Food explorer.. exploring Goaaa....
Food is what I live for and food is what I die for. I'm a foodie to the core. I like to try new things as much as I like to devour on my all time favorites. I'm basically from Goa... A place of seafood and booze. So, obviously, I'm fond of both. After marriage I shifted to Mumbai and I have reduced on drinking main reason being apart from beer everything else is whooping expensive. According to me, food should be delicious and affordable.
My food journey starts from the time I was in college and I learnt that restaurants serve some deliciously mouth watering food. During those days, the options available were limited and limited pocket money as well. So, we had to make do with what was available.
1. Shevpuri stall no 19 at Miramar beach.
To start with, our most common and everyday eatery was shevpuri stalls at the beach as our college was right on the beach itself. Whenever we were low on cash, we used to head out to the Shevpuri Stall no. 19. Even today, 10 years after leaving college, we still go to stall 19 for shevpuri & panipuri. Because he makes the most amazing chaat in the whole world. Just imagining pani puri with thanda paani and hot ragda, my mouth started watering.
2. Edu's Resutant Miramar
This was the closest restaurant to our college wherein we could go during lunch break and come back. But many times, we used to not end up going to college at all. Edu's used to serve the best Chicken tandoori and chicken lollipop. They also had pizzas full of various toppings. The restaurant was a quiet small but had outdoor seating. The staff was always very courteous. We celebrated many of our birthdays here and also took take away to celebrate elsewhere.
Right next to this restaurant, is the famous Magson's supermarket which was the only place in Panaji to offer imported products (chocolates, sauces, cheese) in those days. They also had a ice cream corner. After I delicious food at Edu's followed by the ice cream, we used to head to the beach... ohh.. I mean college.
3. Monginis Miramar
Several times during college days, we were found in Monginis sitting with all our journals open on the table and gorging the chicken puff. Monginis is a saviour wherever you go. Now a days people don't prefer Monginis so much because of the new cake shops in the market. But Monginis has maintained its name in the industry. Earlier Monginis was located opposite Neomi's beauty parlour. Monginis also serves nice cakes and pastries.
4. Trupt Miramar
At the place next to Hallmark gift shop once stood a restaurant called Trupt. That actually made us trupt. It was right next to the college ad served lovely Chinese food. It was like a hideout from the college. But that restaurant did not last for long and the place is still unoccupied.
5. Baskin Robbin's Miramar circle
Baskin Robbin's was newly launched in Goa and they had put up a stall at the Miramar circle. It was a new thing for us. So, we college girls went to the store. While going through the flavour they offer, we saw Rum-punch flavour and its ingredients. Excited to try the ice cream flavour with Rum thinking we might get high, we bought the Rum-punch. Highly disappointed with the fact that Rumpunch did not give us a kick, went back to the class for next lectures.
6. Cafe Coffee Day Miramar
Those were the days when Cafe Coffee Day was a luxury. We had gone for a college trip for which we had paid a certain amount of money but all students got Rs.200 back as the total cost had been lesser than estimated. So,instead of giving that money back to parents, we three friends splurged at cafe Coffee Day ordering various new items we had never seen before. Sizzling Hot brownie, Devil's own still are my favourite. We also had sandwiches and rolls. But till date cold coffee is the best in CCD.
7. Peep Kitchen Caranzalem
There was a different restaurant at this place earlier called Arvi's Thikana and Peep kitchen was a takeaway located at St.Inez which used to delicious food at affordable price. Both the restaurants were worth a mention. Then, they shifted to Caranzalem. This is a beautiful place right on the road and has outdoor seating as well as AC section. The decor of the restaurant is amazing with Mario Miranda cartoons on the wall and a small fountain. Most importantly, they serve delicious sea food and of course chicken.
8. Sea Pebble Dona Paul
This is another hidden jewel of those days. This restaurant is located on the beach but to get there, one has to climb down the stairs from a hill and it cannot be seen from the road. The location is picturesque may it be lunch or dinner. This place gives a great view of the Dona Paul jetty. They serve mouthwatering seafood and refreshing cocktails/ mocktails. The staff is very helpful. The decor is minimal as this is sea side restaurant kind of a shack. But the best part of this restaurant is that they have karaoke nights. Extra perks if you visit here.
9. Texas Panaji
During college days, you tend to go to big restaurants only on special occasions. There was one such occasion when we friends had gone to Texas Restaurant in Panaji. They had a cowboy theme going on at the restaurant wherein all the waiters were dressed in cowboy clothes. The ambiance of Texas is very welcoming with a separate bar counter. The food here was average. Not revisited the place yet.
10. Sanyog Panaji
Sanyog Veg restaurant in Panaji was a savior on all those veg days when we could not have non veg food and always ended up in Sanyog. Till date, if we have to eat out on a veg day, we prefer Sanyog. They have the tastiest Chinese which starters which does not let you crave for chicken. Its simply delicious. May it be Gobi Manchurian, Paneer Chilly, Paneer Manchurian, Mushroom chilly or any other starter. Their hot as well cold coffee is very soothing. Also, all time favorite Nimbu soda. We also sometimes hog on paav bhaaji here which is again lovely. Sanyog is a small place but very well organized and seems like a large place with ac and non ac sections. They also provide takeaway and home delivery services.
11. Legacy of Bombay
This is one of the food outlet of the food enclave of Hotel Fidalgo. LOB serves Indian/ South Indian food. This restaurant faces 18th June Road and is very affordable for the standards of a four star hotel. The ambiance is very lively and it provides luxury of a four star along with the authenticity of a typical Indian restaurant. They have amazing Dosa and delicious sambhar. A must try.
12. Mirch Masala
Since I started with Hotel Fidalgo restaurants, let me finish them together. Mirch Masala is north Indian Mughlai kind of restaurant.The ambiance very classy. I had been here for a wine festival and the service and the food was impeccable.
13. Chilli n Spice
Chilli n Spice restaurant has been renovated recently and I have not been to the new restaurant yet. But to speak of the old Chilli n Spice Restaurant, it was beautiful. We had been there for a birthday celebration and they offered us a cake on behalf of the hotel. That was a sweetest gesture. Chilli n Spice is a place of loud music and low lighting suitable for dinners. It is very cozy. This is a multi-cuisine restaurant and they have amazing menu. They also have buffet system. Overall a great place. Waiting to visit the renovated Chilli n Spice.
14. Aunty Maria
Aunty Maria is a friend to all the people of Panaji. The cake they gave us for the birthday celebration in Aunty Maria is was so chocolaty and moist that I instantly became a fan of Aunty Maria cakes. They are still my favorites. The service here is very friendly and they have variety of items from bakery & pastry. But the best is their chocolate cake.
PS: Hotel Fidalgo has 2 more restaurants O Goa for seafood and Bhojan for Gujrati Thali but I have not visited these yet.
15. Ritz Classic Panaji
If you are in Panaji and your taste buds are craving for fish wherein your budget is about average, go only to Ritz classic. This is located near Panaji Municipality Office and is little difficult to locate as the entry is from behind the building. They serve delicious seafood. I have been to this place many times and if its afternoon, make sure you go a bit early as it is always crowded. Once when I was at Ritz for lunch, we ordered for a fish platter and it was one of the amazing things. The platter was filled with various kinds of fish prepared using different ingredients. Their fish Thali is also superb. While placing order, they bring the raw fish out for the customers to see. Also, worth mentioning is their crabs may it be in any dish. You never become satisfied visiting this place once.
16. Pasteleria Panaji
This is a small bakery shop near Mahalaxmi Temple in the city of Panaji. This is the first cake shop I have known of as it is located near my school. My dad used to take me to this place for chicken puff when in school. I have not been there lately but I still remember the taste of their Chicken puff & Prawns puff.
17. Pastry Cottage Panaji
I found this place during my higher secondary days during the recess break, and it still remains to be my favorite for certain food items. Firstly, they have lovely cakes. I'm a chocolate fan and I love everything that has chocolate in it. Some worth mentioning are chocolate Swiss roll, Chocolate mouse, etc. What I crave for from Pastry cottage is their Prawns Rissois and Chicken lollipop. They have tasty prepacked chicken lollipop which leaves you licking your fingers.
