Hit the refresh button at this Goan man's limbu-soda stall

DOUSING THIRST

For 30 years, Dnyaneshwar and his wife, Sochana Sarmalkar, have been quenching the thirst of tourists and locals in North Goa’s Bicholim with their bright, tangy and sparkling lime sodas.

LAKE, LIME SODA & MORE

Known as Nani Limbu-Soda, Sarmalkar's stall is located a short distance from the freshwater Mayem Lake – a tranquil and scenic haven for boat-riding and birding. And, if bungee jumping is your thing, it’s right opposite the stall.

MAGIC HANDS

At Sarmalkar's, every lemon is freshly squeezed in mineral water, stirred in sugar and salt to prepare a concoction, into which fizzy soda is poured – a simple recipe, but Dnyaneshwar’s deft hands add magic to it.

SQUEEZE THE DAY

The couple squeezes everyday like a ripe lemon – arriving early morning at the shop and leaving late in the evening till the last customer leaves.  

TWO TO TANGO

Sochana happily manages the ‘back-shop’ work, and leaves the job of concocting the magic potion to her husband. They swear by their hygiene standards, which has gained them loyal customers.

ZINGY STOP

Such loyalties have created a robust customer base. Dnyaneshwar says 400 to 800 customers throng his outlet every day. A halt at the stall is ritualistic for those zipping past to add zing to their day.

FILL WITH MEMORY FIZZ

Some of his lime soda guzzlers have been frequenting his stall since childhood. For just Rs 30, cab driver Aftab Raunak gets to journey down memory lane with Sarmalkar's lime soda.

A TRIP WORTH TAKING

So, head to Bicholim and take a swig of this lime-and-lemony drink on your next visit to Goa. The trip to the shop – on a ferry and through the charming lanes of Ribandar – by itself will be worth it.

NEXT: Refresh recharge at Goa's lovely lakes-and rivers