Goa isn’t just about sunbathing and sunsets—it’s a full-blown flavour fiesta! From beachside shacks serving seafood by the kilo to jungle cafés tucked away in sleepy villages, the Goan food scene is as vibrant as its sunsets. Here’s a mix of laid-back bites, hipster hangouts, and locals-only legends that’ll have you saying “just one more plate” all day long.
1. Suzie’s, Assagao
🍽️ Best For: Alfresco fine dining under the stars
🌿 A true hidden gem. No signboard, no menu—just a magical garden setting and a seasonal tasting menu that changes every week. Think slow-cooked meats, local ingredients, and serious date-night vibes. Reservations only.
2. Pousada by the Beach, Calangute
🍽️ Best For: Peaceful beachside lunches
🐚 Tucked away from the noisy beach crowd, this serene shack serves fresh seafood and traditional Goan fare with a side of sea breeze. Try the seafood platter or pork vindaloo, and don’t skip dessert. It feels like a secret, and you’ll want to keep it that way.
3. Baba Au Rhum, Anjuna
🍽️ Best For: Lazy brunches & great coffee
☕ This iconic café is nestled in the paddy fields of Anjuna and dishes out everything from wood-fired pizzas to fluffy croissants. Chill beats, strong coffee, and a crowd that looks straight out of Pinterest.
4. Vinayak Family Restaurant, Assagao
🍽️ Best For: Affordable local thalis
🐟 No frills, no fuss—just fantastic food. Their fish thali is legendary: rice, sol kadhi, curry, fried fish, and more. Get here early or be prepared to wait. Locals love it, and so will you.
5. Artjuna, Anjuna
🍽️ Best For: Healthy bites & creative vibes
🥗 Yoga studio meets café meets lifestyle boutique. Artjuna is your go-to for smoothie bowls, hummus plates, and strong espresso. Sit under the trees, journal, people-watch—it’s the ultimate chill zone.
6. Lila Café, Baga Creek
🍽️ Best For: European breakfasts
🍳 Run by a German couple, this riverside café is famous for its homemade bread, eggs any style, and flaky apple strudel. Come early, grab a sun-drenched seat, and stay for hours.
7. Starlight, Arpora
🍽️ Best For: Authentic Goan seafood (minus the Instagram crowd)
🦀 A no-glamour, all-flavour gem serving buttery crabs, recheado fish, and perfectly spiced curries. Popular with Goans, slightly under the radar for tourists—exactly how you want it.
8. Eva Café, Anjuna Cliff
🍽️ Best For: Sunset views & Mediterranean plates
🌅 Perched right on the cliffside, this dreamy little café serves hummus platters, mezze bowls, and cold coffee that hits just right. Time your visit with sunset—it’s pure magic.
💡 Tip for Travelers: UPI Works for You Too!
If you’re visiting from abroad, you don’t need to worry about rupees or card machines. Just download Mony, the app that lets foreigners use UPI across India—from sleepy cafés to bustling fish shacks. Scan, pay, and enjoy your meal—no fuss, no cash, all flavour.
Whether you’re café-hopping in Assagao or chasing seafood in Calangute, these spots will make your Goa trip deliciously unforgettable.