Banh Appetit

Best Banh Mi anywhere. Always a line call ahead. Excellent Vietnamese coffee. Recommend the Vietnamese Cold Cut Bahn mi and the Surf and Turf Bahn mi. Consistent and delicious! 😋

I was against banh mi since I tried a few different places in NY and Orlando. The problem with those are that the veg to meat ratio is much too high. I gave this place a try because of the stellar reviews, and it has changed my perspective. Great ratio of ingredients and very delicious.

Wow! This is the best banh mi sandwich I’ve ever had. I randomly stopped in and got the tofu one. It has several well-balanced sauces and the tofu was prepared wonderfully. The vegetables were super fresh too. This may be one of the best sandwiches I’ve ever had!

Random lunch stop today. We ordered the beef lemongrass bahn mi and the Vietnamese sausage bahn mi. Crunchy fresh veggies. Wonderful flavors melting together. We sat outside with a gorgeous late summer breeze.

Fantastic sandwiches. Crisp bread, fresh veggies, nice spice, and good sauces. I tried both the Lemongrass beef and shrimp banh mi. Would highly recommend. Have to come back for the vermicelli noodles. Be aware, there is no dine in option, and no public restrooms.

Like Tony the Tiger, this bahn mi is GRrrreat! I'm half way through my sandwich [nem nuomg(sausage)] and had to write this review. If you're hungry, go to Banh Appetit now! PS- it goes good with some Root Wild just up the road

We were visiting Portland, Maine, and stumbled upon Banh Appetit (love the clever name!). After seeing some great reviews, we decided to give it a try and ordered two banh mi subs—lemongrass beef and cold cuts. Honestly, these were some of the best banh mi sandwiches we've ever had. The flavors were spot-on, the vegetables were fresh, and everything just worked together perfectly. While the place seemed more suited for takeout (not too much seating), it worked out great for us since we were planning to grab our food and go. The subs were super filling and delicious, and despite the total being around $33 CAD for the two, it was definitely worth it. The lady at the till was also really nice, attentive to our orders, and made sure we had everything we needed. Overall, a fantastic spot for a quick, satisfying meal in Portland!

A real gem! I love these sandwiches so much. They are thoughtful about dietary restrictions and the prices are totally fair for the quality of the food. The family that run this neighborhood spot are really friendly and the service is efficient. Great spot to pre-order for a crowd, too!

Banh Appetit routinely provides one of the best and most consistent lunch options in Portland. The staff works tirelessly to provide something that feels, smells and tastes authentic! It's an office staple to go, in search of Banh Mi Sandwiches, on Fridays and honestly from the moment you walk in to the moment you wrap up your final bite -- the experience is second to NONE!

Love this sandwich. Bread is very fresh and flavors are outstanding. Highly recommend. Sandwich is $11 and very worth it. Staff is great and kind. No seating inside.

A coworker convinced me to try takeout from here recently. I had the Lemongrass Chicken Banh Mi and it was an experience! Delicious food, not sure why I hadn't tried this place sooner but will certainly order from here again!

I'll be dreaming about that beef banh mi for years to come!! Cooked perfectly and flavor is out of this world. Friendly quick service and prices are very reasonable

OMG this is the best banh mi I've ever had, but to be fair I'm not a connoisseur. However I know great flavor profiles and this sandwich really nails it! I tried the regular classic banh mi and it had the right balance of ingredients. I'll be back to try other banh mi, or the pho, or anything really!

Solid Take out only Bahn Mi spot. Friendly and fast service. Tasted fresh- bread was crunchy, there was a good umami flavor of creamy sauce, and crunchiness of vegetables. Fair amount of meat. Inside is clean and has a few seats to wait for your food. No indoor seating to eat your order and there is only street parking.

Low-key, family-owned, take-out only spot with fabulous food that is the BEST Vietnamese food in the state. The primary chefs are from Vietnam and are NOT messing around when it comes to flavor and portion size. I recommend the banh mi to-go or the home-made pho on a cold day. Their Vietnamese coffee is also a must-try for an afternoon pick-me-up. Friendly and explained everything to me. Decor is nothing fancy but that's not what you want in a take-out place anyways. I will be back here often...maybe even weekly...or more...

Such a quick spot for a Banh mi for lunch, I've had seen my friends eat here and wanted to give it a shot. I got the cold cut Banh mi and it was delicious.

Ordered a banh mi with cha lua only. Really enjoyed it! There were plenty of veggies included. We also shared a green Thai iced tea, which was very refreshing. It had more of a vanilla taste than the usual orange Thai iced tea. There's not a lot of seating (just a few outdoor seats) so it's probably better as a takeout place.

