Boston's Chinatown ~

I live about 7 miles north of Boston, but hardly ever go in town. Most of us avoid it because of the traffic, crowds and construction.
But, there are times and places that just cannot be missed. And Chinatown to me is one of those wonderful, little places tucked away in the heart of the City. A city, almost of it's own. I love the entrance to this part of town.

I had a mission this early morning too. I wanted to get to a bakery that makes Bahn Mi sandwiches. If you haven't heard of them, google them. They are Vietnamese sandwiches, made with meat, pickled vegetables and a lovely pate like dressing on a crispy baguette that is heavenly. And while waiting in the bakery I picked up some other delicious treats too.

Here we are heading over the Zakim Bridge, which leads directly into Boston. It was early in the morning and on a Saturday, so NO traffic whatsoever!

Oh, did I mention parking?  Well, usually it's a problem.  High
costs and lots of driving around to find a lot or garage.  We were hoping to park on the street and we had plenty to choose from.  Our mission for this visit, was to get a Bahn Mi sandwich.

We parked on Beach Street, right near this little bakery , Mei Sum that makes wonderful sweet and savory treats.  And being adventurous, I tried a few things I had no idea about.  My report is, all of the things I tried tasted excellent.  But, there is a language barrier, but don't let that stop you. The cost is fairly inexpensive and the pastries and food are wonderful.  I wasn't disappointed in anything.

While we were waiting for our sandwiches to be made, here are a couple of things that I saw.  These are fresh Bean Buns, ready for the oven.

Sticky rice, wrapped in Banana leaves.  I believe in the center there was taro, but I can't be sure.  The lovely ladies at the counter do speak English, but not fluently.  I believe this is a Holiday specialty though.

These next pictures are of the bakery case, lovely and inexpensive pastries.  I plan on trying different ones each time I visit.  We got the Coconut Snowballs today.  I wish I had enough in my budget and waistline to try one of everything.  ;)

 

 

 

 

And now for the big moment, our sandwiches.

 

Here is the Vegetable Bahn Mi:

 

 

And the Beef Bahn Mi, and this was heavenly.  Sweet, savory and just melted in my mouth.  Love the pickled veggies with cilantro and jalapeno.... super yum!

 

 

 While we were waiting for our sandwiches, a man was standing and eating a delicious looking bun.   He had a label on his jacket that said something in English, so I asked what it was.  He said it was a Beef Bun and that it was good.  So, I ordered one of those to take home for the next day's lunch.  At .90 cents, how could I go wrong?

 

Here's what I cut into the next day for my lunch.  It was fabulous, a sweet bun and tangy barbequed beef.

 

 

 

I loved my little visit into Chinatown and my friends and I discussed coming in for the day soon.  I agree, but think it's best to wait until Spring.  Can't wait....