mi evolved from simple bread with pate to a complex sandwich with diverse fillings, reflecting Vietnam’s culinary creativity. In Hanoi, banh mi is lighter and less saucy than southern versions, emphasizing savory proteins and fresh herbs, a style perfected by places like Banh Mi 25.

The Old Quarter is dotted with banh mi carts and shops, each offering unique takes on the sandwich. From street vendors serving quick egg banh mi to upscale eateries with gourmet fillings, Hanoi’s banh mi scene caters to all tastes. The dish’s affordability, with prices as low as 20,000 VND (US$0.80), makes it a daily staple for locals and a must-try for tourists. For those looking to dive deeper, Viet Rice Essence Restaurant and its cooking class offer a chance to learn the art of banh mi, connecting diners to Hanoi’s culinary heritage.

Exploring Hanoi’s Banh Mi Scene: Beyond Banh Mi 25

While Banh Mi 25 is a culinary landmark, Hanoi’s banh mi scene is rich with options, each contributing to the city’s gastronomic tapestry. Other notable spots include:

• Banh Mi Mama (34 Lo Su Street, Hoan Kiem District): A family-run eatery known for classic pork pate and vegetarian banh mi, offering a cozy, local vibe.
• Madame Hien Restaurant (Chan Cam Street, Old Quarter): An upscale venue with gourmet banh mi using premium ingredients, blending tradition with elegance.
• Banh Mi Ba Le (Dinh Liet Street, Old Quarter): A local favorite for traditional pork pate banh mi, prepared with market-fresh ingredients.
• The Green Mango (Old Quarter): A cozy eatery offering vegetarian banh mi with grilled mushrooms and vegan pate, popular among plant-based diners.

These spots, alongside Banh Mi 25, showcase Hanoi’s diverse banh mi offerings, from budget-friendly street food to refined restaurant versions. For a deeper culinary experience, Viet Rice Essence Restaurant offers a complementary destination, serving banh mi and other northern specialties in an elegant setting.

Viet Rice Essence Restaurant: Elevate Your Banh Mi Experience

After savoring the flavorful banh mi at Banh Mi 25, take your culinary journey to new heights at Viet Rice Essence Restaurant and Viet Rice Kitchen Cooking Class. Located at 93 Phung Hung Street, Hoan Kiem District, Viet Rice Essence is a culinary haven that celebrates authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a beautifully restored traditional house. With its wooden beams, soft lighting, and Vietnamese artwork, the restaurant offers a warm, inviting ambiance that complements its delicious menu.

A Menu of Northern Delights

Viet Rice Essence’s menu features a Hanoi-style banh mi alongside other northern specialties, all crafted with fresh, local ingredients sourced from markets like Dong Xuan. Highlights include:

• Classic Banh Mi Pate: A crispy baguette filled with pork liver pate, grilled pork, pickled carrots, cucumber, cilantro, and fish sauce, embodying Hanoi’s savory simplicity.
• Vegetarian Banh Mi: Marinated tofu, pickled vegetables, and soy sauce cater to plant-based diets, offering a flavorful alternative.
• Northern Specialties: Dishes like pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), banh cuon (steamed rice rolls), and cha ca (turmeric and dill fish) provide a comprehensive taste of Hanoi’s cuisine.

The restaurant’s set menu, starting at US$14, offers an affordable way to sample banh mi alongside other dishes, making it accessible to all. Each item is prepared with precision, balancing flavors and textures to honor Vietnam’s culinary traditions. Viet Rice Essence’s commitment to authenticity and its elegant setting make it a perfect complement to Banh Mi 25’s street-food charm.

Viet Rice Kitchen Cooking Class: Master Banh Mi

The Viet Rice Kitchen Cooking Class is a must for food lovers, offering a two-hour immersive experience where participants learn to craft Hanoi-style banh mi and other Vietnamese dishes, guided by a 5-star professional chef. Held in the restaurant’s state-of-the-art kitchen, the class is designed for all skill levels and provides a deep dive into Hanoi’s food culture.

The Cooking Class Journey

1. Local Market Tour: The experience begins with a guided visit to a bustling local market near Hoan Kiem District. Accompanied by the chef, participants explore stalls filled with fresh herbs, vegetables, and proteins. The chef shares tips on selecting ingredients for banh mi, such as crisp cucumbers and tangy pickled carrots, offering insights into Hanoi’s culinary traditions. Interacting with vendors adds a cultural layer, making the market tour a highlight.
   
2. Hands-On Cooking Session: Back at the restaurant’s kitchen, participants work alongside the chef to prepare banh mi. The chef demonstrates techniques for marinating pork, pickling vegetables, and assembling the sandwich, sharing expert tips for authentic flavors. Each participant has their own cooking station, ensuring a hands-on experience. Stories about banh mi’s French-Vietnamese origins and Hanoi’s street food culture make the class engaging and educational.
   
3. Communal Dining and Feedback: After cooking, participants gather in the restaurant’s warm dining room to enjoy their banh mi creations. The chef tastes each sandwich and provides personalized feedback, offering insights into refining techniques and balancing flavors. This communal dining experience fosters connection and conversation, creating lasting memories.
   

