Van Banh Mi & Yogurt

Another bánh mì-focused shop, right downtown near David Lam park. The inside only has a few bar seats facing the window, with most of the space reserved for behind the counter. They offered an assortment of flavours, today I went with #8 - the pork belly option.

The Components

Bread

The bread was warmed up, always nice. It had a flaky exterior shell, and a medium density crumb inside. Nothing remarkable here.

Veg

Full marks on the veg, asides from perhaps too little cilantro. All of the hits were included - pickled daikon and carrot, cucumber, cilantro. They even offered me a choice of jalapeno or no jalapeno, which is a nice gesture.

Spread

I’m happy to report that pate is indeed available, and of sufficient quantity. I didn’t notice the mayo, but it did seem to be present. I would have preferred it a little saucier.

Meat

This sandwich had pork floss and tender strips of gently cooked pork belly, lightly marinaded for flavor. Not too much, not too little.

Overall Impression

While not Van Banh Mi & Yogurt isn’t earning any awards from me, they certainly offer a solid bánh mì and I can’t fault them for that. Personally, I think a little more sauce and a little more meat could tip them over the edge into “good” territory.

Recommendation

This is a fine bánh mì if you’re craving one and you’re in the area.