A Banh Mi for Two

In the bustling city of Sài Gòn, Lan, a dedicated and dutiful daughter, strives to keep her family's bánh mì stall afloat while caring for her widowed mother. Beneath this veneer of responsibility lies her heartfelt passion for A Banh Mi for Two, the food blog she lovingly started with her late father. However, since his passing, Lan has found it too painful to continue updating the blog, leaving its content static and her heart heavy with unresolved grief.

Meanwhile, across the world in the United States, Vietnamese American Vivi Huynh has grown up with only fragmented tales of Vietnam, a land her parents seldom mention but deeply miss. For Vivi, her connection to Sài Gòn has been vividly painted through the vibrant posts of the now inactive A Banh Mi for Two, her favourite food blog that celebrates the city's delectable street food. In a bold move, Vivi decides to study abroad in Vietnam during her freshman year of college, hoping to uncover her parents' past and the circumstances that led to their departure from their homeland.

Upon arriving in Sài Gòn, fate brings Vivi and Lan together. Despite their different backgrounds, an instant bond forms between them. Lan, familiar with the city’s every nook and cranny, becomes Vivi’s guide, helping her locate historical landmarks from her mother’s old photographs. In turn, Vivi encourages Lan to rekindle her passion for writing and food photography, nudging her to enter an esteemed food blogging contest.

As Lan and Vivi delve deeper into the heart of Sài Gòn, they not only rediscover the city’s hidden gems but also embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Their collaboration brings unexpected rewards, drawing them closer as they navigate their shared love for food and uncover poignant truths about their families’ histories. Through their shared experiences and the pursuit of their passions, Lan and Vivi realise that their connection is far more profound than they ever imagined.

A Banh Mi for Two is a heartwarming tale that explores themes of identity, cultural heritage, and the healing power of food. It beautifully captures the vibrant spirit of Sài Gòn and the intricate bonds that tie us to our roots, making it a deliciously engaging read for food lovers and anyone who cherishes stories about family and self-discovery.