18. NJOs Panaji
I really regret that NJOs is closed down. It was one of the unique food joints I have known. The full form of NJOs is Not Just Omelettes. This was a small place located near Wisdom Book shop in Panaji. As the name suggests, it was only based on eggs and it was out of the world. The place was very cozy and colorful. They had several lovely items made from eggs like burgers, variety of omelettes, panini, pizza. It was like egg fiesta. Whatever you can imagine with an egg, they had it.
19. Creme Center Panaji
I know this place since childhood only because of gadbad. Gadbad is an ice cream sundae with 3 different scoops vanilla strawberry and mango. In normally don't like strawberry ice cream but the taste of this ice cream is entirely different. I have heard that the owners make the ice creams themselves and add to the sundae. It also has a layer of jelly and nuts. I can even finish 2 gadbads at a time.
20. Crazy corner Panaji
This is a small shop cum ice cream parlor in Panaji exactly opposite old education department. At first look, you don't even realize they have ice creams. This place had a different charm during my college days. They served something called Fruit Romance which was ultimate. It is an ice cream with 3 scoops just like gadbad but it has a layer of american chocolate and different fruits. It was so unique that I told all my friends about it and took them here. But their quality started going down over time. I have not even visited the place for last 3-4 years.
21. Navtara
If you happen to be in Panaji market area shopping and you are veg, you definitely head to Navtara. A spacious restaurant with ground floor and first floor (AC) section. Their service is very quick as they continuously have customers. You visit at any time and you will find it filled, but not to mention, you will always find a place for you. In Navtara, you have to order Cheese Masala Dosa and Mushroom Xacuti. Cheese Masala Dosa has so much cheese in it that you just can't finish the entire dosa. Mushroom Xacuti is like reincarnation of Chicken Xacuti for vegetarians. Navtara also has other branches in Mapusa, Porvorim, Calangute, etc. The quality and service is the same at every outlet.
22. Cafe Mutto/ Husna Dine Panaji
This restaurant in the Panaji market area is perfect for its chicken items. The Place started off as Cafe Mutto and then renamed as Husna Dine. This place is one of the best places if you want to have good veg as well as non veg today, They have variety of dishes in their. I had one of the best Chicken Liver Masala here.
23. Royal Foods Panaji
Royal Foods is actually a place to buy chicken broilers but they also serve cooked items. They serve packed Biryani, fried Rice, lollipops, Tandoori, various chicken rolls and gravy items. The taste of food here varies from time to time.
24. Limbu Soda junctions Panaji
I'm a big fan of Limbu Soda. Limbu Soda instantly relaxes your mind as well as body and lifts your spirit. It is also easily available everywhere in Goa and is one of the best options while dining out. Some of my favorite Limbu Soda places include the stall near Dempo House in Panaji market, 2 stalls in panaji market lanes and 2 stalls near Vishal Mega Mart.
25. Shivsagar Panaji
Earlier the place next to the chapel near Airtel Gallery in Panaji had a veg restaurant Shivsagar. It got closed down later. The place was average and I did not find anything worth a mention here.
26. Niyaaz Biryani Panaji
The same place which earlier housed Shivsagar, was later occupied by the famous Belgaum Niyaaz Biryani. The Mughlai food here is really amazing. The quantity of 1 portion Biryani is easily sufficient for 3 people. They have quantity as well as quality. This place was also closed down later. Now they have a take away at Merces junction.
27. ROC Panaji
ROC meaning Royal Only Chicken is based entirely on the concept of KFC. This outlet was first of its kind in Panaji and became instant hits with kids and youngsters because of the food it provided at affordable price. This place is opposite Panaji Police station near Geeta Bakery. The sitting area is upstairs and has different seating arrangements available i.e. Sofas, chairs, high chairs, etc. The chicken appetizers here are very tasty and filling. My favorites are Chicken Lollies and Zesty Grilled Chicken. Their meals are the best things as they have various items in the meal at affordable price.
28. Quarterdeck Panaji
This is one of the restaurants in Panaji which has beautiful location. It is located on the Mandovi riverside next to the jetty. This property belongs to Hotel Mandovi. I visited this place during one of our late night escapades. The food price here is slightly above average. But the food is delicious and the service is impeccable.
29. Anandashram Panaji
This is a hidden gem and if find it once, you go there often. Located on Fontainhas bylanes this place is difficult to find. They serve everything related to fish. We had fish thali which was sumptuous with fried fish, kismoor, clams and the best and the last solkadi. We also tasted serradura here for the first time. Serradura is a Portuguese dessert made from whipped cream.The place is always so crowded that there is no authentic service that you receive at this restaurant. A must visit for seafood.
30. Venite Panaji
This is a Portuguese style restaurant located on Fontainhas bylanes in Panaji. This restaurant is housed in an old Portuguese villa and it preserves the architecture and beauty of old days. The food is very costly. We had gone here to have lunch but ended ordering only a dessert since we were low on budget. The waiters kept looking at our stunt the entire time.
31. Ruchira Panaji
One more of our tragic visit to a restaurant wherein we walked out after having a drink because of the non-affordable price. During college days, because of limited pocket money, we could not indulge in food as we do now. The place was average but the service was good. This restaurant belongs to Panaji Residency near old secretariat.
32. New Punjab Panaji
Name of the place is not to be confused with the cuisine they serve. Along with North Indian and Mughlai dishes, this place serves authentic Goan food. This is a classic Goan bar & restaurant which offers cheap alcohol. Its located near church square. The fried fish is amazing here. A must try.
33. Gazali Panaji
This again is an authentic Fish Thali restaurant. This restaurant is located Near Church square but is slightly on the hill and a sign board on the road can you to the place. They always have some or the other fresh catch that is listed on today's special. Make sure to try that. This place does not have very good service because of the rush they have. Its a must visit for fish lovers.
34. Watson's Panaji
A beautiful place in the middle of Panjim city. It's situated near Hindu pharmacy in an old Portuguese structure. The ambiance of the place is captivating. One side there is high sitting like in a pub. Other side is like a garden restaurant with light streaming in through glass panels in the roof. The food is average. We had tandoori prawns which was good. Seafood rissois had less filling. Chonak masala fry was ok. Thali was amazing and for less price. Thali had kingfish fry, prawns curry, tisryo masala, kismoor and so on. The kokum curry was the best part of the Thali. Service delivery was very quick. Overall an average restaurant.
35. Kokni Kanteen Panaji
One of the newly opened and most talked about restaurant in Panjim. Kokni Kanteen is located in the heart of Panjim city near Mahalaxmi temple. This place earlier occupied a similar restaurant named Suvadik. We visited the restaurant on a busy afternoon of Wednesday. We had to wait for about minutes to get a table. This is a small restaurant with perfect Goan setting. The decor is very much Goan with old pictures of Goa displayed on the wall. The food was about average. We went for the basic Fish Thali along with butter garlic squids. They have wide menu for drinks but the food menu seemed limited. We ordered Kastad Mojito cocktail which contains kokam instead of lime juice. The fish in the Thali was modso which was delicious. I did not find anything extraordinary about the restaurant.
A beautiful place in Dona Paul which gives you the perfect feeling of Goa. Its located immediately after Dona Paul circle towards the left. This restaurant wins your heart as you enter the place because of its colorful decor. The food is so authentic that it keeps reminding you of the food your grandma or mom used to make. In the menu, they have a section called lost recipes wherein they have items like kalwa Dhabdhabe, Danger, etc. For starters, we had Prawns, Squids and Mussels. I was in Goa for about 2 weeks and had done asking for mussels at every restaurant I visited but nobody had them. Thanks to The Goan Room, I finally got to have my favorite mussels rava fry and they were tasty. We also had Kalwa Dhabdhabe and Chicken Cafreal with paav for main course. The quantity was quite sufficient and everything served was mouth watering.The service was impeccable. We also tried the beer Bira white. We had a friend among with us who was a vegetarian and seriously have no idea how he survived with all that aroma of fish. A sure to visit again place.
40. Kismoor Taleigao
41. Tao Panaji
Tao is a Chinese restaurant located on the DB Road near Bal Bhavan. This restaurant has outdoor as well indoor seating arrangement. The ambiance of the hotel is very welcoming. Its a prefect place for dinner date because of its dim lighting. I had been here for a quick dinner. The service is very good. The price is average. You have to visit here if you are fond of Chinese cuisine.
