My favorite sandwich place in the city. If I'm anywhere remotely close to the neighborhood, I will have to stop in for a sandwich. Fact is, I don't live anywhere near Ba Le, so most times I have to go all the way out to Argyle just for a $3 sandwich, that's how much I like them. Be sure to put lots of Sriracha sauce on it. read more

Stellar. Ba Le has become my go to weekend breakfast/brunch/lunch spot. Reasonable prices, fresh ingredients, nice ambiance it's very hard to go wrong here. Don't sleep on the pork buns or smoothies with tapioca. Thai tea is also great, if your in the mood for something outside of the Midwestern palate. Veggie Avocado & Pineapple Tapioca smoothie is my usual pick. read more

Various selections to choose. I bought more than I plan because everything looks so good. However, the price is kinda expensive. I really like this place, but could not buy their good stuff as much as want. read more

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TIP: It's not posted in the cafe but if you buy 5 sandwiches you get the 6th FREE. Needed to start off with the tip otherwise I would forget. I've been going to Ba Le for over 10+ years now and was totally surprise that they opened up a new shop next door. The place is more modern, open, has inside and outside seatings. It looks more "urban hip" I guess you could call it. Same delicious food. Same delicious dessert and drinks. Their have their own bakery on sight so the french bread comes out warm crispy flaky and crusty! And for the fearful, the servers all speak perfect english so ask them anything about the menu without and barriers. lol! OVERALL REVIEW: For a quick and delicious bite come here for something different. Just think of it kinda like a Jimmy Johns except with an asian vietnamese twist to it. I don't give out too many four stars so when I do it's a favorite! read more

Based on my eating here recently, if you want tasty and inexpensive banh mi, skip Ba Le and go to Nhu Lan on Lawrence. I ordered the "vegan lemongrass chicken," in which King Oyster mushroom IS the chicken substitute. Unless they were going for organs, I don't know how mushroom is a substitute for "meat." While tasty, it was overpriced at $6 and very little food. My boyfriend's meat sandwiches had more food in them. In addition, while you could get pho soup for $2 with a banh mi sandwich, they don't have a vegetarian pho. Also, my boyfriend felt his meatball sandwich was ok, but the beef one was dry. He also said the meatball banh mi at Tank was more substantial. In addition, he said "no tomato" and still got tomato in his sandwich. If you like pork rolls though, this might be the place for you. The $6 pork rolls definitely outweighed my measly $6 sandwich. read more

Let's go 3.5 stars..It's one of the better Bahn-Mi Sandwiches I've had in Chicago! About 12 Sandwiches on their menu and very inexpensive// $5-6 per/ very good size. The bread is fresh and the put plenty of meat on 'em/ good fresh condiments as well! Service was quick/ great lunch spot.. get dat did read more

Sweet little Vietnamese bakery and sandwich shop! We only got the macarons since we just had lunch but this seemed like a fantastic place to grab a bite to eat! Service was great, and I loved the sections with pork loaf and other Vietnamese goodies! They were out of both the sugar cane drink and the chrysanthemum tea when we were there though, but hope to be back in the future! read more

I can only speak for the macarons here since that's the only thing I tried but they were really decent. Espresso and bosenberry flavors, to be precise. read more

Ba Le Sandwich - Yummy espresso and bosenberry macarons. Perfect bite-sized dessert after any meal. - Bakeries Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I wanted to like this place more than I did. I mean, it was ok but nothing mind blowing in my opinion. My honey and I decided to get several sandwiches and try a little of each (this is possible because they are hella cheap. I mean, you can practically get 4 sandwiches for the price of one trip to Jimmy Johns). We got the BBQ Pork, the Pork Shrimp Cake, the Veggie Avocado, and the Meatball. My favorite was the Veggie Avocado. The tofu in it was perfect and they added some crunchy stuff that was quite tasty. All in all, the sandwiches are super cheap and tasty enough. I mean, I guess I shouldn't have expected a party in my mouth for $3, but it's definitely a place I'll go back to when I am poor and hungry. read more

The BEST Vietnamese sandwich in town, taste fresh and delicious! LOVE IT! I'm not a big fan or Vietnamese dessert, too sweet for me, but still, I give 4 stars! read more

I had to give it a try since all the great reviews. I had the BBQ pork & it was so good & fresh. The vegatables are so fresh & had a good kick of spice. I'm definitly going to be going back & take advnatage of buy 5 get the 6th free next time. All the sandiwichs are no more than 3.50 can't beat that. The only thing I wish they had was coffee , it cute chic place to sit & wait for order & browse the & see all the other premade things for sale. read more

