Magnificent luxury palm-fringed beaches, Portuguese style gleaming whitewashed churches, Indian temples, dense coconut groves and crumbling forts sum up the uniqueness of Goa. Justifiably famous for platinum beaches and azure seas, sun drenched hillocks and tiny fishing villages along its Arabian Sea coast, Goa offers a holiday with more than just sun, sea and sand. It is one of India’s gems, with a charming and distinct character.
The cuisine of Goa originated from its Konkani roots, and was influenced by the 451 years of Portuguese rule and the Sultanate rule that preceded the Portuguese. it’s a blend of Indian and Portuguese with a bit mix of Arabic and Asian flavors that gives it, it’s uniqueness. Goan cuisine has various influences that are felt in both the Christian and Hindu households. The Portuguese brought potatoes, tomatoes, pineapples, guavas and cashews from Brazil to Goa. Of these tomatoes and potatoes were not accepted by the Hindus until the late 20th century. The most important part of Goan spices the chili, was introduced to Goan cuisine by the Portuguese which became immensely popular. The above mentioned ingredients were not used in Goan cuisine before the Portuguese.
Itinerary
Today will have a fun and yummy day as we start our culinary experience with old Goan bakeries. Goa has a long and vibrant tradition of bread-making. Popular local breads include uned (small, round and crispy breakfast rolls), pao (round buns) and pui (flat, pancake-like rolls).
Thereafter we will take you to the popular bakery, and is widely considered to be one of the best bakeries in the state. Their breads, biscuits and pastries are made by hand and baked in a wood-fired oven, using traditional techniques.
Continue onwards to an interactive Cookery workshop.
The workshop includes visit to the local spice/vegetable market, or an introduction to spices.. Chef introduces you to the basic ingredients that go into various cuisines but also guides you through the step by step journey in culinary preparation in an easy and understanding manner. The individual recipes at workshop are designed for you to take home skills and knowledge to remake your kitchen into a culinary workshop. A brief will also be given to the participants on how the different Masala’s are prepared by blending different spices along with tips on preparing easy mouthwatering dishes with limited amount of spices. The class is great fun and the participants can look forward to a memorable culinary experience.
Post lunch you could visit the famous fortress of Aguada and its lighthouse. Following this visit is an enriching exploration of the famous old monuments of the city - the Se Cathedral church, the St. Augustine tower and the Mangueshi temple.
Following are suggested dinning experience in Goa
1. Thalassa
An outdoor open-air restaurant with spectacular views of the sunset and the sea. Situated at Vagator Beach and perched on a hilltop, Thalassa is undoubtedly one of the best romantic restaurants in Goa that will leave you awe-stricken the moment you step in. The food here is delectable, and with the fire, music, and other performances, this place is as fancy in the day, as it is at night.
2. Waterfront Terrace And Bar
Being an exquisite part of the Goa Marriott Resort & Spa, Waterfront Terrace and Bar is one of the top restaurants in Goa that you should definitely visit with your partner.
3. Go With The Flow
Situated on the end of Baga beach, this restaurant is housed in the premises of a restored Portuguese mansion. You can either dine in the gardens or on the sky-dining platform and enjoy the mesmerizing views of the beach.
4. The Fisherman’s Wharf
Amongst all the restaurants in South Goa, this is the perfect place to go on a date if a seaside pleasant ambiance excites you two. The Fisherman’s Wharf lets you groove to the soothing music, indulge in the locally made global flavors, and enjoy the Goan vibes while you are here.
5.. Barbeque
Riverside is one of the many best romantic restaurants in Goa that has got the utmost perfect setting for romantic couples like you. The restaurant overlooks the Sal River and serves the finest Italian around.
