A hot, aromatic dish priced at just $2.40 per portion has become one of the first memorable impressions for two foreign visitors in Hanoi, who found it not only delicious but surprisingly affordable - despite being served at a restaurant in the heart of the Old Quarter.

A few months ago, Marcelo and Andranna, a couple from Brazil, decided to leave behind their stable jobs in their home country to embark on a digital nomad lifestyle.

They wanted to explore new cultures and pursue their passion for international travel.

Recently, their journey brought them to Vietnam, where they chose Hanoi as a key stop to explore local street food and sample many of the city’s culinary delights.

On their very first morning in Hanoi, Marcelo found himself debating between trying traditional banh mi or opting for a more unfamiliar stir-fried noodle dish that visually reminded him of Japanese ramen.

Both are popular staples in Hanoi, beloved by locals and tourists alike. Andranna suggested choosing noodles for a heartier start to the day, so the couple headed to a nearby eatery.

The restaurant is located near the beginning of Gia Ngu Street in Hoan Kiem Ward - an area considered the center of the Old Quarter and close to the bustling Hang Be Market. It specializes in beef-based dishes like pho, stir-fried noodles, and fried rice.

While waiting for their food, the two tourists eagerly watched the open kitchen where the chef prepared their meals.

Marcelo explained that he chose the spot based on the many positive reviews it had received on Google. When they arrived, most of the seats were already occupied. The couple ordered two servings of stir-fried beef noodles, each priced at 60,000 VND (approximately $2.40).

They were surprised at how reasonably priced the meal was, especially given the prime location. The portions were generous, and the enticing aroma of the stir-fried noodles filled the air.

Marcelo admitted he wasn’t sure what kind of vegetables were mixed with the noodles but said he really enjoyed the flavor.

He found the noodles perfectly chewy and the beef tender and flavorful, making the dish all the more appealing.

The Brazilian traveler also shared that it was his first time eating a dish like this back home, and he found using chopsticks a bit challenging.

Andranna, meanwhile, couldn’t hide her delight and excitement at the dish’s golden noodles, lightly pink beef slices, and vibrant green vegetables.

“This was the first meal we had in Hanoi, so I was a little nervous about how it would taste,” she said.

“But after tasting it, I found it incredibly delicious. I really enjoyed it and felt so happy eating it.”

Impressed by the flavors of this local favorite, both tourists polished off their plates. Throughout the meal, they could be seen smiling, nodding, and expressing their satisfaction with audible enjoyment.

After finishing their breakfast and returning to their lodging, Andranna shared that this simple morning experience with stir-fried beef noodles was one of the couple’s most lasting first impressions in their journey to discover Hanoi.