If it’s chicken cafreal, it has to be Florentine
If you’re craving an authentic chicken cafreal, there’s only one place to go – Florentine in Saligao, North Goa. This iconic Goan dish has been perfected at Florentine since 1985, when it was first introduced here by the late Florencio D’Costa.
Before starting off on his own, Florencio had been honing his culinary skills in the kitchen of Hotel Mandovi in Panjim, under the guidance of seasoned chef Caridade Alfonso. In 1985, Florencio decided to leave his job and transform his family’s tavern, at that time run by his parents, into a restaurant.
Florentine officially opened its doors on July 13, 1985, marking the beginning of a legacy. Since then, it has become known not just for its signature chicken cafreal but also for some other outstanding seafood offerings
Today, Florentine remains a family-run business. After Florencio’s passing, his son, Hubert D’Costa, took over the reins of the restaurant, ensuring that the chicken cafreal remains as authentic and delicious as his father’s original recipe.
Hubert proudly says, “The recipe runs in the family. My mother, wife and I handle the marination and prepare the masala for the chicken cafreal.” This family touch is what makes the dish so unique, with each ingredient chosen with care and the marination done with love by the D’Costa family.
At Florentine, you can enjoy the chicken cafreal in either a half or quarter serving, depending on your appetite. The dish is served with the traditional Goan bread, poi and a side of fresh salad. The half chicken cafreal will cost Rs 260, while the quarter portion is priced at Rs 150.
At Florentine, we are committed to continuing and building the legendary legacy that my father, Florencio, created.
Hubert D'Costa, Florentine Bar and Restaurant
To enhance your meal, extra gravy is available upon request, ensuring you savour every bite. Hubert adds, “At Florentine, we are committed to continuing and building the legendary legacy that my father, Florencio, created.”
Florentine operates for lunch and dinner, but is closed on Mondays. For lunch, the restaurant is open from 11.30 am to 3.30 pm, and for dinner, it welcomes guests from 6.30 pm to 11 pm.
If you're in the mood for a genuine taste of Goa, make sure to visit Florentine and experience the rich history and flavours that have kept this family tradition alive for over three decades.
Make sure to visit Gomantak Times YouTube channel and watch our latest video for a complete review of the restaurant and their signature chicken cafreal.