Why It’s Exceptional

The Viet Rice Kitchen Cooking Class stands out for its professional guidance, cultural immersion, and authentic recipes. The 5-star chef’s expertise ensures participants master both foundational and advanced techniques, while the market tour and storytelling provide a deeper understanding of banh mi’s place in Hanoi’s cuisine. Participants leave with the skills to recreate Hanoi-style banh mi at home, making it an unforgettable addition to any Hanoi visit. The class’s intimate, personalized approach complements the casual, street-food vibe of Banh Mi 25, offering a well-rounded culinary experience.

Why Visit Viet Rice Essence?

Viet Rice Essence Restaurant is the perfect destination to elevate your Hanoi food journey after enjoying Banh Mi 25’s iconic sandwiches. Its authentic banh mi, diverse northern menu, and immersive cooking class provide a deeper connection to Vietnam’s culinary heritage. Highly recommended on platforms like TripAdvisor, Viet Rice Essence is a top choice for those seeking to explore Hanoi’s flavors in an elegant, cultural setting. Whether you’re savoring a vegetarian banh mi or learning to craft pho in the kitchen, Viet Rice Essence delivers an experience that lingers long after your meal.

Hanoi: A Banh Mi Lover’s Paradise

Hanoi’s status as a global foodie destination is rooted in its vibrant street food culture, with banh mi at the forefront. The Old Quarter’s narrow streets are lined with carts and eateries serving this iconic sandwich, from quick bites at Banh Mi 25 to gourmet versions at upscale venues. The dish’s affordability, with prices as low as 20,000 VND (US$0.80), makes it a daily staple for locals and a must-try for tourists seeking authentic Vietnamese street food.

Hanoi’s markets, festivals, and cooking classes enrich the banh mi experience. The Mid-Autumn Festival brings a flurry of culinary activity, while markets like Dong Xuan supply the ingredients that define the sandwich’s freshness. Cooking classes, such as those at Viet Rice Kitchen, allow travelers to take Hanoi’s flavors home, equipping them with skills to recreate authentic dishes. Hanoi’s blend of tradition, affordability, and culinary creativity makes it a paradise for banh mi lovers.

Exploring Hanoi’s Banh Mi Neighborhoods

Hanoi’s best banh mi spots are spread across several vibrant neighborhoods, each offering a unique culinary experience:

• Old Quarter: A hub for Banh Mi 25, Banh Mi Ba Le, and Madame Hien, offering banh mi in bustling, authentic settings.
• Hoan Kiem District: Home to Viet Rice Essence and Banh Mi Mama, blending street food with upscale dining near Hoan Kiem Lake.
• Tay Ho District: Known for lakeside cafes with creative banh mi variations, including vegetarian options.
• Ba Dinh District: Features hidden gems serving classic banh mi near landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
• Hai Ba Trung District: A trendy area with modern cafes offering innovative banh mi for a younger crowd.

Banh Mi 25’s Hang Ca Street location and Viet Rice Essence’s Phung Hung Street address, both in or near Hoan Kiem District, are ideally positioned for combining banh mi tastings with sightseeing near Hanoi’s cultural landmarks like Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter.

Tips for Enjoying Banh Mi in Hanoi

For foodies eager to savor Hanoi’s best banh mi, here are practical tips to ensure a memorable experience:

1. Visit Banh Mi 25: Start your banh mi journey at 25 Hang Ca Street for a diverse, affordable menu in a vibrant Old Quarter setting.
2. Join a Cooking Class: Enroll in Viet Rice Kitchen Cooking Class to learn how to craft Hanoi-style banh mi with a 5-star chef, gaining insights into Vietnamese cuisine.
3. Explore Street Food: Pair restaurant visits with Old Quarter carts for quick, fresh banh mi at budget prices.
4. Ask Locals: Hanoi locals are passionate about banh mi and often share tips on hidden gems.
5. Try Variations: Sample vegetarian or egg banh mi at Banh Mi 25 or Viet Rice Essence to appreciate Hanoi’s diversity.
6. Check Reviews: Platforms like TripAdvisor offer insights into top banh mi spots like Banh Mi 25 and Viet Rice Essence.

Discover More at Viet Rice Essence Restaurant

After indulging in the delicious banh mi at Banh Mi 25, elevate your Hanoi culinary adventure at Viet Rice Essence Restaurant and Viet Rice Kitchen Cooking Class. Located at 93 Phung Hung Street, Hoan Kiem District, Viet Rice Essence offers an authentic taste of Hanoi’s northern cuisine in a beautifully restored traditional house. Savor their Hanoi-style banh mi, featuring fresh ingredients and classic flavors, or explore other dishes like pho, bun cha, banh cuon, and vegetarian specialties, all part of an affordable set menu starting at US$14.

The Viet Rice Kitchen Cooking Class is a must for food enthusiasts, offering a two-hour hands-on experience where you’ll visit a local market, learn to craft banh mi and other Vietnamese dishes, and enjoy your creations with expert feedback from a 5-star chef. This immersive class, held in a state-of-the-art kitchen, connects you to Hanoi’s culinary heritage, making it the perfect complement to Banh Mi 25’s street-food charm. Whether you’re a banh mi lover or a curious traveler, Viet Rice Essence delivers a cultural and culinary experience that’s not to be missed.

Book a table or cooking class today at Viet Rice Essence Restaurant, 93 Phung Hung Street, Hoan Kiem District, or visit vietriceessence.com to plan your culinary journey. Experience the heart of Vietnamese cuisine with Viet Rice Essence—where tradition meets taste.

Book your cooking class today and experience Vietnam’s culinary heritage firsthand!

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