Presentation on Map Reviews Nearby

M sandwiches Cafe San Mateo in San Mateo

4.6 (121) 205 E 4th Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401, United States

Categories

Vietnamese restaurant
Takeout restaurant
Restaurant
Sandwich shop

Location on the map

San Mateo, San Mateo County, California, US

Phone: +1 650-931-4181
Site: http://m-sandwiches.com/

Opening hours

Monday:Closed
Tuesday:Closed
Wednesday:10 AM–3:30 PM
Thursday:10 AM–3:30 PM
Friday:10 AM–3:30 PM
Saturday:10 AM–3:30 PM
Sunday:10 AM–3:30 PM

Edit info

Total reviews rating 4.6

121 Reviews for M sandwiches Cafe San Mateo 2024:

Review №1

2023-05-01 04:26:34

I am a huge fan of banh mi sandwiches and its hard to dislike them in any form.Ive had better banh mi sandwiches in San Jose but this place still hit the spot. Its a cute set up with limited seating. The service was friendly and speedy.I got #1 the original with ham cold cuts with pate. It tasted pretty standard. I like that they put the spicy jalapenos outside of the sandwich for those who dont like spicy.

Review №2

2022-01-23 16:44:43

January 2022:Tried the original banh mi sandwich since thats always a good way to try the authenticity!Bread was very classic! Subtle crunch and airy 👍. Filling was plentiful. Had enough topping to evenly enjoy all of the ingredients with each bite.Overall, was a very tasty sandwich. Ham, pork and pate went very well together 😀. I would come back again for more banh mi sandwiches!

Review №3

2023-07-13 05:28:30

We buy from here on and off. But recently, taking away 2 spring rolls cost about $14. I could’ve sworn it was significantly less just a couple of months ago. I’d hesitate to come back because although the spring rolls taste good, it’s not value for money anymore, especially for a casual takeaway joint.

Review №4

2023-11-09 21:30:00

Incredible food. Sandwiches come with ruffles. Plants look so healthy. Incredible

Review №5

2020-12-07 21:25:22

I have just purchased and eaten a sandwich from this wonder place. The ingredients are fresh, the bread is crunchy outside and soft inside: perfect. The chicken is well seasoned and the sauce used is delicious. All the veggies and crunchy and tasty.Service is fast and the two people at the established very nice. The presentation is simple but really cute. I’ll be back hungry for more!

Review №6

2022-10-07 02:07:25

The Banh Mi tastes really authentic. The Vietnamese milk coffee taste a little bit strong, but we like it. The free side dish of fried potatoes is crunchy and salty. We will come back again soon.

Review №7

2023-12-03 21:05:19

Absolutely delicious vegan bahn mi. Best Ive ever had. Never liked bahn mi in general but this is da bomb

Review №8

2023-10-04 00:46:47

I love the banh mi sandwiches here! My favorite is the grilled pork, but sometimes I go with the tofu, which is also delicious.

Review №9

2018-10-23 21:45:21

Dont let the name, Mordisko Cakes, fool you. This neighborhood gem that once sold cakes, now sells the best banh mi sandwiches. Each sandwich is prepared as you order.The owners, a friendly couple you cant help but hope they find success, are helpful and willing to make accommodations to your order, which was important since one of our group was almost three years old 😉

Review №10

2023-03-16 23:02:02

Vietnamese Bahn Mi sandwich was just “ok.” A bit tasteless, pork chewy. I don’t recommend. It’s located directly across Draeger’s market, which is the reason I purchased it.

Review №11

2023-05-26 21:25:40

Best vegan/vegetarian tofu banh mi sandwich Ive had! Get the tofu banh mi without mayo if youre vegan as well as the tofu spring rolls. Pretty much only for pickup or delivery, as there is only 1 table with two chairs outside.I go weekly and maybe several times per week, and the sandwiches are consistently good.Also, Michael and Mona are awesome and know how to make good food.

Review №12

2019-11-01 20:00:47

Update - not very consistent... Service can be off and today for example my spring roll was missing some ingredients for some reason...****The tofu spring roll and it was refreshing, flavourful and served with a smile. Lovely vegan option in the vegan desert called San mateo.

