Tired of the same old seafood scene in the Sunny State? Wondering if there's a tastebud adventure beyond the ocean? Guess what? Goan cuisine is a treasure trove, and even vegetarians aren't left out! Brace yourself for a flavour fiesta. We’ve got the lowdown on 10 kickass spots to hit up, where you can dive into authentic local grub that's more than just seafood. Bookmark these gems now and let's get munchin'!
Goan Food That's Not Seafood: Here Are The 10 Best Places To Try
Cafe Tato
If you're around Panjim Church, Patto, Vasco, or Margao, you've gotta check out this legendary 100-year-old café. It's all about veggie delights, and the locals swear by their breakfast spread. Dive into those iconic buns and the mouthwatering mix bhaji– they've got Mushroom & Potato bhaji that's a hit! Not into mushrooms? No biggie, try their fresh salad bhaji. Pair them with classic chai, frosty cold coffee, or irresistible bournvita. Oh, and don't miss out on the spicy Mirchi bhaji. For a full-on feast, their veg thali's got your back.
Timings: Monday to Saturday, 7 AM to 8.30 PM
Dsilvas
If you're hanging out by Miramar beach, you've got to check out this awesome spot that's a total local darling. Picture this: childhood memories, school's-out vibes, and some seriously delicious cutlet pao action. This place is a legit gem that's been rocking it for ages. Beef croquettes, Cutlet Paos, Chorizo Pao, Pork Chops–they're all star players here. Grab your goodies and have a beachside feast. Don't miss out, folks!
Timings: Everyday, 11 AM to 11 PM
The Goan Kitchen
Craving a taste of the good local stuff? Imagine sinking your teeth into the legendary Madi Fritter, the tantalising Shewyo Chunn, and the oh-so-delicious Orchata! Well, guess what? Your foodie dreams are about to come true at The Goan Kitchen in Margao. These folks are pros when it comes to serving up local delights and sweets, some of which you won't find anywhere else. So why wait? Get ready to soak up all that Portuguese-infused goodness in the heart of South Goa!
Timings: Wednesday to Monday, 10 AM to 7 PM
Mr. Baker 1922
Here’s a super cool spot in the heart of Panji that's been around for over a century! Right by the Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church, they're rocking the traditional wood-fired Bebincas, Batica, and Peralda. It's like a one-way ticket to soaking up all things Goan culture. Oh, and seriously, you cannot–I repeat, cannot–miss out on their Rum Balls. Those bad boys are simply heavenly. Plus, in the summer, they've got this farm-fresh niro, which is basically cashew juice that'll have you feeling all refreshed. Keep an eye out for the ancient oven, vintage clock, and the awesome hospitality.
Timings: Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 7 PM
The Goan Laddoo
This amazing new joint, owned by this young, dynamic couple, is becoming the talk of the town! It's like a nostalgia trip for the grown-ups, transporting them to the good old days of relishing their grandma's cooking. The Goan Laddoo is like a time machine for taste, reviving ancient recipes! Craving a trip down memory lane? Get yourself to this place for some seriously lip-smacking grub. And oh boy, you gotta try their array of bhajis–they're so so good!
Timings: Everyday, 8 AM to 8.30 PM
Vida
Get ready to tantalise your taste buds at Vida, the swanky new addition to the Cafe Tato's family down in South Goa. Brace yourselves for a mouthwatering experience with local delights like Brinjal Bharth On Chapati and Purple Spinach Samosa. And that's just the beginning! Phodi, Chicken Rawa Fry, and a parade of mains including Papadacho Ross, Chicken Vindaloo, and more await. Oh, did I mention the delectable sides like Papad Kismoor and Poi? Make sure to save room for Serradura and Kangachyo Nevryo desserts.
Timings: Everyday, 12 PM to 3.30 PM and 7 PM to 11 PM
Bhatti Village
If you're in Nerul, make a pit stop at Bhatti Village–a total gem! Your North Goa adventure isn't complete without it, seriously. They've got loads of veg and non-veg goodies that aren't all about seafood. Picture this: Tender Coconut Chilly Fry, Mushroom Xacuti, Tongue Roast, and Pork Sorpotel with Sanna–oh my taste buds! And hold up, dessert lovers, the Vonn and Dodol are a must-try. Get ready to have your taste buds dancing!
Timings: Everyday, 12 PM to 3.30 PM and 7 PM to 11 PM
Mum Mai
This awesome spot in Panjim is ready to blow your mind! It's like a pandemic miracle that brought the classic Goan grub with a speedy twist! Imagine munching on Roast Pork, Chicken Cafreal, and cutlet packed Poee or Pav sandwiches. And don't even get me started on their Godyani, Ross Omelette, Beef Kheema, and Vonn–it's like a big, warm hug from mom in every bite. Seriously, this place nails the combo of taste and love!
Timings: Everyday, 12 PM to 3.30 PM and 7 PM to 11 PM
Figueiredo House
Have you seen the mind-blowing 450-year-old Portuguese House? Imagine snagging a delicious meal in their cozy dining hall or even amidst the museum artefacts–talk about epic vibes! And guess what, this place totally nails the whole homey feel, even though you're miles away from your actual home sweet home. The hospitality is out of this world, and oh boy, they've got your taste buds covered too. Start off with Chamusas, diving into Pork Vindalho and Veg Caldinho, and savour Xacuti for the mains, with Orange roll, Pasties De Nata, and Ale Bele sealing the deal for dessert. Get ready for an unforgettable escapade, folks!
Timings: Everyday
Chef Peter’s Kitchen
If you're craving some seriously legit Goan grub that isn't all about seafood, then Chef Peter’s Kitchen is THE place to hit up! Chef Peter snagged the title of India's top chef from the Department of Tourism, and we totally get why. Get ready to wrap your taste buds around goodies like Veg Stuffed Papad, Goan Sausage Chilli Fry, Pork Chops, and the epic Tripe and Sausage Pulao. Seriously, you've got to dive into these flavours!
Timings: Everyday, 11 AM to 11PM
