Tourism for Green Investments: Experience Goa's Farm-to-Table Restaurants
With World Tourism Day approaching, the 2023 theme of "Tourism for Green Investments" encourages us to embrace local traditions, minimise our environmental footprint, and bolster community livelihoods.
Dive deeper into Goa's charm beyond its pristine beaches and lively parties by savouring farm-to-table dining experiences. Explore our curated list of 8 must-visit farm-to-table restaurants and cafes, where sustainability meets culinary delight.
1. NANBAI BAKERY AND CAFE
Nanbai, nestled in Campal, is a charming Goan bakery and café open everyday from 8 AM to 10PM.
They procure fresh ingredients from their farm in Goa Velha, while the neighbouring farms supply eggs and chorizo. Their unbeatable offerings include the Cafreal Baguette and Chorizo Puff, blending local flavours. It's also pet-friendly, so bring your furry companions along.
Location: Panjim
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nanbaibakery/
2. AAYI'S
Aayi’s offers a treasure trove of authentic Saraswat Recipes through Goa From Home, proudly presenting forgotten culinary delights.
Whether it's a buffet for 15+ guests or you’re seeking an intimate meal, they cater to your needs. Their ingredients are sourced from their farm in Kamurle and the local fish market.
Location: Kamurle
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goafromhome/
3. C’EST L’AVI
C’est L’Avi, a creation of Chef Avinash Martins, complements his renowned restaurant, Cavatina. This is with a farm-to-table artisanal concept, Table In The Hills in the hills of South Goa.
Ingredients are sourced from his farm and pond, and water from a nearby spring. Reservation for 6 to 12 guests required at least 48 hours in advance.
Location: South Goa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tableinthehills/
4. THAI N WOK
Thai N Wok is an authentic Thai restaurant in Miramar, run by an Indo-Thai couple that cannot be missed while you are looking to taste beyond Goan flavours. They use ingredients from their Sangolda farm for an unforgettable dining experience, offering more than just traditional dishes like Tom Yum and Pad Thai.
Try the Yam Yang and Basil Chicken with Rice. Plus, you can purchase farm-fresh produce on-site. They are open for lunch from 11 AM to 3 PM and dinner from 7 PM to 11 PM from Friday to Wednesday.
Location: Panjim
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thainwok/
5. BLACK SHEEP BISTRO
Black Sheep Bistro, once in Panjim market, now resides in Campal; open from noon to midnight. It combines global culinary styles with local farm-sourced ingredients and doubles as an art gallery.
Whether admiring the plated dishes or the wall art, every glance is mesmerising. Must-tries include Smoked Spiced Chicken Baos, Ghee Roast Pork Ribs, Truffle Oil Mac and Cheese, and an Olive-infused dessert.
Location: Panjim
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bsbpanaji/
6. KAIA GOA
Kaia and their restaurant, Talula By The Sea in Ashwem, stands as the freshest beachfront gem. A part Bhumi Pednekar project, it distinguishes itself with a relaxed ambiance, gentle melodies, and eco-friendly design, aligning seamlessly with its commitment to using locally grown seasonal ingredients.
Must-tries include the Beetroot Borani and Truffle Mushroom Risotto, while the beverage On Coffee Grounds introduces Bebinca-infused flavours. They are open from 8 AM to 1 AM from Thursday to Monday.
Location: Ashwem
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaiagoa/
7. PETISCO
Petisco, a creation of Cafe Tato's founders, is right near Panjim church. From noon until 12.30-1 AM, Tuesday to Sunday, they present innovative Goan dishes using local ingredients like alsande beans in the must-try Alsande Bean Taco (perfect with Charred Veggies), Bimbli pickle with Prawns A La Pancha, and Mancurad Mangoes in their signature Coco Ambo Cocktail. Reservations are recommended and the live music on weekends is must do.
Location: Panjim
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petiscogoa/
8. MANGAAL FARM STAY
Mangaal Farm Stay in South Goa offers a unique farm-to-table dining experience alongside comfortable accommodations from 9 AM to 2 PM and 6 PM to 8 PM everyday.
They serve meals prepared with freshly harvested vegetables, sprouts, microgreens, probiotic drinks, and herbal infusions. Customise your meal with chicken or fish and enjoy it at their communal dining table overlooking the garden for an authentic Goan living experience.
Location: Netravali
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mangaalfarmgoa/