Lee’s Sandwiches
About
Lee’s Sandwiches, a well-known name in Vietnamese-American cuisine, traces its roots back to 1980 when founder Chieu Le arrived in San Jose. As he adapted to life in America, Chieu took English classes while frequently purchasing food from catering trucks. Recognizing a business opportunity, he began working on a catering truck before purchasing his own in 1981, launching his first food service route in San Jose.
Realizing the growing need for proper facilities where catering trucks could park, clean, and restock, Chieu and his brother Henry Le founded Lee Bros. Foodservices, Inc. in 1982. This venture provided crucial support for mobile food vendors, marking the family’s first major step into the food industry.
In 1983, Chieu’s parents, Ba Le and Hanh Nguyen, introduced banh mi sandwiches to students and local residents in San Jose. Their fresh, flavorful sandwiches quickly gained popularity, leading them to open the first Lee’s Sandwiches storefront on Santa Clara Street in San Jose.
By 2001, Chieu and his eldest son, Minh, envisioned a broader concept for the brand. They expanded the menu to include European-style sandwiches, fresh-baked baguettes, croissants, and a diverse selection of beverages, including the now-iconic Lee’s Coffee. The family embraced this evolution, launching their first Southern California store on Bolsa Avenue in Westminster. The success of this concept fueled rapid expansion, and today, Lee’s Sandwiches boasts over sixty locations across multiple states.
One of its thriving locations is in Alhambra’s Valley Square, where customers enjoy the brand’s signature strong and sweet coffee and crisp, fresh banh mi sandwiches. Patrons also praise the quick service and menu items, which include pastries like macarons and croissants, as well as Vietnamese favorites such as egg rolls.
More than just a restaurant, Lee’s Sandwiches represents family, tradition, and hard work. In addition to its storefronts, the brand offers online ordering, delivery, and catering, ensuring that its beloved flavors are accessible to customers near and far.
Recommended Items
BBQ Pork Sandwich
Chinese-style BBQ pork with house-pickled daikon and carrot, fresh onion, jalapeño, cilantro, a touch of salt & pepper, soy sauce, and house-made mayonnaise, all served in a crisp 10” baguette.
Pâté Chaud
Pâté Chaud (Bánh Patê Sô) is a flaky, buttery Vietnamese pastry filled with savory seasoned meat, typically ground pork or chicken.
Contact
(626)413-5200
www.jollibeefoods.com