Olivia TaylorIs there anything more comforting than that first bite of a perfectly made banh mi? Yeah, I know what you’re thinking—we’re just as in love with this Vietnamese staple as you are!
That’s why we made a list of the best spots to get banh mi in Ottawa. These gems range from the purists honouring the classic banh mi to the innovators adding their unique twist, so keep on reading!
Co Cham
– Media credit: brianengdoinghistheng
Website: N/A
Address: 780 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON K1R 6R1, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-567-6050
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 11 AM to 8 PM
Cost: $-$$
Nestled in the bustling heart of the city, Co Cham is the kind of place you stumble upon and can’t stop bragging about afterwards. Though small and cosy, it packs a punch with its authentic banh mi that’s crispy, chewy, and full of meat.
What’s more, they also serve up a variety of Vietnamese classics, like their mouth-watering pho and spring rolls—the complete package!
| Pro tip: The lunchtime rush gets busy, so aim for an early or late lunch. Also, don’t forget to try their strong yet sweet iced coffee, which is perfect to pair with your banh mi. |
Banh Mi Bros
Website: https://www.instagram.com/banhmi_bros/
Address: 311 Dalhousie St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5T4, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-422-8099
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday to Sunday – 11 AM to 11 PM
- Tuesday – 9 AM to 11 PM
Cost: $-$$
The Banh Mi Bros has this modern, vibrant, twist that keeps you coming back. They’re all about fusion here, mixing in flavours that might surprise you (in a good way), like their Korean BBQ banh mi.
Aside from banh mi, they offer a range of sides that complement the meal perfectly—think sweet potato fries with an addictive aioli dip.
| Pro tip: Their combo deals are both delicious and economical, and they’re perfect for a filling lunch. Also, don’t forget to try their homemade iced tea; it’s the cherry on top of a fabulous meal. |
Westboro Subs Bánh Mì
Website: http://westborosubs.ca/
Address: 1262 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3A5, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-366-3012
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 11 AM to 3 PM
Cost: $-$$
Tucked away in a quieter part of the city, Westboro Subs Bánh Mì offers a retreat where you can enjoy your sandwich. Their banh mi is big enough to make you full since they’re generous with their fillings here.
But beyond that, they have an array of sides like vegetarian tofu rolls and shrimp tempura. For drinks, you can try their Vietnamese coffee, taro smoothie, or sugar cane on ice, which, I can say, is refreshing after all that sandwich.
| Pro tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, ask for their “off-menu” specials, which are often experimental flavours. And always leave room for their homemade desserts, particularly the Vietnamese coffee-flavoured flan. |
BanhMiYes
Website: http://www.banhmiyes.com/
Address: 1380 Clyde Ave., Ottawa, ON K2G 3H8, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-695-2288
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Wednesday – 4 PM to 9 PM
Cost: $-$$
Located a little off the beaten path, BanhMiYes is your go-to for an authentic, no-frills experience. The ambience is simple because the food does all the talking here.
Their banh mi lineup includes all the classics, plus a few inventive options like banh mi nem (pork meatball), banh mi xiu mai and banh mi fishcake. Also, don’t overlook their other offerings, especially their rice bowls and homemade carrot pickles.
| Pro tip: Remember to check their social media for surprise pop-up events and specials since they occasionally have “buy one, get one” deals. Also, if you’re in a rush, calling ahead for pickup is super convenient. |
Mama Mai Banh Mi
Website: https://www.instagram.com/mamamaibanhmi/
Address: Door 8 (in front of Sport Chek, 100 Bayshore Dr 2nd floor, Ottawa, ON K2B 8C1, Canada
Contact details: N/A
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Cost: $-$$
Mama Mai’s have nailed the classic banh mi, but don’t be afraid to try their experimental options like their banh mi beef meatballs in tomato sauce, banh mi chicken and Korean BBQ-flavoured banh mi.
Aside from their incredible sandwiches, they also serve up a variety of traditional Vietnamese coffees and teas. What’s more, their vegetarian option—vegetarian “pulled pork” with Korean BBQ Jackfruit, vegetarian pâté, and mayo—is worth trying.
| Pro tip: They’re known for running out of their most popular items by evening, so going for lunch is your best bet. Also, don’t skip on their homemade lemonade; it’s the ideal companion to your banh mi adventure. |
Crazy Pho You
Website: http://phoyou.ca/
Address: 696 Bronson Ave, Ottawa, ON K1S 4G2, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-695-0865
Operating hours:
- Monday – 2:30 PM to 10:30 PM
- Tuesday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM
Cost: $-$$
Crazy Pho You might sound like it’s all about pho (and don’t get me wrong, their pho is out of this world), but let’s not overlook their banh mi game. This place has a cool vibe written all over it, from the funky decor to the bustling atmosphere.