42. Thai n Wok Panaji
A beautiful Thai n Oriental restaurant at Campal on the Marriott's lane. The place has beautiful decor and ambiance. The service seems quite authentic because of the north eastern crowd working there as stewards. The food is delicious and it makes you want for more.
43. Carasid
One of the best cake shops in Panaji. It would be unfair if I only say cake shop. They also serve some of the mouth watering snacks. My favorites are their chicken sandwiches. In recent days, if I need a good cake, I visit Carasid. It never disappoints. My favorite cake is Chocolate ecstasy which is so amazing..it just melts in your mouth.It has 3 layers each of chocolate, coffee and vanilla. Once I had ordered a kg chocolate cake for a birthday and everybody loved the cake so much.
44. Celebrations Miramar
A place where I enjoyed a lot with my friends. We have had several parties here. This place is perfect. Its cheap and you get good food here. Seafood as well as chicken dishes are awesome. They offer lovely fried fish especially mackeral racheado.
45. Superfrango's Caranzalem
This is one of the unique places near Panaji. It soon became famous after opening. This is a small food joint right on the Caranzalem road. Later, they opened another outlet in Panaji city. They serve snacks like sandwiches, burgers, etc. Their meals are really great, pocket friendly and filling.
46. O'cozinheiro Caranzalem
A beautiful garden restaurant located at Caranzalem. Its a little difficult to find as it is actually near a field. It has outdoor as well as indoor seating. The decor of the place is beautiful. The place was not at all crowded. We were sitting outside at the garden. The food here was amazing. We gorged on seafood only. We ordered some yummy dish of crab which came with poli (Goan bread), prawns, fish fingers and rice. All the food was delicious and filling. Worth a visit second time.
47. Delicieux Panaji
Another gem in the list of cake shops in panaji. Originally located near Pharmacy College in Panaji, this place has now shifted to Miramar near Bina Punjani studio. They serve the best hot chocolate in the world. Their pastries are also yumm especially tiramisu, opera,fudge cake. Among the snacks at Delicieux, panini is a must try. Their ambiance is welcoming and cozy. They have lovely sofas in which u sink on sitting.
48. The Chocolate Room Panaji
The Chocolate Room is a chain cake shop and it has outlets at various places. My first experience with Chocolate Room was at Delfino's supermarket Porvorim. Here, we had some delicious chocolate shakes. They now have a full fledged outlet with proper seating in Panaji opposite Baskin's Robbins near Don Bosco School. We ordered for Thank God its Sundae and it seriously was heavenly. Never tasted anything better. It had ice cream, brownie, chocolate sauce and everything chocolaty.
49. Barbeque Nation Panaji
I have been to other barbeque nation restaurants in Mumbai, But the one in Panaji beats them all because of the perfect taste of seafood. This restaurant is located in the Caculo Mall building.We just could not stop the prawns barbeque. They just kept coming. Even the main course was delicious. We did not eat much of main course as we had filled our tummys with barbequed prawns, fish n chicken. The dessert spread was again huge and lovely. This is one of the best places and wish to visit it again soon.
50. Mainland China Panaji
Mainland China is again located in the Caculo Mall building. This place has beautiful ambiance and lovely decor but the food was average. Highly priced and the food was not at all tasty. I have not visited any other outlets of Mainland China but its somewhat off my list.We went for the buffet dinner and food was not up to the mark,
51. The Junction Panaji
This is another newly opened restaurant in the Caculo Mall Building. The food here is average. But this place is a must visit for its decor. It is decorated using auto parts; its simply amazing the work they have done on this restaurant. Let me warn you, the quantity of starters is less but is compensated by the main course.
55. Miles High Bakehouse Panaji
Been to this place as my best friend had craving for cheese cake. And, cheesecakes here are such that I too went crazy for them. The place is very nice with comfortable seating. Once you are inside, you don'e even realize the place is just next to one of busiest crossroads of Panaji city. The service is perfect for a star restaurant. Snacks and pastries are just amazing.
63. Viva Panjim Panaji
This is the perfect hidden gem that I did not know existed in the very city I lived for about 24 years. Viva Panjim is located at Mala near Mary Immaculate School. Its an easy to miss place but the sign board on the road guides you right. A beautiful Portuguese style house converted into a restaurant. There is outside seating like on a veranda and inside seating. They have nice bar setting and serve delicious drinks. The food is just mid blowing. You can order for anything and I'm sure it will be amazing. The service is good. The ambiance is so welcoming that you don't feel like leaving the place.
A lovely place at Altinho tucked in the Sunaparant Art Gallery. First and foremost this is a beautiful cafe housed in a huge old Portuguese Villa turned into an art gallery. The seating is very comfortable and in the open. The food is delicious. They have lovely cup cakes and quiche. The price is average. The only drawback is that since the gallery closes at 6, there is no access to this place post that.
This is the first KFC outlet to be opened in Goa and the Caculo Mall had become the weekend spot for every Goan family mainly because of this. KFC is the same wherever you go and they serve the same finger licking juicy tender chicken.
It is not very frequently visited but a good veg restaurant nonetheless. It is located on 18th June Road near Bombay Bazaar. This restaurant is moderately priced and serve delicious veg items.
A not so well known restaurant near Municipal Garden where you get good and pocket friendly food. The ambiance is quite good and welcoming. This restaurant serves delicious sea food. Service here is quick.
This was the first Italian restaurant I had ever been to. It closed down long back but it was one of its own. It was located near Bal Bhavan. I had my first pasta here and I'm a die hard fan of pasta till date. This restaurant was slightly overpriced but the food was worth it.
I guess, with this ends my journey of food in Panaji. Now, we will venture to places outside of Panaji.
This sums up to be one of the best places in the whole world. They have delicious chicken cafreal, even the smell of which makes me dizzy. I love this place but my husband crazy about the chicken cafreal here. Once, while I had come to Goa without my husband, I parceled the chicken cafreal for him. I still remember the look on his face when he ate it almost after a year. During our every visit to Goa, its a must I visit Florentine. This place is not open beyond three pm. They also have cafreal in other variants like fish. The taste of cafreal here is not matched by any other place. Their fried fish is also delicious may it be masala fry or rava fry. And last but not the least, The Caramel Custard.. Its heavenly. I can easily finish 3 at a time. The service is very good and prompt. The place is lovely with open seating. They also serve alcohol which is quite cheap. This restaurant is located just after Saligao Cross Road on the way towards Calangute.
If you want to have only fish, go to Rita's. It is located at Nerul on the way to Coco beach. Its a difficult to find as it is in the hinterland but the locals will surely help you locate this place. They have amazing sea food... I have heard they have their own boat for catching fish; hence the fresh fish. The service good and quick. The waiters tell you the special of the day and that is always great. They have almost all types of fish amazingly done. They also serve superb butter chicken. Alcohol again is cheap. Price and the taste is what rita's is known for....
This restaurant is located in Baga away from the beach near Mackie's Saturday night bazaar. It is an open restaurant beautifully decorated with plants and various murals. The service is quick and the food is absolutely delicious. The best part about the food was Balti Chicken which served in a brass bucket. It is slightly overpriced but the food makes it worth it.
This is one of the lovely restaurants located at Mayem just near the lake. I visited this restaurant with my cousins. It was one of those days we sneaked out of the house on a veg day. The food here is cheap and delicious. The ambiance is very cozy and service is quick. We ordered for fish and chicken and all the preparations were lovely.
I never till now understood how to describe the food at Sai's. Firstly, they have the best fish items I have ever tasted. The fish is fresh and cooked in yummy masala. Its very affordable. We mostly visit there when we want to eat lots of fish. Even if I order one item each of every fish, the bill does not cross 2000. They also have delicious cocktails. This restaurant is located at Arpora. The decor is like a shack with AC seating on first floor. It is newly renovated to incorporate AC section. They serve all kinds of fish and chicken items. But, I eat only eat fish here. My must try list is very long: Prawns Cocktail, Chonak, Kingfish, Mussels, Prawns Rawa fry and masala fry, stuffed Papad with prawns, Squids Butter Garlic, Clear crab soup, crispy fried prawns and squids, and so on. My mouth started watering thinking...
This restaurant became famous in short span because of its Fish Thali specially the Jumbo Thali. This restaurant is located in the interiors of Porvorim and you have to look at the sign boards to reach this place. Normal price of fish is slightly above average but the Thali is worth it for the price at which it is offered. The jumbo Thali has several items such as rice, fish curry, Shark masala, Crab sukha, fried fish, Tisrya masala, Chicken xacuti, kismoor and the other regular items. Its worth a visit for the Thali. This restaurant is like a garden restaurant with open seating.
