Hippo Banh Mi

Hippo Banh Mi is a Vietnamese takeaway and sit-down spot on Puckle Street in Moonee Ponds. It's a bright, clean little shop with a seating area out the back, so you can grab a roll to go or settle in for lunch.

The crispy pork banh mi is a standout, with generous portions and crispy crackling that keeps people coming back. We've heard it praised for its glaze, the crunchy crackling on top and the pickled carrot, with a light hand on the pate so it's there without taking over. The meat portions are generous, which is a big part of why people call it good value. The double pork special and the Vietnamese sausage and pork roll also have their fans, and one regular is hooked on the homemade sauce. If you like your roll on the saucier side, you'll be well looked after.

It isn't only about pork. There's grilled chicken, bulgogi and a tofu banh mi, and the teriyaki tofu vermicelli bowl gets a nod from people after something lighter. Vegetarian and vegan options are on the menu, which makes it an easy pick for a mixed group. On the drinks side, the Vietnamese iced coffee gets plenty of love, described as rich, aromatic and strong, and there's a white peach iced tea for anyone avoiding caffeine.

The service is the other thing people bring up. Staff are friendly, happy to talk you through the menu and quick to suggest what's good, and more than one visitor has mentioned feeling welcomed the moment they walked in. The wait for an order is also said to be short, even at busy times. It's a comfortable spot with kids in tow, too.

Besides dine-in and takeaway, Hippo Banh Mi does delivery and catering, so it suits a team lunch or a family order as well as a quick bite. Online ordering is available if you'd rather skip the queue. The shop is open daily, though it's worth a quick check of the hours before you head in.