Their banh mi is a thing of beauty—just think fresh, fluffy bread with perfectly seasoned meats, tangy pickles, and that little kick of chilli. And hey, if you’ve got room, their grilled oyster-marinated beef is not to be missed.
| Pro tip: Try to visit during off-peak hours if you can, as this place gets packed, especially on weekends. And keep an eye out for their lunch specials; you can snag some serious deals. |
Parle by Viet Fresh
Website: https://www.facebook.com/VietFreshCanada/
Address: 313 Dalhousie St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5T4, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-422-8099
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 4 PM to 10:30 PM
- Thursday to Sunday – 12 PM to 11:30 PM
Cost: $-$$
Parle by Viet Fresh is a bit of a chameleon, blending the best of Vietnamese cuisine with a touch of modern flair, all while maintaining a super chill vibe. Beyond that, their menu is a treasure trove of Vietnamese favourites.
We’re talking about veggie or pork spring rolls, vermicelli bowls, mixed seafood pho, and beef satay noodle soup. They also have rice wraps that are perfect for sharing (so call on your friends!) with a special shout-out to the grilled beef and tofu rice wraps.
| Pro tip: They have killer iced coffee, perfect for those sweltering Ottawa summer days. Also, parking can be a bit of a hunt, so give yourself a few extra minutes to find a spot. |
Banh Mi Girl
– Media credit: biters_sandwich
Website: http://www.chichasanchen.ca/
Address: 782 Eagleson Rd, Kanata, ON K2M 1H8, Canada
Contact details: N/A
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12 PM to 9 PM
Cost: $
If you find yourself in Kanata and craving some banh mi, Banh Mi Girl is your go-to. It’s located inside the Chi Cha San Chen milk tea house, and I can say their bubble teas perfectly complement the sandwich!
They’re not afraid to mix things up, either, with their variety of banh mi fillings that go beyond the traditional. You can choose between grilled pork, grilled chicken, or even patties.
| Pro tip: If you’re going during lunchtime, beat the rush by calling in your order ahead. |
Kanata Noodle House
Website: http://kanatanoodlehouse.com/
Address: 500 Hazeldean Rd, Kanata, ON K2L 2B5, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-831-1121
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 9 PM
Cost: $-$$
The name might not scream “Vietnamese restaurant,” but Kanata Noodle House knows its way around a banh mi. Their banh mi is great—you know, like the bread is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the fillings are generous.
And if you’re in the mood for more, their noodle dishes are comforting and flavorful. You can also have your banh mi as a soup, with the bun as your side and the fillings all brought together in a bowl with their special broth.
| Pro tip: If you’re planning a visit on the weekend, make a reservation. Also, their combo deals offer great value. |
Di Noodle
Website: https://dinoodle.com/
Address: 2430 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1V 0T7, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-249-9963
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Cost: $-$$
Di Noodle is sleek and stylish, and it serves up some of the best Vietnamese cuisine in town. This spot brings both classic and innovative fillings to the table like chicken breast, pork, beef or their new BBQ pork char siu.
Along with the banh mi, their menu offers an array of dishes that complement the sandwich, like their noodle bowls and rice dishes.
| Pro tip: Don’t skip their innovative dessert, the deep-fried banana served with coconut milk and vanilla ice cream covered with strawberry syrup, which is kind of refreshing and sweet to taste, perfect after all that sandwich. |
YUMMY Banh Mi Subs & Grill
Website: https://www.facebook.com/p/YUMMY-Banh-Mi-Subs
Address: 7967 Fernbank Rd, Ashton, ON K0A 1B0, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-257-0010
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 8 AM to 8 PM
Cost: $-$$
YUMMY Banh Mi Subs & Grill doesn’t mess around when it comes to delivering mouth-watering banh mi creations.
Whether it’s the marinated pork, the crunchy vegetables, or the secret sauce that they definitely won’t tell you about (believe me, I’ve tried), eating here is a voyage of flavour. Their grilled dishes are also a must-try, adding another layer of yum to their great lineup.
| Pro tip: If you’re planning a visit, timing is key, and aim for off-peak hours to dodge the crowd. Also, they have a loyalty program, so if you’re like me and a sucker for a good Banh Mi, signing up is a no-brainer. |
Saigon Bistro
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Website: http://www.saigonbistro613.com/
Address: 2136 St Joseph Blvd, Orléans, ON K1C 1E6, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-866-4746
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 3 PM to 9 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 12 PM to 9 PM
Cost: $-$$
Saigon Bistro is just a 30-minute drive from Ottawa, and there are no pretensions here—just friendly folks who serve up heartwarming food. Their bahn mi are the real deal, with melt-in-your-mouth meat.
And the true stars here are the light, fluffy, yet crusty baguette, along with the jalapenos for a little bit of heat. The bistro also dishes out an array of other Vietnamese favourites like pho and crispy spring rolls, to name a few.
| Pro tip: For the early birds, Saigon Bistro has a breakfast menu that will kick-start your day on an exotic note. As for the best combo, pairing their grilled pork banh mi with a cold, blended bubble tea is a win-win situation—you can thank me later! |
