From time to time, we all go through those cravings for some yummy Goan food that somehow brings to mind happy memories of those fun times in Goa. Sadly, the kind of food enjoyed at the beach shacks or homestays in Goa is rarely what is served in most restaurants claiming to serve ‘Goan’ food in Mumbai. However, there’s no need to lose hope just yet {even if the only Goan friend you have can’t cook for nuts}! We give you three of our favourite Goan eateries in South Mumbai that are bang on in taste and definitely don’t burn a hole in your wallet.
Three SoBo Eateries You Can Head To For Delicious Home-Style Goan Food
Snowflakes
Located in a tiny bylane in Kalbadevi, this little restaurant has been around for over a decade, dishing out the same delicious and authentic Goan fare day after day to hungry office goers passing by, or college students from the nearby St. Xavier’s College. The display window sets your mouth watering with its array of potato chops, kheema croquettes and other snacks, while the rest of the menu comprises mainly seafood and meat curries to be mopped up with rice or soft pav. There is no bar or AC, but once you start eating, it really doesn’t matter. A hearty meal here would probably set you back by just INR 200. If you can’t find the place, let your nose lead you there, as the strong smell of fried fish wafting from the kitchen, probably will. That said, this isn’t really a place for vegetarians. Also, parking isn’t available, so work up an appetite by getting there on foot.
Where: Rebeiro Building, 1st Dhobi Talao Lane, Kalbadevi, Marine Lines, Mumbai
Timings: 12 noon to 3pm, 7pm to 10pm
New Martin Hotel
A name that rings a bell with Goan food lovers residing around Colaba, it’s New Martin Hotel which is very close to Strand Cinema at the beginning of Colaba Market. This one is another hidden gem that will definitely have you returning multiple times for their glorifying grub. With barely 10 tables and the kitchen right in front, this non-AC eatery has its dishes of the day chalked out on a blackboard right at the entrance, and that saves you the confusion of decision making, especially during a tight lunch break. The Goan-style steak with onions and chips, choris (Goan pork sausage) pav and chilly fry are hot favorites here, and at times you may be lucky to savour their special apricot custard that isn’t available anywhere else in Mumbai. A meal for two would set you back by INR 300 to INR 500, and leave you feeling happy and contented despite the lack of a bar or parking.
Where: 21, Glamour House, Strand Road, Near Strand Cinema, Colaba, Mumbai
Timings: 11.30am to 3 pm, 6.30pm to 9pm.
Gables
A leisurely walk down Colaba Causeway ending at the Colaba Market will have you stumble upon Gables. This little known eatery that’s survived for decades in its prime location, primarily on account of regular patrons who swear by its no-nonsense Continental food as well as its wholesome and delicious Goan dishes. Most times, you will see people stop by for a takeaway since parking is an issue and service can be slack. However, if you do crave some good old pork sorpotel, vindaloo, rechado fish fry or chicken cafreal that are all available for under INR 200, Gables is the right place for you. The restaurant also has all the Continental favourites including a great breakfast menu, so if you’re in town early, maybe stop by for brunch on a Sunday.
Where: Opposite Shiv Mandir & Petrol Pump, Colaba, Mumbai
Timings: 10:30 am to 3:30 pm, 6:30 pm to 11 pm.