Summer Sandwiches: Must-Try Banh Mi in Philly

Rotisseur offers a duck confit banh mi

Story and Photos by Danya Henninger

Philadelphia is city of sandwiches, but during the hazy doldrums of summer, a greasy cheesesteak or meat-crammed Italian hoagie can be too much to handle. Enter the banh mi - a sandwich you can inhale without having it drag you down. Born during the French colonization of Indochina, these spicy, vinegary, crunch-packed sandwiches are the Vietnamese answer for what to do with bread.

Now common throughout Vietnam as street food, these creations eschew cheese and instead get their flavor punch from cilantro, jalapeño, pickled veggies and (usually) a spreadable pâté. In Philly, several Asian shops offer a variety of types, but you can also find renditions at some of Center City’s chef-driven establishments, such as Rotisseur, whose chicken banh mi just scored a Best of Philly nod for best quick lunch. Check out six of our favorite spots to scoop up this perfect summertime meal in the slideshow below.