Bánh Anh Em

I Isabella Grandic 1,037 reviews · Local Guide 4 August 2026

Not gonna lie… I had higher hopes for this Bánh mi. Maybe it’s because I was comparing to the delicious, fresh sandwiches from the streets of Hanoi… but my big qualm here is the bread. It tasted too crispy without feeling super toasted? Almost stale? There was no softness to the bread. I did like the pickled veg. I liked the steak… there was no perfect bite though!! The steak was cut in too big chunks - it felt like I was eating the bread separate from the meat separate from the veg. I am overall being nitty. But it’s a cute restaurant and there are other options on the menu, but the wait to get in is quite long so I struggle to justify more than 3 stars. Seating is best for 1-2 people imo (bar seats)

E Ed 174 reviews · Local Guide 22 June 2026

Ordered takeout yesterday, just their signature Banh Mi sandwich. Unfortunately forgot to take a picture of it. However, it was one of the best banh mi sandwiches I have ever had. Pork belly was well marinated and the toppings amazing. Will definitely go back for a sit down meal.

D Debbie Lowe (3jamigos) 59 reviews · Local Guide 16 June 2026

After a recent trip to Vietnam, we are in search of good Vietnamese food! Banh Anh Em definitely hit the mark! We snagged a table, before the rush. We had the Banh Cuon, rice noodle ( thin, tender-very good) filled with wood ear mushrooms, pork and topped with fried shallots-delish. Banh Mi with grilled pork-also very good, lots of herbs and veggies, tasty grilled pork and the BREAD was crispy on the outside and soft inside-really good. Bun Bo Rieu was savory, and delish. Also had the Bun Cha, sweet, savory, the meat patty was delish. Really, really solid, I'd go back in a heartbeat. There was a bit of a delay on the Bun Cha, had to ask twice, possibly they didn't think we actually ordered that much food, lol. All this for two of us! The restaurant is lively, a little dark, we could hear ourselves talk-that's always a plus. Service friendly. Bar seating, great for solo dining. Not huge, so large group could be tough. Tried to caption food but didn't work, so here goes in pic order Banh Mi, banh Cuon Bun Cha and Bun Bo Rieu

D D J 106 reviews · Local Guide 14 June 2026

The freshness and quality of the food transport me back to enjoying lunch in Hanoi. It is such a delightful experience at the suggestion of NYC friends who have frequented Banh Anh Em in the last few months. The doors open at noon but be here by 10:45 am to waitlist until open time or expect to be seated 2.5 hours later-the restaurant capacity is no more than 30 guests at any time. While waiting for the door to open, time passes by in conversation with people around, watching the scene, or absorbing the energy of the lower East side. Coming early also avoids the noon heat and sun beating down while waiting outside. Once seated, the excitement begins. Our party dined family style to sample a wide range of dishes. Bahn Cuong, yes, crab broth pho, yes, pork belly Bahn mi, check. The rolls for the Bahn mi are baked fresh on premises ensuring a light crunch and airy bite. Pork belly was phenomenal. On the broth, our party immediately noticed the savory broth having either a shrimp paste or crab paste touch that highlighted the overall flavors of the noodles-excellent. We split and sampled several other dishes that were equally impressive for their freshness and savory lingering sensations. Of note, are the in-house pickled turnips, carrots, greens, added to the Bahn mi. The pickling was outstanding as I normally don’t like it too sweet or sour. Whatever method was used, the freshness, crunchiness, and balanced sweetness-saltiness-sourness was perfect. Kudos to the attentive and patience staff who continually came to refill our water glasses, remove empty plates, and check on our table. We also spoke w the young owner to compliment her on the quality of the food and service. Thanks Banh Anh Em - much success and longevity so we may return many more times.

F Flora 250 reviews · Local Guide 22 May 2026

Bánh Anh Em was such a pleasant surprise. The bánh mì was fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced — crispy bread, great fillings, and not overly heavy. You can tell they care about the quality and details. The vibe is casual and welcoming, and the service was genuinely friendly. One of the better Vietnamese sandwich spots I’ve tried in NYC, especially if you want something quick but still satisfying.