Starting a business is tough - even more so in New York City.But Cambodian sandwich shop Num Pang has expanded to eight locations in only six years.The restaurant, started in 2009 by two college friends Ratha Chaupoly and Ben Daitz, makes expertly crafted and outrageously delicious banh mi sandwiches.It has consistently topped several NYC "best of" lists, most including Zagat's first ever 2015 NYC Fast-Casual Survey list.And while this may not be the typical fast-casual joint - modifications are simply not allowed here - the chain has taken off with a loyal clientele. Its two newest locations are set to open soon in the downtown Financial District, which is no easy task.It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of Num Pang, and the frequency of my lunches there would be embarrassing if it weren't so delicious.I decided to head over to one and show why this sandwich chain is drawing some major attention, and why it could become a force in fast-casual dining. SEE ALSO: America is falling out of love with burgersI headed over to Num Pang's NoMad location at 1129 Broadway, which is dangerously close to our offices. Such proximity is a gift and a curse.It's typically pretty busy, and I headed in around prime lunch time. The space is no-frills and small, but comfortable, with some wild graffiti art on some of the walls.Despite the crowd, the line moves shockingly fast. It's a good thing I know the menu so well, or I would've been stumped when I got to the register. They offer six regular sandwiches plus a bunch of seasonal specials, along with soups, salads, and both noodle and rice bowls.See the rest of the story at Business Insider
