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The Search is on for the Best Banh Mi in Vancouver

I've been here for just over a month now and as of today at noon I've tried four different places for a Vietnamese sandwich. There are so many more to try out, but alas, I will say up front that none matches the beloved Van Loc.

First go was at Ba Le Sandwich Shop in Chinatown. Recommended to me by friends of my mother, I picked up their assorted deli meats sandwich, which came in a short torpedo bun for $3.50. My standards for this type of sandwich are ridiculously high, and while a nice snack, the short bun and distinction-less pate did not do it for me. I am open to trying them again, as I did take the sandwich to go, and did not get to it for at least an hour, but I will make the rounds first.

Next up I found myself turning a corner onto Main and seeing Golden Garden's awning offering Vietnamese subs. I went into the dark foyer and ordered the cold cut option, at $4.00 for take-out, I expected a little bit more than what was received.

I keep walking past Riz Sushi Bar on West Pender that I know in my heart of hearts I should avoid for its location, but their promise of a long, crusty cold cut sandwich was too tempting for me one hurtin' morning. Once inside the place that is only open during office hours (such a warning!), I was swayed by the sounds of a shrimp tempura in wasabi mayo sub sandwich. I know, not Vietnamese at all, but had all the same fixings of the pork pate and pickled carrots and turnips and cilantro, though it was pretty easy on the cilantro and the pickling was weak. At over $5 it was by far the worst of the lot, but at least now I know, right?


The only place so far that has been all right is Truong Giang, located just off Gore Avenue on East Hastings. I had caught sight of their sign as I took the bus East one night. I immediately liked the look of the shop and the table service came with tea, and for $3.50, this sandwich was so far the best tasting and best looking of the bunch. The deli cuts were a bit thick for my liking, but it was a mighty little meal and I'll be sure to return.

I've been told Au Petit Cafe further down Main is good, and I obviously need to go explore Kingsway more, but there are so many little shops that offer the "Vietnamese sub" that this research could easily get serious. More reports to follow.
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