Banh Mi Phuong vs Madam Khanh: Which One Should You Try in Hoi An?

If you search for banh mi in Hoi An, you will probably see two names many times: Banh Mi Phuong and Madam Khanh.

Both shops are well known, and many tourists want to try them. So which one should you visit? We think both are worth considering. Here is some information to help you choose.

Banh Mi Phuong

Banh Mi Phuong is one of the most famous banh mi shops in Hoi An. It became especially popular with international visitors after chef Anthony Bourdain tried its banh mi on his television show.

The shop offers different choices of fillings, including meat, vegetables, herbs and sauces. It is a popular stop for people visiting the Old Town area.

Address: 2B Phan Chau Trinh Street, Hoi An.

If you want to try the shop that many travel guides mention, Banh Mi Phuong is a good place to start.

Madam Khanh – The Banh Mi Queen

Madam Khanh is another famous banh mi shop in Hoi An. Many visitors know it by the name The Banh Mi Queen.

The shop has its own way of preparing fillings and sauces. Many tourists come here after hearing recommendations from friends, blogs or other travelers.

Address: 115 Tran Cao Van Street, Hoi An.

If you enjoy trying different local food shops, Madam Khanh is another place to put on your list.

What Are the Main Differences?

Both shops serve Vietnamese banh mi, but each shop has its own recipes. The taste can be different because of the meat, pâté, vegetables and sauces.

1. The bread

For us, good banh mi should have crispy bread outside and a soft, light texture inside. The bread is usually best when you eat it soon after buying.

We are still comparing the bread from these two shops, so we don’t want to say which one is better yet.

2. The fillings and sauces

This is an important part of the sandwich. Some people like more meat and a rich sauce. Others prefer more vegetables and a lighter taste.

If you want to compare fairly, try to order similar fillings at both places.

3. The experience

Banh Mi Phuong is very well known among international tourists, while Madam Khanh also has many fans. The number of customers and waiting time can change depending on the day and time.

If you don’t like waiting, it may be better to visit outside the busiest meal times.

Quick Comparison

So, Which One Should You Try?

If this is your first time in Hoi An and you want to visit a famous food stop, Banh Mi Phuong is an easy choice.

If you want to explore another popular shop with a different recipe, try Madam Khanh.

If you have enough time, why not try both? You can even share the sandwiches with a friend, so you have room to try more local food in Hoi An.

Everyone has different tastes. A shop that one person loves may not be your favorite, and that’s completely normal.

A Few Tips Before You Go

• Eat it fresh. Banh mi tastes best when the bread is still crispy.
• Ask about chili. If you don’t like spicy food, you can say “khong cay” (not spicy).
• Check the menu. Prices and available fillings may change.
• Bring some cash. It is useful when buying street food in Hoi An.
• Try other small shops too. There are many good banh mi places beyond these two famous names.

Looking for a Drink Near Banh Mi Phuong?

If you visit Banh Mi Phuong on Phan Chau Trinh Street, our small drink shop, Hoa Arika Hoi An, is just next door at number 2A.

We make refreshing drinks using three kinds of palm blossom nectar: coconut, nipa and arenga. We use these nectars to sweeten our drinks instead of refined sugar.

If you are walking toward Hoi An Old Town with your banh mi, you are welcome to stop by for a drink.

Our Final Thoughts

Both Banh Mi Phuong and Madam Khanh are famous for a reason, and both are interesting places for visitors who want to try banh mi in Hoi An.

We don’t think you need to choose a winner before trying them. Visit one or both, see what you like, and enjoy your own food experience.

And remember, Hoi An has many other local food shops to discover.

Explore Hoi An with Hoa Arika — A sweet story from Hoi An.