We call it a tofu hoagie, but it’s actually a bahn mi–a Vietnamese sandwich. These tasty, inexpensive lunch or snack options are famous in West Philly, but you can get a great one near the Italian Market too. Try the tiny mom ‘n pop spot, Cafe Nhu Y.

A satisfying veggie bahn mi is made with marinated tofu, fresh cilantro, shredded carrots and cucumber along with a little bit of mayo and jalapeño on a flakey French baguette. This is exactly what you’ll find at Cafe Nhu Y. I recommend ordering it with their yummy French coffee sweetened with condensed milk or one of their interesting canned drinks such as the iced chrysanthemum tea. Eat it at one of their two small tables or get it to go. The veggie bahn mi costs $2.75, but there are also meat options, all under $3.50. The sandwiches are light and fresh, and I’ll bet you’ll leave feeling much better than if you’d eaten one of those cheesesteaks down the street.

Cafe Nhu Y
802 Christian St.
Philadelphia, PA 19147
215-925-6544