Sharp space, which is a nice surprise given the general grit of that stretch on Broadway. Sandwiches (veggie avocado and turkey roast beef) are tasty and good value. Casual dinner for two for less than $15 = nice. Sticky rice packages to go from the fridge / cooler are a nice touch. Might need to microwave them a bit longer than the suggested 14 - 30 seconds, though. And probably a good idea to eat them w/in 24 hours. Tried one 3 days later and it was pretty dry by then. But overall glad we checked this out and will be adding them into our regular take out rotation. read more

Wow...you all weren't kidding about these sandwiches! I think the tofu sandwich is one of the top three in my entire life. Not kidding. Now I'm going to have to go try the banh mis everywhere else in this city... The Vietnamese Spring Rolls aren't bad either. The sauce gets an A++, perfect consistency, not too syrupy. They don't skimp on the sauce or the shrimp. The only suggestion I would have is to add some more greens and herbs and less vermicelli. What a lovely, quick lunch! read more

I wish i lived in Vietnam so instead of Jimmy John's and Potbelly's for lunch I can grab a Banh Mi sandwich....I love how the banh mi sandwich uses fresh cilantro and Jalepenos!! The pickled carrots and daikon balance out the spicy jalepenos. And you can't forget about the fresh baguettes that encase the goodness. I haven't tried the other items on the menu but they look really freaken good...next time I will take a gander. read more

They really need descriptions on their sandwiches! For example, what on earth is in the #1 special?! I wasn't the only customer who asked for descriptions when we looked up at the menu board. I had to assume it was similar to Nhu Lan's #1 :P. it was a good sandwich but I liked the pate more in Nhu Lan. We also got the roast pork bahn mi but it was more of a pork sausage (kind of reminded of kielbasa) not shredded pieces of pork. It's a great clean, neat quick stop shop for Vietnamese goodies. We tried the glutinous rice with meat wrapped in a banana leaf. Note: this version is different from the Chinese in that the rice looks like sticky jello vs the latter has sticky rice. read more

Quality, authentic Vietnamese sandwiches, baked goods, appetizers, and desserts! It has become a landmark in the Argyle area, the "Little Saigon" of Chicago. If there were a Ba Le down in the Loop, I would be there every day! If you haven't had "banh mi ba le," the Vietnamese sandwich, you're missing out! It's one of the best products of the great French-Vietnamese fusion from the Indochina years in the first half of the 20th century. The sandwich features a toasty French baguette. The classic ("dac biet" or "thit nguoi") version features pate and various cold cuts. Other variants include "xa xiu" (bbq pork), grilled pork, shredded pork skin, "cha lua" (pork sausage). Even other banh mi variants mix with western toppings (roast beef, eggs, etc) - going beyond the Vietnamese roots. The sandwiches are garnished with cilantro, jalapenos, and picked carrots/radishes. All of this put together gives you a tasty sandwich with a surprisingly complex blend of flavors. What's even better about banh mi? They're cheap - $3! You can't beat this at chain sub restaurants. To paraphrase a commercial: "3, 3 dollar, 3 dollar 10-inch longs!" If you buy 5, you get one free as well. Ba Le Bakery isn't a one-trick pony. There are lots of other great items. You can get baked goods, including the French bread; appetizers like spring rolls and egg rolls; homemade Vietnamese meats to go (pate, headcheese); desserts like bean drinks and smoothies. Argyle is a cool place for Vietnamese food, but it's not that cool compared to other places like Orange County, Houston, and San Jose. What makes those places so great? Aside from the sheer size of the Vietnamese population, they all have a variety of good restaurants. Famous places for Pho, others for Bun Bo Hue, others for desserts, others for sandwiches, others for Bo 7 Mon, etc. Almost all the Argyle restaurants are the same: "Pho and other stuff." They don't differentiate. Case in point: there's a Pho 777, a Pho 888, and a Pho 999, all on the same street! Ba Le Bakery is one of the few that chose to specialize. I am really happy they did, and they deliver good food to back it up. I wish other places in Argyle would specialize like Ba Le and make the Argyle area even more interesting. Maybe I should open up one of those infamous Vietnamese coffee shops hahaha :) read more

Nothing special. I was extremely disappointed seeing that their spring rolls were carelessly wrapped. I bought their chicken spring rolls and it was the ugliest spring rolls I have ever seen. All of the insides were coming out of it, not just one but all 3 of them. These are supposed to be pretty easy to make, and they are extremely hard to mess up. Not only that, the sauce was so watered down. I've tried their other snacks, and they're all so-so. It's just a nice place, in a convenient location. But, come on now, at least get the spring rolls right. read more

The banh mi here is pretty tasty. The quality of ingredients is great but they're a little small. The bread is toasted well and there's a great variety for people of all dietary restrictions. The real gem about this place is that they make their own Vietnamese sausages and desserts at the restaurant. They've a large variety of both and they taste much better than the ones you can buy at regular grocery stores. The service is great and quick here if you're looking for a quick place to stop for a meal. Moreover, it's at a great location as it's just off the Argyle red line stop. read more

