Satisfy Your Cravings with Banh Mi Da Lat

Explore the world of banh mi Dalat, a Vietnamese street food unlike any other. Discover unique fillings, must-try varieties, and the best spots to grab this iconic bite!

Da Lat, Vietnam’s “City of Eternal Spring,” offers a treasure trove of sights and experiences. But amidst the captivating waterfalls and scenic landscapes lies a culinary gem – the banh mi Dalat. This seemingly simple baguette sandwich is an explosion of flavors and textures, captivating both locals and tourists.

However, what makes banh mi Dalat unique?

What Makes Banh Mi Da Lat Unique?

Da Lat’s cool climate and fertile soil go a long way in elevating humble banh mi into a culinary masterpiece. Here is what makes Da Lat special for banh mi:

Fresh, local ingredients: Fresh vegetables abound from the produce of this city, ranging from crispy lettuce to juicy cucumbers and aromatic herbs. These ingredients add a lively crunch and refreshing flavor to every bite.
Unique meats and spreads: Da Lat provides meats and spreads with specific unique local terroirs. From the savory sausage down to the rich pate, these ingredients have local spices and herbs combined in their preparation to provide a distinctive taste.
Soft and fluffy bread: Because of the cooler climate in comparison with other areas, it allows a longer time for bread fermentation, turning out softer and fluffier in texture. The crispy vegetables and all those savory fillings were in contrast and delightful.
Creative combinations: Maybe what really makes the banh mi scene great in Da Lat is the innovative spirit. Along with the usual combinations of ingredients, you can find interesting twists from local specialties ranging from grilled pork to steamed meatballs, to a fried egg.

Popular Types of Banh Mi Da Lat and What to Expect

The beauty of banh mi Dalat lies in its diverse options. Here are some popular varieties you’ll encounter:

Traditional Banh Mi

A traditional Vietnamese-style banh mi consists of a small, crispy-on-the-outside baguette and soft-on-the-inside type of bread with a great amount of savory fillings. According to the tastes of the region or personal preference, the fillings can be everything from meats like cha lua, grilled pork, and fish to pâté, butter, fresh vegetables, chili peppers, pickled vegetables, and even a fried egg. These allow for great variation and combination of banh mi, generally served with sides such as sardines, meatballs, or beef stew. For its affordability and convenience, it has become a favorite and staple street food across Vietnam, generally eaten for breakfast or as a quick, satisfying meal.

Banh Mi Chao (Pan Bread)

Banh mi chao refers to one of the favorite street foods in Hanoi that offers diversity in culinary experience. This dish is prepared like a traditional banh mi sandwich, but instead of putting cold ingredients together, all of them are heated in a small pan right in front of your eyes. To say the truth, this is a far cry from the usual sandwich that is usually prepared and taken away; this is sizzling with aroma.

The common fillings include sausages, Vietnamese ham, pâté, and barbecue pork; all cooked together in a rich, savory sauce. To eat, diners tear off pieces of baguette and dip them in the flavorful sauce, taking satisfying bites. The fun, comforting style of eating has made this one of the favorite dishes for locals and visitors alike, presenting another way to enjoy the versatility of Vietnamese bread. Banh mi chao is considered one of the best banh mi Dalat.

Banh Mi Xiu Mai (Meatball Bread)

Banh mi xiu mai is something a little different from a Vietnamese sandwich. Even though the concept of bread with meatballs in origin is from Chinese cuisine, this Da Lat variation can add a delicious twist. While most of the versions of banh mi xiu mai are not spicy, especially the Saigon one, the Da Lat version is usually highly spicy because that’s how people in this place like their food. The meatballs were actually made with a mixture of ground pork and fat, stewed in some flavorful broth with slices of Vietnamese ham and crispy pork skin. The result is a warm, comforting bowl of goodness, perfect to dip pieces of crusty baguette into. Tender meatballs, savory broth, and crunchy bread come together to form a truly satisfying and memorable eating experience.

