Ingredient appreciation — what makes Banh Mi special

What sets Banh Mi apart is the handling of fresh mint and coriander. In lesser versions this is treated as a background note. Here it's central and the clean and deeply savoury result shows it. I've started buying it to cook with at home after this experience.

fresh herbs added at the table are a defining characteristic. The a Hanoi pho stall at breakfast atmosphere was right for this kind of food. I had lime soda as recommended and it matched well. If you want to understand what makes this cuisine distinctive, Banh Mi is the place to start.