Toronto’s Best Sandwiches: Rose’s old-school banh-mi
By Karolyne Ellacott
Old-school banh-mi (Image: Karolyne Ellacott)
Set amidst the cacophony of Chinatown East, Rose’s Vietnamese Sandwiches is the go-to place to grab a traditional banh-mi sandwich. Originally from Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City), owner Rose Pham uprooted her life when times got tough in her homeland. Some 20 years later, Pham oversees a steady stream of customers seeking a taste of Vietnam at her family-run joint.
Freshly-made goods are laid out for ogling at on the countertops, while exotic products spill out of every remaining nook and cranny. We opted for the classic assorted banh-mi, one of the most popular sandwiches at the shop. Featuring a variety of cold cuts, the meat is carefully folded over and layered onto a white, French-style bun.
Strips of pickled carrots and radish are piled on top, accompanied by fresh cucumber and sprigs of coriander. Customers can choose a host of other dressings such as pâté, butter, black pepper and soy sauce.
Ready in five and costing between $2-$3, depending on size, the numbers add up to make a highly desirable lunch.
Rose’s Vietnamese Sandwiches, 601 Gerrard St. E., 416-406-9906
More of Toronto’s best sandwiches:
The roast beef sandwich at Rowe Farms
The southern-style beef brisket at Leslieville Pumps
The prosciutto sandwich at Peter’s Cajun Creole Pizza