Unique twist on Asian sandwiches comes to S. University

With the popularity of Vietnamese bánh mì sandwiches on the rise nationwide, it seemed like a perfect time for restaurateur Eric Joh and his partner to bring the trend to Ann Arbor – with their own take on the cuisine. 

 

"Our sandwiches are inspired by bánh mì , but they aren't really authentic bánh mì,"says Joh of his new S. University restaurant, Belly Deli's specialty. "The only difference is that our meats are hot, and we have Korean-style beef. It's our own unique spin on the sandwich."

 

The breads used at Belly Deli are unique as well. While they have been using authentic Vietnamese breads made in Detroit, the owners are currently working with Great Harvest Breads to develop a new roll produced especially for them. 

 

"Right now we're still working on the bread," says Joh. "Great Harvest is local, and they mill their own flour, so we're happy to be working with them. It's been hard to find the right kind of bread." 

 

The new restaurant opened just over two weeks ago and employs a staff of 12. Belly Deli opened in the former, 700 square-foot No Thai location that was vacated after the popular eatery moved into the first floor of the Landmark building nearby. Joh is friends with the owners of No Thai, and says they have been helpful in developing the business. Some of the five Belly Deli co-owners are also co-owners of No Thai. 

 

Joh says he hopes to soon add delivery service and eventually expand into multiple locations.