After Party for the tummy: Top 5 spots to head to after a party

So the party never stops when you’re in Goa? That’s a lie, there’s always an after party! Well for me however an after party involves sobering down and returning home safe. That however is secondary; my stomach deserves the after party more than anything else. Nothing completes a night out with a satisfactory meal before hitting the sack. So here are a few of the after party hang out spots which are open in the wee hours of the night, actually dawn almost. Though Goa may boast about its nightlife, there are honestly limited places you can actually head to. 

Here is the list of my favourite 5 after party hang out spots based on food.

#5. Nescafe, Miramar

Open 24 hours, this café will give you the chilled out space you need to discuss the night that just flew by with your squad. A place for quality alone time if you’re a couple and can also be absolute mayhem if in a group. The proximity to the beach, gives it the added bonus. It’s practically your second home the moment you step foot. Don’t just get too carried away though, there are CCTV cameras installed. Service is quick, a bit overpriced. Good spread of food, however my favourite is the espresso and paneer tikka sandwich. The croissants, quiches, cold coffees, cappuccinos are definitely worth a shot.

#4. Fidalgo (Aunty Maria)

Club sandwiches, the best in the city may I add. Bacon, chicken, coleslaw, French fries and a mug of coffee all within 300 bucks. Pure delight. The coffee however comes in a flask which is sufficient for three persons. But when you want to sober down and feel refreshed, one flask would do no one any harm. Located in the heart of the city this used to be my favourite after party spot, but of late, the quality has plunged. The pastries are also available. Do not hesitate to try the apple pie and New York Cheesecake. If lucky, Biryani is also on the menu. Two persons should be more than content with the Dum Biryani. Luxurious sit out, and a decent place to crash till you’re ready to head home.

  
#3. KTC Bus stand, Panaji

Yes, the gaddos where you see half the youth smoke in broad daylight, however at 4.30 a.m till 6 a.m the scene is a tad different. The most freshly baked chicken patties, veg patties and samosas are on offer. Accompanied by some hot coffee and tea, and the occasional smokes for those who fancy it. One can get out and breathe in some fresh air and eat the most scrumptious of egg, chicken and veg patties. If you are too fancy to head to the gaddo, you can always have it parcelled and gorge on it in your four wheeler. Don’t blame me however for all the crumbs that will be filled in the car. 

#2. Thirsty Bear 

The best 24 hour stop for all your cravings. A bit pricy in comparison to the other places mentioned, but absolutely worth it. One of my favourite places to head to at any time of the day or night. Good coffee, great gelados and the best waffles and cheesecakes in the state. Especially after a long night, it tastes even more magical somehow. Great ambience and decent Wi-Fi . The portraits of celebrity quotes are something you don’t want to miss out on. Situated on the Bambolim Highway, no way you can miss this one.

 #1. Shantaram’s , Caranzalem

Quaint spot, located bang opposite the Caranzalem Chapel, could go unnoticed for the regular populace. Opens at sharp 5 a.m. serving the most delicious sheera, so hot and delectable you can’t settle for just one. Apart from that the patal bhaji,mirchi and samosas are so satisfying, you the g-spot of food if there was any accompanied with one of the best cups of tea. There is an outdoor as well as indoor setting. The ambience is anything fancy, shady honestly but hey if the food is good all else can be neglected.

It’s been quite the while have had a night out considering I’m stuck in Mangaluru answering my exams one last time. Won’t be too long since I have more experiences like these. I encourage you’ll to follow the same.

Image Courtesy : Google Images

Sweet Tooth : Top 5 Sweet dishes of Goa

Yeah Goa is super famous for its seafood. But we also love our desserts. Rich and healthy, these form a huge part of our diet. These recipes are a blend of different Portuguese and  Indian food habits and diets, over time they have been improvised and now have their own Goan Touch. Be it festival or feast, wedding or birthday. These sweet little treats were often made by loving grandmothers; they loved overfeeding their grandchildren with sweets. They are made out of natural and organic raw food products.  And the process of making them was elaborate. These recipes have been part of Goan culture for years. Nowadays these sweets are made much more easily with mixers, ovens etc. With the increase of Goan tourism these products are now sold at bakeries and cafes all over Goa.