1. Shevpuri stall no 19 at Miramar beach.
To start with, our most common and everyday eatery was shevpuri stalls at the beach as our college was right on the beach itself. Whenever we were low on cash, we used to head out to the Shevpuri Stall no. 19. Even today, 10 years after leaving college, we still go to stall 19 for shevpuri & panipuri. Because he makes the most amazing chaat in the whole world. Just imagining pani puri with thanda paani and hot ragda, my mouth started watering.
2. Edu's Resutant Miramar
This was the closest restaurant to our college wherein we could go during lunch break and come back. But many times, we used to not end up going to college at all. Edu's used to serve the best Chicken tandoori and chicken lollipop. They also had pizzas full of various toppings. The restaurant was a quiet small but had outdoor seating. The staff was always very courteous. We celebrated many of our birthdays here and also took take away to celebrate elsewhere.
Right next to this restaurant, is the famous Magson's supermarket which was the only place in Panaji to offer imported products (chocolates, sauces, cheese) in those days. They also had a ice cream corner. After I delicious food at Edu's followed by the ice cream, we used to head to the beach... ohh.. I mean college.
3. Monginis Miramar
Several times during college days, we were found in Monginis sitting with all our journals open on the table and gorging the chicken puff. Monginis is a saviour wherever you go. Now a days people don't prefer Monginis so much because of the new cake shops in the market. But Monginis has maintained its name in the industry. Earlier Monginis was located opposite Neomi's beauty parlour. Monginis also serves nice cakes and pastries.
4. Trupt Miramar
At the place next to Hallmark gift shop once stood a restaurant called Trupt. That actually made us trupt. It was right next to the college ad served lovely Chinese food. It was like a hideout from the college. But that restaurant did not last for long and the place is still unoccupied.
5. Baskin Robbin's Miramar circle
Baskin Robbin's was newly launched in Goa and they had put up a stall at the Miramar circle. It was a new thing for us. So, we college girls went to the store. While going through the flavour they offer, we saw Rum-punch flavour and its ingredients. Excited to try the ice cream flavour with Rum thinking we might get high, we bought the Rum-punch. Highly disappointed with the fact that Rumpunch did not give us a kick, went back to the class for next lectures.
6. Cafe Coffee Day Miramar
Those were the days when Cafe Coffee Day was a luxury. We had gone for a college trip for which we had paid a certain amount of money but all students got Rs.200 back as the total cost had been lesser than estimated. So,instead of giving that money back to parents, we three friends splurged at cafe Coffee Day ordering various new items we had never seen before. Sizzling Hot brownie, Devil's own still are my favourite. We also had sandwiches and rolls. But till date cold coffee is the best in CCD.
7. Peep Kitchen Caranzalem
There was a different restaurant at this place earlier called Arvi's Thikana and Peep kitchen was a takeaway located at St.Inez which used to delicious food at affordable price. Both the restaurants were worth a mention. Then, they shifted to Caranzalem. This is a beautiful place right on the road and has outdoor seating as well as AC section. The decor of the restaurant is amazing with Mario Miranda cartoons on the wall and a small fountain. Most importantly, they serve delicious sea food and of course chicken.
8. Sea Pebble Dona Paul
This is another hidden jewel of those days. This restaurant is located on the beach but to get there, one has to climb down the stairs from a hill and it cannot be seen from the road. The location is picturesque may it be lunch or dinner. This place gives a great view of the Dona Paul jetty. They serve mouthwatering seafood and refreshing cocktails/ mocktails. The staff is very helpful. The decor is minimal as this is sea side restaurant kind of a shack. But the best part of this restaurant is that they have karaoke nights. Extra perks if you visit here.
9. Texas Panaji
During college days, you tend to go to big restaurants only on special occasions. There was one such occasion when we friends had gone to Texas Restaurant in Panaji. They had a cowboy theme going on at the restaurant wherein all the waiters were dressed in cowboy clothes. The ambiance of Texas is very welcoming with a separate bar counter. The food here was average. Not revisited the place yet.
10. Sanyog Panaji
Sanyog Veg restaurant in Panaji was a savior on all those veg days when we could not have non veg food and always ended up in Sanyog. Till date, if we have to eat out on a veg day, we prefer Sanyog. They have the tastiest Chinese which starters which does not let you crave for chicken. Its simply delicious. May it be Gobi Manchurian, Paneer Chilly, Paneer Manchurian, Mushroom chilly or any other starter. Their hot as well cold coffee is very soothing. Also, all time favorite Nimbu soda. We also sometimes hog on paav bhaaji here which is again lovely. Sanyog is a small place but very well organized and seems like a large place with ac and non ac sections. They also provide takeaway and home delivery services.
11. Legacy of Bombay
This is one of the food outlet of the food enclave of Hotel Fidalgo. LOB serves Indian/ South Indian food. This restaurant faces 18th June Road and is very affordable for the standards of a four star hotel. The ambiance is very lively and it provides luxury of a four star along with the authenticity of a typical Indian restaurant. They have amazing Dosa and delicious sambhar. A must try.
12. Mirch Masala
Since I started with Hotel Fidalgo restaurants, let me finish them together. Mirch Masala is north Indian Mughlai kind of restaurant.The ambiance very classy. I had been here for a wine festival and the service and the food was impeccable.
13. Chilli n Spice
Chilli n Spice restaurant has been renovated recently and I have not been to the new restaurant yet. But to speak of the old Chilli n Spice Restaurant, it was beautiful. We had been there for a birthday celebration and they offered us a cake on behalf of the hotel. That was a sweetest gesture. Chilli n Spice is a place of loud music and low lighting suitable for dinners. It is very cozy. This is a multi-cuisine restaurant and they have amazing menu. They also have buffet system. Overall a great place. Waiting to visit the renovated Chilli n Spice.
14. Aunty Maria
Aunty Maria is a friend to all the people of Panaji. The cake they gave us for the birthday celebration in Aunty Maria is was so chocolaty and moist that I instantly became a fan of Aunty Maria cakes. They are still my favorites. The service here is very friendly and they have variety of items from bakery & pastry. But the best is their chocolate cake.
PS: Hotel Fidalgo has 2 more restaurants O Goa for seafood and Bhojan for Gujrati Thali but I have not visited these yet.
15. Ritz Classic Panaji
If you are in Panaji and your taste buds are craving for fish wherein your budget is about average, go only to Ritz classic. This is located near Panaji Municipality Office and is little difficult to locate as the entry is from behind the building. They serve delicious seafood. I have been to this place many times and if its afternoon, make sure you go a bit early as it is always crowded. Once when I was at Ritz for lunch, we ordered for a fish platter and it was one of the amazing things. The platter was filled with various kinds of fish prepared using different ingredients. Their fish Thali is also superb. While placing order, they bring the raw fish out for the customers to see. Also, worth mentioning is their crabs may it be in any dish. You never become satisfied visiting this place once.
16. Pasteleria Panaji
This is a small bakery shop near Mahalaxmi Temple in the city of Panaji. This is the first cake shop I have known of as it is located near my school. My dad used to take me to this place for chicken puff when in school. I have not been there lately but I still remember the taste of their Chicken puff & Prawns puff.
17. Pastry Cottage Panaji
I found this place during my higher secondary days during the recess break, and it still remains to be my favorite for certain food items. Firstly, they have lovely cakes. I'm a chocolate fan and I love everything that has chocolate in it. Some worth mentioning are chocolate Swiss roll, Chocolate mouse, etc. What I crave for from Pastry cottage is their Prawns Rissois and Chicken lollipop. They have tasty prepacked chicken lollipop which leaves you licking your fingers.
18. NJOs Panaji
I really regret that NJOs is closed down. It was one of the unique food joints I have known. The full form of NJOs is Not Just Omelettes. This was a small place located near Wisdom Book shop in Panaji. As the name suggests, it was only based on eggs and it was out of the world. The place was very cozy and colorful. They had several lovely items made from eggs like burgers, variety of omelettes, panini, pizza. It was like egg fiesta. Whatever you can imagine with an egg, they had it.