Review №13

2020-04-01 21:44:07

I love your food but PLEASE start listening to your customer’s order. I asked for no cilantro twice when I gave you my order yet here I am already home with no other option than to pick it off. Cilantro tastes like soap for me. It’s genetic and I can’t help it. This is seriously the 3rd time this has happened at your store. It really ruins the food for me.

Review №14

2023-06-04 00:58:44

I’ve had both the original and grilled pork bahn mi sandwiches from here, and they both taste great. It might take a little while to get your order in though.

Review №15

2022-08-13 01:14:06

Got the Vietnamese Coffee and despite asking for less ice, this is the amount of ice they put. I wonder what “normal” level of ice looks like. Hardly had 6-7 sips of drink with so much ice. Though the coffee was good the quantity was waay to less for $5.5

Review №16

2023-08-03 21:55:03

Mordisko is always awesome. The lemon grass tofu is flavored soooooooo well. Its magical. Vegan banh mi 🤤🤤🤤

Review №17

2021-08-23 02:01:09

Delicious! Bring a friend and go halfsies on 2 banh mi’s if you want to try different meats. My fav is still the original though :)

Review №18

2017-10-15 06:05:43

Havent tried their bánh mì yet, but if its anywhere as delicious as their exquisite pastries then Im sure it will be amazing! Owners are super nice! They say the pastry chef is professionally trained from New York and Vegas and it tastes as good as they are beautiful!The apple tart is delicious and has a hint of almond. The burnt almond cake is light and fluffy. Bread pudding flan is also surprising light and moist with a caramelized sauce. Passion fruit cheesecake is super flavorful and moist! You cant go wrong with any of them. Bring friends so you can taste more!

Review №19

2023-07-16 19:17:01

Had my banh mi fix today. The lemongrass beef and grilled pork sandwiches were very good.

Review №20

2023-06-24 00:34:06

Best banh mi Ive had, particularly the lemongrass tofu. Ive been coming here for years, and its always good.

Review №21

2023-02-26 22:05:56

I picked up 10 banh mi sandwiches for a party (grilled pork, pork belly, Xiu Mai, and lemongrass tofu). Monalisa was nice enough to cut them in half for us so everyone could try some .As usual, they were the hit of the party. I think we made a few dozen more customers for M-Sandwiches.

Review №22

2023-03-26 05:38:50

They have one tiny table with two seats outside. I wouldn’t say this place has dine-in options. The vegetarian vermicelli bowl was good and very basic. Next time, I’ll try the bahn mi.

Review №23

2023-03-26 23:49:18

They are okay for if you are craving banh mi, but it is on the pricier side and the portion of meat has always been really small compared to banh mi places in San Francisco and the south bay.

Review №24

2022-08-03 22:31:45

Best banh mi option in the Peninsula! I love how the banh mi are always loaded with generous amounts of meats and veggies and the baguette was the perfect texture -crunchy but also airy. I never thought potato chips would go so well with banh mi! The only thing, is to double check your orders. They’ve given us the wrong orders on a couple different occasions, but it was okay because all their sandwiches are good.

Review №25

2022-05-17 19:54:50

Best banh mi around. Fresh light and crispy bread stuffed with quality ingredients. Id highly recommend the BBQ pork or their combination special. The food is always prepared fresh, portions are good, decorations are beautiful, and owners are really nice and friendly. Support your local small businesses 👍

Review №26

2023-05-25 18:59:12

Delicious!! I had the tofu bahn mi and it was really tasty! Good flavors! And veggies where fresh!

Review №27

2020-08-26 21:45:36

I ordered the original but it’s not the usual Banh Mi I get from other places. They use ham instead of the head cheese. Also there are no pate in the sandwiches I ordered.

Review №28

2023-02-22 20:35:52

Our go-to Bahn Mi spot in San Mateo. The sandwiches are consistently delicious, made with fresh ingredients and crispy baguettes.

Review №29

2022-07-11 23:47:57

This is probably the best Bahn Mi sandwich Ive ever had. Rolls are crispy outside, just right inside; meat and vegetables are plentiful and fresh. Vietnamese iced coffee is good too.

