Local bars and taverns have been an integral part of Goa’s local culture for generations. Every evening, men from villages around the state would make their way to their neighborhood watering hole for some local alcohol, chit-chat, and pass-time. While many local Goan bars still see only the village folk patronizing them, others have found fame, having been discovered by Instagram influencers.
Locals and tourists wanting to clutch on to what remains of the Goa of yore frequent these bars. Walking and cycling tour companies add a bar or two along heritage walk routes. As a result, some have become commercial or ‘hipster’, while others are making their way from the real world to the reel-world.
Best Local Goan Bars
Goan bars are simple, inconspicuous, no-frills places where you can enjoy some of the best Goan food without all the bells and whistles. So, if you’re up for a taste of authentic Goa, join me on a journey to discover three local bars in Goa that offer not only unforgettable food but also a whole lot of socializing and fun.
Fish on Fire, Seraulim
Here’s a typical Goan bar and restaurant in Seraulim, South Goa that will surely leave you craving for more. Fish On Fire is a no-frills spot away from city noises and honking traffic. Like many Goan restaurants and bars, they offer amazing seafood and trust me, that’s where they truly shine. Everything else is below average, especially Indian and vegetarian food.
But hey, this place is all about the seafood. From perfectly fried fish to recheado and butter garlic prawns, every bite is a burst of flavor. So why not plan a weekend drinking session with your friends at Fish on Fire? With reasonable prices, friendly service, and finger-licking seafood, you’ll have a blast!
Cajy Bar, Arpora
If you’re looking for good vibes and a genuine local experience, Cajy Bar in Arpora is the place to be. Having passed down through 3 generations of a family, it captures the true essence of Goa. Good music, delicious drinks, and palatable food await you at Cajy Bar. Their beef croquettes are served fresh and hot, just melting in your mouth.
The Goan-styled beef cutlet with a mild spice kick pairs perfectly with your drink. Don’t forget to try their Beef Tongue and Aad Mas for a truly authentic Goan culinary adventure. Soak up the atmosphere with a mix of balcao-style seats and courtyard seating, but make sure to arrive early as this gem fills up quickly
Mafia Cocktail, Pilerne
Ah, the dimly lit Mafia Cocktail in Pilerne – a true hidden gem! Step inside and immerse yourself in the cozy ambiance of this local Goan treasure. The drinks are cheap, the conversations are friendly, and the food is absolutely drool-worthy. It’s true that they may mix up your order and have a little friendly squabbling among the kitchen and waitstaff, but that’s all part of the charm.
Prepare your taste buds for delights like tender beef tongue, succulent xinaneos (mussels), crunchy fried prawns, Goan choris and ‘aad maas’ will make you weak in the knees. And let’s not forget those ‘massive ‘thicc’ french fries that could feed an entire army. Wash it all down with urrak or lime soda and you’re in for a memorable night. Just a heads up – check your bill (or bills, if you’ve had a few) because you might find some surprise items from another table. But hey, that’s all part of the Mafia Cocktail experience!
Peter Tavern, Uccassaim
Wind down after work at one of my favourite local bars – Peter Tavern in Ucassaim, a 10-15 min drive from Mapusa. This little tavern in a quiet neighborhood is family-run and you’ll always be welcomed with smiles and a little chit-chat. It’s a no-frills spot that promises great food – my picks being the butter garlic poee, honey chili pork, honey chili fries, one of the best chicken lollipops ever, prawn rissois, cheese stuffed mushrooms, and several types of Goan-style seafood. This is one of the few bars that teetotallers will have fun at! If your group likes the same kind of alcohol, order drinks by the bottle and enjoy!!
Tip: Local bars are not known for prompt service, so go with your most laid-back friends and prepare to spend a couple of hours chatting, watching a match being screened, drinking local feni, urrak, beers, and whiskeys, and eating when your food arrives. It’s all part of the experience!
If you’re a regular reader of my blog, you’ll know that I only write about places I’ve tried and loved. So, stay tuned as I’ll continue adding to this list as I explore more local bars in Goa. And if you have any suggestions or want to see a specific bar featured, drop me a comment or DM me on Instagram and Facebook at @thatgoangirl. Let’s continue to explore and savor the vibrant flavors of Goa together!x