I'm trying to become a regular here so I can one day walk in and they'll already know I want a #10 with no jalapeño and a Thai iced tea. They have a huge selection for Bahn mi and I find myself coming at least twice a week. The bread is perfectly crunchy, cilantro is fresh, and all the toppings and flavors are perfect. It's fast and a good deal for what you get. Their beverages are pretty sizable too for what you pay. Highly recommended! read more

Go ahead and read all about the great food in the other reviews. Just note that this place is located near several hair salons - I always see beautiful women passing through here. Of course, everyone has at least a few minutes standing with nothing to do - waiting for their sandwiches. Lot's o fun for flirting. Iced coffee is like crack here. Gone in 5 seconds. read more

I've finally woken up and realized that Vietnamese food--at least, what I can eat of it, being vegetarian--is effing awesome. Enter Ba Le: cheap sandwiches chock full of freshness. The Veggie Avocado's got avocado, veggies, savory grilled tofu, and wonderfully fresh parsley leaves, all smushed into a baguette that isn't so big that I can't fit it into my mouth without looking idiotic. Just $4!!! The boy had this one when he was here for the first time a few weeks ago on an exploratory mission and this time went for a fish-based sandwich, concluding that he liked both equally. My curiosity about the desserty-looking cups of pearl tapioca and condensed milk in the refrigerators along the back wall finally overwhelmed me, and I picked one out (about $3) to eat later at home. I haven't decided yet if I like it or not, but this is a personal taste thing, so don't go by me on these. You should, however, get up and head over to Ba Le right now and have a sandwich. I am super glad to have finally stopped in. read more

Awesomely tasty cheap sandwiches . I don't like pate so i go with the BBQ pork or the lemongrass pork. Very tasty and flavorful. read more

Oh me, oh my! You have to check this place out if you're looking for a GREAT sandwich! They specialize in Vietnamese subs which come on a delicious, warm french bread roll with your choice of meat ( I like the bbq pork), and veggies (jalapenos,radishes, cilantro,etc). Forget Potbelly's, quiznos or Costello. Be adventurous and check this place out! You will NOT be disappointed. read more

The sandwiches here are delicious and perfectly priced. Bubble tea is so-so. The other teas are pretty good as well. read more

I have a new cheap lunch spot! I finally got to try this place after wanting to for a while. I had never been to the old location, but the new location is sparkling clean and pretty inviting compared to other places around the Argyle stop. All I can say is that I will definitely be back. The food was fresh, fairly healthy, and delicious! I got the chicken (ga) and I swear I tasted a new flavor in almost every bite. Very tasty cabbage and flavorful, non-greasy chicken mixed with a light mayo, cilantro, and a couple slices of jalapeno on a delicious baguette roll. I liked it a heck of a lot, and kind of couldn't believe it was only $3.50. Clearly the sandwiches may not be the most authentic bahn mi, but if you go in with an open mind/palette, I hardly think you'll be disappointed. Especially for a full meal under 5 or 6 bucks! I found it to be much tastier than Subway, though I can definitely see the "Asian Subway" comparison. I came after the lunch rush so I didn't (at all) experience the supposedly slow service or long lines at lunch. If this place is ever a madhouse like some reviewers have stated, I would say it's because it 100% deserves it. read more

When I lived in the North Chicago area, I would come here once a week and take advantage of their special. I would eat one and a half sandwiches during my drive back home! What I like: 1. The dac biet banh mi. They will even pack your sandwich ingredients separately so that you can take it home without worrying that the bread will be a soggy mess. This is nice since I am always driving a long distance to get here. 2. All the other goodies they sell. Everything!! What I don't like: 1. Parking - where do people park? Every time I've been here I've parked at a private lot and paid a fee. read more

Just returned here after my first (loved it) visit. This time with my wife. I had the Pork Sausage w/Lemon Grass & my wife had the Avocado Vegetarian. Both sandwiches had fresh ingredients on great rolls, at a very good price ($3.50-$3.95). Would suggest street parking (or walk or bike), there is a parking lot, but it's kinda small. The do a brisk business, we were in around 11:30 on a Saturday and we hit a lull before business started pouring in. Well worth the trip. read more

One word...YUM This place dishes out some of the best Bahn Mi in Chicago. The only reason I gave it 4 stars is bcus the new girl messed up my order after I gave it to her 3 times. And the chicken was a bit dry that day. Service tends to be a bit slow when there are large orders and it gets a bit cramped in the waiting area, but it's worth it! I believe there is a running special of buy 5 get the 6th free, but don't quote me on that. If you are a carb whore like me, they even have french baguettes packaged to go. They are some of the most fresh and flakiest baguettes I've ever had! Go now...what are you waiting for?! read more