Review №30

2021-09-14 18:09:50

I love this place! The Banh Mi is so damn delicious..... their Jalepenos are real HOT and its appreciated that they put them on the outside in the wrapper in case you dont want them. But I cannot get enough of the Roasted Chicken its my favorite place to come for lunch. The cucumbers are nice fresh perfect amount of Cilantro just the whole sandwich is beyond delicious! You will not be disappointed when eating here!

Review №31

2022-09-09 21:38:10

Hands down the best banh mis Ive ever had! (except maybe in Vietnam)You cant go wrong with any item on the menu. Easily one of my favorite lunch spots in a town full of amazing food.

Review №32

2021-11-10 02:44:48

The lemongrass tofu Bahn mi and the vegan pho were absolutely delicious and really satisfying. The best I’ve ever had. I really appreciated that they waited till I arrived to pick up my order to make my delicious Vietnamese iced coffee so it wouldn’t get watered down. Looking forward to trying the spring rolls next time.

Review №33

2021-10-13 03:35:09

Weve been coming to M Cafe for a long time and continue to get some of the best Vietnamese Sandwiches around town. Their Original #1 and Lemongrass tofu #10 are our go to favorites. Today, we added their Vegan Pho to our list of favorites. All the ingredients were fresh and the broth was so flavorful. The portion was perfect to share and have a half of a sandwich to accompany it. Highly recommend the Vegan Pho. Great job Michael and Mona!

Review №34

2020-02-14 23:47:00

Went here for lunch and ordered Lemongrass Beef sandwich for take out. The sandwich was awesome and beautifully flavoured. The spice level was perfect and it came with a small serving of chips. It was packed neatly in a paper and tied with a string giving it a beautiful touch.I almost did not want to open it, but the aroma from the sandwich was too much to hold on.Will definitely be back here to try more!

Review №35

2021-01-11 21:31:41

Awesome food.My only complaint would be that I would like to have two or more Birdseye chilis 😋 with that being said, I appreciate that Mr and Mrs Tran are concerned for my safety 😇😅

Review №36

2020-12-11 21:36:36

Love it love it love!! Not many Vietnamese restaurants I have been to carry banh mi. The fact theres a restaurant dedicated to this beautiful sandwich is 👌Tons of options to choose from, pick your favorite protein profile and enjoy!!!

Review №37

2021-05-29 23:52:00

I’m a big fan of bamh mi and surprised to find them in San Mateo. Just ordered some but the food failed impressing me. The grilled pork is ok but doesn’t look fresh. The pickled veggies taste bland and almost no shredded carrots. The ice matcha milk tea is too sweet to my taste. Anyway very mediocre and overpriced.

Review №38

2019-04-20 16:52:59

Their fresh rolls and equally fresh ingredients make this among the tastiest banh mi I’ve eaten. I usually order the chicken. It is pricier than your usual banh mi, but considering the location, quality and size of the sandwich it’s worth it. It’s a nice little mom and pop shop that I hope sticks around for a long time.

Review №39

2022-06-23 23:43:11

I dont know how long this little shop has been hiding in plain sight, but a friend led me to it earlier this year and I couldnt believe Id missed it. Theyve got an outstanding vegan (tofu) banh mi sandwich that I highly recommend!

Review №40

2020-09-10 09:51:42

This place is always great! They have awesome vegan options for anyone with a dietary restriction and some of the best banh mi and spring rolls Ive ever had - all for a really affordable price! The owners are really friendly and this place is a hidden treasure.

Review №41

2017-10-29 22:43:43

Surprisingly, their banh mi are pretty good, almost as good as ones you may get in Hanoi! Soft baguette and lean grilled pork (the foundation of a very good banh mi!). Not the cheapest, and would love to have freshly toasted, warm baguette and perhaps more generous portion of meat and other fillings. Recommended for lunch.

Review №42

2021-11-12 16:35:46

I always stop in for and Original Bahn Mi #1 when I am passing through San Mateo. The bread is fresh, paté and spread is balanced against fresh ingredients and well sliced ham, jalapeno is always on the side.

Review №43

2019-10-01 22:40:21

Im not sure if they sell cakes, or used to, but their menu now is banh mi sandwiches and spring rolls. The original is decent, and Id like to opt for a combination or roasted peok next time. It definitely isnt the greatest value in the Bay Area, but prices are reasonable for downtown San Mateo.

