You don’t go to Goa to stay indoors. Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to CHILL in Goa is with an expertly mixed cocktail in hand and a breath-taking view in front of the eyes.
Here’s a list of the best places in Goa which pair exquisite drinks and lip-smacking dishes with brilliant vistas.
Imagine bonfires by the beach, crazy cocktails, chilled bear, open beach and gorgeous views of the sunset and moon rise! Sound’s LIT? Initially known as Jojo’s Sundowner, at the northern end of Palolem beach, Sundowner has everything that you dream of in a boho beach-side café.
USP:
You can walk down to the rocks where the beach ends for a time of solitude or dance away to their electrifying beats on Friday nights. Or just attend one of their full moon parties for a FAB time!
Must-Try:
1.) Super chilled beer with stone oven-baked pizzas.
2.) When it comes to classics, they have the best 'Pina-Colada' in the world (try some along with Tapas) or the 'Gin and Tonic' (super refreshing).
3.) One of Hemant's Mojitos (you'll love them!)
4.) Their 'Cucumber Cooler' is an awesome sun-downer after a hot day at the beach.
5.) If you're in the mood for something creative, have one of their wacky cocktails called 'Zombie' made with rum, Cointreau, Grenadine, fruit juice and syrup or try the 'Sun-downer's Special' which has the local feni blended with lime, mind and soda.
However, since the place is just by the beach it is open only from October to April. In fact, in times of high-tides, they offer you a free boat ride back to land.
Where: Hira Smruti, Sawant Wade, Palolem, Canacona, Goa 403702
Cost: 800 INR approx. for two
Contact: 7887567384, check their website here.
The open-air ambiance, the cool breeze, the clear blue sky, swaying palms, the lush lawns and the sparkling tide of the river Zuari add a romantic setting to this restaurant.
USP:
Perched atop a cliff, Bay 15 is perfect for soaking the sun, candid conversations, slow dancing to the the live music and soft gushing waves. Plus, if you have a special occasion or want some privacy, you can call ahead book a cozy cabana all for yourself. Let’s just say cheers to that!
Must Try:
1.) 'Luscious Martini' which is made with vodka, citrus, fresh watermelon, peach and aromatic basil leaves. One of their best-sellers.
2.) If you're looking for something powerful, the 'Bay15 Margarita' is kick-ass. (Seriously!) Imagine tequila shaken with citrus, red-bell-pepper and pineapple juice?
3.) In case you really want to try something more local, order Gianna's classic cashew feni.
Where: Odxel Beach Dona Paula, Panjim, Goa
Cost: 1,500 INR for two
Contact: 73501 46000
If you were looking for a quiet place, tucked away from all the noisy crowded places, some place with a rustic charm, where you could just watch the sun dip over a glass of wine, look no more!
USP:
With rave reviews, scrumptious dishes and exquisitely made classic cocktails this is definitely a gem, located by a gorgeous beach side. The restaurant also has two really sweet pet dogs called Chai & Biscuit.
Must-Try:
They have a wide-range of cocktails here, really creative and delicious.
1.) Mojito with a twist
2.) Tamarind Margarita
3.) Some exquisite Sangria (try both red and white).
4.) Melon Mojito is a mocktail for our teetotaler friends.
Where: Holiday Street, Gaura Vaddo, Calangute Goa
Cost: ₹2,500 for two people
Contact: 9922279265, 9823685020
Remember this photograph of PC, Nick, and Parineeti from their Goa vacay? Well, they were in Pousada.
A little piece of Greece in the middle of Goa. The combination of great music, waterfront location, enchanting sunset view, makes Thalassa one of the most happening places to grab a drink.
Over the time this restaurant has become one of the “must visit places” in Goa and that's the reason, it’s super packed most of the times. So, don't forget to reserve a table before your visit.
USP:
Santorini inspired vibes, Greek style decor and ravishing sunsets by the beach, traditional Greek dance performances, fire spinners, greek plate smashing (oh yes! there is a fun greek tradition of breaking plates after watching sensational performances), neon dancing and similar live gigs.
Must-Try:
1.) The Irish Coffee here.
2.) The 'Devil's Hand-Shake', a twist on the dreaded Tequila classic, the drink is a pleasant mix of fruits and tequila. Let's just say cheers to a hell amazing time?
3.) If you are feeling wild, down some shots with your gang, order the 'Slippery Nipple' or just act fancy with your girl-friends and create your own Sex And The City vibes with a round of their strong Cosmos.
Where: Near Teso Waterfront, Plot 301, 1, Vaddy, Siolim, Goa
Cost: 2,500 for two people
Contact: +91 9850033537
Just like its name, this place is right on the docks where the fishermen park their boats. In the late evenings, one can watch the golden reflections of the surrounding lights quiver on the water.
