The Pig and The Lady founders Andrew Le (the pig?) and his mother Loan (the lady) produce Vietnamese comfort food at three Honolulu area farmers markets. At the famed Saturday morning KCC Farmers Market, where the family’s been operating for almost two years, they set up a tented noodle bar. Yes, The Pig and the Lady was also preparing to open a brick and mortar location in Chinatown during my visit, but to the relief of regulars, will still operate at markets.

I’m a convert after trying The Pig and the Lady’s scintillating Pho French Dip, an inspired Vietnamese spin on a classic Los Angeles sandwich that either originated at Philippe The Original (my preference) or Cole’s. The Les charge $14 for a soup-and-sandwich combo, and it’s well worth the investment. A soft, crisp-in-spots baguette cradles luscious 12-hour roasted brisket that’s caramelized at the edges and oozes savory jus. Sautéed bean sprouts and onions provide textural contrast and sweetness, and bright, enlightening Thai basil chimichurri completes the sandwich. Even more fun comes when you dip the sandwich bread-first in a steaming bowl of pho ga, a pretty good bowl of chicken broth loaded with noodles, herbs, crisp bean sprouts and pulled chicken breast.