Review №44

2022-05-08 18:54:52

Fast, friendly service. Unfortunately everything was a bit salty. Ordered an original Banh Mi and Chicken Vermicelli bowl. Both tasted too peppery and too salty.

Review №45

2018-03-28 19:04:14

They appear to be going for a cute, classy ambiance. Their decor is nice enough for it, and their banh mi come nicely wrapped in twine. The whole thing kinda falls apart with the disgusting cloud of flies circling in the restaurant, though.The banh mi might be the most expensive banh mi Ive ever ordered at $7.95 for the grilled pork. Its a slim little sandwich, very heavy on the pate flavor if youre into that sort of thing. It didnt do much for me, certainly not for the price. Im much more of a fan of Kats Vietnam House for their banh mi if you can drive down El Camino.

Review №46

2018-01-17 04:08:31

The Bahn-Mi is excellent. The coffee is solid, but I recommend the Vietnamese coffee for the best kick! The various cakes are rich and tasty, I have tried 4 or 5 and have not been disappointed.

Review №47

2021-01-09 23:25:55

Small counter-serve vietnamese cafe with a good selection of banh mi, roll and pho. The banh mi are the highlight of the menu. The lemongrass beef banh mi is particularly terrific and succulent, packed with a well flavoured meat, fresh herbs and pickled daikon. Fast and friendly service makes for an ideal place to grab a quick meal.

Review №48

2022-04-27 20:20:11

Super delicious 🤤 very quick and friendly too!I got the “Original”, which has ham and pork. Would love if they had dining in available!

Review №49

2018-06-03 20:56:30

Ive been here over a half dozen times since its opened. Their Bahn Mi are tasty, where the quality of bread is a clear stand out. After trying a number of their cakes Ive settled on the chocolate frou frou and my wife likes the guava button. Well made, Id say theyre a dollar are two above average prices. However, theyre a mom and pop shop trying to make it in the competitive downtown of San Mateo, which seems like a trying situation. Today I spoke with one of them as theyre downsizing the store and giving up their seating area to save on rent. I sincerely hope they make it and I highly recommend a Bahn Mi or small cake to go if youre in the area.

Review №50

2020-09-08 03:13:46

Michael (the owner) and his wife make some mean Bhan Mi! Seriously, some of the best you can find on the peninsula. The pho is equally amazing. You cant go wrong eating here.

Review №51

2020-09-07 19:47:54

Disappointing. The Original doesn’t taste like any Bahm mi I’ve had, it hardly had any vegetables in it and it was mostly meat. I’m not sure what happened but this is not a Bahm mi? The baguette was good though. Also wouldn’t bother with the Thai tea.

Review №52

2018-01-27 03:46:57

Its nice to have a patisserie in town. They have an amazing selection of cakes and pastries. They also serve great espresso drinks and a pretty good Vietnamese coffee.They started carrying bánh mì sandwiches a while ago, and more recently they added spring rolls. They have a lemongrass tofu as a vegetarian option for both. I really like the flavor of the lemongrass tofu, and the bread they use for the bánh mì is fantastic and nicely toasted. The spring rolls are a nice, light snack.

Review №53

2019-06-01 18:09:40

Simple, fresh service. Small capacity for people. Original Banh Mi is excellent with lots of meat and flavor. Must get spicy with the jalepeños.

Review №54

2022-11-10 23:08:05

I thought Cam Huong Cafe in Oakland was the best Banh mi sandwiches in the bay, then I tried this spot and it’s best I’ve ever had

Review №55

2021-06-13 00:10:39

Great quality and delicious Bahn Mi, spring rolls are yummy too, and the cilantro rice bowls also good. Try the birds eye chilis if you like a good kick!

