Authentic Goan Cuisine Restaurants

October 27, 2013 eweekendbreaks Off travel guide,

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Goa may be known for sun, sand and parties but it is equally famous for its delectable cuisines. Food in Goa has rice, coconut, seafood and local spices as the main ingredients. Goan cuisine has subtle flavours and wonderful aromas of the traditional spices used. It is a blend of Indian, Portuguese and modern influences combined together to present flavourful food. Goa tourism prides itself on this unique platter of Goan food. There are many restaurants in Goa serving authentic goan food or with a little modern twist to suit the tourists.

These restaurants are the pride and joy of Goa tourism. So, here’s where to tantalise your taste buds.

O’ Coqueiro – Set up in 1968, this is one of the most charming restaurants in Goa that dishes out wonderful Goan cuisines. The word Coqueiro means ‘coconut tree’. Their Chicken Cafreal is the most popular dish on the menu. Tisreo Sukhe, Shark Amotik and Stuffed Crabs are some other famous dishes. Feni is the drink served here.

George Restaurant – Located close to the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, this tiny restaurant serves food prepared in the traditional Goan way. There are two levels, the lower level has the bar and the upper level is air-conditioned and reserved for families. Vindaloos and Xacutis are a must- have alongwith various other sea food preparations.

Chef Fernando’s Nostalgia – A neat restaurant with a setting and menu that are reminiscent of old Goa. It has one of the most extensive spreads of Goan- Portuguese dishes. A meal here will be a truly goan experience due to the traditional setting and the vast menu.

The Upper House – This Goan restaurant has three levels: the ground floor has a casual and cafe like atmosphere, the first floor is a pub designed on the lines of old British pubs, and the third level is for fine dining, complete with silver cutlery and an opulent ambience. Alle Belle, Samarachi Coddi, Xacuti, Vindaloo and Cafreal are the signature dishes of this restaurant.

Cafe Ritz Restaurant & Bar – This is one of the fine dining restaurants in Goa, which is extremely popular with tourists for the authenticity of its flavours. They are famous for their fresh fish curries and the fish thali. It tends to get very crowded so make sure you go early.

Viva Panjim – This is a cosy, family run restaurant located behind Mary Immaculate Girls High School. The decor is European with vibrant colours and a laid back atmosphere, in sync with the life in Goa. Butter garlic prawns, Calamari in Recheado masala and Chilli Prawns are some of their signature dishes.

Souza Lobo – This is a shack located right at Calangute beach. It has a very lively ambience, especially in the evenings when music is playing. You can get a chance to interact with the locals here as it is visited by many locals.

These were some restaurants which are the pride of Goa tourism and make your Goan experience more fulfilling and satisfying by serving traditional food. So next time you are in Goa, do make it a point to visit any or all of these amazing restaurants in Goa.