Unveiling the Iconic Banh Mi Chao: Exploring Vietnam's Pan-Style Sandwich Evolution

The first bread ovens made their debut in Vietnam during the 19th century. As time progressed, bread swiftly integrated itself into the diets of Vietnamese individuals across the nation, eventually becoming a staple in the everyday lives of locals.

With the widespread adoption of bread in Vietnam, the accompaniments diversified significantly. This wasn't limited to traditional cold cuts; instead, there was a continual evolution and enhancement of these additions to offer a wider range, aiming to entice diners. This evolution marked the birth of the dish known as Pan-Style sandwich (banh mi chao).

A typical serving of Pan-Style sandwich often comprises sausage, sliced beef, lettuce, and more. At the heart of the pan lies a perfectly cooked sunny-side-up egg, alongside a square of smooth, creamy cheese. In contrast to the standard sandwich, where similar ingredients are used, all these components are placed on a heated pan.

Since its inception, Pan-Style sandwich has become an emblematic and familiar dish within Vietnamese street food culture, spanning from the northern to the southern regions, notably thriving in the major cities of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) and Hanoi.

At Mom's Dishes, our aim is to provide diners not only with a novel and distinct culinary experience but also to offer a glimpse into the cultural tapestry of Vietnam through our food.