A Taste of Vietnam: Bánh Mì Finds a Home in Houston
Houston, TX — In a city known for its culinary diversity, one humble street food staple from Vietnam is carving out its place, one toasted baguette at a time.
Banh mi, a Vietnamese-style sandwich that blends French bread with Southeast Asian ingredients, is no longer just a nostalgic comfort food for Vietnamese Americans. It’s now part of Houston’s growing love for bold, affordable, and flavor-packed food. And one spot in South Houston is serving it up just right: The Tea Bar, a cozy local favorite tucked away off Fuqua Street.
More Than a Sandwich, A Cultural Fusion
At first glance, bánh mì might look like just another sandwich. But its roots run deep. Originating during Vietnam’s colonial era, the bánh mì reflects a fusion of east and west, a crusty French baguette filled with classic Vietnamese ingredients like grilled pork, pickled vegetables, cilantro, chili, and house-made sauces.
At The Tea Bar, bánh mì is more than just a menu item, it’s a statement.
“We don’t cut corners. We bake the bread fresh, prep everything daily, and make sure each sandwich tastes like something you’d get in Saigon,” says one staff member.
Customers can choose from a rotating lineup of bánh mì varieties, including:
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Grilled pork banh mi: A customer favorite featuring tender, marinated meat with a smoky finish.
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Egg rolls banh mi: Crunchy, savory egg rolls tucked inside the sandwich for an unexpected texture boost.
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Egg banh mi: A lighter option, perfect for breakfast or a midday bite.
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Vegan banh mi: Made with grilled tofu, pickled veggies, and a flavorful vegan sauce blend.
The Tea Bar, A Local Gem in South Houston
Located at 11009 1/2 Fuqua St, Houston, TX 77089, The Tea Bar has become a go-to destination not just for boba tea lovers but also for those craving authentic Vietnamese flavors. With its sleek-yet-casual interior, the shop caters to both dine-in customers and those grabbing a quick bite to go.
The bánh mì is served all day, from 8 a.m. sharp, making it a perfect pick for breakfast on the run, a lunch break refuel, or a satisfying early dinner.
And unlike many spots that serve bánh mì as a side hustle to their drinks menu, The Tea Bar treats it like the star of the show, fresh ingredients, balanced flavors, and presentation that hits just right.
A Taste of Home for Many, and Something New for Others
For Vietnamese Houstonians, a good bánh mì can be more than just food. It’s a link to home, a taste of childhood mornings, busy street corners, or schoolyard lunches. At The Tea Bar, that sense of memory and identity is respected, and shared.
“I grew up eating bánh mì every day,” says Linh, a regular customer. “Here, it actually tastes like it’s supposed to. The bread is crisp, the meat is legit, and they don’t skimp on the veggies or herbs.”
And for non-Vietnamese customers? It’s a refreshing departure from the usual sandwich options, flavorful, affordable, and fast. Many first-timers come for the tea but stay for the food.
Visit The Tea Bar, Your New Favorite Bánh Mì Spot in Houston
📍 Address: 11009 1/2 Fuqua St, Houston, TX 77089
📞 Phone: (713) 378-6100
📧 Email: theteabartx@gmail.com
🌐 Website: https://theteabar.us
🕒 Business Hours:
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Mon–Thu: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
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Fri–Sat: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
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Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM