Xe May Sandwich Shop: The East Village Spot for Must-Try Bánh Mì
Xe May Sandwich Shop in NYC serves authentic and creative bánh mì inspired by Vietnam’s motorbike culture. Try the Classic or fusion favorites like the Sidecar and Lam’bretta for a taste of bold flavors and tradition.
Walking into Xe May Sandwich Shop in the East Village feels like stepping into a slice of Vietnam’s bustling streets. The hum of scooters may not echo through the air, but the flavors of Xe May’s bánh mì sandwiches tell a story of adventure, tradition, and innovation.
Founded 13 years ago by longtime friends Alan Woo and Davis, Xe May Sandwich Shop is more than a place to grab a sandwich. It’s a tribute to Vietnam’s vibrant food culture, where motorbikes are as iconic as the meals served from their carts.
“We named the shop Xe May, which means scooter in Vietnamese,” Alan explained. “In Vietnam, sandwiches and scooters go hand in hand. Every sandwich on our menu is inspired by a motorbike—our own way of blending tradition and creativity.”
A Menu Powered by Tradition and Creativity
Xe May’s menu is a journey through classic and modern flavors, all served on perfectly crisp baguettes. One half of the menu pays homage to authentic Vietnamese bánh mì, like the Classic, a sandwich layered with Vietnamese cold cuts, pickled vegetables, and rich pâté.
“The Classic is a true taste of Vietnam,” Alan said. “It’s inspired by the Honda Cub, which was a staple motorbike for so many people in Vietnam.”
On the other half of the menu, you’ll find inventive creations like the Sidecar, featuring juicy beef steak paired with pineapple chutney. It’s a sweet and savory combination that surprises and delights. Then there’s the Lam’bretta (Lamb Brother), which has quickly become a customer favorite. Packed with tender spiced lamb, it’s a bánh mì that pushes boundaries while staying true to the shop’s roots.
“We’ve never changed our menu since we opened,” Alan shared. “Our sandwiches have become signatures, and people love coming back for their favorites. Keeping it consistent helps us ensure the best quality every time.”
A Community Staple
Over the years, Xe May has become more than just a sandwich shop. It’s a gathering place, a landmark for locals, and a spot where bonds are formed. “We’ve seen customers grow up with us,” Alan said. “Some of them have been ordering the same sandwich for 13 years. It’s an amazing feeling to be part of their lives.”
The sense of community runs deep. Alan and Davis have even been invited to customers’ weddings—just one of many signs of the genuine connections they’ve built through their food.
What’s Next for Xe May?
With the shop’s continued success, Alan and Davis are considering ways to share their bánh mì with an even wider audience. “We’re always talking about opening new locations in other boroughs,” Alan said. “It’s exciting to think about introducing more people to our style of food and sharing the joy that comes with it.”