Nhu Lan Bakery

If you're after a banh mi in Footscray, Nhu Lan Bakery is a name you'll hear early. It's a takeaway-only spot, so there's no dining in. The usual move is to grab your roll and carry it to the open space a short walk down the street. It sits across the road from Footscray Station, which makes it an easy stop if you're coming in by train. We hear parking can be a bit fiddly, though there's free street parking and a car park listed.

What people keep coming back for is the bread. Locals talk about a crackly, shatter-crisp crust with a soft inside, and the sign promising "hot and fresh" gets a nod from those who've queued for it. One person who tried the sesame bun called it steaming hot and very authentic. The pork rolls are a favourite, from the roast pork to the BBQ pork roll and the crackling pork, and the pate and homemade mayo come in for particular praise. There's a tofu option too, and chicken has its fans. People mention being able to pick from a few different fillings, and the pastries are sold from a separate counter inside the shop.

The queue is part of the experience. It often runs out the door, but the team behind the counter moves it along fast, and the service is friendly. Several people mention being in and out within minutes. Prices are regularly described as good value for what you get, and locals say the fillings are generous.

To be fair, opinion isn't unanimous. Some say the flavour could be pushed a little further, and a few compare it against other Melbourne banh mi favourites and think those edge it out. That's a fair thing to hear about a spot with this much of a following. If you want coffee or breakfast alongside your roll, those are on offer, and cards and mobile payments are accepted.

The doors open early and stay open through the afternoon, seven days a week, so it suits a breakfast or lunch run. Check the hours before you head over, and expect a short wait at peak times.