Review №56

2021-07-09 18:41:09

BEST banh mi in California! Pork Belly sandwich is the BEST

Review №57

2018-01-22 01:46:20

My sister and i went here excited to try some Vietnamese food. The place is chic looking and we made small talk with the owner who was friendly at first. We ordered 2 banh mi sandwiches and a beef stew. Each banh was $8 and the stew was $12...seriously. We thought ok it’s pricey but maybe worth it. Before paying the bill the male owner asked if we could pay cash bc credit card charge companies charge a lot. I said I didn’t have enough cash on me, he didn’t look happy and then didn’t say anything and was cold the remaining of the time we were there...ok...after we bit into our sandwiches we can honestly say this place is not worth it and this business will not last. The grilled pork we ordered was skimpy and the pickled vegetables which most places are generous with was barely there. Really for $8 a sandwich you can’t be generous with cheap pickled vegetables? The beef stew had 3 big pieces of beef and 3 humungous cut pieces of carrot. Really you’re going to go chic on the furniture but give huge unappetizing pieces of carrot in a stew? I mean carrots that l would have to use a knife to cut. The stew was unflavorable and had nothing more than the beef and carrots. At $12 for 3/4 cup full of stew was way overpriced and I can tell you I will not visit this place again and will tell others you will be wasting your money to even try it. Not to mention if you use credit card you will feel very unwelcomed.

Review №58

2018-02-25 03:40:25

Delicious cakes and bahn mis. The mini cakes are perfect for sharing when you want a sweet treat without overindulging. Great location in downtown San Mateo.

Review №59

2018-10-13 22:26:59

Quick service and just really good food. My shrimp rolls had a crispy tempura thing inside that just elevated it. The consistency of the peanut sauce was spot on.

Review №60

2021-01-13 20:35:32

Delicious Vietnamese food. Great service.

Review №61

2019-09-18 18:49:50

We drive all the way from Half Moon Bay to get these on a monthly basis. Greatest owners and greatest sandwiches. Quality of bread, meat and the presentation is perfect!!

Review №62

2020-11-20 23:11:02

I just started eating a vegetarian diet and the tofu bahn mi and tofu spring rolls were ridiculously good. Didn’t miss meat at all. Super fresh and delicious!!!

Review №63

2021-03-11 01:37:11

I went to this place a few weeks ago and ordered a Xiu Mai Banh Mai and when I went to eat it I got something that wasnt a Xiu Mai Banh Mai. I will not go back to this place ever! And I got a limp jalapeno slice 🤬

Review №64

2023-08-30 22:17:58

This Banh mi is so good.

Review №65

2021-04-16 01:43:56

The couple who own this Cafe are super nice. Banh Mi is the best so far outside of San Francisco.

Review №66

2021-08-08 01:36:37

Excellent Banh Mi and lemongrass tofu salad. I had their tofu banh min and its one of the best vegetarian banh mis that Ive tried

Review №67

2022-07-15 22:55:29

Their banh mi is delicious and quality is very consistent. Service is great too.

Review №68

2020-05-09 19:33:54

One of my favourite places in San Mateo. The French baguette is perfectly crispy, the vegetables perfectly pickled, and all together balanced.

Review №69

2017-12-21 03:06:26

Amazing Bahn Mis and great coffee. What else could one ask for? Oh yeah... Delicious pastries. Thats what one could ask for. Mosdisko has those too.

Review №70

2021-04-30 19:28:56

Excellent food! Fresh!! Awesome service. If you’re the area I recommend this place more than any others in downtown San Mateo.

Review №71

2021-07-06 21:52:57

Best Bahn mi. Pork belly and grilled pork are insanely flavorful and good.

Review №72

2017-09-04 00:54:07

This place has really good (though pricey) bánh mì! The combination is delicious, featuring pâté and excellent fresh bread.

Review №73

2017-10-28 01:14:04

Unreal authentic bahn-mi. Fresh ingredients with fresh jalapeño instead of normal red chili- a great switch up.

Review №74

2019-09-27 20:50:39

Delicious banh mi, owner is very friendly and good person. he helped a non customer with water for his dog would was waiting in the car

Review №75

2022-01-10 02:40:39

This place is a surprisingly great spot for a sandwich. Quick service. Soft/crunchy baguette and very tasty

Review №76

2022-01-02 21:12:34

Best banh mi I’ve had in a long time. I got the pork belly

Review №77

2022-07-17 21:09:45

Our family loved their veg spring rolls, tofu salad, and sandwich.

Review №78

2019-02-19 18:57:32

Pretty nice place. The bun tastes good, and I would recommend option 2, some crispy pork bun thing. Really good.

