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Panjim, the lively capital of Goa, is known for its beautiful beaches and Portuguese architecture, but it’s also a food lover’s paradise. The city offers a diverse and flavorful food scene that showcases the Best Foods in Panjim, blending Indian and Portuguese influences. From fresh seafood to spicy curries and delicious desserts, Panjim has a rich variety of dishes to suit every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Goan favourites or something sweet, there’s something for everyone. Panjim’s vibrant culinary culture ensures a memorable food experience for all visitors.
9 Best Foods In Panjim
Panjim’s diverse food offerings will delight your taste buds and provide an unforgettable culinary experience. Here is a list of some of the best foods you must try in Panjim.
1. Goan Fish Curry
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Goan Fish Curry is one of the most iconic dishes in Panjim, made with fresh fish like kingfish, mackerel, or pomfret, simmered in a flavorful coconut-based curry. The curry is tangy and mildly spiced, featuring tamarind, red chillies, and kokum, a local souring agent that adds depth to the dish. Typically served with steamed rice, it’s a staple in Goan households and showcases the region’s love for seafood. The use of local spices and fresh ingredients makes Goan Fish Curry a must-try for anyone looking to experience the authentic flavours of Goa’s coastal cuisine.
Best Places To Eat: Ritz Classic, Casa Bhonsle, and Mum’s Kitchen
2. Prawn Balchão
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Prawn Balchão is a spicy and tangy Goan dish that highlights the region’s Portuguese influence. It is made with prawns cooked in a thick, flavorful sauce of tomatoes, vinegar, and a blend of local spices like red chillies, cumin, and mustard seeds. The use of vinegar gives the dish its distinctive tang, while the spices provide bold heat, making it a favourite among those who enjoy strong, fiery flavours. Traditionally served with rice or bread, Prawn Balchão is a popular dish in Goan households and restaurants, celebrated for its vibrant taste.
Best Places To Eat: Viva Panjim, Anandashram, and Horseshoe Bar & Restaurant
3. Goan Sausages (Chorizo)
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Goan sausages, commonly referred to as chorizo, are spicy, flavorful pork sausages that are an essential part of Goan cuisine. Made by marinating pork with vinegar, garlic, and a blend of local spices like red chillies, cinnamon, and cloves, these sausages are then cured to develop their unique taste. Known for their rich, smoky flavour with a hint of tanginess from the vinegar, Goan sausages are used in a variety of dishes, including stir-fries, sandwiches, and the popular sausage pulao. Their bold, savoury taste makes them a must-try for anyone exploring the vibrant flavours of Goan food.
Best Places To Eat: Joseph Bar, George Restaurant & Bar, and Viva Panjim
4. Bebinca
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Bebinca is a traditional Goan dessert that is highly cherished for its rich, layered texture and unique flavour. Made from simple ingredients like coconut milk, sugar, flour, and egg yolks, the dessert is cooked layer by layer, creating a beautifully stacked cake. Nutmeg or cinnamon is often added to enhance the flavour. Known for its creamy, smooth texture, Bebinca is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. It is especially popular during festive seasons like Christmas and weddings, making it a staple on special occasions in Goa. Its preparation requires patience, making it a true Goan delicacy.
Best Places To Eat: Confeitaria 31 de Janeiro, Hotel Venite, and Mr. Baker 1922
5. Chicken Xacuti
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Chicken Xacuti is a traditional Goan dish renowned for its bold and intense flavours. It features chicken cooked in a rich, spicy gravy made from roasted coconut, poppy seeds, and a blend of aromatic spices such as cloves, cinnamon, and dried red chillies. The roasted coconut adds a deep, nutty flavour, while the spices give the dish its characteristic heat and complexity. This flavorful dish is typically enjoyed with steamed rice or Goan bread (poee), making it a must-try for those looking to experience the depth and richness of Goan cuisine.
Best Places To Eat: Viva Panjim, Kokni Kanteen, and Anandashram
6. Sorpotel
Photo: Adriao / Wikimedia Commons
Sorpotel is a traditional Goan dish with Portuguese origins, known for its rich and spicy flavour. Made from a mix of pork, liver, and occasionally heart, the meat is slow-cooked with vinegar, garlic, and a blend of spices such as red chillies, cloves, and cinnamon. The use of vinegar imparts a tangy taste, while the spices give it a fiery kick. The dish improves in flavour as it matures, often tasting better the day after it’s made. Sorpotel is a beloved Goan classic, typically served with rice or bread, and is especially popular during festive occasions.
Best Places To Eat: Fernando’s Nostalgia, Ritz Classic, and Mum’s Kitchen
7. Patoleo
Photo: Sanferd Rodrigues / Wikimedia Commons
Patoleo is a traditional Goan sweet delicacy, typically made during religious festivals and special occasions. It is prepared by spreading a mixture of rice flour, jaggery (unrefined cane sugar), and grated coconut on turmeric leaves, which impart a distinct aroma. The filled leaves are then folded and steamed, resulting in a soft, flavorful treat. Patoleo is particularly popular during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and the Feast of the Assumption. Its unique preparation and the combination of sweet and earthy flavors make it a cherished dessert in Goan cuisine, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Best Places To Eat: Mr. Baker 1922, Confeitaria 31 de Janeiro, and Hotel Venite
8. Cafreal
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Cafreal is a spicy and flavourful Goan chicken dish, marinated with a paste made from green chillies, coriander, garlic, ginger, and spices like cinnamon and cloves. This vibrant green marinade gives the dish its characteristic punch of flavour. Brought to Goa by the Portuguese, Cafreal has become a beloved local dish, offering a blend of tangy and spicy notes. The chicken is typically grilled or fried, and it’s often served with Goan bread (poee) or rice, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy bold and savoury flavours.
Best Places To Eat: O Coqueiro, Ritz Classic, and Kokni Kanteen
9. Pao com Chouriço
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Pao com Chouriço is a beloved Goan snack, where spicy, flavorful Goan sausages (chorizo) are stuffed inside freshly baked, soft pao bread. The chorizo, packed with local spices and a tangy vinegar kick, creates a hearty and savoury sandwich that is perfect for a quick bite. This grab-and-go snack is popular among locals and travellers alike, offering a delicious introduction to Goan street food. It’s an excellent choice for those exploring Panjim, as it combines the traditional flavours of Goan sausages with the simplicity of Pao bread, making it both satisfying and convenient.
Best Places To Eat: Joseph Bar, Café Tato, and George Restaurant & Bar
Panjim’s food scene is a vibrant blend of flavours, traditions, and cultural influences, perfectly showcasing the Best Foods in Panjim. Whether you love fresh seafood, spicy curries, or indulgent desserts, the city has something for every taste. Be sure to explore these mouthwatering dishes and experience the true culinary treasures that Panjim has to offer.
Cover Photo: Dana Tentis / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