19. Creme Center Panaji
I know this place since childhood only because of gadbad. Gadbad is an ice cream sundae with 3 different scoops vanilla strawberry and mango. In normally don't like strawberry ice cream but the taste of this ice cream is entirely different. I have heard that the owners make the ice creams themselves and add to the sundae. It also has a layer of jelly and nuts. I can even finish 2 gadbads at a time.20. Crazy corner Panaji
This is a small shop cum ice cream parlor in Panaji exactly opposite old education department. At first look, you don't even realize they have ice creams. This place had a different charm during my college days. They served something called Fruit Romance which was ultimate. It is an ice cream with 3 scoops just like gadbad but it has a layer of american chocolate and different fruits. It was so unique that I told all my friends about it and took them here. But their quality started going down over time. I have not even visited the place for last 3-4 years.
21. Navtara
If you happen to be in Panaji market area shopping and you are veg, you definitely head to Navtara. A spacious restaurant with ground floor and first floor (AC) section. Their service is very quick as they continuously have customers. You visit at any time and you will find it filled, but not to mention, you will always find a place for you. In Navtara, you have to order Cheese Masala Dosa and Mushroom Xacuti. Cheese Masala Dosa has so much cheese in it that you just can't finish the entire dosa. Mushroom Xacuti is like reincarnation of Chicken Xacuti for vegetarians. Navtara also has other branches in Mapusa, Porvorim, Calangute, etc. The quality and service is the same at every outlet.
22. Cafe Mutto/ Husna Dine Panaji
This restaurant in the Panaji market area is perfect for its chicken items. The Place started off as Cafe Mutto and then renamed as Husna Dine. This place is one of the best places if you want to have good veg as well as non veg today, They have variety of dishes in their. I had one of the best Chicken Liver Masala here.
23. Royal Foods Panaji
Royal Foods is actually a place to buy chicken broilers but they also serve cooked items. They serve packed Biryani, fried Rice, lollipops, Tandoori, various chicken rolls and gravy items. The taste of food here varies from time to time.
24. Limbu Soda junctions Panaji
I'm a big fan of Limbu Soda. Limbu Soda instantly relaxes your mind as well as body and lifts your spirit. It is also easily available everywhere in Goa and is one of the best options while dining out. Some of my favorite Limbu Soda places include the stall near Dempo House in Panaji market, 2 stalls in panaji market lanes and 2 stalls near Vishal Mega Mart.
25. Shivsagar Panaji
Earlier the place next to the chapel near Airtel Gallery in Panaji had a veg restaurant Shivsagar. It got closed down later. The place was average and I did not find anything worth a mention here.
26. Niyaaz Biryani Panaji
The same place which earlier housed Shivsagar, was later occupied by the famous Belgaum Niyaaz Biryani. The Mughlai food here is really amazing. The quantity of 1 portion Biryani is easily sufficient for 3 people. They have quantity as well as quality. This place was also closed down later. Now they have a take away at Merces junction.
27. ROC Panaji
ROC meaning Royal Only Chicken is based entirely on the concept of KFC. This outlet was first of its kind in Panaji and became instant hits with kids and youngsters because of the food it provided at affordable price. This place is opposite Panaji Police station near Geeta Bakery. The sitting area is upstairs and has different seating arrangements available i.e. Sofas, chairs, high chairs, etc. The chicken appetizers here are very tasty and filling. My favorites are Chicken Lollies and Zesty Grilled Chicken. Their meals are the best things as they have various items in the meal at affordable price.
28. Quarterdeck Panaji
This is one of the restaurants in Panaji which has beautiful location. It is located on the Mandovi riverside next to the jetty. This property belongs to Hotel Mandovi. I visited this place during one of our late night escapades. The food price here is slightly above average. But the food is delicious and the service is impeccable.
29. Anandashram Panaji
This is a hidden gem and if find it once, you go there often. Located on Fontainhas bylanes this place is difficult to find. They serve everything related to fish. We had fish thali which was sumptuous with fried fish, kismoor, clams and the best and the last solkadi. We also tasted serradura here for the first time. Serradura is a Portuguese dessert made from whipped cream.The place is always so crowded that there is no authentic service that you receive at this restaurant. A must visit for seafood.
30. Venite Panaji
This is a Portuguese style restaurant located on Fontainhas bylanes in Panaji. This restaurant is housed in an old Portuguese villa and it preserves the architecture and beauty of old days. The food is very costly. We had gone here to have lunch but ended ordering only a dessert since we were low on budget. The waiters kept looking at our stunt the entire time.31. Ruchira Panaji
One more of our tragic visit to a restaurant wherein we walked out after having a drink because of the non-affordable price. During college days, because of limited pocket money, we could not indulge in food as we do now. The place was average but the service was good. This restaurant belongs to Panaji Residency near old secretariat.
32. New Punjab Panaji
Name of the place is not to be confused with the cuisine they serve. Along with North Indian and Mughlai dishes, this place serves authentic Goan food. This is a classic Goan bar & restaurant which offers cheap alcohol. Its located near church square. The fried fish is amazing here. A must try.
33. Gazali Panaji
This again is an authentic Fish Thali restaurant. This restaurant is located Near Church square but is slightly on the hill and a sign board on the road can you to the place. They always have some or the other fresh catch that is listed on today's special. Make sure to try that. This place does not have very good service because of the rush they have. Its a must visit for fish lovers.
34. Watson's Panaji
A beautiful place in the middle of Panjim city. It's situated near Hindu pharmacy in an old Portuguese structure. The ambiance of the place is captivating. One side there is high sitting like in a pub. Other side is like a garden restaurant with light streaming in through glass panels in the roof. The food is average. We had tandoori prawns which was good. Seafood rissois had less filling. Chonak masala fry was ok. Thali was amazing and for less price. Thali had kingfish fry, prawns curry, tisryo masala, kismoor and so on. The kokum curry was the best part of the Thali. Service delivery was very quick. Overall an average restaurant.
35. Kokni Kanteen Panaji
One of the newly opened and most talked about restaurant in Panjim. Kokni Kanteen is located in the heart of Panjim city near Mahalaxmi temple. This place earlier occupied a similar restaurant named Suvadik. We visited the restaurant on a busy afternoon of Wednesday. We had to wait for about minutes to get a table. This is a small restaurant with perfect Goan setting. The decor is very much Goan with old pictures of Goa displayed on the wall. The food was about average. We went for the basic Fish Thali along with butter garlic squids. They have wide menu for drinks but the food menu seemed limited. We ordered Kastad Mojito cocktail which contains kokam instead of lime juice. The fish in the Thali was modso which was delicious. I did not find anything extraordinary about the restaurant.
36. Goan Room Dona Paul
A beautiful place in Dona Paul which gives you the perfect feeling of Goa. Its located immediately after Dona Paul circle towards the left. This restaurant wins your heart as you enter the place because of its colorful decor. The food is so authentic that it keeps reminding you of the food your grandma or mom used to make. In the menu, they have a section called lost recipes wherein they have items like kalwa Dhabdhabe, Danger, etc. For starters, we had Prawns, Squids and Mussels. I was in Goa for about 2 weeks and had done asking for mussels at every restaurant I visited but nobody had them. Thanks to The Goan Room, I finally got to have my favorite mussels rava fry and they were tasty. We also had Kalwa Dhabdhabe and Chicken Cafreal with paav for main course. The quantity was quite sufficient and everything served was mouth watering.The service was impeccable. We also tried the beer Bira white. We had a friend among with us who was a vegetarian and seriously have no idea how he survived with all that aroma of fish. A sure to visit again place.
37. Sartaj Panaji
A friend took me to this place once in rains.. and I must say... they have some of the tastiest snacks. hot chicken samosa, batatawada, coffee. lovely... They also have bottled limbu soda which is exquisite... This place is swasta n masta... They also serve biryani till afternoon which is again delicious... A very simple place just off the road which will go easily unnoticed...its right opposite Don Bosco petrol pump...
38. Gastronut Panaji
One of the very recent entry on the streets of Panaji but a delicious one nonetheless. It is situated near Don Bosco and is a small place with some mind blowing interiors. Its a combination of several things: Rolls Mania, Magik Muncheez, Gelato Italiano. Its a kind of cafe which serves some of the best quick bites. They have sandwiches, rolls, pizzas, juices, ice cream sodas. Everything here is quite pocket friendly and tasty.
