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Un Bien

8.2Friend Score / 10

#13 of 19 Restaurants in Seattle

Known forPrawn sandwichTofu Delight sandwichBlack Tiger prawns entreefish entree
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Un Bien makes what many locals call Seattle's best sandwich — a Caribbean roast pork on a Macrina baguette, from the family behind the beloved former Paseo. A friend absolutely sends you here. Caveat: it's counter-service with limited seating, closed Mon-Tue, and the messy-in-the-best-way sandwich is worth the drips.

Key facts

Hours
Wed–Sat 11:00–21:00
Sun–Sun 11:00–20:00
Price$$
Phone
Website
Nearest transitMetro bus lines to Ballard; no light rail directly adjacent
Time needed30-45 minutes
Best time to goWeekday lunch or an early dinner; go off-peak to avoid the line
Last verifiedJuly 12, 2026

Friend Score

8.2/10
  • Value8.6
  • iconic6.5
  • Freshness9.2
  • Crowd level6.0
  • Authenticity8.8
  • Accessibility7.0
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Frequently asked questions

Is there seating?
It's counter-service with limited seating, so many people take their sandwiches to go or eat outside. Don't expect a full dining room. In good weather, eating nearby is part of the fun.
What should I order at Un Bien?
The Caribbean Roast pork sandwich — braised pork, marinade, sweet onions, pickled jalapeño, romaine, and aioli on a Macrina baguette — is the one to get. It's routinely called Seattle's best sandwich. Get extra napkins.
Which location should I go to?
The Ballard shop at 7302 15th Ave NW is the main one; there's also a seasonal spot on Seaview Ave near the water and one in Lower Queen Anne. Any of them serves the famous sandwich. Pick by convenience.
Is it good for vegetarians?
The star is pork, but they have other options including chicken and vegetarian-friendly items — ask at the counter. It's pork-forward though, so meat-eaters get the most out of it. Veg diners won't go hungry but the roast is the draw.
How do I get to the Ballard location?
Metro buses serve Ballard along 15th Ave NW; there's no adjacent light rail yet. It's drivable with some street parking, though the lot is tight. Transit or rideshare keeps it simple.
What are the hours?
The Ballard location is closed Monday and Tuesday, open Wednesday through Saturday 11am to 9pm, and Sunday 11am to 8pm. Plan around those closed early-week days. Other locations vary slightly, so check before a special trip.
Is Un Bien related to Paseo?
Yes — it was founded by the family behind the legendary, now-closed Paseo, carrying on that same Caribbean sandwich tradition. If you loved Paseo, this is its heir. Many say it's every bit as good.
How messy is the sandwich?
Gloriously messy — the pork and aioli make it a two-hands, lean-forward affair. That's a feature, not a bug. Grab plenty of napkins and commit.

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