Food: Lemongrass chicken banh mi, BBQ pork banh mi and shrimp summer rolls. We had wanted the lemon grass beef banh mi but, unfortunately, the person in front of us got the last one. The lemongrass chicken turned out to be juicy and flavorful. The bread had a perfect bahn mi texture and the jalapenos, pickled diakon and carrots and mayo were well balanced to get a sweet, savory and spicy mix. Great portions for the price. We did take out but service was prompt and friendly.

Excellent vegan bahn mi at this hole in the wall shop. One woman was working and she was busting her but because it was busy! Vegan bahn mi was delicious with fried tofu with a glaze, vegan mayo, jalapenos, pickled daikon and carrots. Their vegan Thai ice tea was awesome, too

Update to my July 2022 review, from when I first discovered Banh Appetit! It's become one of my favorite locals, and I want to be sure that everyone also knows about their wonderful, wonderful pho. Now that fall has set in here in Maine, don't you want some delicious soup to warm up? Yes, you do--and if you're a fan of pho, you want to order some here. Today I had the brisket, which I think is my favorite so far (I've also had the steak and the chicken, both also terrific, and they usually have shrimp and meatballs too; you can also mix proteins if you like). Pho connoisseurs know that it's alllllll about the broth, and I can attest to the savory, delicate flavors you'll find here. This is the real deal. This is seasonal, and it isn't showing on the menu if you pull it up online--so just pop on by and see what they have that day. And one order is easily two portions, so great value on top of great flavor!

We've been here quite a few times since covid hit and it's never disappointed! It's always quick, affordable, and so unbelievably good. It's a grab and go but there are some benches inside and the women who work there are always super nice. The sandwich is on the perfect bread that's hard without cutting your mouth, the meat is perfectly cooked and it's always just juicy. Love love this place - def try it if you are anywhere close!

Much better Banh mi at this visit than last. I prefer if the baguette fresher but nevertheless the Banh mi is full of flavor. A pretty good sandwich all around. This cafe now is cash only.

Small spot with really really amazing Bahn Mi. The sandwhiches were flavorful and moist with fresh bread. Absolute 10/10

The lemongrass chicken banh mi is sooooooo good!! Even with no jalapeño extra mayo and sauce is even better! But the should close more late because it used to be open till like 8:00

Such delicious food!! Staff was so friendly and even gave me a bun just because it was my birthday. Awesome people. Awesome food.

There's no seating indoors but there's a few tables outside. I ordered a lemongrass chicken bahn mi for $10. They originally said it'd be 15 minutes for my order to be ready, but it ended up coming out fairly quickly. The flavors were phenomenal and the baguette was very soft. It was a delicious bahn mi and the value is fantastic. I would 10/10 recommend Bahn Appetit if you're looking for a cheap and quick meal in Portland.

I want to give this a perfect five because this is certainly the best bahn mi I've had since moving to Maine (so far). It's not the *best* I've had in the country, but it ranks up there. The bread is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. The BBQ meat was on the slightly sweet side for my taste, but still very good flavor. I wish there was a bit more cilantro. The shop is small and though there appear to be some single barstool seats near the window, they also post a sign that discourages dining in. There were some seats/tables outdoors as well so maybe they are changing their tune as covid "goes away" (haha). It also serves as almost a convenience store, with certain essentials like some instant noodles, hoisin sauce, Sriracha, etc. 15 minute street parking. It seemed plentiful, but could be luck of the draw. I suggest calling in ahead of time. I did so, but still waited another three minutes... they make it fresh, that's why!! The staff was very friendly. Undoubtedly I will come back for another sandwich when the craving creeps up on me.

One of my favorite spots in town. The staff is friendly, the sandwiches are awesome, and I've never had to wait longer than they advise when taking your order. Despite a few tables and chairs near the door, it's very clearly a pick-up only experience here, but they communicate that in abundance with various signage around the storefront. The rangoons (unapologetically NOT crab) are delicious, as are the dumplings. But the main feature is in the name, and the bahn mis do not disappoint. The bread is fresh and fantastic, being equal parts crusty, crunchy, and chewy. The meats are obviously crafted with love, and have a lot of delicious flavors going on alongside tender textures. The fresh carrots, daikon, cilantro, and jalapenos are heaped up on top, and it's no doubt some of them will end up on the wrapping paper, a gentle reminder of the sandwich murder which you have just committed. The BBQ pork (xa xui) and tofu (dau hu) are my two favorites, although I've also enjoyed the beef and chicken as well. I do wish they listed the prices on their website, as I'm always anxious that this place will be "found out" and double their prices for the tourists (the irony of me saying this on a 5* review is not lost on me). That being said, for what you get at Bahn Appetit, I've always found the cost to be very reasonable. This is wonderful food, prepared quickly, that that won't break the bank. I'll continue to come here as often as possible.

Go here. Now. Bread may be too bready, but still the best banh mi i've ever had (I live in Washington DC). Ask for extra sauce so the bread soaks in it.