39. Canape Miramar
This cafe has the most perfect location. Its situated near Miramar beach right next to Miramar circle. The place have outdoor as well as indoor seating. They have an extensive menu with some mouth watering food. Must try is chicken tikkas, pizzas and shakes. Their cold coffee is amazing. Canape also has another outlet in Panaji near Azad Maidan. The price is decent and one can go there once in a while for evening snacks to enjoy the breeze of the sea shore. I have heard that this place is closed down but not very sure.
40. Kismoor Taleigao
One of the hidden gems of Panaji but located in the hinterland of Taleigao. You have to go from the inside roads near Taleigao church to get here. This is an open restaurant and its like sitting on the front porch of a house. The place is not that good as its right next to the road which is quite dusty. Efforts are being made to keep the dust away. The food here is delicious. I had been to this place when it was newly opened. We had chicken cafreal and prawns vindaloo. Both the dishes were great. I have heard that the place has become somewhat pricey now.
41. Tao Panaji
42. Thai n Wok Panaji
A beautiful Thai n Oriental restaurant at Campal on the Marriott's lane. The place has beautiful decor and ambiance. The service seems quite authentic because of the north eastern crowd working there as stewards. The food is delicious and it makes you want for more.
43. Carasid
One of the best cake shops in Panaji. It would be unfair if I only say cake shop. They also serve some of the mouth watering snacks. My favorites are their chicken sandwiches. In recent days, if I need a good cake, I visit Carasid. It never disappoints. My favorite cake is Chocolate ecstasy which is so amazing..it just melts in your mouth.It has 3 layers each of chocolate, coffee and vanilla. Once I had ordered a kg chocolate cake for a birthday and everybody loved the cake so much.
44. Celebrations Miramar
A place where I enjoyed a lot with my friends. We have had several parties here. This place is perfect. Its cheap and you get good food here. Seafood as well as chicken dishes are awesome. They offer lovely fried fish especially mackeral racheado.
45. Superfrango's Caranzalem
This is one of the unique places near Panaji. It soon became famous after opening. This is a small food joint right on the Caranzalem road. Later, they opened another outlet in Panaji city. They serve snacks like sandwiches, burgers, etc. Their meals are really great, pocket friendly and filling.
46. O'cozinheiro Caranzalem
47. Delicieux Panaji
Another gem in the list of cake shops in panaji. Originally located near Pharmacy College in Panaji, this place has now shifted to Miramar near Bina Punjani studio. They serve the best hot chocolate in the world. Their pastries are also yumm especially tiramisu, opera,fudge cake. Among the snacks at Delicieux, panini is a must try. Their ambiance is welcoming and cozy. They have lovely sofas in which u sink on sitting.
48. The Chocolate Room Panaji
The Chocolate Room is a chain cake shop and it has outlets at various places. My first experience with Chocolate Room was at Delfino's supermarket Porvorim. Here, we had some delicious chocolate shakes. They now have a full fledged outlet with proper seating in Panaji opposite Baskin's Robbins near Don Bosco School. We ordered for Thank God its Sundae and it seriously was heavenly. Never tasted anything better. It had ice cream, brownie, chocolate sauce and everything chocolaty.49. Barbeque Nation Panaji
I have been to other barbeque nation restaurants in Mumbai, But the one in Panaji beats them all because of the perfect taste of seafood. This restaurant is located in the Caculo Mall building.We just could not stop the prawns barbeque. They just kept coming. Even the main course was delicious. We did not eat much of main course as we had filled our tummys with barbequed prawns, fish n chicken. The dessert spread was again huge and lovely. This is one of the best places and wish to visit it again soon.
50. Mainland China Panaji
Mainland China is again located in the Caculo Mall building. This place has beautiful ambiance and lovely decor but the food was average. Highly priced and the food was not at all tasty. I have not visited any other outlets of Mainland China but its somewhat off my list.We went for the buffet dinner and food was not up to the mark,
51. The Junction Panaji
This is another newly opened restaurant in the Caculo Mall Building. The food here is average. But this place is a must visit for its decor. It is decorated using auto parts; its simply amazing the work they have done on this restaurant. Let me warn you, the quantity of starters is less but is compensated by the main course.
52. Daawat Panaji
This restaurant is located on the bylanes of Campal opposite to the the Children's Park. I have been here twice. They have delicious lunch buffet and its like super cheap. All the items for buffet are tasty. As usual, I only went for non veg and it was too good. The ambiance is good and its quite spacious. The service is good as well.
53. Kala Academy Canteen
If you want to try one of the best egg chops, you have to drop in here. They serve delicious egg chops. I never found such good ones anywhere else. Rest of the items on their menu like puffs, Samosas are also yummy. This canteen is open and towards the back side is the beautiful jetty from where you can enjoy sunsets and get a view of Reis Magos Fort.
54. Ruchi Panaji
This is another important name in the list of veg restaurants in Panaji. This restaurant offers one of the tastiest paani puris. It is located at Patto near the old Panaji bridge. The ambiance and the service here is good. It has separate AC and non AC sections.
55. Miles High Bakehouse Panaji
A nice quiet place in the every busy so called Nariman Point of Panjim, Patto. The place was earlier called Daily Bread. Its a bit on expensive side but they serve delicious chocolate stuff. Being a chocolate person, I can definitely say they serve amazing chocolate pastries.
56. Caramel, Taj Panaji
Been to this place as my best friend had craving for cheese cake. And, cheesecakes here are such that I too went crazy for them. The place is very nice with comfortable seating. Once you are inside, you don'e even realize the place is just next to one of busiest crossroads of Panaji city. The service is perfect for a star restaurant. Snacks and pastries are just amazing.
57. Sher E Punjab Panaji
I have been to this place just once for a quick dinner. The place is special for North Indian food but I was not very happy with either the food or service. We ordered for Butter Chicken and Chicken lollipop. The food was average. This restaurant is located on 18th June Road near Bombay Bazar.
58. Casa Moderna Panaji
Casa Moderna is a fishy counterpart of Cafe modern which is a veg cafe. Cafe Modern has been in the industry for ages and recently started Casa Moderna to cater to non veg taste buds of people like me. It is located above Cafe Modern near Cine National. The restaurant is priced slightly on a higher side compared to other restaurants in the area. The service here is impeccable. The food is quite good.
Non veg starters are really delicious.
59. Padmaja Restaurant, Manoshanti Panaji
Padmaja Restaurant belongs to Hotel Manoshanti located on the Dada Vaidya Road. I had heard a lot about their Fish Thali. So, thought of experiencing the same. But it was not up to our expectations. The fish was not very tasty. Price was average but the taste of food was below average. The ambiance is very good with primarily family crowd. The service was good. My experience with the place was not that great. But, I heard people say, they serve better for lunch and I was at a loss to understand the difference between lunch and dinner food.
60. Chat Street Panaji
This restaurant was opened long back and was sitting there without catching my attention as I always thought when you get cheaper and tastier chaat at Miramar streets, why go all the way here to eat chaat in AC and pay higher price. But then one day, I came to this place. The place is superb. Their Chaats are tasty and worth it for a binge once in a while.
61. Cafe Bhosale Panaji
If you like a buns, you have to visit Cafe Bhosale. They have delicious buns. You can't resist them. This place is always so crowded that every time I think twice before entering. Cafe Bhosale is located near Church square. Their Paav and Paatal bhaaji is also amazing. Also, not to forget, tea and coffee.
62. Cafe Mangi Panaji
This restaurants is located near Azad Maidan and is on the first floor of an old Portuguese house. Beautifully decorated, this place is highly pricey and we had been here on a low budget day. I'm not very sure if this place is still there. We searched for the cheapest things in the menu and had a pizza and some dessert. The food was good and the quantity was so much that we could not finish the dessert. The service and ambiance of the place is awesome with low lighting and beautiful decorations.
63. Viva Panjim Panaji
This is the perfect hidden gem that I did not know existed in the very city I lived for about 24 years. Viva Panjim is located at Mala near Mary Immaculate School. Its an easy to miss place but the sign board on the road guides you right. A beautiful Portuguese style house converted into a restaurant. There is outside seating like on a veranda and inside seating. They have nice bar setting and serve delicious drinks. The food is just mid blowing. You can order for anything and I'm sure it will be amazing. The service is good. The ambiance is so welcoming that you don't feel like leaving the place.