Here's my top 5: 

#5. Doce de Grao (Gram)

This Christmas sweet, is made out of gram flour..it is usually shaped into little diamonds and looks a lot like kaju barfi. The outer layer is  little crusty but the inside is a total melt in the mouth. Delicious and soft, it is also often distributed at the time of weddings. It requires constant stirring while the dish is made, but its worth all trouble taken.

#4. Neurios

This sweet is a must, be it Ganesh Chaturti, Diwali or Christmas. Families often keep a day off from work and spend a whole day prior to the festival. Many hands make light work and it is a fun process and everyone starts feeling the festival already. This sweet along with few others is then sent to neighbors and friends.  This is a has a crispy crust and is filled with desiccated coconut or gram flour mix.

#3. Patoleos

This sweet is made of rice flour, jiggery and coconut, and is set like crepes, and covered with turmeric leaves. this not only gives strong flavor to the sweet but is also healthy. Hindus prepare it during the early days of August, as these leaves are freshly available, Christians prepare it on the Feast of Assumption. The leaves give a strong herby flavor to the crepe like sweet  which is soft and chewy.

#2. Serradura

A dessert with Portuguese influence, is easy to make with hand mixers. It is soft and fluffy, creamy and moist. It has whipped cream, sugar and condensed milk whipped till thick and then is layered with powdered biscuits and nuts. The variation in texture makes this sweet a pleasure to eat.

#1. Bebinca

The all time favorite, sweet has to be made with great patience. It has 7 layers of soft, sweet, creamy goodness. It is made with coconut milk, sugar, a little flour, butter and a little of nutmeg which gives it that special flavor. Each time a thin layer of batter is placed in the mould, and after every layer, butter/ghee is used, and another layer is added. With the ovens this is an easy process. But grandmothers would prepare this with firewood and earthen vessels and the process was very long and tiring. The things grandparents did for love!

Can never ever get enough of this stuff. Fifty percent of the reason my body is structured the way it is because of these devils.

Image courtesy for all other than the Serradura : Google Images

Delectable Delicacies: Top 5 local food dishes

Not to brag, but we Goans take our eating very seriously. Meals for the entire day have to be decided at the start of the day itself. For me, eating is priority. It would be a shame if I did not eat and was able to maintain my fat body. Since Goa is situated in the tropical climate, spices and flavours are abundant. The sea makes it favourable for sea food. The blend of Hindu origins, and four hundred years of Portuguese Colonisation is a result of tasty Goan cuisine today.

Here’s a list of my top 5 authentic Goan dishes:

#5. Chicken Cafreal

Masala marinated in the chicken which is made of vinegar, coriander leaves, green chillies as its main ingredients. Hits the tongue the moment it’s placed in your mouth. Preferred when the masala is well marinated. Can be served dry or in the form of gravy as well. Trust me this is absolute glory. Another mention to be made to Chicken Xacuti, definitely worth a try.

#4. Crab Xec-Xec/ Fish Thali

Fish thali consists of fried fish, sol kadi, gravy, a boiled vegetable, dried prawns and of course rice. Crab xec-xec is best accompanied by this thali or can be eaten solely as well, depending on personal prejudice. I prefer it with the thali however. Xec- xec is very similar in taste to xacuti masala. The key to a satisfactory meal especially with the fish thali and crab xec-xec is copious patience.

#3. Pork Vindaloo

Pungent, tangy and vinegar, how can one resist. Red in colour with everything one dreams of. The bacon for us Goans. The Goan Catholics like me fancy a lot of pork in our cuisine. The name is derived from the Portuguese term vinho e alho which means garlic and wine marinade. Another pork dish exclusive to Goa is Goan sausages which is dried with masala for days and placed in the form of sausages made of the intestines as the skin and the fat and meat placed inside it.

