East Portland’s vibrant culinary scene has officially welcomed a highly anticipated new addition: Bon Bánh Mì. The establishment celebrated its grand opening on Saturday, August 16, 2025, following a soft opening on Monday, August 11, marking the culmination of a long period of anticipation for locals. Located at 1747 SE 122nd Avenue, Bon Bánh Mì promises an authentic taste of Vietnam, featuring its namesake sandwiches, a wide array of traditional beverages, and a welcoming dine-in experience.
A Journey from ‘Coming Soon’ to Grand Opening
The opening of Bon Bánh Mì has been a topic of local interest since late 2024, with its ‘coming soon’ status generating significant buzz. The new eatery is helmed by the same team behind the successful Bon Baguette in Happy Valley, a local favorite known for its blend of Asian and European influences. This continuity suggests a shared dedication to quality and authenticity, further evidenced by the on-site baking of bread for their signature bánh mì. The extended development phase has created considerable excitement, particularly within the local Vietnamese community, who have voiced their happiness at seeing the shop finally open its doors.
A Culinary Palette of Vietnamese Delights
Bon Bánh Mì’s menu is thoughtfully curated to showcase the rich diversity of Vietnamese cuisine. The centerpiece is, of course, the bánh mì, served on freshly baked French-style baguettes renowned for their crisp exterior and airy interior, filled with a medley of savory meats, fresh herbs, and pickled vegetables. Beyond the iconic sandwich, the menu includes a selection of other grilled sandwiches, such as ham, turkey, and cheese, or avocado and egg options, priced between $7 and $8. A special ‘buy five, get one free’ offer is available on these sandwiches, encouraging patrons to explore the variety.
Further culinary offerings include traditional appetizers like egg rolls, patê sô (savory pastries), and steamed buns. For those seeking more substantial meals, Bon Bánh Mì offers comforting soups, including Bò kho (beef stew) and Càri gà (curry chicken), as well as hearty bowls such as Bánh hỏi heo quay (crispy pork belly) and Bún thịt nướng (grilled pork vermicelli). The price range for these items spans from $2 for smaller specialties to $15 for the more elaborate dishes, ensuring accessibility for a wide audience.
Sipping Through Vietnam: Beverages and More
Complementing the food is an extensive beverage selection that highlights Portland’s growing appreciation for Vietnamese coffee culture. Visitors can indulge in classic Vietnamese iced coffee (Cà phê sữa đá), refreshing sugar cane juice (Nước mía), and a variety of teas, including Thai iced tea, milk tea, and popular bubble teas. The bubble tea offerings are enhanced with a selection of free toppings like boba, popping boba, lychee jellies, and rainbow jellies, with drinks priced between $5 and $5.50. Similar to the food, a ‘buy five, get one free’ promotion extends to beverages, inviting customers to discover their favorite drinks.
An Enhanced Dining Experience
Bon Bánh Mì is designed with customer convenience in mind, featuring both touchscreen ordering stations and the option to order directly at the counter. The establishment provides indoor seating, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy their meals. Operating daily from 7 am to 4 pm, the restaurant is well-positioned to serve the community throughout the morning and afternoon.
East Portland’s Evolving Food Landscape
The arrival of Bon Bánh Mì in East Portland is a significant moment, contributing to the quadrant’s rapidly diversifying culinary identity. East Portland, historically an industrial hub, is increasingly recognized for its vibrant dining scene, reflecting a broader trend across Oregon’s largest city. The city’s embrace of international flavors and unique beverage concepts, particularly Vietnamese coffee, has become a trending aspect of its food culture. As new restaurants and cafes continue to open, alongside a growing number of bars and eateries, Bon Bánh Mì finds itself in a thriving environment. This expansion of diverse restaurants and culinary offerings highlights Portland’s dynamic and evolving food landscape, making it an exciting time for food enthusiasts in the region.
Bon Bánh Mì’s presence on SE 122nd Avenue marks a welcome addition to East Portland, promising to deliver authentic flavors and a unique taste of Vietnamese hospitality.
