What To Eat In South Goa
FOR A ROMANTIC NIGHT OUT: THALASSA, SIOLIM
CUISINE: GREEK
Address: Plot No. 301, 1, Vaddy, Siolim, Goa 403517
(Note: Images from Zomato, unfortunately it was too dark to click pictures but these are pretty accurate).
This Greek restaurant is one of the hotspots in South Goa for fancy alfresco dining with a dance floor and DJ. Perched on the edge of a river, this restaurant/bar comes alive at night with fairy lights, good music, and some decent food.
The best part of Thalassa is the atmosphere. Under the stars, surrounded by palm trees and candles, and next to the open water has quite a calming affect on ones soul. I recommend booking a table close to the water for maximum tranquility, although I did get bitten by a few mosquitoes. I also recommend booking a table as this place definitely fills up quickly.
The menu is sublime, and authentically Greek as a Greek woman owns the place and created the menu (as a Greek girl I was low-key scrutinising all the dishes without having any culinary skills whatsoever), but nevertheless it's good food.
For those with a love of seafood, try the Steamed Muscles in Ouzo Sauce, or the Grilled Prawn Skewers. For Greek cuisine, I insist you try the Flaming Saganaki. Usually made with cheeses like graviera, kefalograviera, or halloumi, Thalassa did a very good job at nailing that flash fried cheesy goodness. The pastas and salads all come in large portions, so perhaps share them with the table lest you overeat and can't move for 20 minutes (me).
Did I mention the dessert? Get yourself a baklava. Promise.
On your way out, be sure to check out the small shop near the exit. They have some super cute gifts and clothes that are typical of Goa.
Check out the full menu here: http://www.thalassaindia.com/menu/
FOR A QUIET DINNER: COCO'S KITCHEN - THAI STREET FOOD
CUISINE: AUTHENTIC THAI
Address: Aguada - Siolim Rd, Siolim, Goa 403507
Blink and you'll miss it, and then be forever sad that you did, because Coco's is a hidden gem vehemently protected by the locals and adored by all. It's pretty rare that you find good authentic Thai food outside of Thailand, and I was over the moon to dine at Coco's.
Around the corner from Siolim Boutique House, Coco's is frequented by local expats, Goan families, and those who appreciate her good cooking and decent prices. Authentic, simple, and free from the over-the-top-party mood of many of the surrounding restaurants, you'll love this place.
The menu is simple, but brilliant. Try the Green Curry and take note of the strong coconut flavour mixed in with the spices, or the Pad Thai which can be loaded with as much chilli and peanuts as your heart desires.
The Green Papaya Salad is a win, but vegetarians be warned that it is an authentic Thai salad so it does come with fish sauce. My partner was a little confused, as the waiter assured us it was suitable for "veg" but not for "pure veg". Nevertheless, it was grand.
Opening in the afternoon and closing before midnight, make sure to stop by for a delicious trip to Thai paradise while staying in a Goan paradise.
FOR A ROMANTIC BEACH DINNER: POSEIDON'S COVE
CUISINE: BBQ AND SEAFOOD
Address: In Planet Hollywood Beach Resort, 30/3, Acsona Waddo Uttorda Beach, Utorda, Goa 403713
The beach, some candles, and some pretty darn good seafood. Newly opened and already the talk of the town, Poseidon's Cove is the ultimate destination for romantic dinners and good chow.
With an open kitchen, limited seating, and a view of a secluded beach, Poseidon's was a complete surprise to me. Even though it was a struggle to get a table without booking first, this restaurant has an air of exclusivity and fine dining without the hefty price tag. The seafood is fresh, the vegetables cooked to perfection, and the ambience is on fleek.
For dinner, the grill seafood and meat is the only way to go. I ordered the Pomfret with Garlic Butter and I swear it was the best fish I have ever had in my life. The Fresh Cuts Platter is also a win, with a variety of cuts meats, vegetables, salads, and breads for you to pick at. I didn't try the pizza or the Make-Your-Sandwich, I was too busy eating all the fish, but word on the street is that the sandwiches are ideal for lunch. Take a dip in the ocean and then trudge up for a sandwich.
No fine dining is complete without a nice glass of wine. Check out their extensive and well procured wine list.
LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO STAY IN SOUTH GOA?
Look no further. Here is my handy guide to finding a place to rest your weary head.