What to Eat and Where to Eat in Goa, India | A Food Guide
Are you planning a trip to the sun-soaked paradise of Goa in India? Don’t miss out on the vibrant and diverse culinary scene that this coastal haven has to offer! Goa is not just about its pristine beaches and pulsating nightlife; it’s also a food lover’s dream come true. In this Goa Travel and Food Guide, we’ll first answer the question “What to Eat in Goa?” and then take you on a mouthwatering journey through some of the best restaurants in Goa. Whether you’re seeking seafood delights, local Goan cuisine, or international flavours, this Goa Travel Guide has it all.
Contents
What to Eat in Goa? – Best Goan Food Dishes
Goa is a culinary paradise with a unique blend of Indian and Portuguese influences, resulting in a variety of local delicacies that are a must-try for any food enthusiast. Here are some of the Goa’s Famous Food, including local Goan delicacies to savour when you’re in Goa:
- Fish Curry Rice: This is the quintessential Goan meal, consisting of rice served with a flavourful and tangy fish curry. The type of fish used can vary, but mackerel and kingfish are popular choices.
- Sorpotel: A spicy and tangy pork dish, Sorpotel is made with pork liver, heart, and meat. It’s rich, flavourful, and often served during festivals and special occasions.
- Vindaloo: Vindaloo is another beloved Goan curry, typically made with pork (though chicken or beef versions are also available). It’s characterised by its spicy and tangy flavours, thanks to a blend of vinegar, garlic, and spices.
- Xacuti: This aromatic curry features chicken or lamb cooked in a creamy and spicy sauce made from coconut and poppy seeds. It’s a flavourful and fragrant dish.
- Balchao: Balchao is a fiery pickle or curry made from prawns, fish, or even vegetables. It’s known for its spicy and tangy flavour profile and pairs well with rice or bread.
- Cafreal: Cafreal is a spicy green masala paste used to marinate and cook chicken or fish. It’s a unique Goan dish known for its vibrant green colour and bold flavours.
- Feni: Goa is famous for its locally produced liquors, Feni being the most renowned. There are two types: cashew Feni and coconut Feni. These potent spirits are often consumed straight or used in cocktails.
- Bebinca: Bebinca is a traditional Goan dessert made from coconut milk, sugar, eggs, and ghee. It’s a layered pudding with a sweet and rich flavour, often enjoyed during festivals and celebrations.
- Goan Sausages: These spicy and tangy sausages are a unique blend of Indian and Portuguese culinary influences. They are often used in dishes like Choriz Pao (spicy sausage sandwich) and served with pao (bread).
- Sannas: Sannas are steamed rice cakes made from fermented rice batter. They are typically served with curries and are a popular accompaniment to Goan meals.
- Doddak: A sweet, dense, and sticky toffee-like dessert, Doddak is made from coconut and jaggery. It’s a delightful treat enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
- Alle Belle: Alle Belle is a Goan dessert consisting of stuffed pancakes. The pancakes are filled with a sweet coconut and jaggery mixture, creating a delightful blend of flavours.
- Kokum Juice: Kokum is a sour fruit commonly used in Goan cuisine. Kokum juice, a refreshing and tangy beverage, is a popular way to beat the heat in Goa. If you like Kokum Juice, you should also try Solkadhi.
- Bolinhas: Bolinhas are coconut and semolina cookies, often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee as a snack.
These local Goan delicacies provide a glimpse into the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Goa. Whether you’re dining at a traditional Goan eatery, a beachside shack, or a fine dining restaurant, be sure to experiment and try out these Best Goa Food dishes to fully immerse yourself in the flavours of this coastal paradise.
A Typical Goan Fish Thali
Goan Sorpotel and Goan Prawn Curry
Having said that, we’ve curated a list of the Best Restaurants to Eat in the capital city of Panaji (also known as Panjim), followed by a list of the Best Restaurants to Eat in North Goa and South Goa.
