Banh mi with meatballs (xiu mai) is a beloved street food in Saigon. The combination of crispy baguette and flavorful meatballs creates an irresistible taste. Below is a list of the 10 best banh mi with xiu mai spots in Saigon that you shouldn’t miss.
Co Lanh’s banh mi is famous for grilled beef baguettes, but recently, her salted egg yolk xiu mai has become a crowd favorite. The crispy baguette is paired with fragrant scallion oil, pickled vegetables, grilled beef, and rich salted egg meatballs, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. The savory fish sauce served on the side enhances the taste even more. The shop also offers flan, cheese yogurt, and lunch boxes. Despite being always busy, the owner remains cheerful and attentive.
Salted egg meatball banh mi at Co Lanh’s with grilled beef and scallion oil
Mami’s Bami attracts food lovers with its small but eye-catching banh mi cart. The shop focuses not only on flavor but also on packaging and presentation, offering a refined experience. Their salted egg xiu mai banh mi combines the richness of salted eggs and the sweetness of tender meatballs. Other offerings include pork offal and shredded pork skin banh mi, all kept warm to ensure freshness.
Salted egg meatball banh mi at Mami’s Bami with beautiful packaging
Ma Tu’s xiu mai banh mi is a long-standing eatery with a traditional family recipe. The meatballs are rich in flavor, enhanced by a special sauce made from caramelized fish sauce, satay, and other spices, creating a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and spicy. With a limited menu including meatball, pork skin, and sunny-side-up egg options, Ma Tu’s banh mi remains a top choice for many locals.
Ma Tu’s meatball banh mi – a traditional family recipe
Mika’s banh mi is known for its large meatballs, seasoned to perfection and served with pickled veggies, chili, and ketchup. The bread is toasted upon order to ensure crispiness and warmth. The attention to detail in every step has made Mika’s banh mi a favorite among food enthusiasts.
Mika’s banh mi with large, crispy toasted meatballs
Den Dau’s xiu mai banh mi brings the distinct flavor of Da Lat-style meatballs to Saigon. The meatballs are tender and rich, simmered in a light broth unlike Saigon’s dry-style meatballs. The ideal way to enjoy it is by tearing the bread, dipping it into the broth, and eating it with the creamy meatballs.
Den Dau’s meatball banh mi – Da Lat flavor in the heart of Saigon
Nguyen Kiem’s xiu mai banh mi is the go-to spot for street food lovers. The hot, crispy baguette stuffed with juicy meatballs and topped with savory sauce offers a mouthwatering flavor. The shop also serves a variety of other banh mi options.
Nguyen Kiem’s meatball banh mi – a street food favorite
Co Phuong’s shop is perfect for those who enjoy dipping banh mi in meatball sauce. The set includes a bowl of sauce with two firm meatballs, pork skin, crispy pork fat, and cinnamon sausage. The best way to eat it is by tearing the bread, dipping it into the thick sauce, and adding a bit of spicy satay.
Dipping-style meatball banh mi at Co Phuong’s with pork skin, pork fat, and cinnamon sausage
Diem Tam 159 draws customers with bowls of hot, steamed meatballs that release an irresistible aroma. Made from finely ground pork and a unique blend of spices, the meatballs are tender and rich without being greasy. The crispy baguette served alongside ensures a hearty, flavorful breakfast.
Steamed hot meatballs at Diem Tam 159
Da Lat KL’s dipping-style banh mi is the ideal choice for those seeking authentic Da Lat flavors in Saigon. The meatballs are smooth, meaty, naturally sweet, and served in a savory sauce with fresh herbs. The shop also offers sunny-side-up eggs as a topping.
Da Lat KL’s dipping-style banh mi with smooth meatballs and rich sauce
The meatball banh mi cart in District 11 has over 40 years of history and is a go-to spot for many locals. The meatballs are soft, and the savory sauce is kept warm in a traditional clay pot. The crispy baguette paired with two types of sauces delivers a signature, unforgettable taste.
District 11’s meatball banh mi cart – over 40 years of tradition