Banh Mi A&B

Located on Quinpool Road in Halifax, Banh Mi A&B is a vibrant Vietnamese restaurant that delivers an authentic taste of Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage right in the heart of Nova Scotia. This cozy, family-run gem is renowned for its robust menu bursting with flavors that range from delicately fresh to decadently rich, creating an inviting experience for both the Vietnamese novice and seasoned food lovers alike.

Step inside, and you’ll immediately notice the warm, homey atmosphere that sets the stage for an intimate dining experience. The friendly and efficient staff welcome guests with genuine smiles, making you instantly feel like part of the family while serving dishes crafted with care and tradition.

The star of the menu is undoubtedly the lemongrass pork sandwich, a harmonious blend of tender, fragrant pork paired with crisp, fresh vegetables and the irresistible crunch of freshly baked banh mi bread. Paired with their tangy and refreshing Viet slaw, this sandwich offers layers of taste—from citrusy lemongrass notes to savory meatiness, all enveloped in bread with the perfect crumb and crust. Patrons often rave about the Red-Wine Stewed Brisket (Bò Kho), a hearty, slow-cooked brisket infused with subtle herbaceousness from basil and gently sweet carrots, served alongside noodles or banh mi bread, making it a soul-satisfying choice for cooler days.

For starters, the Chicken and Crab Soup surprises with its comforting, velvety broth highlighting sweet corn, peas, and delicate shreds of crab, while the Beef Wrap in Betel Leaves (Bò Lá Lốt) offers a flavorful, aromatic bite that perfectly balances garlic, pickles, and a touch of hoisin. Not to be missed are the Tropical Spring Rolls, bursting with fresh herbs and shrimp or cold cuts, paired with a sweet and nutty peanut hoisin dip that keeps you coming back for more.

Vegetarian and vegan options are thoughtfully crafted here as well. The Vegan Phở showcases a fragrant, spice-laden broth with rice noodles and fresh vegetables, a testament to the restaurant’s inclusive menu catering to diverse dietary preferences.

Round out your meal with a signature drink like the Coconut Coffee (Cà Phê Dừa)—a luxuriously creamy and sweet coffee infused with coconut cream—or the uniquely tantalizing Salted Coffee (Cà Phê Muối), a velvety blend of coffee with a subtle salty twist that intrigues and delights the palate.

Customers consistently praise not just the food but the welcoming ambiance and attentive service. Patrick MacNeil describes it as a “quaint, small, friendly” spot with “freshly made sandwiches” and “perfectly made coleslaw,” calling it an absolute must-visit. Sarah applauds the lemongrass bahn mi as one of the best she’s ever had, highlighting the freshness and tenderness of the ingredients that make each bite magical. Other patrons have fallen in love with signature soups like the crab and egg soup, the friendly atmosphere, and the great value – returning multiple times within short periods, a true marker of a hidden favorite.

Whether you’re craving the bright, layered tastes of a fresh spring roll, the comforting warmth of a traditional stew, or simply searching for a welcoming space to savor authentic Vietnamese flavors, Banh Mi A&B delivers with heart, soul, and impeccable culinary craftsmanship. It’s a small restaurant that leaves a big impression—one mouthwatering bite at a time.