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PS – Useful Travel Resources that will help you plan better for your Trip to Goa
- Book the best Goa Tours at GetYourGuide or Viator
- Book your Accommodation in Goa on Agoda or Booking.com
- Book your Goa Car Rentals on Go Goa Car Rentals or Ezee Car Rent
- Book your flights at the cheapest rates on Kiwi.com
- Get an eSIM by Airalo to stay connected and Save on Roaming Fees
- Sign up for a Priority Pass before flying to Goa, and lounge for free at Premium Airport Lounges
- Sign up for a Travel Insurance to enjoy a hassle free vacation in Goa
- Book the best Goa Tours at GetYourGuide or Viator
Where to Eat in Goa? – Top Restaurants in Panjim / Panaji – Goa
1. Viva Panjim
- Location: Fontainhas, Panjim
- Average Cost for 2: ₹1,000
- Highlights: Viva Panjim is a quaint and homely restaurant located in the charming Fontainhas neighbourhood. The restaurant exudes Goan warmth and offers an authentic Goan dining experience. You can savour traditional dishes like Fish Curry Rice, Goan Sausages, and Serradura. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of Feni Limca – the Original Feni Cocktail of Goa.
2. Club Vasco De Gama
- Location: Panjim
- Average Cost for 2: ₹800
- Highlights: Club Vasco De Gama is a hidden gem in Panjim, where you can relish a delightful blend of Goan and Portuguese cuisines. Their seafood platters are a favourite among patrons. The restaurant’s age old classic sitting and interiors makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal.
3. Kokum Curry
- Location: Panjim and Candolim
- Average Cost for 2: ₹1,200
- Highlights: Kokum Curry in Panjim and Candolim is known for its Kokum-infused curries and delectable seafood dishes. It is an authentic Koknni restaurant serving typically Hindu Saraswat Food. Although the Saraswat cuisine is mainly pesco – vegetarian, the fish in the diet is not looked upon as non – vegetarian. The menu boasts a range of Goan specialties, and the ambiance is both cozy and inviting. Be sure to try their Prawn Balchao and Crab Xec Xec, and the traditional Goan Thalis for a burst of Goan flavours.
4. Panjim Inn
- Location: Fontainhas, Panjim
- Average Cost for 2: ₹1,500
- Highlights: Panjim Inn offers a unique dining experience in a historic mansion in Fontainhas. The restaurant combines Goan, Portuguese, and Indian cuisines to create a diverse menu. Don’t miss their Goan sausages, Chicken Cafreal, and the delightful Bebinca for dessert.
5. Mum’s Kitchen
- Location: Panjim
- Average Cost for 2: ₹1,200
- Highlights: Mum’s Kitchen offers a delightful taste of authentic Goan home-cooked dishes. Their menu features an array of traditional Goan favourites, including Xacuti, Sorpotel, and the famous Bebinca dessert. It’s a place where you can experience the true flavours of Goa.
6. The Black Sheep Bistro
- Location: Panjim
- Average Cost for 2: ₹2,000
- Highlights: The Black Sheep Bistro is a chic and modern restaurant in Panjim that puts a contemporary twist on Goan cuisine. Enjoy innovative dishes like Goan Chorizo Risotto and Tamarind Glazed Pork Ribs. The restaurant’s stylish ambiance and unique flavours make it a great choice for a special night out.
7. Kokni Kanteen
- Location: Panjim
- Average Cost for 2: ₹1,000
- Highlights: Kokni Kanteen in Panjim is a beloved local eatery that serves traditional Goan cuisine. Their Fish Thali and Rava Fried Fish are must-tries. It’s a fantastic place to experience authentic Goan flavours in a casual setting.
8. Joseph’s Bar
- Location: Panjim
- Average Cost for 2: ₹600
- Highlights: Joseph’s Bar in Panjijm, is Goa’s Most Famous Bar, and is a local favourite known for its inexpensive yet delicious Goan fare. Try their Goan sausages, Pork Sorpotel, and other local specialties.