USP:
Overlooking the beautiful River Sal, set against the backdrop of the Goan Cavelossim Village, happening music, delicious food, amazing margaritas and martinis - this place scores high on its CHILL vibes.
Must-Try:
1.) Hand blended frozen 'Melon Margarita', a flavourful twist on the classic is a knockout.
2.) The 'Cranberry Martini' is delicious, but if you feel like experimenting try their 'Spicy Tini'.
3.) 'Lady In Red', a combination of Smirnoff with pomegranate and mint.
4.) Their 'Bloody Mary' is kick-ass.
Where: Before The Leela, Mobor, Cavelossim, Goa
Cost: 1200 INR for two people
Contact: 9011018866
If you can’t fly to Bali, drive to Goa and head to this sexy alfresco restaurant for the same tropical, boho vibes and catch the striking sunset and stunning views of palms, sky, sand and sea.
USP:
Opened by MasterChef Australia contestant Sarah Todd, the menu as well as the interiors have been given a very boho feel with the usage of wooden and bamboo furniture in the restaurant and bar, set atop the cliff. The restaurant also has a stunning installation of LED lights showing the constellation of Scorpio. It overlooks the Ozran beach in North Goa, having magnificent views of azure waters beyond.
Accompanying their splendid views are the splendid concoctions put together by Australian bartender Nathan Ford. If you're a wine-love they have an extensive range of international wines: reds, rosés and whites. Their cocktails are super Instagram-my too!
Must-Try:
1.) 'Kiwi Blueberry Mojito', one of their best-sellers.
2.) Exotic 'Coconut Sorbet Champagne Float' that is a blend of sparkling wine with made in house coconut sorbet.
3.) 'Captain Espresso' and 'Fresh Orange Mimosa' don't just taste fab, they make for awesome pictures too!
4.) 'Spicy Mango Martini', a sharp touch of chilli and a flat mango texture punched with a bit of lime to add to the citrus.
5.) 'Plum Kokum Whisky Sour' and 'Beer Mojito' (one of their hot-sellers)
Where: Small Vagator Beach, Ozran, Vagator, Goa
Cost: 2,500 INR for two people
Contact: 073500 11528
The enchanting weather at this cliff-side restaurant, some powerful cocktails and a killer view of the Ozran beach are the best way to unwind on a Goa vacay.
USP:
You can literally hear the waves crashing as the cool breeze wafts around you, with colour play of the sun, the sea and the sky this eatery is #InstagramGoals. This place is known for it's sunset vibe with cocktails.
Must Try:
1.) The bartender's 'Whiskey Sour' has a fan following.
2.) 'Tea Infused Rum', made with Old Monk and the Kashmiri Kahwa, green apple and cinnamon syrup.
3.) If you're into something strong try the 'Hika Mizu Ginger Beer' with all spice berry infused rum, mint bitters, black coffee and soda.
Where: 11, Ozran Beach, Vagator, Goa
Cost: ₹1,200 for two people
Contact: 9326441820
Purple Martini is a drink spill away from the Anjuana beach. With rave reviews of its inventive and Insta-worthy cocktails, this is one of those places in Goa that act as a chilled-out cafe in the day and as the light slips away it transforms into a happening party place.
USP:
Though the mesmerizing 180-degree view of the open sea and sky steal the show, the bartenders are also super friendly and if you make any special request or give them your preferences, they can whip up a crazy concoction, just for you! A fab cocktail with a fine view, what more do we need?
Must-Try:
1) Barman's special, they keep the blend a secret.
2) House Special Purple Martini
3) One of their Smoky Cocktails: The Smoky Chocolate Martini is a divinely dangerous blend of vodka, Kahlua, whiskey, fresh cream, chocolate, and cinnamon smoke or goes for the Sky Sour which is prepared with whiskey, passion fruit, and lemon essence.
4) One of their many quirky and exotic shots like – Slippery Nipples which is Baileys and Kahlua with fresh cream and Flaming Lamborghini made with vodka, sambuca, Blue Curacao, and cranberry juice.
5) In case you’re nursing a hangover or are a teetotaler, order their signature mocktail called the – Hangover Cure. (It’s yummy!)
6) If you want to get knocked out leisurely, then don’t miss one of their LITs!
Where: St. Anthony, Praise Vaddo North, Gumal Vaddo, Anjuna,
Cost: ₹1,500 for two people
Contact: 9871900995
Pro-Tip: Since most of these places are quite famous, it’s recommended to make a reservation especially if you want a table by the waterside. Also, all of these places keep having amazing events during the weekends and tourist season, you can check their Facebook pages or call them to inquire for the same.
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