" As you expect from a place whose full name is Ba Le Sandwiches & Bakery, this Alhambra spot nails the texture of the all-important baguette. The loaves here are long (really long), soft and cottony, with a nice outer crunch. Do we wish Ba Le went a tbit harder on the paté spread, or that the pickled veggies had a little more punch? Yes, but Ba Le also has the misfortune of being just down the street from toppings powerhouse Banh Mi My Tho, which is like being a great singer who lives next door to Adele. The grilled pork and house special cold cuts are standouts, but they also offer fillings like fried fish cake and betel-leaf-wrapped grilled beef. These are great bánh mì with generous heft for the price." - nikko duren, arden shore, sylvio martins, brant cox
