What makes you more delicious than other sandwiches?

My refreshing combination of cucumber slices and cilantro piled on layers of pickled carrots and radishes, jalapeño peppers, and barbecued pork (or chicken) all tucked inside a crispy French baguette. My unique ingredients create a complex marriage of flavors; one bite will make you wish your whole face were covered with taste buds. Plus, I cost a mere $2.25, and thrift is delicious.

How did such a wonderful sandwich as you come about?

It couldn't have happened without colonization. I'd like to give a shout-out to French imperialism for introducing Vietnam to bread and mayonnaise.

Do you have a vegetarian equivalent?

All vegetarians should be able to compromise their morals for barbecued pork every now and again. I am a damned delicious sandwich.

Any advice for future Seattle Deli patrons?

If you don't speak Vietnamese, learn to point and smile. Everything at Seattle Deli is cheap and delicious, so tip generously. And get your sandwich order in early in the day before all the barbecued pork is snarfed up.

Interview by Cienna Madrid