One of the first restaurants to put Assagao on the tourist map, Gunpowder’s Toddy Shop Meen Curry and Soondal have really stood the test of time. It’s fiercely loved by artists, writers and every variant of hipster for its epic Andhra Prawn Curry and Pandhi Curry that go well with parottas, or their fluffy, cloud-like appams. We also recommend keeping their artisanal cocktails coming through the meal. Before you commit yourself to the food, though, walk through the People Tree store that shares space inside this old Goan home and adds to Gunpowder’s charm.
Another classic restaurant from Assagao, Vinayak Family Restaurant is quite popular with both tourists and locals, who swear by its legendary fish thali. Lunch time is frenzied, and expecting servers to take notice of you (and your never-ending orders of beer and Batter Fried Calamari or Bombil Rava Fry), is a game of perseverance, but everything that makes it to your table is worth the wait. It’s a great way to see an unusually hectic side of Goa with a well-stocked bar and a view of the nearby fields in tow.
Suzie’s is a recent addition to Assagao’s already-exploding food scene that dares to do things differently. A whimsical take on fine-dining, the chef lovingly curates a different menu every six weeks, working with seasonal ingredients. If you have your heart set on a romantic dinner for two, this place will fit the bill–think dreamy, garden cafe vibe that brings the phrase ‘rustic chic’ to mind. At Suzie’s, there’s very little to distract you from the five-course meal (apart from your partner, of course) because they only entertain guests by reservation–and only for dinner, at that.
Even if you didn’t know that Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Nick Jonas were often spotted here, you should still add this one to your list of best restaurants in Goa for Chai and Biscuit - the restaurant’s cuddly resident Labradors. Pousada comes with the promise of stunning beach views, a relaxed vibe and spot-on seafood fare to compensate for the journey and time it takes to reach here. Their Fish in Banana Leaf is the star, but you’ll might also end up loving their Crusty Prawns, Konkan-flavoured rice and Prawn Balchao as well.
It will be a shame if you make a list of best Goa restaurants and don’t include this one in it. Especially the one located in Cavelossim, South Goa. Perched by the riverside, with sea breeze and live music filling the air, this spot is always abuzz. Their kitchen modifies Goan dishes for the tourist palate, so if it’s your maiden tryst with Goan flavours, you’ll love their masala fried calamari, fish curry with rice and potato recheado. If you still have some room left, then you must try their rava fried prawns that is to die for.
This modern, boutique restaurant located in Panaji, prides itself on using locally-sourced seasonal produce and that is exactly what makes all the difference. With an eclectic menu that doesn’t play by the rules, there’s one thing that’s constant: the impressive selection of wine and craft beers. Given all the innovative twists on their farm-to-fork menu, it’s hard to pick our favourites, but if we had gun aimed at our head, we’d go for their Ghee Roast Pork Ribs and Goan Pesto Crusted Fish (vegetarians can get this with paneer) and Chakri Churros.
How do you handle the expectations that come with being as iconic as Olive? Well, you take what they’re best known for and drop it on the beach. What makes this Vagator restaurant timeless is how it keeps the OG’s love for all things pretty and pizza alive, while still going big on their Goa menu, particularly seafood dishes, while indulging in an evening of Jazz by the beach. This restaurant has introduced the Goa family brunches to a whole lot of sangria and sardines on toasted ciabatta. You can also try their Quattro-fungi Pizza, Mezze Board and cocktails by the gallon.
This friendly diner is perfect for families in Goa with children. The menu is an easily navigable blend of Goan and Portuguese classics, with croquettes and chourico rolls to tempt the fussiest of eaters and the peri-peri prawns drawing a consistent flock of loyal supporters.
One of the best places to eat in Goa, Burger Factory in Anjuna is a known for its giant, cheesy burgers and stunning views. If you’re staying in North Goa, bookmark this for an evening of guzzling beer and doubling down on their Double Cheddar, Bacon and BBQ sauce pork burger as the sun goes down. Vegetarians, get their thick shakes and the Spinach, Cheddar, Mushroom & Blue Cheese Burger and you’ll walk out truly sated. They also have an outlet in Morjim.
