For just $3.50, the barbecue pork sandwich rivals a slice of pizza for cheap eats, but is infinitely more satisfying. Mouth-size, tender shavings of slowly roasted pork, served on some of the best bread baked on Ninth Street, make Sandwiches' made-to-order banh mi really special. Even the cilantro, jalapeno and pickled carrots seem way above par. Try the sardine sandwich—No. 007—for something completely different.

Fu-Wah is on our map of low-key eateries for one reason: Its fried tofu hoagie, dressed in jalapenos and Sriracha sauce, makes it a mecca for vegetarians and vegans (no mayo). West Philadelphians are positively evangelical about this meatless banh mi, and for good reason: It's divine.

The giant Eiffel Tower outside Ba Le Bakery & Restaurant is an obvious reference to the French colonization of Vietnam. Cruise into the shop any day, and you'll find that English is spoken there; French, not so much. Just grab your banh mi, made fresh within the hour, step up to the counter, and smile.

Another teeny hole in the wall you've no doubt passed by. Break the spell and stop in on a Saturday. As the line for Sabrina's crawls, walk one block east and grab an iced coffee and a bahn mi for a satisfying meal with virtually no wait. Take your portable feast to the park near Fleischer Art Memorial and congratulate yourself for having esoteric taste.

With a menu of more than 100 choices, Viet Huong has many treasures: the grilled pork chops, crispy spring rolls, boba tea and yes, the banh mi. The shredded pork version is fantastic—don't let it go undiscovered.