Banh Mi Ga (Chicken Bread)

Banh mi ga does take a slightly different route from most traditional Vietnamese sandwiches. Instead of the elongated shape of the regular baguette, banh mi ga is served in a round bun, almost like a hamburger bun. The filling is also rather unlike the meat-based fillings found in most traditional banh mi. The classic banh mi ga is usually filled with shredded chicken, ham, a savory sauce of egg origin, chili sauce, green papaya salad, and sometimes other toppings based on the sellers. The warm, soft bun with the juicy chicken and tangy sauces creates a satisfying, full-of-flavor bite. Because of the crunchiness outside and its tender filling, it remains one of the most attractive foods in Dalat, not only for tourists but also for locals.

Banh Mi Que (Vietnamese Baguette)

Unlike the standard Vietnamese bread, banh mi que is thinner and longer, often described as the size of two fingers. A delicate amount of pate and chili sauce usually coats the inside of the bread, while shredded pork floss fills it. As a whole, this mixture provides an exciting textural and flavor contrast: the crispy outer bread, smooth pate, spicy chili sauce, and savory pork floss. Banh mi que’s secret is special dough, a special baking process that makes it uniquely crispy and airy. The homemade pate with its rich flavors and spicy, is a standout feature of this beloved street food.

Banh Mi Heo Quay (Roasted Pork Bread)

Another favorite option is Banh Mi Heo Quay, or roasted pork baguette. This is a classic Vietnamese sandwich, where a crusty baguette is filled with thinly sliced roast pork, pickled vegetables, and a savory sauce. This simply works in harmony, combining crispy bread with tender pork and tangy vegetables to satisfy any palate.

Where to Find the Best Banh Mi in Da Lat

Finding the best banh mi Da Lat is a delightful adventure. Here are a few highly-rated spots to get you started:

Traditional banh mi eateries in Dalat

Coi Xay Gio Bakery: Located at 11 Nguyen Chi Thanh Street, this popular bakery is open from 6:30 AM to 10:00 PM. With a diverse menu and affordable prices ranging from 20,000 VND to 30,000 VND, it’s no wonder why this bakery is a favorite among tourists and locals alike. Cối Xay Gió offers a wide variety of banh mi fillings, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Banh Mi Da Lat 24H: Found at 78 Phu Dong Thien Vuong Street, this bakery lives up to its name by being open 24 hours a day. Famous for its hearty thập cẩm (mixed fillings) banh mi, it’s a must-try for those seeking a satisfying and flavorful meal. The generous portions and unique blend of flavors make this banh mi a memorable experience. Prices range from 25,000 VND to 35,000 VND.

Banh mi chao eateries in Dalat

Banh Mi Chao 27: Renowned for its beautiful presentation and delicious flavors, this bakery, located at 16B Nguyen Luong Bang Street, offers a delightful banh mi chảo experience. Their signature dish features a sizzling pan filled with beef, meatballs, potatoes, and sausage, served with fresh baguette. Open from 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM, prices range from 25,000 VND to 45,000 VND.
Banh Mi Chao Icolor: Known for its high-quality ingredients and friendly service, Icolor, situated at 19 Dang Thai Than Street, offers a more upscale banh mi chảo experience. Prices start at 40,000 VND and can go up to 80,000 VND, but the generous portions and delicious flavors are worth it.
Banh Mi Chao Tasty: Located at 12 Nguyen Luong Bang Street, Tasty is famous for its unique and flavorful sauce. The bakery sources fresh and high-quality ingredients for its banh mi chảo, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal. Open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, prices range from 25,000 VND to 40,000 VND.

Banh mi xiu mai eateries in Dalat

Banh Mi Xiu Mai Hoang Dieu: Located at 47 Hoang Dieu Street, this bakery is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. Their banh mi xiu mai is known for its tender meatballs and flavorful broth. Open from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM, prices range from 15,000 VND to 30,000 VND.
Banh Mi Xiu Mai Yet Kieu: Situated at 41 Yet Kieu Street, this bakery is famous for its banh mi xiu mai and banh can. The banh mi xiu mai is particularly noteworthy, with its tender meatballs and flavorful broth. Open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM, prices range from 15,000 VND to 30,000 VND.
Banh Mi Xiu Mai Cham 79: Located at 1 Thong Thien Hoc Street, this bakery is known for its unique and flavorful banh mi xiu mai. The combination of tender meatballs, flavorful broth, and crispy baguette creates a truly satisfying experience. Open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, prices range from 20,000 VND to 30,000 VND.
Banh Mi Xiu Mai Co Hong: Located at 72 Yersin Street, this bakery offers a clean and comfortable dining experience. The banh mi xiu mai is made with fresh ingredients and has a delicious and flavorful broth. Open from 6:00 AM to 10:30 AM, prices range from 20,000 VND to 30,000 VND.
Banh Mi Xiu Mai Bui Thi Xuan (BH eatery): Located at 79 Bui Thi Xuan Street, this bakery offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The banh mi xiu mai is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and is sure to satisfy your cravings. Open from 6:30 AM to 11:30 AM, prices range from 20,000 VND to 35,000 VND.