First time trying this shop. Came for the March 2022 Portland Food Fights Sandwich challenge. They had a steak Bahn MI sandwich for us to try. I knew it was going to be good. You could smell amazing smells outside from across the street. The sandwich was awesome and filling...it is Legit! Lots of great flavor combos pickled daikon (radish) thinly sliced like an onion, carrots, jalapeño, cilantro (and not too much) and then the steak!!! Leftovers held well for dinner. I heated meat separately and it was good still. Sandwiches take 15 min - 20 min until ready so call or order ahead if in a hurry. Plenty of street parking out front during lunch time on Thursday. They also have a mini Vietnamese grocery and also have Vietnamese noodle dishes, Thai teas and lots of yummy appetizers. Closed Sundays. Check Insta or their website for any updates. I

The food is amazing. We have tried pretty much everything on the menu at least once and haven't been disappointed.

We had the tofu banh mi with vegan mayo and it rocked! Generous portion of tofu, nicely pickled onion and carrots. They put sweet chili sauce on it which was a surprisingly delicious combo. Also tried the vegan Thai tea. What a treat.

The Lemongrass beef is truly to die for! Ever since I tried this sandwich a month or so ago, I've been dreaming of coming back for another. Well, here I am. Once again beyond satisfied with this delicious sandwich, with fresh veggies and tasty beef! 10/10

This is my favorite banh mi place. Ever. They stuff the sandwiches with meat! I love the surf and turf!!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND.

Sooo... I was on my way to get Duck Fat fries and this place caught my attention. Being a hole in the wall type of Asian place, I figured this would be some hyped up place. The staff were extremely nice, but the sandwich was very meh. I love Vietnamese food but the bread / chicken was very meh and I don't think I'd come back bc I've had better. It was also a bit of a wait, but there were lots of young ppl waiting for their food outside so it was nice chatting to them while waiting.

Top 3 restaurants in Portland and #1 for cost value !!! Delicious - have tried every banh mi and each one is great

I was really blown away by my sandwich here, and I say this as someone who normally gets banh mi every day at work in Boston Chinatown. Everything about my BBQ pork banh mi was just perfect. The bread (the most important part of a banh mi) was crisp and chewy without destroying the roof of my mouth. The meat was char siu, which was a pleasant surprise, and it was so tender and tasty. They also went super generous with the roast pork, whereas I'm so used to getting such a skimpy amount of meat in my banh mi. The cucumber and pickled daikon and carrots were flavorful and refreshing. They also put mayo and sweet chili sauce on my sandwich, which I loved, and which tied everything together nicely. My sandwich came warm and toasty, and it was a good portion too. All of this for $6.50, which is just an incredible value for how good this sandwich is. They were also doing a great job with COVID-19 precautions. Everything is takeout-only, and they deliver your order to a table out front for easy curbside pickup. The lady who brought my order out was wearing a mask and was super nice. I can't believe it took me so long to try this place out. I will be back every time I come to Portland! UPDATE: I've since tried the lemongrass beef banh mi, and it's even better than the BBQ pork! Definitely recommend.

Tastiest banh mi sandwiches in Portland . All 3 choices are delightfully filling and very tasty. Lemongrass chicken, beef, or cold cut. Large sandwich with the best flaky bun . Eat here every couple weeks.

WOW! The best banh mi my partner and I have ever had! Amazing value, high quality ingredients, extremely tasty. Fast service. Small spot, nice employees (I think the place is family owned?). We dream about this spot. Can't recommend this enough. Tip: get the lemongrass beef!

While you can't go wrong with anything here, the banh mi is their specialty and within that, the lemongrass beef will blow you away. I've had banh mi many times in many places and this is some of the most delicious juicy fresh banh mi you'll find. The bread is perfect and slightly chewy and everything about this is perfect. The service is quick and kind and it's the perfect lunch vibe, check it out!

A Bahn Mi restaurant in the East Bayside has become our new go-to spot for a quick and delicious lunch. Essentially take-out only, we did enjoy our meals on their sparse patio whilst people watching on Cumberland Avenue on a Saturday afternoon. We started with dumplings of chicken, onions, and cabbage that told us we were definitely in the right place. Subsequently, the pork sandwich was full of texture and flavor ( and a hint of heat!) and the Bun Cha Goi was a generous helping of pork eggrolls, in a vermicelli salad bowl. We were full and even took some home for a leftover quick tasty meal later. The icy lemonade was also tart and delicious. A cash or Debit only facility, with a kind, generous, and overworked staff, Bahn Appetit is a local treasure and just a short walk from almost anywhere on the peninsula. There is also 15 minute parking in front, so "grab and go" is a comfortable reality. Oh, one more thing- Bahn Appetit is very reasonably priced and as mentioned, the portions are generous.