The Feni and Tapas Trail in Goa by Make It Happen
If you are looking for a really immersive and intimate dining experience in the streets Panjim and the Old Latin Quarter in Goa, we recommend you to check out the Feni and Tapas Food Trail by Make It Happen.
As the name suggests, you’ll get to try out some yummy concoctions made with Feni – The local liquor produced from cashews. And pair it up with some delectable finger foods, that will elevate your evening to a different level all together.
You’ll get to try some Feni based cocktails such as Feni Mojito at Club Vasco Da Gama, Feni Maria at Kokum Curry, Feni Island Time at Panjim Inn and the Original Feni Cocktail – Feni Limca at Viva Panjim.
Along with tasty Goan Snacks such as Prawn Resois, Beef Croquettes, Breadfruit Rawa Fry, Raw Banana wafers, Goan Chicken Roast, Brinjal Fry and finish it off with a heart meal comprising of some of the most famous Goan food dishes such as, Pork Vindaloo, Chicken Xacuti and Vegetable Caldhine with Goan Pao. The cherry on top are the traditional and famous Goan sweets – Bibinca, Serradura and Goan Caramel Pudding.
The Feni and Tapas Trail with Make It Happen Goa, is one of the Best Things To do in Goa
Use the code “AMMIH10” to get a flat 10% discount on the Feni and Tapas Trail and other awesome experiences, such as the Fontainhas Heritage Walk, Latin Quarter Food Trail, Old Goa Heritage Walk, Campal Heritage Walk, Chronicles of Divar Island with Lunch, among others by Make It Happen Goa.
Click Here to Book Your Experiences with Make It Happen Goa.
Where to Eat in Goa? – Top Restaurants in North Goa
1. Fisherman’s Cove Candolim
- Location: Candolim
- Average Cost for 2: ₹1,400
- Highlights: Fisherman’s Cove Candolim provides an idyllic kerbside setting where you can relish the freshest seafood. Try their prawn or crab dishes. The seafood platter here is a must-try for a true taste of Goa. We tried the Golden Fried Calamari and Goan Pork Sausages, and they were amazing.
2. Vinayak Family Restaurant
- Location: Assagao
- Average Cost for 2: ₹800
- Highlights: Vinayak Family Restaurant in Assagao is a hidden gem known for its pocket-friendly prices and authentic Goan dishes. From seafood to vegetarian options, their menu offers a wide variety of Goan flavours that won’t break the bank, making it one of the Best Places to eat in Goa.
3. Mayan Beach Club
- Location: Anjuna
- Average Cost for 2: ₹1,500
- Highlights: Mayan Beach Club in Anjuna offers a diverse menu that includes Indian, Goan, and continental cuisine. The vibrant ambiance and a wide range of cocktails and mocktails make it a popular spot for both dining and nightlife. The best time to visit one of the Best Beach Clubs in North Goa, is post lunch, so you can grab something to eat and drink, while having the chance to witness an amazing sunset.
Tulum Inspired Decor at the Mayan Beach Club
4. Thalassa – The Greek Taverna
- Location: Vagator / Siolem
- Average Cost for 2: ₹2,500
- Highlights: Thalassa Goa is renowned for its stunning sunset views and its Greek-inspired menu. While you can enjoy Mediterranean delights, don’t miss their fusion dishes that incorporate Goan flavours. Try their Grilled Fish and Baklava for a memorable dining experience.
5. Gunpowder
- Location: Assagao
- Average Cost for 2: ₹1,200
- Highlights: Gunpowder in Assagao is famous for its South Indian and Goan fusion cuisine. Their menu includes mouthwatering dishes like Kerala-style pork, appams, and an array of dosas. The quaint setting adds to the overall charm of this restaurant.
Goan Chicken Xacuti and Goan Pork Vindaloo
6. Felix Goa
- Location: Anjuna
- Average Cost for 2: ₹1,500
- Highlights: Felix Goa in Anjuna is a delightful spot for European and Goan fusion cuisine. The restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere and a diverse menu, including seafood specialties and wood-fired pizzas. Felix Goa is also one of the most popular places for Brunch in North Goa.
