As an heir to a postcolonial society, I bear the good old oppression/racism/exploitation chip on the shoulder when confronted with many things colonial. But when it comes to things like literature, architecture, and yes, food, I find those blinders slipping away – my political views aren’t nearly enough to contain my love for French/British-built government buildings in the developing world, Kipling-esque travel writing, and colonially influenced food fusion. Which brings us to today’s lunchtime living food of choice – the Banh-Mi.

French colonialism? Horrible, inept, and bloodthirsty. French Baguettes + Vietnamese tastiness? Sublime.

For the uninitiated, the Banh-Mi is a sandwich that fills a soft, freshly baked baguette with a meat – usually roast pork and pate –, a light mayonnaise, thinly julienned carrots and daikon (relative of the radish), cilantro, and green chilies. The vegetables offer a fresh and bright foil to smoky and earthy meats.

Today’s lunch hour found me in a sunny patch of Tudor City Park with two lovely campaign managers chewing my way through a satisfying Banh Mi.

What: Banh Mi with honey glazed steak from Boi to Go on 2nd between 42nd and 43rd.

Enjoyment: A solid 8 out of 10. I was sad that they failed to include any fiery green chilies, but the Sri-racha (red chili sauce) helped. And for $7.50 for an enormous baguette, can’t go wrong.

Happy Lunching!

Photo credit: Alanna - (I credit the strong sun in Tudor City for my mocha complexion)