Vietnamese Community Grocery Savings in Chicago: A Guide to Pho, Banh Mi, and Tet

Published August 19, 2025 | Last Updated: August 19, 2025

Chicago's Vietnamese community, with its heart in the Asia on Argyle district in Uptown, has brought a rich and flavorful cuisine to the city. Vietnamese food is known for its fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and complex flavors. Here's how to enjoy it without overspending.

The Cost of Vietnamese Ingredients

Key ingredients like high-quality fish sauce, rice noodles, and fresh herbs like Thai basil and cilantro can add up. However, many Vietnamese dishes are designed to be both delicious and economical.

A Hybrid Shopping Strategy

For the best prices and selection, combine shopping at Vietnamese and Asian markets with trips to Jewel-Osco.

Asia on Argyle & Other Asian Markets:

Best for: Fresh rice noodles, a wide variety of fresh herbs, specialty fish sauces, and Vietnamese coffee.
Strategy: These markets are also great for finding beef bones for pho at a good price.

Jewel-Osco:

Best for: Meats like beef and pork, common vegetables, and pantry staples like sugar and oil.
Strategy: Look for sales on cuts of beef like chuck roast or brisket, which are perfect for making pho. Jewel-Osco's bakery has French baguettes that are great for banh mi.

Holiday & Everyday Savings

Tet (Lunar New Year)

Tet is the most important celebration in Vietnamese culture, and it comes with a host of traditional foods.

Banh Chung/Banh Tet: These sticky rice cakes are a Tet essential. While making them is a project, it's a great way to save money and celebrate with family.
Thit Kho Hot Vit (Braised Pork and Eggs): This dish uses budget-friendly pork belly and eggs.

Everyday Vietnamese Favorites

Pho: Making pho at home is a weekend project, but it's much cheaper than eating out. A large pot can provide meals for several days.
Banh Mi: These sandwiches are a perfect example of delicious and frugal food. Use leftover grilled pork or other meats, and add inexpensive pickled vegetables and fresh herbs.
Fresh Herbs: Consider growing your own cilantro, mint, and other herbs in a small container garden to save money.

Smart Shopping Tips

Fish Sauce: This is the soul of Vietnamese cooking. Invest in a large bottle of a good quality brand.
Rice Noodles: Buy dried rice noodles in large packages from an Asian market.
Condensed Milk: For Vietnamese iced coffee, look for sales on cans of condensed milk at Jewel-Osco.

By shopping smart, you can fill your kitchen with the vibrant flavors of Vietnam any time you like.