Banh mi ga eateries in Dalat

Banh Mi Ga Nhan Ngai: Located at 215 Bui Thi Xuan Street, this bakery is a popular choice for breakfast. Open from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Nhân Ngãi offers a delicious and satisfying banh mi ga with tender shredded chicken, crispy bread, and a touch of spice. Prices range from 25,000 VND to 45,000 VND.
Banh Mi Ga Nga: This legendary bakery, located at 22 Ba Thang Hai Street opposite Lien Hoa Market, is known for selling out its banh mi within just 3 hours of opening. The bakery offers a simple yet flavorful banh mi ga with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a unique combination of flavors. Prices range from 15,000 VND to 30,000 VND.

Banh mi que eateries in Dalat

Banh Mi Da Lat Nha Chung: Located at 23 Nha Chung Street, this bakery is renowned for its well-filled banh mi que. The bread is perfectly crispy, and the filling, which includes a variety of options like sausage, smoked pork, cheese, pate, and fresh herbs, is generously portioned. The bakery’s signature sauce adds an extra layer of flavor. Open from 7:00 AM to 9:30 AM, prices range from 15,000 VND to 25,000 VND.
Banh Mi Que Phan Dinh Phung: Situated at 429 Phan Dinh Phung Street, this bakery is a popular choice for those seeking a warm and satisfying breakfast. The banh mi que here offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crispy exterior gives way to a soft, flavorful interior. Open from 6:30 AM to 9:00 AM, prices range from 15,000 VND to 30,000 VND.
Banh Mi Da Lat Thong Thien Hoc: Located at 54 Thong Thien Hoc Street, this bakery offers a variety of banh mi options, including delicious banh mi que. The fillings are carefully prepared and seasoned, ensuring a delightful taste. With its affordable prices and quick service, this bakery is a great option for a quick and tasty meal. Open from 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM, prices range from 20,000 VND to 30,000 VND.

Banh mi heo quay eateries in Dalat

Banh Mi Liem Phuong: Located at 28 Trieu Viet Vuong Street, this bakery is a popular choice for those seeking a delicious and satisfying banh mi heo quay. The combination of crispy bread and tender, flavorful roast pork is a winning formula. Open from 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM, prices range from 25,000 VND to 35,000 VND.
Banh Mi Heo Quay A Ngo: Situated at 8 Vo Thi Sau Street, this bakery is renowned for its unique and flavorful sauce that complements the roast pork perfectly. The banh mi is made with fresh ingredients and is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Open from 6:00 AM to 10:30 AM, prices range from 25,000 VND to 30,000 VND.

Banh mi Dalat is just a small part of the vibrant culinary culture of Dalat, you can book a Dalat food tour from Lily’s Travel to enjoy a full street food scene in Dalat. For over 15 years, Lily’s Travel has been curating extraordinary travel experiences in Vietnam. With a strong commitment to sustainable tourism and cultural exchange, we offer a wide range of tours that cater to diverse interests. Our experienced team is passionate about sharing the beauty and richness of Vietnam, from its bustling cities to its serene countryside. Join us on a journey to discover the real Vietnam, where ancient traditions meet modern marvels.

So next time in the fascinating city of Da Lat, you should not miss the opportunity to try a taste of delicious banh mi Da Lat. Be it classic banh mi, sizzling banh mi chao, or tantalizingly different banh mi que; there is something that delights your taste bud. Remember, one of the best ways to experience Da Lat is through its food, and trying best banh mi Dalat is undoubtedly its culinary highlight.