About
Huong Lan Sandwiches stands as a cherished landmark of authentic Vietnamese cuisine in San Jose, nestled conveniently at 1655 Tully Rd. For over 18 years, this humble deli has quietly delivered some of the best banh mi in the Bay Area, maintaining a reputation anchored in quality and tradition. Unlike trendier spots that draw long lines, Huong Lan offers a welcoming pace and a more intimate atmosphere—perfect for those seeking genuine flavor without the wait.
The sandwiches here are impressive in size and substance. The baguettes are soft yet robust, holding layers of fresh, savory meats and rich pate that create a harmony of texture and taste. The #1 banh mi, featuring pate, head cheese, and ham, stands out as a golden standard. Its balance of buttery bread, heavenly meat, and fresh ingredients resonates deeply with every bite. For those craving variety, options like the #13 trung (fried egg) and the sweet-tinged xiu mai add delightful twists to the classic lineup.
Beyond sandwiches, Huong Lan’s array of Vietnamese-prepped foods and snacks adds dimension to its menu. Items like their well-loved egg rolls and pate chauds are now self-serve, enhancing convenience without sacrificing quality. Their roasted duck and BBQ pork belly offer hearty alternatives that satisfy beyond the banh mi experience. Morning selections and unique drink options, such as the rich blended mocha pearl, further enrich visits, making each trip feel both comforting and refreshing.
Customer praise underscores a consistent theme: authenticity and value. The efficient, friendly service complements the affordable pricing—sandwiches generally hovering around $7.77—while creating a casual yet reliable spot for both quick bites and thoughtful meals. It’s this combination of rich flavor, tradition, and accessibility that keeps loyal patrons returning and new visitors discovering Huong Lan’s enduring charm.
In sum, Huong Lan Sandwiches is more than just a deli. It is a keeper of Vietnamese culinary heritage, a place where each sandwich tells a story of fresh ingredients, careful preparation, and genuine passion. Whether you’re a banh mi aficionado or someone eager to delve into authentic Vietnamese flavors, Huong Lan offers an experience both simple and profound. It’s a delicious balance of history, heart, and hearty food that stays with you long after the last bite.
“ 6/7/2025 update: Huong Lan moved some stuff around. The egg rolls $1.37 and pate chauds $2.29 are now self serve. The tongs are on the left shelf next to the new hot food display case. I love how the lines are shorter than the other popular Vietnamese sandwich restaurant. I had the #1 thit nguoi (cold cuts) $6.86 and #13 trung (fried egg) $5.94. Too bad they no longer have my favorite, #17 Chinese sausage (lap cheong) & egg. #17 is now spicy Korean chicken. Moreover, they had the dining room bigger. Service was excellent. Original review: Huong Lan offers a lot more than just Vietnamese sandwiches. As far as I know, they are the only place that makes a bbq pork, egg and lap cheong (Chinese preserved sausage) banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich). I only noticed it after ordering my usual #1 ham and pate banh mi $6. I also got their banh cuon (steamed rice noodle) cha lua (Vietnamese ham) $10. Huong Lan also have a BBQ meats section, bakery, drink station and hot food area. This is my spot for a great banh mi. It is always delicious. No line at 3:15pm on a Sunday! Love these folks. ”
“ I've only eaten banh mis from the Philippines. But I gotta say this sets the golden standard. Banh mi #1 (pate, head cheese, ham) is a godsend. Absolutely heavenly meat, fresh pate, lots of butter, and amazing bread. I would go back here the next day. And I probably will. ”
“ they serve up some of the best banh mi in the Bay Area!!! ”
“ One of the original banh mi spots more recently overshadowed by places like duc Hoang, but they still serve up a great sandwich without the lines. Most recently in q1 of 2025 the sandwiches are $7.77 each. These are the fully loaded kind, big soft baguette and full of meat. I got the xiu mai which was a bit sweet for my tastes but still good. My wife got the headcheese and ham #1 combo and said it was good. Come here if you're near the lion Plaza and want to skip the lines of the viet town side. They also have a deli that sells a variety of roast pork/chicken/char siu and all the usual pre packaged vietnamese fare (desserts, rice plates, noodle plates, viet coffee etc) ”
“ Good place for banh mi with egg and other snacks or meals. We often get half a duck for dad and BBQ pork belly at the chopping board. There are varieties of Vietnamese prepped food as well and in the morning is a great selection. The drinks are fun too, I am partial to taro. Service is nice and efficient. ”