64. Cremeux Panaji
The first time I ordered a cake from Cremeux Panaji was for my best friend's birthday. We took the cake and went for lunch. By the time we were done with the lunch, the cake had all melted and had become distorted. After this mishap, I did not order a cake from Cremeux. But visited their outlets for a light snack. Till now, did not find anything worth a mention.
65. Cafe Bodega Panaji
A lovely place at Altinho tucked in the Sunaparant Art Gallery. First and foremost this is a beautiful cafe housed in a huge old Portuguese Villa turned into an art gallery. The seating is very comfortable and in the open. The food is delicious. They have lovely cup cakes and quiche. The price is average. The only drawback is that since the gallery closes at 6, there is no access to this place post that.
66. Tato's Fine Dine Panaji
This restaurant is located at Patto Plaza near Passport Office. I visited this place when it was newly opened. The ambiance of the place is very warm and welcoming. The price and service is average. But the food is not that tasty. Not worth a second visit.
67. KFC Caculo Mall Panaji
This is the first KFC outlet to be opened in Goa and the Caculo Mall had become the weekend spot for every Goan family mainly because of this. KFC is the same wherever you go and they serve the same finger licking juicy tender chicken.
68. Nandan Restaurant, Rajdhani, Panaji
Once during Ganesh Chaturthi days, when all the vegetarian restaurants in Panaji were closed, I stumbled upon this quiet restaurant Nandan belonging to Hotel Rajdhani. The place seems kind of too closed as it does not have any glass see through partition. The food was average for my taste.
69. Subway Panaji
The first Subway in Goa was started in Calangute and I always cribbed that its so far. But when Subway came to Panaji, I was no more in Panaji. But got to try the subs here. This outlet is located on DB Road itself near the bridge. The best part about this outlet is that it has see through glass all around. The food is obviously great.
70. Satkar Panaji
It is not very frequently visited but a good veg restaurant nonetheless. It is located on 18th June Road near Bombay Bazaar. This restaurant is moderately priced and serve delicious veg items.
71. Shahi classic Panaji
A not so well known restaurant near Municipal Garden where you get good and pocket friendly food. The ambiance is quite good and welcoming. This restaurant serves delicious sea food. Service here is quick.
72. Spicy Bella Panaji
This was the first Italian restaurant I had ever been to. It closed down long back but it was one of its own. It was located near Bal Bhavan. I had my first pasta here and I'm a die hard fan of pasta till date. This restaurant was slightly overpriced but the food was worth it.
I guess, with this ends my journey of food in Panaji. Now, we will venture to places outside of Panaji.
1. Infantaria Calangute
This restaurant is located on Calangute Baga Road and is one of the most famous for the food served here. It is a two storeyed building with nice decor. It is one of those few restaurants which open early in the morning to serve breakfast. And, yes, they do have delicious menu. Last time I had been to this place, I gorged upon Death by Chocolate pastry. You literally die after eating the it. This pastry oozes with chocolate and is amazingly delicious.
2. Spice House Porvorim
Spice House is a newly opened restaurant located at Porvorim on the highway right opposite Chodankar Hospital. The food here is good. The decor and ambiance is great. There is outside as well as AC seating.They serve delicious seafood. Must try is their Prawns Butter Garlic which is mouth watering.
3. St. Anthony's Baga
This is a shack located on the Baga Beach right at the entrance. This place open till late night. Last time I went here, it was at night around 9 and I was there till almost 12 am. The best part about this place is that they have live karaoke. They also serve Hookah. I rather not talk about the ambiance since the place is located on the beach and has to be awesome. We had fish starters of prawns and squids along with beer and breezers. The food is tasty and service is good.
4. Fisherman's cove Candolim
This restaurant is located on Candiolim main road and you can easily recognize the restaurant because of its decor. Its made to look like a shack by covering with dried coconut leaves and the entire decor is quite earthy. The service is good but I found the food to be average and lacking authentic Goan taste. I ordered Chicken Xacuti and steamed rice but the Xacuti did not taste like it should. Overall an average place.
5. Zeebop Majorda
Zeebop is a quiet shack at Utorda beach. The location is stunning with a beautiful view of the beach. The food here is average. We ordered sea food platter which was not at all worth it. The only fish served in it was squids, prawns, crab, chonak and it was very costly for all it contained. We also ordered squids crispy which was good. For main course, there was mixed fried rice and butter chicken which was average. We had high hopes from this restaurant but it was not worth it. The cocktail Zeebop Sunshine was worth mentioning because of its colour and taste. The service was average.
6. Spice Goa Mapusa
It is one of the well known restaurants for seafood in Mapusa. I had been here once for lunch when enroute to Amboli and so I had a control on my tummy and did not devour on the food. Everything about this restaurant is great. It is located on the road towards Mumbai behind the industrial estate. The ambiance and service is good. But, the food is the main focus as it is first class. The price is average and the quantity is quite sufficient.
7. Starlight Baga
I have been visiting this place since almost 8 yrs and the taste has only been enhancing over the years. This is a very simple and decent place with outside seating as well as inside seating. I would not suggest inside seating as it is quite dark. The food and of course alcohol is amazingly affordable. Service is very quick and waiters are helpful when you need help with choosing your menu. What I love the most about this place is crab sukha n chicken paratha.... what a mouth watering combo!! I always lick my fingers clean after my crab sukha.
8. Dandey's Grill House Porvorim
This restaurant is a little difficult to find. It is located on Sangolda slope to the right hand side while going towards Calangute. The name says it all. Its a grill house and they grill it wonderfully. Everything they serve starting from fish to chicken is amazing. The quantity is very much sufficient and is pocket friendly. The service is average. The topping on the cake is their sizzling brownie.
9. Florentine Saligao
This sums up to be one of the best places in the whole world. They have delicious chicken cafreal, even the smell of which makes me dizzy. I love this place but my husband crazy about the chicken cafreal here. Once, while I had come to Goa without my husband, I parceled the chicken cafreal for him. I still remember the look on his face when he ate it almost after a year. During our every visit to Goa, its a must I visit Florentine. This place is not open beyond three pm. They also have cafreal in other variants like fish. The taste of cafreal here is not matched by any other place. Their fried fish is also delicious may it be masala fry or rava fry. And last but not the least, The Caramel Custard.. Its heavenly. I can easily finish 3 at a time. The service is very good and prompt. The place is lovely with open seating. They also serve alcohol which is quite cheap. This restaurant is located just after Saligao Cross Road on the way towards Calangute.
The prefect lunch for me:
Chicken cafreal, Musself rava fry, chonak masala fry and caramel custard at Florentine.
I would give anything to have this meal every day.
Chicken cafreal, Musself rava fry, chonak masala fry and caramel custard at Florentine.
I would give anything to have this meal every day.
10. Kudos sizzlers & Pizzeria
Porovorim
This restaurant initially started at Porvorim on the road towards Calangute after Coqueiro circle. It 's an Italian restaurant and it has delicious pizzas, pastas and sizzlers. I had gone there with the midset to eat pizza but Pizzas were available only for dinner. So, we had to make do with Sizzler. The food is great but slightly heavier on the pocket. The ambiance of this restaurant is great and welcoming. The decor is beautiful. They opened up another outlet at Calangute but the one in Porovorim is closed.
11. Rita's Nerul
If you want to have only fish, go to Rita's. It is located at Nerul on the way to Coco beach. Its a difficult to find as it is in the hinterland but the locals will surely help you locate this place. They have amazing sea food... I have heard they have their own boat for catching fish; hence the fresh fish. The service good and quick. The waiters tell you the special of the day and that is always great. They have almost all types of fish amazingly done. They also serve superb butter chicken. Alcohol again is cheap. Price and the taste is what rita's is known for....
12. The Old Mango Tree Candolim
This restaurant is located on Candolim main road. During one of my late night excursions in Candolim, I was left with no restaurants of my choice open, I went to this small road side restaurant. We were last customers for the night. But, this was like a gem. The food was great and cheap. I had prawns cocktail which was one of the best till date. Fish curry rice was also authentically Goan.
13. Flambee Candolim
This small restaurant cum shack is located at Candolim on the road towards Aguada. I just randomly bumped into this place while searching for a decent cheap date on Valentines Day. We Ordered for Chicken Steak in White sauce. It was so delicious that I still remember its taste. The place was quite cheap.