7. A Reverie
- Location: Calangute
- Average Cost for 2: ₹2,500
- Highlights: A Reverie in Calangute is a fine dining destination that combines global flavours with a creative twist. The restaurant offers an extensive wine list and innovative dishes that cater to the discerning palate.
8. Pousada By The Beach
- Location: Calangute
- Average Cost for 2: ₹1,800
- Highlights: Pousada By The Beach in Calangute provides a tranquil beachfront dining experience. Enjoy fresh seafood and Goan specialties while listening to the soothing sound of the waves.
Goan Seafood Delicacies
9. Baba Au Rhum
- Location: Anjuna
- Average Cost for 2: ₹1,200
- Highlights: Baba Au Rhum in Anjuna is a charming Italian café, surrounded by paddy fields, known for its delectable Italian and French cuisine, pastries, bread, and breakfast options. While there’s All Day Dining, It’s a perfect place to start your day with a cup of coffee and a croissant, and a hearty brunch. Their wood-fired pizzas and seafood dishes are highly recommended.
10. Bhatti Village
- Location: Nerul
- Average Cost for 2: ₹1,000
- Highlights: Bhatti Village in Nerul is a rustic and charming restaurant that serves Goan and Indian cuisine. The laid-back ambiance adds to the overall experience.
Don’t forget to try out the locally produced Goan Cashew Feni at any of these Best Places to Eat in Goa. Best to try some Masterfully Crafted Feni Cocktails.
Where to Eat in Goa? – Top Restaurants in South Goa
1. Fisherman’s Wharf Cavelossim
- Location: Cavelossim + Multiple Locations
- Average Cost for 2: ₹1,800
- Highlights: Set against the tranquil backdrop of the Sal River, Fisherman’s Wharf in Cavelossim offers a culinary journey through Goan flavours. Here, you’ll dine amidst swaying palms and gentle river breezes. Savour mouthwatering dishes like crab xec xec and prawn balchao, which encapsulate the essence of coastal Goa. The restaurant’s rustic charm and serene ambiance make it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a leisurely lunch.
2. Martin’s Corner
- Location: Betalbatim Beach, Salcette
- Average Cost for 2: ₹1,500
- Highlights: Martin’s Corner is an iconic Goan institution, known for its Goan dishes and live music. Enjoy classics like Chicken Xacuti and Sannas, complemented by their wide selection of cocktails and mocktails. The Goan vibe and hospitality make it a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
3. Mike’s Place
- Location: Cavelossim
- Average Cost for 2: ₹1,000
- Highlights: Located in Cavelossim, Mike’s Place offers multi-cuisine specialities in an intimate dining set up with a laid-back vibe. Feast on fresh seafood and a variety of cuisines while enjoying the sound of waves. Their cocktails are worth trying, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day at the beach.
4. Avocado Garden Restaurant and Bar
- Location: Palolem
- Average Cost for 2: ₹800
- Highlights: Tucked away in the charming town of Palolem, Avocado Garden Restaurant and Bar provides a peaceful garden setting for diners. The menu features a mix of Indian and international dishes, from spicy curries to wood-fired pizzas. It’s a great spot to relax and relish a leisurely meal amidst lush greenery.
Bebinca – A traditional layered Goan dessert made from coconut milk. dough
5. Zeebop by the Sea
- Location: Utorda Beach
- Average Cost for 2: ₹1,500
- Highlights: Zeebop by the Sea is an award winning Goan restaurant offering a delightful beachside dining experience. As you dine with your feet in the sand, savour the freshest seafood and Goan delicacies. The gentle sea breeze and panoramic view of the Arabian Sea add to the charm of this restaurant.
These top restaurants in Goa not only offer delicious food but also provide a glimpse into the rich cultural and culinary heritage of the region. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast, a fan of Goan spices, or simply looking for an exceptional dining experience, Goa has something to satisfy every palate. Enjoy your culinary journey through this tropical paradise!
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