Two Travelers Revisit a Beloved Hanoi Eatery

After a seven-year gap, two tourists returned to Hanoi, motivated by a memorable experience at a local restaurant that served delicious bun bo (beef noodle soup). They praised it as the best meal they had ever encountered in the city.

Danny from England and Diggy from Poland, both avid travelers, returned to Hanoi to indulge in the rich culture and cuisine they cherished. They aimed to savor their favorite dishes during a week-long stay.

Notably, bun bo was the main reason for their return, as it had greatly impressed them during their previous visit.

The duo revisited a quaint eatery on Luong Ngoc Quyen Street in the Hoan Kiem District, where they originally enjoyed the wonderful flavors of bun bo and the friendly service from the owner.

Upon their arrival, the elderly owner recognized them and welcomed them with open arms. Diggy expressed her joy at returning to this beloved spot.

During their visit, Diggy eagerly ordered two bowls of bun bo, calling it “the best dish I’ve ever had in the capital.”

She appreciated the dish’s freshness, accompanied by a variety of raw vegetables, while Danny enjoyed the chili oil served on the side.

Danny praised the soup’s subtle sourness, the aromatic tomatoes, and its vibrant color. He also highlighted the tender beef and flavorful fried onions that enhanced the meal.

Diggy was enchanted by the dish’s taste, admitting it was “so delicious that words cannot describe it.” She noted the generous servings, juicy beef, and the delightful blend of sweet and tangy tomato flavors.

The travelers were pleasantly surprised by how the dish maintained its flavor over the years and were touched by the attentive nature of the shopkeeper.

“She watched us eat, showed us how to best enjoy the dish, and checked in on us frequently. We were also glad to capture the moment on video. This was the true reason we returned—not just for the food, but to reconnect with her,” Diggy shared.

Diggy reiterated her fondness for the bun bo, citing it as one of the high points of their trip. Danny encouraged others to try the dish:

“If you come here, you won’t regret it. Make sure to sample the best bun bo in Hanoi—I guarantee it!”

The couple spent 130,000 VND (around $5.30) for their meal, which included two bowls of bun bo, fried doughsticks, and iced tea. They deemed the price very reasonable considering the quality and nostalgic experience.