Bun Mee is celebrating a Vietnamese classic to National Sandwich Day.
Photo courtesy of Bun Mee
New York knows a thing or two about sandwiches. From famous deli classics to classic Italian heroes, nearly every neighborhood has a go-to spot. Still, on National Sandwich Day, Bun Mee debuted as another classic sandwich spot in the lineup: the Vietnamese bánh mì.
Bun Mee first opened in San Francisco in 2011 and has made it way to the East Coast here in Flatiron, New York.
Founder Denise Tran became fascinated with New Yorkers’ loyalty to their sandwich spots, where she first developed her business idea.
Growing up in New Orleans, Tran found how naturally a French baguette fits into American food culture. The po’boy and the bánh mì are practically cousins, according to Tran.
“My vision when I started Bun Mee was to make bánh mì as common as burgers and tacos,” Tran said. “I believe it has all the ingredients to become one of America’s great everyday sandwiches.”
In a world dominated by ham and cheese, turkey clubs, and traditional deli sandwiches, bánh mì offers something completely different. It’s a uniquely Asian sandwich with a flavor profile and personality all its own, yet it’s still a relatively untapped niche within America’s enormous sandwich category. The sandwich combines French and Vietnamese culinary influences, layering crusty bread with savory proteins, sauces, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and heat.
Now, 15 years after Bun Mee’s first location opened, Tran believes bánh mì deserves a spot alongside New York’s established sandwich staples.
“And it’s not just my opinion! TasteAtlas ranked bánh mì #2 on its list of the world’s best sandwiches in 2025,” Tran said. “I think that says a lot about the sandwich’s universal appeal and the opportunity that’s still ahead of us in America.”
In a city that rarely slows down, the sandwich remains an ideal New York meal, as each one tells a story about the people and cultures that helped shape it.
“New Yorkers are always on the move, and a great sandwich is the perfect meal for a fast-paced life,” Tran said. “You can eat it at your desk, on a park bench, or walking down Fifth Avenue!”
This National Sandwich Day, Bun Mee hopes New Yorkers might make room beside their classic deli order for a bánh mì — and perhaps find their next neighborhood favorite.
Bun Mee is located on 115 E 23rd St. For more information, visit bunmee.co/flatiron-district.
