During the second edition of Vietnam’s Banh Mi Festival held at Le Van Tam Park in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1, a remarkable culinary feat was achieved. A six-meter-long banh mi (Vietnamese baguette) was created, showcasing an impressive array of 150 different fillings and toppings. This diverse display earned a national record from the Vietnam Records Organization for the highest number of fillings and toppings in a single banh mi.
The festival, which spanned three days, attracted an estimated 100,000 visitors, doubling the attendance of the previous year. Over 130 pavilions featured a wide range of Vietnamese baguette sandwiches from the nation’s top restaurants, bakeries, and suppliers. The event not only celebrated the beloved banh mi but also highlighted its rich history and the creativity of Vietnamese cuisine.
In a separate event in September 2023, a record was set for the largest banh mi in Vietnam. Measuring 1.7 meters in length, 0.5 meters in width, and 0.3 meters in height, and weighing over 11 kilograms, this giant bread was unveiled in Long An province. The achievement was recognized by the Vietnam Records Organization and showcased the expertise of local bakers.
These events underscore the cultural significance of banh mi in Vietnam and its growing international recognition. The banh mi has been lauded by various international travel magazines and food experts, with CNN naming Hoi An’s banh mi the “king of sandwiches” in 2018. The continuous innovation in fillings and presentations at festivals like these contributes to the global appreciation of Vietnamese culinary traditions.