#2. Ross Omelette

Like the name suggests, an omelette is drowned in spicy chicken gravy, garnished with coriander, diced onions and chillies and served with pao (bread). Very commonly found at gaddos (stalls) all over the state. Reasonable and extremely scrumptious. Within Rupees 50 a plate, I for one am more than happy to gobble this as a snack as well as dinner on certain occasions.

#1. Cutlet Pao

Consists of beef or chicken steak deep fried in rava crumbs, placed in bread with minimal gravy and salads. The more succulent, the more appetizing the dish is. This could be made at home, but it tastes more heavenly at D’silva Restaurant in Miramar, which as per me sells the best Cutlet Pao in the world. Priced at fewer than 75 rupees, this tastes best with a bottle of Coca-Cola.

I hate writing posts like these, simply makes me want to eat all these delicacies in one go!

Image Courtesy: Google Images

Lounging, Pubbin' and So much more: Top 5 Lounges/ Pubs In Goa

There comes a point in everyone’s life, where they decide to just lay low. I concur that is exactly why pubs and lounges originated. Yea, call me frenetic, but I’m sticking to this explanation. Although a pub is more crowded and more beer oriented in contrast to a lounge, which is laidback and has a decent sitting and quality food service with preferably premium alcohol.

Lounges/pubs are perfect when you want to unwind and have a rather less energetic night or day as opposed to clubbing. One spends quality time with friends, good food and nice laid back music as well. Whether to gossip about your first kiss, breakup or sexual encounters, nothing goes better with a good clan, ambience, alcohol and food. Goa is no short of either gossip nor pubs and lounges.

For convenience I had to club both my top 5 pubs and lounges.

#5.Soro – The Village Pub

Like the name suggests and no surprises, soro meaning alcohol in Konkani is located in the green village of Assagao. From the owners of SinQ beach club, Soro from the exterior has maintained a very Goan tavern look to it. The moment you enter it, no surprises for guessing, it lives up to its fancy décor and shady lighting.

This place has a dedicated ladies night on Friday nights serving Sangria and martinis. They are also decked by live band performances, Dj’s and a very riveting concept of stand-up comic acts. Most of the activities take place in the air conditioned area inside. The outside sports a pool table and a decent drinking and eating section. Good quantity of food and well-priced alcohol as well out here. Not even 6 months old, this pub is giving its competitors a serious run for their money.

#4. Lounge Terminal

Located on the fifth floor of the Caculo mall in Panaji, this elite lounge is a class apart. Top notch furniture, décor and lighting. Sufficient number of television sets and decent background music sees no one complaining at all. Garbed food serving and a widespread alcohol menu of most imported alcohol is pouring here. 

    https://www.facebook.com/loungeterminalgoa/?fref=ts

A very good concept about this lounge is you can buy a bottle, lock it and have it the next time you decide to visit. This definitely increases customer loyalty and also promulgates responsible drinking.

#3. Waters Beach Lounge and Grill

Possibly the most scenic view in the entire state, placed on the edge of the Vagator cliff and a sea view many would die for. Waters is a three layered master piece. Cubana seating, space for a DJ and an in house lounging space, I am an in absolute awe of this place.

    https://www.facebook.com/watersbeachlounge/?fref=ts

Slightly high end, but the entire experience is absolutely worth it. The sun downers seem to be celestial out here. Food one can most definitely gorge on, like the name states, Grilled items is what you want to have on your plate.

#2. Down The Road Riverfront

Located in the heart of the city on the Rua De Ourem Road, this majestic pub shot to fame because of its projector multiple screenings of Euro Football games, FIFA World Cup as well as the Cricket World cup games. Two Storeyed with a river view, multi cuisine enchanting serving and more than obliging bar.

    https://www.facebook.com/downtheroadgoa/photos/a.10150715673284303.418697.134634774302/10153944814779303/?type=3&theater

Possibly one of the veterans in Pub history of Goa, this place offers Karaoke as well as regular nights with a DJ on the console. The whole vibe of the place once you visit, will want you coming back for more.

