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The Bahn Mi sub and spring rolls at Saigon Noodles make a satisfying meal. - Mike DeVries/The Capital Times

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For some people, a sub sandwich doesn't exactly scream "traditional Vietnamese cuisine." But don't let the surprise dissuade you from passing up the Banh Mi, a Vietnamese sandwich with French influences. It is too delicious to resist.

Simply called the "Special" at local eatery Saigon Noodles (6754 Odana Road), this hefty sub features ham, French-style pork liver pate, mayonnaise, fresh pickles, cilantro, lettuce, jalapeno peppers, carrots and onions stacked atop a baguette. The price? A whopping $3.25.

To make a full-fledged meal, throw down another $3.50 and add Saigon Noodles' massive cold spring rolls, which contain two large shrimp, steamed pork, cilantro, lettuce and bean sprouts. Or try the restaurant's sweet dessert, a treat made with homemade Vietnamese gelatin, for $2.50.

According to Ann Tran, co-owner of Saigon Noodles with her brother, Henry Tran, combining the Banh Mi with another of the restaurant's appetizers has become a popular habit with patrons since the sandwich was added to the menu about a year ago.

"Now (people) know about the sandwich, they get two items," Tran said. "It fills them up pretty well."

The Banh Mi may make a delicious meal, but it's also strictly for the on-the-go crowd.

"It's a quick meal before people go to work," said Tran, who said the sandwich is made to go only because of the restaurant's limited seating.

However, this shouldn't be a difficult arrangement for diners to manage.

"(Banh Mi) and spring rolls, you eat with your hand," she said, making this an ideal meal for an end-of-the-day commute.

Have a suggestion for Let's Eat for $7.70?

E-mail 77tips@madison.com.