Vietnam Cafe & Sandwich

Outside of the ID, you never quite know what you'll get from a hole-the-wall type of vibe restaurant. But, the convenience of being one block away from work, drew me in. I usually buy lunch here and if I'm buying lunch it means something has gone off the rails in my day, which means I'm annoying shop keepers at 3pm hoping for a quick meal. I'm pleased to say that this place always cooks from scratch. This takes a little longer than a place that just reheats your food in an oiled wok-- but that means the end result is better.I tried the Pho one day (smartly packed in separate containers so as not to ruin the noodles) and a bahn mi another. Both were really flavorful, delicious, and HUGE. Either could probably serve two. Price is a little high. It's always about $25 with meal/drink/tip which is a shot right in the pocket book. That said, this seems like a nice quite place to meet a friend away from the hustle and bustle of downtown ballard. I think I'll keep this one in rotation.

Simple, good, and well priced.The menu comes with numbers and there are a lot of options ranging from beef pho/vegetable broth based pho, rice noodle (wide vermicelli) bowls, Bahn Mi, and beverages. Many options.As everyone said, the main owner cooks and greets you, while also serving your food. He tends to remember regulars and is pretty quick. If you get there right at lunch there may be a small backup as people wander in all at once and to go orders come through. He manages efficiency nonetheless.The bahn mi my friend had (not pictured) was good too. The veggie broth pho was good too and you can still get meat added into the pho. It was still flavorful and the option with added veggies came with plenty.The space can get warm if sitting inside with the sun coming through the window, even in the winter so wear your layers to unload.Overall, came back once and looking forward to returning as winter sets in early this year.

I didn't like the banh mi bread. Like a hot dog bun. Soft and big with no crisp and no flavor.

This was my first trip to Vietnam Cafe & Sandwich and it was good, but not great. My mom and I both got vermicelli bowls, and were both a little underwhelmed.The noodles were the "wet 'n' wide" variety, really slippery and hard to get a hold on. The flavor on mom's pork was a little off. Flavor on my chicken was good but it was on the dry side. The fish sauce wasn't quite on point. There were some good things happening here, but not enough of them.I've heard their banh mi are good - that's probably the smart order here, and I will be back to try one. Will update this review when I do, hopefully to add a star!

Sorry, this was probably one of the least tasty banh mi we ever had. :( Had high hopes for this little hole in the wall but honestly I couldn't even finish my sandwich. Not sure what was going on with the bread but it literally fell apart like it was so old and stale, it literally just broke as soon something saucy touched it. Not a good sign. It was also not flavorful. I usually give all places at least two tries, but I don't think I will be going back.

This Vietnamese restaurant is definitely worth checking out. Despite its modest decor, the food is exceptional. The pho and banh mi sandwiches are particularly noteworthy, and the lemongrass chicken is a standout dish. Fresh spring rolls are also available. Overall, highly recommended for anyone seeking authentic and delicious Vietnamese cuisine.

Was a MEH experience, came in before closing to find us as the only customer. Ordered five sandwiches for our wedding party off to practice. We felt it was very average, not crispy bread, meat was just okay, and the veggies just was missing what the best Bami have some character

Got the chicken vermicelli bowl for to-go!WOW, I really didn't expect that!!! Quick service and amazing food!!I was so surprised by that location because you wouldn't expect the great food. Very fresh and delicious!Now, I just wanna come back here to try more.Casual ambiance with friendly service.

Solid bahn mi. I ordered the pork bahn mi and asked to add the Vietnamese ham which they accommodated. The pork had a nice char while remaining moist and tender. It had a subtle sweetness that paired well with the fresh jalapeño. The vegetables and herbs were fresh and bright. The restaurant interior was nothing special, but that didn't take away from the overall experience. The bubble tea was blended with ice, so it was refreshing on a hot day. It wasn't a stand out bubble tea and there were several full ice cubes that were not blended in, but it got the job done. I would return for the pork and ham bahn mi.

My first bahn mi & it was absolutely delicious!Nice chill vibe & the service is excellent.