233 Banh Mi in Joo Chiat – a slice of Vietnam

233 Banh Mi in Joo Chiat is an unpretentious eatery for affordable authentic Vietnamese banh mi. It also serves familiar Vietnamese favourites like pho and spring rolls, and of course Vietnamese coffee.

Banh Mi 233

The section of Joo Chiat Road near the Joo Chiat Place public car park has many popular eateries. Among them is 233 Banh Mi, situated between the well known Long Phung Vietnamese Restaurant and the trendy 808 Eating House. Previously located in 233 Joo Chiat Road, it is now at No. 157. While the signboard outside reads “Banh Mi 233,” the eatery’s Facebook and Instagram pages refer to it as “233 Bahn Mi.” This variance may stem from the fact that the handle “Banh Mi 233” is already claimed by a restaurant in Newcastle, Australia. Or it could be a case of adhering to a Vietnamese grammatical rule unfamiliar to us.

Other than a bicycle parked in front of the counter, there is nothing fancy about the interior of 233 Banhn Mi. The space is functional. It is brightly lit and has a cheerful ambience. Tables are reasonably well-spaced out.

233 Banh Mi is a self-service eatery. Simply order and pay for your food and drinks at the counter. You will collect them when prompted by the electronic buzzer. Utensils are available for you to grab at your convenience. After you are finished, you are expected to clear your table and return your tray.

Menu of 233 Banh Mi

The menu boasts all the classic Vietnamese dishes that Singaporeans are familiar – from a variety of Banh Mi to steaming bowls of pho; as well Vietnamese spring rolls and coffee.

Keep an eye out for specials like Bun Mam (Vietnamese Fermented Fish Noodle Soup) and Bun Rieu (Tomato Noodle with Tofu, Meatball and Pork Roll).

Below are pictures of pages from the regular menu of 233 Banh Mi.

They also have a breakfast menu that offers a Singapore-Vietnamese fusion breakfast of bahn mi with butter and kaya.

Light Meal at 233 Banh Mi

We tried a few of their popular items: the Grilled Pork Rice Noodle with Crispy Vietnamese Roll ($10) and the Grilled Pork Banh Mi with Egg ($6.50, with an additional $1 for the egg).

The Grilled Pork Rice Noodle with Crispy Vietnamese Roll was a bowl of cold springy rice noodles with lots of different toppings including tender grilled pork and crunchy fried spring roll. The noodles had a satisfying bite and their coolness contrasted with the warmth of the pork. Herbs and chopped vegetables added colours, aromas and flavours to the dish. Each mouthful was a delightful mix of flavours and textures.

The star of the day was the Banh Mi. The baguette, light and airy on the inside with a satisfyingly crisp exterior, was filled with a mix of flavourful ingredients. The smoky slices of pork had been well marinated. Sauces, vegetables and herbs were part of the mix. Every element worked in harmony. It was a sandwich that was simple and complex at the same time – an enjoyable treat.

Slice of Authentic Vietnam

With its pleasant ambience, air-conditioned comfort, and wallet-friendly prices, 233 Banh Mi is a great spot for a casual meal any time of the day. With many Vietnamese patrons frequenting the eatery, you know you are getting the real deal. 233 Banh Mi in Joo Chiat is a very good option to enjoy a slice of authentic Vietnam in Singapore.

Ratings:
Food: 3
Service: NA
Value: 4
Atmosphere: 3
Overall Rating: 3 TOPs

233 Banh Mi
157, Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427435

Tel: +65 9457 9351

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