Classic been many times , always fast , friendly and tasty Want to try something bit different go here Keep a place like this alive

We wanted to grab something quick to eat in Portland on our way to Acadia and saw they had good reviews. The place is small, but They have the best bbq pork banh mi sandwich I've ever had! This is a must stop! You could taste every ingredient. Perfect amount of crunch, spice, so freakin bomb!

The food is outstanding. I love the lemon grass beef sandwich. The crab Rangoon are a nice starter. Definitely one I hit once a week while working!!!

I only get o e thing, the cold cut banh mi and it's always great. Tastes exactly like the banh mini got growing up and we'd buy in Boston. Full of flavor, crispy bread, great pate and Mayo and fresh veggies. Due to covid they only do call in orders, which can be a pain, additionally you have to call when you arrive to get your order. It's clunky, besides that I'm a super fan.

Omg it is delicious cold cut banh mi! Love the fresh veggies, light crusty bread and tasty cold cold meat. Such a good deal for $8 Instead of Siracha sauce, expect thick seeded green jalapeño for spicy kick. Sweet family owned take out service can't wait to try their pho next time !!!

A nice, family run small business featuring authentic Vietnamese food. Don't let the lack of parking deter you! Service is fast so you only need a 15min parking spot.

Great food. Love their banh mi sandwich. Lousy attitude from the lady that works there.

If you're looking for authentic Vietnamese coffee and banh mi, this place is it! They are priced really well for the portions you get, only gripes I have are: - they are very strict about dine-in. We arrived on a suppppper rainy and stormy day, and took the 15 min walk anyway straight out of the train station and hotel check-in because they had such great reviews. They had a sign that said "2 dine in" and then others that said "no dine-in" so I asked and they said not at all. Given that there's no shelter anywhere and the banh mi will definitely get soggy from the rain, we left empty-handed. I get state restrictions and all (as per staff because of a lack of bathrooms, but then why is there tables and chairs then...?) but also have to say that that wasn't a good experience. - we returned on a better day and the person there seems miserable. Now, I'm from Asia and I get the no-nonsense vibe many Asian restaurants/food place have, but she took it up a notch. No eye contact, monotone, and just overall cold. Maybe it's because they are short of manpower which I empathise. That said, we shouldn't bear the brunt of the struggles she's feeling from the business. These things accumulated is the reason why I knock a star off. They are not necessarily to blame for many of the above, but it has definitely affected our experience. We hope to have a better time should we visit the next time.

Pretty good lemongrass chicken banh mi sandwiches. The size was pretty large and filling. Due to covid they do not take in person orders so you have to call ahead. They also take payment over the phone. Once the food is ready they call your name and put the food on the table. I waited about 30-40 minutes for 4 banh mi sandwiches. Tip: call ahead.

Sort of hole in wall in behind the bustling Portland area. Friend insisted I try since it was the best thing she's had in Portland. The call to order system was sort of a bummer since they were taking extra precautions due to COVID but I was glad they were still survived. Got the sandwich 10 min later and it was to my surprise, piping hot! There was no outside dining area so we ate it on the street. The bread was one of the softest baguettes I've had with a slight crunch on the outside. Lemongrass beef was cooked to perfection with a juicy marinated sauce and not too salty. I would add just a tad bit more veggies to it but other than that, a pleasant surprise in Portland!

The bread is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, and when you get the veggies and tofu (I got the tofu) in one bite, its very delicious! The only knock on this place is the wait-time. Be prepared to wait longer than expected but worth it if you have the time.

I've been a regular at Banh Appetit since the first day they opened last year and I can confidently say they make the best Banh mi sandwiches I've ever had. An absolute staple to the East End and Portland as a whole, their spectacular food has never disappointed. Whether it's the Banh mi sandwiches, the pho, the curry rice plates, or many more on their ever-changing menu I can promise that you'll always have a fantastic meal that's a steal at the price. Additionally, the staff is always friendly and eager to answer any of your questions. If you haven't stopped by for a bite to eat then you're missing out! I cannot praise Banh Appetit enough and I hope they're here for many years to come!

Great food, the bahn mi bread is the best! It's takeout only, but 100% worth it and the prices are good for Portland

Great takeout spot with delicious Vietnamese food and decent pricing. We tried the Banh mi sandwich with pork, a rice dish, and a noodle dish. The pork is fantastic, and the Banh mi sandwich was easily my favorite. Great spot!

Best sandwich in maine, no questions asked. Bahn Appetit always delivers. Friendly service and they are always busy.

Love Banh Appetit! I love that it is a local family business That they are making some of the most delicious and well constructed Banh Mi in town, Heartily recommend, the BBQ pork and lemongrass chicken! Their fresh shrimp spring rolls are FANTASTIC They have specials every day, including sometimes soups They have a wall of Vietnamese groceries for sale as well Their price point is reasonable for the amount of excellent food you get back in return! Love Banh Appetit!