Vietnamese Banh Mi Crowned ‘Best Sandwich in the World’

Vietnamese banh mi has claimed the top spot in the 100 Best Sandwiches in the World ranking, according to the renowned culinary website Taste Atlas.

On March 15, Taste Atlas unveiled its Top 100 sandwiches globally, with banh mi receiving the highest rating of 4.6/5 stars.

The website describes banh mi (pronounced “bun mee”) as a culinary fusion of French and Chinese influences. Over time, Vietnamese locals have transformed and reinvented this sandwich, making it a national culinary icon. Recognized for its global appeal, the term “banh mi” was officially added to the Oxford English Dictionary on March 24, 2011, defined as “a Vietnamese-style sandwich”.

What Makes Banh Mi Special?

Taste Atlas highlights the unique texture of Vietnamese banh mi, which resembles a French baguette but differs in several ways. While the French baguette tends to be crusty, dense, and chewy, banh mi features a crispy, thin crust with a soft and airy interior—a recipe adaptation tailored to Vietnamese preferences.

However, the filling is what truly sets banh mi apart. A traditional banh mi includes a combination of meat, pâté, fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and sliced green chilies. Each region in Vietnam has its own variations, showcasing the diverse flavors of this beloved sandwich.

Other Vietnamese Banh Mi Variations Ranked

Two other versions of Vietnamese banh mi also made it onto the Taste Atlas list:

• Banh mi thit (classic Vietnamese meat sandwich) ranked 9th with 4.4/5 stars.
• Banh mi heo quay (roast pork banh mi) ranked 29th with 4.3/5 stars.

Both versions are widely popular, especially among international tourists visiting Vietnam. Taste Atlas recommends trying banh mi thit and banh mi heo quay at street stalls and bakeries across Vietnam, with Ho Chi Minh City being a prime spot for roast pork banh mi. Known for its versatility, banh mi can be enjoyed at any meal of the day.

Global Ranking of Sandwiches

Vietnam’s banh mi secured first place, followed by:

2️⃣ Tombik döner (Gobit Kebab) – A popular Turkish grilled meat sandwich.
3️⃣ Shawarma – A Middle Eastern and Indian favorite.
4️⃣ Tortas – A traditional Mexican sandwich.
5️⃣ Maine Lobster Roll – A specialty from the United States.

A World-Renowned Street Food

This is not the first time banh mi has been recognized by Taste Atlas. In February 2023, it was ranked 6th among the world’s best street foods, further cementing its global reputation.

With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, banh mi remains Vietnam’s most iconic street food—loved worldwide!