#1. Café Mojo

Part of the Hotel Salida Del Sol, this Pub is absolute magic. Terrific interiors with its own brewery serving tap beer. For any item (food or alcohol) you need to avail of a Mojo card. Recently revamped and made to two storeys, this pub attracts a lot of foreign as well as national tourists. Has its own ladies night, Karaoke night as well as nights with a DJ.

    https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1724000731177571&set=gm.1228274403867000&type=3&theater

The addition of a pool table and large projector screen to telecast live sport will only be an impetus to this Irish kind of a vibe Pub. Free cheese lings for every order only, entice people to come back for more.

Since I’m currently studying in Mangaluru, thinking of these places get me all nostalgic about all the good times my friends and me actually spent at these places.

Coffee o'clock : Top 5 Cafes in Panaji

Whether it’s a much anticipated first date, regular date or just catching up with your pals, nothing makes the environment more favourable when complimented with delightful food at a cosy sit out. Cafes are numerous in the susegadstate of Goa. They are of high importance to those who want to kill time and also to those who want to spend “quality time”. 

An important criterion on deciding a good café is quality food and a decent décor and sitting arrangement. Oh and additional benefactors like free Wi-Fi, gaming stations and a pool table are more than welcome. The Capital city Panaji has more than sufficient locations for this lucrative venture. 

Here’s a list of my five favourite cafes to visit within Panaji and its periphery.

#5.Urban Café

A treat to the eye in every sense of the word, located in the awe-inspiring Fontainhas,right from its exterior, this is painted rather artistically to its more than fancy interior. It has a much laid back sit out on the ground floor. The top floor is what you got to look out for. The staircase has the most stand-out display of book hangings with just the right amount of illumination.

In all honesty, the edibles out here are mediocre. The ambience and the refreshing drinks make me want to come back here. Espresso and the milkshakes more than make up for the edibles. Oh and there’s high speed Wi-Fi, just in case you’re interested. 

#4. Lilly’s Flower

Like the name wasn’t catchy enough to draw ones attention. This quaint place in Caranzalem, from the outside might make you question yourself whether to enter or not. But take my word for it, you will be exiting the place with a bright smile on your face and probably rubbing your tummy rather satisfactorily. 

Resois, pork pies, beef chops and the must try out milkshakes are the reasons “uncle” has its regulars. The plus side of the milkshakes is you pay for one but practically get two glasses of the same milkshake. “Uncle” makes sure you are content, and his generous and homely feel makes one assume as though their own ghara. 

#3. Bodega

Bustling about in a sunny courtyard and catering the best red velvet cupcakes in town, this café located a top the Altinho hills is quite something. Part of Sunaparanta art Gallery, you will suddenly turn into an artist out here with the décor and sit out. Got a bit of a Portuguese feel to it.

    https://www.facebook.com/BodegaGoa/?fref=ts

This café also has an extensive variety of salads, soups, pastry, sandwiches and desserts. And no prizes for guessing, there is an option of free Wi-Fi as well. The open area of this café is quite the centre of attraction literally .

#2. Café Basil

Situated in Miramar, this is one café you just must visit. Every bloody thing on the menu will titillate your taste buds and keep you wanting more. The Chicken B.B.Q is a personal favourite, priced at rupees 150/-. Due to its quality food, coupled with the surrounding colleges, it is difficult to get a seat out here. 

It gives one the option to play on the ukele, guitar and even try your hand at some sketching. Oh there is a decent display of books as well. Do keep in mind that the kitchen remains closed between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. The over friendly staff, owners and tummy fitting food will make you want to revisit this place and probably end up a regular.

#1. Thirsty Bear

Might be getting  ahead of myself, but best waffles and cheesecake in the entire state at this place. Nestled on the Bambolim highway, with a decent sit out and an even more intriguing sit in. The well put together frames of celebrities with their famous quotes displayed on the walls are eye catching.

The waffle priced at 350/- rupees and cheese cake a little fewer than 200/-  rupees if my memory serves me right, is reason enough to be here. The added advantage of this place is the fact that it is open 24 hours. The Gelato is decent enough if you’re a sweet tooth like myself. 

Off to down some espresso shots, catch up with you sooner than I'd like to.

