During a 4-day trip to Hanoi, Ted Aroi from Taiwan (China), currently living in Bangkok, sampled 10 different bowls of pho, Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup. Among them, he declared the mixed beef pho from Goc Gao restaurant his favorite.

Ted shared that the pho spots he visited were highly rated on Google by international travelers. Many are famous establishments located in Hanoi's Old Quarter, including Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su (Ly Quoc Su Street), Pho Thin Bo Ho (Dinh Tien Hoang Street), Pho Ong Vui (Hang Giay Street), Pho Suong (Trung Yen alley), Pho Khoi Hoi (Hang Vai Street), and Pho Gia Truyen Bat Dan (Bat Dan Street).

He also explored lesser-known places such as Pho Ganh Co Thoa (Hang Chieu Street), Pho Manh Cuong (Hang Muoi Street), Pho Ly Beo (Hang Non Street), and Pho Bo Goc Gao (Ngoc Ha Street).

To ensure a fair comparison, Ted ordered the mixed beef pho (pho thap cam) at every place, which typically includes various beef cuts. Prices ranged from 50,000 to 105,000 VND (approximately 2 to 4.40 USD). He noted that each eatery had a distinctive flavor, which might appeal to some more than others.

Among the 10, the pho at Goc Gao stood out the most. Ted praised its rich broth, thick and flavorful; its soft noodles that absorbed the beefy essence; and its generous portions of various beef cuts including braised beef, rare slices, brisket, flank, and tendon - all for just 50,000 VND (about 2 USD). He also appreciated the local, authentic atmosphere, as the restaurant is located outside the Old Quarter and offers more affordable pricing.

His other two favorites were Pho Suong and Pho Thin Bo Ho. He said Pho Suong had a similar profile to Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su but with a distinctive twist. The shop wasn’t too crowded, allowing for a more relaxed dining experience, and its special bowl was priced reasonably at 80,000 VND (about 3.35 USD).

As for Pho Thin Bo Ho, he commended its well-balanced taste, large portion size, and the freshness of the ingredients. The bowl, costing 100,000 VND (about 4.20 USD), came filled with a variety of beef cuts and chopped scallions. Ted especially liked the thinly sliced cooked beef, noting its tenderness and rich flavor.