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Bon Bon Vietnamese Sandwiches
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Bon Bon Vietnamese Sandwiches
7.8
Bon Bon Sandwiches in Wicker Park is a long-running, cafe-like spot centered on Vietnamese banh mi and pho with a broad mix of traditional and vegan options. Locals use it for affordable, customizable sandwiches, big bowls of noodle soup, and snacky sides like curry fries and shrimp spring rolls when they want something quick but fuller than grab-and-go.
Must-Try Dishes:
Char Siu Pork Banh Mi Sandwich, Vegan Lemongrass Tofu Banh Mi, Beef Pho with herbs and rice noodles
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 6.7
Consistency: 7.4
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A casual Wicker Park hangout where Vietnamese banh mi, pho, and vegan options stay reliably inexpensive.
Who should go: Budget-conscious diners wanting customizable Vietnamese sandwiches and soups.
When to visit: Weekday lunches or early evenings before the North Avenue rush.
What to order: Char siu pork banh mi, vegan lemongrass tofu banh mi, beef pho.
Insider tip: Build a fuller meal by adding curry fries or shrimp spring rolls and asking about vegan substitutions.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only β mostly metered along North Ave and nearby side streets; spaces can be tight evenings and weekends.
Dress code: Casual β everyday wear is fine; most guests come in jeans or work-casual attire.
Noise level: Moderate β counter-service cafe vibe; conversation is easy at most times except brief lunch rushes.
Weekend wait: Usually minimal wait; may be a short queue during peak takeout waves (5β7pm).
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; short lines move quickly during the noon rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes β several vegetarian fillings and tofu options for banh mi, bowls, and rolls.
Vegan options: Yes β multiple clearly marked vegan options and substitutions on sandwiches and bowls.
Gluten-free options: Partial β some bowls and rice-based items work, but baguettes and many sauces contain gluten; ask staff to confirm ingredients.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, low-key meetup than a formal first date β counter service and a relaxed cafe setting keep it quick and unfussy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes β itβs walk-in only. Seating is first-come and usually turns over quickly, with many guests ordering takeout.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for casual family visits β informal seating, quick service, and mild pho and rice options work well for school-age kids; space is limited for strollers during busy periods.
Best For
Better for: Affordable, customizable banh mi and pho with strong vegan/vegetarian flexibility and quick in-and-out meals.
Skip if: You want a full-service dining experience, spacious seating, or more regional Vietnamese specialties beyond sandwiches and noodle soups.
Bon Bon Vietnamese Sandwiches
7.6
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Bon Bon Vietnamese Sandwiches is a longtime Wicker Park cafe where banh mi, Korean wings, and a full pho section share space on a fast-casual menu. Pho here runs from beef and chicken to a well-known vegan version, making it a flexible stop for mixed groups that want soup, sandwiches, and bubble tea at the same table.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef Pho (Phα» BΓ²), Vegan Pho, Kimchi Fries
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Casual Wicker Park cafe where banh mi, vegan options, and a full pho lineup share one compact menu.
Who should go: Diners wanting flexible pho, sandwiches, and vegan options.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners or cold-weather lunches for the steadiest pacing.
What to order: Beef pho, vegan pho, and an order of kimchi fries.
Insider tip: Ask for extra herbs and lime if you like a brighter, more aromatic broth.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street and metered parking on Milwaukee Ave and nearby side streets; availability varies and can be tight during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual β come as you are; neighborhood-casual attire is typical.
Noise level: Moderate β conversational at most times, with a bit more bustle during weekend rush.
Weekend wait: Usually minimal line; short waits during peak hours if large groups are ordering at once.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, with steady but quick-moving traffic.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes β several vegetarian pho and banh mi options.
Vegan options: Yes β a well-known vegan pho and a few vegan sides/sandwich modifications.
Gluten-free options: Limited β some soups and rice-based dishes may work, but cross-contact is likely in a shared kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for low-key, casual meetups than a formal first date β itβs relaxed, counter-service, and great if you want something quick and affordable.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes β itβs counter-service with open seating; tables turn quickly, but peak weekend times may require waiting briefly for a seat.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes β casual seating, fast service, and approachable options make it suitable for families; best for school-age kids and up.
Best For
Better for: Mixed-diet groups who want vegan pho alongside classic beef and chicken options, plus banh mi and snacks in one quick, affordable stop.
Skip if: You want specialty, broth-focused pho with long simmer profiles or a quieter, full-service dining experience.