Something Fishy : Top 5 restaurants for fish thali in Goa

When you say Goa, the first thing that pops up in the minds of tourists is sun, sand and alcohol. However, for most locals, it is food. And nothing more integral than that of the staple food; commonly known as fish curry rice or also fish thali.

People today undermine the relevance of food, most diet and remain fit. I however am a staunch believer of living to eat, rather than eating to live. My physical appearance is very much justified by the previous statement. Typical Goan fish curry rice constitutes of the but obvious rice, Goan coconut curry which is either made of prawns, mackerel fish or lady fingers as well. Based on the preference of your choice, each of these curries gives the same authentic touch and feel. The aroma of this curry is good enough to get your mouth salivating. This is further accompanied by a fried fish of one’s personal choice. The most common fishes are Mackerel, Chonak, Kingfish, either rava fried or purely recheado fried or a combination of both. My bias is towards a Kingfish with the combination of rava fry with the recheado masala.

Other side dishes may include vegetable bhaji’s like that of grams, cabbages, beetroots and so forth. Another common component of this fish thali ( Xitt Kodi in Konkani) is Kismoor, which is dried prawns and coconut shavings prepared to give it a bit of a tangy feel. More dishes are always welcome, but these are the basic entities. One consumes a sol kodi at the end of this thali, this is believed to improve the digestion. 

Here is a listing of my top 5 places to indulge in lip smacking xitt kodi

#5.  Copperleaf

A fairly new place located on the Chogum road, has done fairly well to gain reputation amongst most people who fancy fine dining fish thali. Priced at just Rupees 150/- inclusive of taxes, this place makes it a fairly beautiful experience to lunch or dine at. The décor the place is top notch, ample space to accommodate a huge crowd. 

Apart from fish thali, Copperleaf also offers a wide spread menu in Seafood, Goan, Tandoor, Chinese and Indian cuisines. One can be rest assured, once you pop in here, one will definitely revisit the place for an all-round perfect meal and ambiance. 

#4. Hotel Anantashram

Located in literally the heart of the city, this place has surely earned an accolade for itself. Serving one of the most scrumptious meals in and around Panaji (Capital of Goa) the  fish thali here is simply outstanding. It is very difficult to get a decent seating here as many of the office goers in the city consider the fish curry rice very homely. The interior and decors are nothing to brag about unlike the quality and taste of the food.

Service is extremely quick and one shouldn’t miss out on an opportunity to try out the Serradura for dessert. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed and will leave the place with a big smile on your face. At least I do every time.

#3. Star Bar & Restaurant

Facing the river view of the Mandovi, this quaint place is known for its authentic fish thali for donkey years now. I remember my father being a regular at this place, and always boasted about how delicious the food was here. Till date they have managed to maintain this authentic feel. Nothing tastes better with a fish thali accompanied by a nice chilled beer and the scenic view to die for.

Located in Ribandar, this restaurant has certainly visitors visiting from different part of the state, and rightly so.

#2. Kuttikar Bar & Restaurant

A bit of prejudice towards this place, as it is my go to place for fish thali if my mother doesn’t prepare lunch for me. Priced at just rupees 80/- you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about once you’ve visited the place. The ambience and décor is nothing special, in fact below mediocre, but boy does the fish thali certainly more than make up for it.

Despite this, it has its fair share of regular customers and many top politicians and officials make it a point to visit the place. A little less known fact, this place is owned by the former MLA of the Cumburjua constituency and he makes sure each once rubs their belly by the end of the meal. The masala squids fry accompanied by the fish thali is an absolute treat.

#1. Ritz Classic

The first place that rings a bell when one says fish thali definitely has to be this one. At rupees 188/- per fish thali, one is rest assured to be wholly satisfied in every sense of the word. The décor is top notch and service is extremely quick and staff equally friendly.

I’ve indulged in meals more than I can remember and not once was I disappointed. Apart from the fish thali all the other Goan seafood is next level stuff. My personal favourite is the Chicken vindaloo and I would highly recommend it.

As I’m typing this, I’m already imagining myself visiting all these places at the earliest and I’m hoping you would do the same.