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Banh Mi Spot
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Banh Mi Spot
8.1
Banh Mi Spot is a Logan Square counter-service shop by the Blue Line turning out Vietnamese sandwiches, pho, and coffee with a strong value-to-quality ratio. Soft, crusty baguettes packed with fillings like lemongrass chicken or classic cold cuts and a clean, lighter-style chicken pho make it a practical neighborhood choice when a banh mi or noodle craving hits.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Banh Mi with pâté, ham, and pork roll, Lemongrass Chicken Banh Mi, Chicken Pho with herbs and lime
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: A Blue Line-adjacent counter turning out focused banh mi and pho at sharp prices.
Who should go: Casual diners craving fast, affordable Vietnamese sandwiches or pho.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner to avoid peak takeout and delivery rush.
What to order: Classic banh mi, lemongrass chicken banh mi, chicken pho.
Insider tip: Pair your sandwich with Vietnamese iced coffee and ask for extra jalapeños if you like heat.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Primarily street parking on surrounding side streets; availability is easier midday but can be competitive during evening rush near the Blue Line.
Dress code: Casual — come as you are; counter-service setting with no need to dress up.
Noise level: Low to moderate — generally easy to hold a conversation, with brief spikes during takeout rushes.
Weekend wait: Usually short (5–15 minutes) but can back up slightly during peak takeout periods.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, aside from a brief line at the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some items can be prepared vegetarian (e.g., banh mi variations or sides on request), but options are limited — confirm at the counter.
Vegan options: Limited — a few items may be adaptable, though sauces and spreads may contain animal products; ask for ingredient details before ordering.
Gluten-free options: Pho uses rice noodles, but broths, marinades, and sauces may include gluten; gluten-free needs should be discussed with staff before ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re planning a very casual, low-key bite — it’s counter-service with limited seating and reads more like a quick meal than a linger-and-talk setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in only. Seating is limited and turnover is quick; during busy times, takeout is the more reliable move.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably kid-friendly for quick meals and takeaway; seating is compact and stroller space is limited, but portions and pricing work well for families.
Best For
Better for: Fast, affordable banh mi and pho near the train with strong value and efficient counter-service convenience.
Skip if: You want a full-service Vietnamese restaurant, extended table time, or a broad menu with extensive dietary accommodations.
Banh Mi Spot
8.1
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Comfort Food Classics
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Banh Mi Spot is a newer Logan Square Vietnamese counter focused on crusty baguette sandwiches, ribeye-leaning beef pho, and modern Vietnamese drinks. The space is small and casual, but careful bread, rich broth, and efficient counter service make it an easy pho fix along the Kedzie corridor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef Pho (Phở Bò), Chicken Pho (Phở Gà), Grilled Pork Banh Mi
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: New-wave Logan Square Vietnamese counter emphasizing crusty banh mi and rich, ribeye-forward pho in a compact, modern space.
Who should go: Pho and banh mi fans who prioritize flavor over frills.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner when the line moves fastest.
What to order: Beef pho, a pork belly or grilled pork banh mi, and iced Vietnamese coffee.
Insider tip: Pair a small pho with a banh mi to sample both sides of the menu without over-ordering.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Kedzie and nearby side streets; usually manageable but can tighten during peak meal hours.
Dress code: Casual — counter-service space where jeans, hoodies, and everyday wear are totally appropriate.
Noise level: Low to moderate — small room with steady takeout traffic, but solo diners can still hear podcasts or take calls.
Weekend wait: Typically short; expect 5–15 minutes during small rushes when takeout orders stack up.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, with orders moving quickly through the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some options depending on rotation (certain banh mi and appetizers may be adaptable — ask at ordering).
Vegan options: Limited — primarily meat-forward menu; possible modifications on a case-by-case basis.
Gluten-free options: Pho with rice noodles can work for some gluten-free diners, but broths and sauces may contain gluten — confirm before ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want something casual and low-pressure — it’s a small counter space built for quick meals rather than lingering conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter-service and first-come, first-served; seating is limited, so be ready to pivot to takeout during busy stretches.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally fine for older kids who enjoy pho or sandwiches; space is compact and there are no high chairs or play areas.
Best For
Better for: Fast, flavorful pho and banh mi with efficient counter service when you want a quick, affordable Vietnamese meal.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full-service restaurant, large group seating, or an extended sit-down dining experience.