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Banh Mi Ba Le in Oakland

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photo: Christina Mitchell

photo: Christina Mitchell

Brenda of Bites & Bourbon is my Vietnamese food advisor.  She grew up eating it so I listen whenever she has a recommendation. When I asked about her favorite Banh Mi, she said Banh Mi Ba Le without hesitation.  I did a quick search online and noticed that there are several shops around the country with the same name, so I asked her about the significance:  “Banh Mi = Vietnamese bread; Ba = Father or Papa; Le = It could be the owner’s last name. Le is a common last name.”

There are a couple sandwiches she regularly orders, but I started with the Meatball & Egg ($3).  I noticed that most people were taking their sandwiches to go, but there were a few tables inside and I couldn’t wait so I sat down to eat.

photo: Christina Mitchell

photo: Christina Mitchell

There was just enough time to take a quick picture before I inhaled the sandwich, which was a perfect combination of textures and flavors.  The bread was crusty on outside and soft inside, while the meat was tender and crumbly.  There was a little sweetness that I think came from the thick, creamy mayo and the pickled veggies provided a glorious crunch.   My egg was cooked all the way through, but I’ve seen a picture of one of Brenda’s sandwiches with a runny egg, so I will ask for one next time.  It seems like that would bring everything together and take the sandwich to the next level.  I haven’t done the leg work that Brenda has, but the Meatball & Egg Banh Mi at Oakland’s Banh Mi Ba Le is definitely one of the best in the East Bay.  And at only $3, it’s a bargain.

1909 International Ave, Oakland

510-261-9800

Christina Mitchell

Christina Mitchell

Christina is the founder of East Bay Dish. Her writing has also been featured in East Bay Express, Berkeleyside, Oakland Magazine and Edible East Bay.
Christina Mitchell

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2 Comments

on “Banh Mi Ba Le in Oakland”
2 Comments on “Banh Mi Ba Le in Oakland”

  1. My goodness that looks so bomb and the pickles are making my mouth water! I was just craving for a banh mi and was surprised to see this post. Thanks for the love :). So glad you enjoyed it – but darn, you got a fully cooked egg instead of a runny one. There’s always next time AND you absolutely must get a fresh sugar cane juice to quench your thirst. There are times I even skip the sandwich and go straight for the juice when I need something refreshing. There are also bottles of soy milk in the front that are made fresh daily and not watered down – amazing (make sure to get the sweet one though).

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