Bánh Mì Ông Mười

-Grubbing in Chicago
Bargain Bites ft. Banh Mi in North Park

Apologies on the lack of posts of late. I’ve been really busy but I’m also kind of running out of spots I want to post about (that I've been to). Then there’s the whole inflation thing and how expensive it’s become to dine out regularly. So with that I’ve decided to add a cheap eats feature where I showcase some places that won’t break the bank. First up is a one year old Banh Mi sandwich spot up north.  

Recently Opened in North Center

Bánh Mì Ông Mười opened last summer at 6257B N McCormick in the North Park neighborhood. I was able to communicate with the old man on my initial visit, he told me that he’s from Southern Vietnam and they make Southern style Bahn Mi. What’s the difference between a south style and a north style Banh Mi? Well according to some digging I did in the South they use a wider and airier baguette with a very light, crispy crust that produces lots of crumbs. Also the fillings in the South are said to be more abundant and diverse. The sandwiches down there feature grilled pork, shredded chicken, meatballs, sardines, and multiple variations of cold cuts. That said I didn’t notice a major difference in the style of Banh Mi being served at Bánh Mì Ông Mười. What I did notice was some of the best French bread I’ve had in Chicago being used - it’s crisp and light and baked on site ($8.95). 

Banh Mi Dac Biet at Bánh Mì Ông Mười

I always go with a Dac Biet as far as gauging the quality of a Banh Mi store. Dac Biet means “special” in Vietnamese. In terms of a Banh Mi it’s the original version made with cold cuts and pork liver pate. The fillings on this one weren’t abundant like they say the Banh Mi in Saigon are but they were of quality and the taste was terrific. They recently added pho to an otherwise tight menu made up of mostly sandwiches but they also have packaged stuff like rice paper rolls on the counter. Nhu Lan has held the title of 'Best Banh Mi in Chicago’ for some time but this place is just as good, if not better.

Banh Mi Dac Biet

Bánh Mì Ông Mười
6257B N McCormick Blvd
Chicago, IL 60659
(773) 754-0731
Website