Banh Mi = fast, delicious, and cheap. Spring Rolls = tasty. + you never walk away feeling like you consumed unnecessary amounts of grease (hard to do in Chi-town!). Uptown gets props for this place! read more

If your looking for a great savory sandwich then BaLe is the place. The price is great and the food is wonderful. read more

This is a great place if you're tired of normal sandwiches. I usually get the #9 BBQ pork - so yummy, but I've also gotten the Chicken (don't remember the number), which was good too. I'm not super adventerous eater, so I stay away from the sandwiches with pate and pork skin/belly, etc. The sandwiches are served on delicious french baguettes, and are topped with yummy things, some of which I don't actually know what they are. The also have a really cute dessert case that offers molded chocolates and lots of delicious mousse cakes, chocolate, mocha, coconut, mango...the list goes on. I can get a sandwich and dessert for under $8. It also recently received a Michelin award! read more

First off, I LOVE Vietnamese food and right about now would probably give my right ovary for a delicious Vietnamese sandwich. Ba Le's bread is fantastic, and the fixins are fresh, but the meats I've tried are just too fatty and not tasty, and they never seem to have the tofu when I'm there. I could quite literally eat a Vietnamese sandwich every day at my go-to place in San Diego, but the last time I hit Ba Le, I decided it would probably be my last. They're just OK. read more

Sandwiches loaded with meat and vegetables between awesome bahn mi baguette for between $3-4 bucks? Fo sho. I think their BBQ pork one is the best - I like meatier sandwiches and don't like pate too much. This sandwich is best when it's still warm and fresh, but you can easily leave it overnight in the fridge and microwave it the next day (still pretty good). read more

Coming from a heavily populated Vietnamese city (Orange County), I can't deny I know my banh mis (vietnamese sandwiches). I was super disappointed with Ba Le for many reasons. 1. They are expensive as heck. 2. Small portions. 3. They aren't even that good! They definitely have gone for a modern look and atmosphere, which kind of reminds me of Lee sandwiches however they delivery is not that great. The bread was not as crispy and toasty as a Vietnamese sandwich should be. The dessert I got was $3 for half a cup and the ingredients, smh, not good. read more

In the spirit of transparency, I have not had banh mi's in many other spots. However, ever since I have had it here I really do not see a need to go elsewhere. My go to here though is the Goi Coun (summer roll consisting of pork, prawn, vegetables and rice vermicelli wrapped in Vietnamese bánh tráng). Its by far my favorite thing to get here and its very good. In fact, I have come here and totally forgot to even order a banh mi. From a banh mi perspective I have only ordered the #5 (chicken) with extra hot peppers. The shop itself is self serve so you order your food in the front and wait for it in the back of the restaurant. They have some bar-like seating around the walls of the place but its mainly a grab-and-go type of spot. Those who like Vietnamese food come by and try the Goi Coun here and grab a delicious banh mi. read more

Good to-go Vietnamese food and drinks. The baguettes are ok. Not my fave. However the options are plenty. Lots of vegan food as well. read more

I can eat your sandwiches daily. I like the crustier bread here much more than at Nhu Lan. My favorite is still the traditional and my husbands favorite is the Chinese BBQ pork which is stuffed so full of meat. The pickled veggies are sweet and vinegary - such a great contrast in flavors, textures and smell. Mmm... Walked outta there with 6 bahn mi to take home (buy 5, get one free!) read more

The best banh mi on Argyle, in terms of value and quality. I keep making the mistake of buying a sandwich to walk and eat, and then having to sit down because it's to eat because it's so hefty. read more

I had my first experience with banh mi this weekend. Let's just say it's one I won't forget. I got the vegetarian banh mi. Served warm, the combination of flavors helped make this sandwich unforgettable. Fresh veggies (carrots, radish, onion), wonderfully seasoned and fried tofu, a bit of mayo, topped with jalepeno (I had them hold the cilantro-don't hate). What's not to love? Not to mention, the baguette was perfect and everything I look for in a baguette--crusty on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Oh, and the price! So affordable! My sandwich was less than $4 and it was filling. There were some other things I will go back to try (some delicious looking tapioca thing...). Ba Le is small and there are only a couple of tables, so if you're lucky enough to get one, eat there. It seems like more of a take-out place though. read more

I feel so ashamed. I've lived insanely close to Ba Le for over a year and just went for the first time this weekend. Based on the reviews I've read thus far, decided to try the BBQ Pork sandwich. It was awesome. The bread was crusty yet soft, perfectly baked. The fillings in the sandwich were delicious as well...as I got closer to the middle I found more and more little delights (including, but not limited to hot peppers and jicama). The prices can't be beat. I'd like to go back when I'm not battling a cold and have a better appetite. They had a variety of little rice dishes and drinks that looked awesome, in addition to the sandwiches. read more