Review №79

2018-11-22 02:35:11

Some of the best Bahn Mi Ive ever had. Try the tofu lemongrass or the classic combination!

Review №80

2019-10-06 01:32:31

So good! Pate is fresh and the French baguette perfectly crispy on the outside. Great flavors.

Review №81

2018-08-27 21:55:57

My first Banh Mi... amazing sandwiches bursting with unique and suprising flavor!

Review №82

2022-03-14 02:24:08

Discovered this small, unassuming restaurant across from Draegers and Ive been back probably 9 times in 3 months.

Review №83

2018-01-07 17:25:08

We love this place! They have delicious pastries, excellant coffee and fabulous bon mi sandwiches.

Review №84

2021-05-25 20:29:24

Great food; good service. Banh Mis have amazing bread.

Review №85

2022-04-15 05:43:53

Excellent Banh Mi sandwich. Highly recommended.

Review №86

2020-11-19 03:46:04

Best vegan food in town! And they are so kind and personable. I love this place.

Review №87

2018-04-05 01:44:18

The most amazing cakes and banh mi. Mike and Michelle love what they do and it shows.

Review №88

2020-10-10 13:28:25

Absolutely love this place! I come here every week ever since Ive found it. Thanks a lot for the great experience.

Review №89

2019-10-17 23:09:32

First time here, flavor is good, ingredients fresh, and the bread and meat is not dry

Review №90

2021-11-09 12:49:28

Masterful takeout banh mi! So good and fresh.

Review №91

2017-10-12 22:25:51

Spacious interior and delicious lemon tart. Coffee was above average too.

Review №92

2022-08-09 19:22:41

Best banh mi I’ve ever had

Review №93

2018-05-10 06:39:14

Delicious Bahn Mi sandwiches, spring rolls, and cakes! Friendly staff.

Review №94

2017-10-15 11:00:21

Tried their bahn mi and its quite good. However, at about $9 its expensive compared to other places.

Review №95

2020-10-12 15:45:52

This place is amazing. Had a pork belly w/ pate banh mi.

Review №96

2020-04-23 23:30:07

Great vibes with Mike all the times and I just love the sandwiches.

Review №97

2021-07-28 04:02:24

Best bahn mi in the area! So delish

Review №98

2019-06-30 22:09:19

Best Bahn Mi in the Bay area. Seriously, these are ridiculously stupid good.

Review №99

2021-07-26 20:52:19

Sandwiches are so delicious and perfectly stacked with meat cheese and veggies

Review №100

2023-03-31 19:01:05

Very good original sandwich!!!

Review №101

2021-07-13 21:54:41

Banh Mi for the soul !! Extra stars for the lemongrass tofu banh mi

Review №102

2020-03-22 21:47:35

Solid Banh Mi. Been to Vietnam and it tastes exactly like this : )

Review №103

2018-02-27 19:52:16

Great banhmi and gauva mousse cake. Friendly owners

Review №104

2020-08-05 22:23:21

THE BEST Banh Mis EVER (period)

Review №105

2021-10-09 21:41:40

Truly excellent bahn mi sandwiches.

Review №106

2021-02-14 01:45:32

Love the lemon grass tofu Ban Mis

Review №107

2017-12-08 02:41:57

Great sandwiches, but a bit slow

Review №108

2021-06-21 20:43:33

Still great bahn mi!

Review №109

2018-12-14 21:04:16

Best banh mi in town!

Review №110

2021-04-28 01:02:59

Great sandwiches, exceptional service!

Review №111

2020-05-31 23:01:20

Always great bahn mi!

Review №112

2018-10-13 05:39:32

Best sandwiches! Go, now!

Review №113

2021-04-19 19:30:28

Awesome Banh mi.

Review №114

2018-05-12 19:02:50

Great banh mi and pastry

Review №115

2017-08-05 23:44:51

Great bakery and cakes!

Review №116

2020-09-26 23:21:26

Tasty banh mi sandwiches!

Review №117

2023-04-11 23:59:02

Good sandwiches!

Review №118

2018-11-01 23:36:49

Tasty

Review №119

2021-08-01 13:31:53

Delicious!

Review №120

2017-11-09 03:47:17

Good pastries. Good service.

Review №121

2017-12-21 05:21:54

Best train mi