14. Rasa The Essence Baga
This restaurant is located in Baga away from the beach near Mackie's Saturday night bazaar. It is an open restaurant beautifully decorated with plants and various murals. The service is quick and the food is absolutely delicious. The best part about the food was Balti Chicken which served in a brass bucket. It is slightly overpriced but the food makes it worth it.
15. Ice n Spice Mayem
This is one of the lovely restaurants located at Mayem just near the lake. I visited this restaurant with my cousins. It was one of those days we sneaked out of the house on a veg day. The food here is cheap and delicious. The ambiance is very cozy and service is quick. We ordered for fish and chicken and all the preparations were lovely.
16. Avinay Nerul
This is one of those cheap restaurants where you can go for lunch on almost regular basis. During those days when I worked nearby to this restaurant, I visited here often. Our everyday favorite here is Biryani. They also serve delicious seafood. Must try is their rawa fried fish. This restaurant is located in Nerul just opposite Hotel Deltin Suites. Their service is also quite good.
17. Field Top Calangute
This restaurant is a famous for its seafood. It is located on Calnagute-Arpora Road towards the right hand side. This is an open restaurant with all the arrangements like that of a shack. The service is quick. They serve Goan, Chinese and North Indian cuisine. This restaurant is affordable even if you are on a budget.
18. Punjabi Tadka Calangute
This is small restaurant cum Dhaba at Cangute Opposite Rasoi restaurant. We came upon this place while searching for food one night and finding it here. As the name suggests, it is mostly serves North Indian cuisine. The food here is great specially their tandoor items.
19. Naik Bar & Restaurant Nerul
This is another restaurant in the small village of Nerul. The restaurant is very local and you can mostly find local crowd gathered here for a drink and seafood specialties of the day. We had fish thali and it was great. They have seating on two floors, the second floor being for families only. A very decent place with good food.
20. Sai Bar & Restaurant Baga
I never till now understood how to describe the food at Sai's. Firstly, they have the best fish items I have ever tasted. The fish is fresh and cooked in yummy masala. Its very affordable. We mostly visit there when we want to eat lots of fish. Even if I order one item each of every fish, the bill does not cross 2000. They also have delicious cocktails. This restaurant is located at Arpora. The decor is like a shack with AC seating on first floor. It is newly renovated to incorporate AC section. They serve all kinds of fish and chicken items. But, I eat only eat fish here. My must try list is very long: Prawns Cocktail, Chonak, Kingfish, Mussels, Prawns Rawa fry and masala fry, stuffed Papad with prawns, Squids Butter Garlic, Clear crab soup, crispy fried prawns and squids, and so on. My mouth started watering thinking...
21. Woods Inn Porvorim
This restaurant became famous in short span because of its Fish Thali specially the Jumbo Thali. This restaurant is located in the interiors of Porvorim and you have to look at the sign boards to reach this place. Normal price of fish is slightly above average but the Thali is worth it for the price at which it is offered. The jumbo Thali has several items such as rice, fish curry, Shark masala, Crab sukha, fried fish, Tisrya masala, Chicken xacuti, kismoor and the other regular items. Its worth a visit for the Thali. This restaurant is like a garden restaurant with open seating.
22. Bhojan Porvorim
My first advice is do not go on the name of this restaurant as it may sound like Veg restaurant. This restaurant is thoroughly non veg. It serves delicious food seafood as well chicken. It is located on Chogm Road after Coqueiro circle towards right side. They have amazing Chinese items. The price is reasonable. The service is quick and ambiance of the place is very welcoming. Its one of the must visits in North Goa.
23. O'Coqueiro Porvorim
Visited OCoqueiro with only one thing in mind; this place is the pioneer of Chicken Cafreal which happens to be my favorite. Another significant thing about this restaurant is the fact that Charles Shobraj, a well known criminal of the past was caught here. The restaurant boasts his life sized statue in the gallery.
This restaurant is located on the Mapusa Panaji Highway at the Porvorim junction known at Coqueiro junction. The restaurant maintains a Portuguese decor as the place is housed in an old Portuguese villa.
It has AC and non AC section. Since it was summer season, we opted for AC section. The place is neatly decorated with beautiful paintings depicting Goan heritage.
We ordered for Calamari Fritata for starters and Chicken Cafreal for main course. Calamari Fritata came with Peri Peri sauce and were very crisply fried that retained the taste of the squids. The Cafreal was lovely with tender chicken and rich taste of the masala. The chicken was very well marinated in the masala and had sipped in properly making it amazingly delicious.
The restaurant is moderately priced and is worth every penny that you spend.
24. Sharda Classic Bambolim
No words for this place. Its less of a restaurant and more of a shed with tables and chair. But the place is always fully packed with rich crowd as there are various cars parked around the area. This place attracts people with the quality of food they serve. There is no menu as such. You just ask the waiter for what is available and order. Service is quick as there is continuous waiting. We were not very hungry so settled for only fish thali and fried prawns. The curry was mind blowing and so were prawns.
25. Micasa Siridao
The one and only thing that pulls me to this place till date is Stuffed Squids. The quality is not as good as what it used to be few years back but it's still the best place to get stuffed squids. I visit this place and have only squids. This restaurant is located on the highway itself near the road leading to Siridao Beach. The place is spacious and welcoming. They serve good Goan cuisine. The service is slow but food is good.
26. Babaji Mapusa
People from Mapusa will agree that this is one of their most favorite joint since the college times. This is a cafe located right next to Hanuman temple in Mapusa city. They have tastiest puffs may it be veg puff, chicken puff or prawns puff. Their novelty is something called Limsy which is green colour Lime soda with hint of mint. The serving staff is very friendly.
28. Pilerne Inn Pilerne
One of the beautiful and quiet places located in pilerne at the side of a small creek which makes this restaurant all the more picturesque. The food here is abut average. The service is quick. The decor is simple as its a garden restaurant overlooking the creek. The restaurants specializes in seafood, hence we ordered only seafood. The menu included stuffed squids and rawa fried mussels.
Visited OCoqueiro with only one thing in mind; this place is the pioneer of Chicken Cafreal which happens to be my favorite. Another significant thing about this restaurant is the fact that Charles Shobraj, a well known criminal of the past was caught here. The restaurant boasts his life sized statue in the gallery.
This restaurant is located on the Mapusa Panaji Highway at the Porvorim junction known at Coqueiro junction. The restaurant maintains a Portuguese decor as the place is housed in an old Portuguese villa.
It has AC and non AC section. Since it was summer season, we opted for AC section. The place is neatly decorated with beautiful paintings depicting Goan heritage.
We ordered for Calamari Fritata for starters and Chicken Cafreal for main course. Calamari Fritata came with Peri Peri sauce and were very crisply fried that retained the taste of the squids. The Cafreal was lovely with tender chicken and rich taste of the masala. The chicken was very well marinated in the masala and had sipped in properly making it amazingly delicious.
The restaurant is moderately priced and is worth every penny that you spend.
24. Sharda Classic Bambolim
No words for this place. Its less of a restaurant and more of a shed with tables and chair. But the place is always fully packed with rich crowd as there are various cars parked around the area. This place attracts people with the quality of food they serve. There is no menu as such. You just ask the waiter for what is available and order. Service is quick as there is continuous waiting. We were not very hungry so settled for only fish thali and fried prawns. The curry was mind blowing and so were prawns.25. Micasa Siridao
The one and only thing that pulls me to this place till date is Stuffed Squids. The quality is not as good as what it used to be few years back but it's still the best place to get stuffed squids. I visit this place and have only squids. This restaurant is located on the highway itself near the road leading to Siridao Beach. The place is spacious and welcoming. They serve good Goan cuisine. The service is slow but food is good.26. Babaji Mapusa
People from Mapusa will agree that this is one of their most favorite joint since the college times. This is a cafe located right next to Hanuman temple in Mapusa city. They have tastiest puffs may it be veg puff, chicken puff or prawns puff. Their novelty is something called Limsy which is green colour Lime soda with hint of mint. The serving staff is very friendly.
28. Pilerne Inn Pilerne
One of the beautiful and quiet places located in pilerne at the side of a small creek which makes this restaurant all the more picturesque. The food here is abut average. The service is quick. The decor is simple as its a garden restaurant overlooking the creek. The restaurants specializes in seafood, hence we ordered only seafood. The menu included stuffed squids and rawa fried mussels.
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