About This Spot
Huong Lan Sandwiches welcomes you with the gentle hum of a well-loved neighborhood spot tucked into a busy stretch of Tully Road. Walking in, there’s a subtle rhythm to the space - a steady flow of regulars picking up lunch to-go, quiet moments spent choosing from the array of fresh Vietnamese flavors thoughtfully arranged behind glass counters. Though not a place for lingering, the small seating area offers a moment’s pause amid the day’s pace, shaded by a koi pond out front that lends a surprisingly peaceful touch to this bustling corner.
The atmosphere feels familiar and unpretentious, where the line moves quicker than expected, and the staff seem to know most of the names. It’s a place where you sense the care in the details - from perfectly crusted rolls, lightly toasted with just a hint of warmth, to the delicate balance of savory meats and fresh herbs piled high in a sandwich. Here, you’re not just grabbing a bite; you’re collecting a simple pleasure shaped by tradition and everyday routine.
The menu flows comfortably between classic Vietnamese staples and a few intriguing nods to Chinese influences, offering a deliciously varied experience hidden within the same countertop. You might find yourself picking a grilled pork sandwich fragrant with lemongrass, then hesitating over something a little heartier like tender roast duck, or savoring the crunch of golden egg rolls alongside a glass of lightly sweetened sugarcane juice. The mix feels effortless, reflecting a welcoming kitchen that balances quick service with genuine flavors that reward those who take a moment to savor them.
It’s the kind of place that offers more than just a sandwich - it’s a quiet, everyday discovery, a stop that reminds you how local food lives beyond menus, shaped by community rhythms and simple joys. Whether you’re grabbing a speedy lunch or carrying home an assortment of treats and dishes, Huong Lan Sandwiches is a slice of San Jose’s vibrant, multifaceted food scene that quietly holds its own with care and character.
What's Available
Onsite services Takeout Dine-in Great coffee Serves local specialty Breakfast Lunch Solo dining Wheelchair accessible entrance Wheelchair accessible parking lot Wheelchair accessible restroom Coffee Comfort food Healthy options Quick bite Small plates Vegetarian options Dinner Catering Counter service Dessert Table service Restroom Casual Groups Tourists Accepts reservations Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Good for kids Free parking lot Free street parking Paid parking lot Parking
Guest Reviews
6/7/2025 update: Huong Lan moved some stuff around. The egg rolls $1.37 and pate chauds $2.29 are now self serve. The tongs are on the left shelf next to the new hot food display case. I love how the lines are shorter than the other popular Vietnamese sandwich restaurant. I had the #1 thit nguoi (cold cuts) $6.86 and #13 trung (fried egg) $5.94. Too bad they no longer have my favorite, #17 Chinese sausage (lap cheong) & egg. #17 is now spicy Korean chicken. Moreover, they had the dining room bigger. Service was excellent. Original review: Huong Lan offers a lot more than just Vietnamese sandwiches. As far as I know, they are the only place that makes a bbq pork, egg and lap cheong (Chinese preserved sausage) banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich). I only noticed it after ordering my usual #1 ham and pate banh mi $6. I also got their banh cuon (steamed rice noodle) cha lua (Vietnamese ham) $10. Huong Lan also have a BBQ meats section, bakery, drink station and hot food area. This is my spot for a great banh mi. It is always delicious. No line at 3:15pm on a Sunday! Love these folks.
Grilled pork with extra meat Banh mi on a fresh roll was less than 10 bucks and One of the best values for lunch in the east side. With so many Vietnamese deli and shops around, this place has a delicious Banh mi.
Very quaint deli, but really affordable banh mi and also can get roast duck and roast chicken. They have an assortment of things and drinks and desserts. Located in a strip mall of Tully. Great stop to get stuff before I go back home. Not a real sit down place but they do have tables if you need it.
Lots of meals that you can grab and take to go if you're in a hurry. I bought four dessert boxes for $20. My sister got a sandwich for $6. I had never seen a tray with all of the parts for Pho laid out before but it makes sense. They have a separate area that seems to have Chinese influenced stuff like Peking Duck. There's a fountain in the front with koi fish and a little area with a couple tables in the back.
I've only eaten banh mis from the Philippines. But I gotta say this sets the golden standard. Banh mi #1 (pate, head cheese, ham) is a godsend. Absolutely heavenly meat, fresh pate, lots of butter, and amazing bread. I would go back here the next day. And I probably will.
One of the original banh mi spots more recently overshadowed by places like duc Hoang, but they still serve up a great sandwich without the lines. Most recently in q1 of 2025 the sandwiches are $7.77 each. These are the fully loaded kind, big soft baguette and full of meat. I got the xiu mai which was a bit sweet for my tastes but still good. My wife got the headcheese and ham #1 combo and said it was good. Come here if you're near the lion Plaza and want to skip the lines of the viet town side. They also have a deli that sells a variety of roast pork/chicken/char siu and all the usual pre packaged vietnamese fare (desserts, rice plates, noodle plates, viet coffee etc)
Good place for banh mi with egg and other snacks or meals. We often get half a duck for dad and BBQ pork belly at the chopping board. There are varieties of Vietnamese prepped food as well and in the morning is a great selection. The drinks are fun too, I am partial to taro. Service is nice and efficient.
Huong Lan Sandwiches is a hidden gem that continues to deliver on authentic Vietnamese flavor with every visit. I’ve been coming here for over 18 years, and it’s one of those rare places that hasn’t lost its charm-or its taste. Every time I’m in the neighborhood, it’s a must that I stop in for their blended Mocha pearl drink. It’s the perfect balance of rich, sweet, and a appreciate amount of pure taste of coffee -hands down one of my favorite treats in the area. The shop itself is always bustling, and it’s easy to see why. Their Bánh mì selection is extensive and flavorful, packed with fresh ingredients and bold seasonings. Whether you’re craving classic grilled pork or something more adventurous, there’s something for everyone. I also love how convenient they make it to grab something on the go. Their ready-to-go platters and prepared items are perfect for a quick lunch or even catering a casual get-together. If you’re ever nearby and craving something fast, fresh, and full of flavor, Huong Lan Sandwiches is a spot that never disappoints. A true staple in the community that continues to uphold its quality and authenticity.