What is ‘Bánh mì’?
In Vietnamese, it is a term used to describe all types of bread. During the French colonial period in Vietnam, the baguette was introduced to the Vietnamese diet. Here in the West, however, the bánh mì represents more than just a plain old baguette. It has become synonymous with what many people call the “Viet Sub”.
The classic bánh mì has its slight variations, but essentially, you can expect to find various Vietnamese cold cuts including sliced pork, generous layers of liver pâté, jalapeño, pickled daikon and carrots, cucumber, cilantro, and mayonnaise. These ingredients are neatly stacked between a freshly toasted baguette and served warm. There are several Vietnamese restaurants in Vancouver that serve the traditional bánh mì. I, personally, have my favourites, but there’s another place in Vancouver that puts a culinary spin to an already delicious creation.
Let me introduce you to DD Mau.
Located at the edge of Yaletown, the Tran siblings took their love of food to the next level by adding a modern flare to a the traditional Vietnamese sandwich – and I am very glad they did so! I wouldn’t consider myself a regular, but I have had the chance to enjoy several items on their menu. From the lemongrass chicken sub to their famous avocado shake, DD Mau has never disappointed me with their fresh ingredients and flavourful creations.
During my most recent visit, I was reacquainted with my personal favourite: the BBQ Roasted Duck.
For a moderate $10.80 (for a full-size), you are served the baguette with “juicy roasted duck, scallions, pickled veggies, cilantro, hoisin sauce, and jalapeños”.
As a huge fan of duck, I cannot begin to describe how amazing this bánh mì was! It was perfectly seasoned, blended well with the sauce, and the vegetable pairings added an exotic kick to every bite. If bread is not your thing, rice wraps are offered as a replacement with the same deliciousness inside.
If I haven’t done a good job at convincing you to try the sandwiches at DD Mau, see what host John Catucci has to say when he featured this place on an episode of “You Gotta Eat Here!“.
Till next time, friends. Happy eating!
DD MAU
1239 Pacific Blvd. Vancouver, BC
Hours:
Monday – Saturday 10:30am – 8pm
Sunday 11am – 6pm
Phone:
604-684-4446
Featured image credit: Vancouver Foodie Tours