Café Crawl: ThatGoanGirl’s Guide to the Top 10 Cafes in Goa

If you’re like me and can’t start your day without a caffeine fix, then you’re in the right place. There’s an array of cafes in Goa catering to all tastes and moods, from cozy hangouts to trendy spots, and from family-owned to those with lovely views there’s something for every coffee enthusiast here. Whether you’re in search of a peaceful cafe with free WiFi, a picturesque spot for breakfast, or simply the yummiest brew in town, these coffee shops have got you covered. Join me on a caffeinated adventure through our diverse cafe scene, so no matter where you are, you’re never far from one of Goa’s best cafes!

Top Cafes in Goa

Prose Patisserie & Cafe, Nachinola

There’s no better feeling than walking into an aesthetically pleasing cafe that serves stellar coffee, fresh bakes and sandwiches, and being treated to incredibly warm hospitality. So I was absolutely smitten by Prose! It is located far out in untouched Nachinola and is frequented largely by the village residents. It is cozy, elegant, minimally yet thoughtfully done up, had loads of books for you to pick up and enjoy with coffee – and yes, their coffee is 100% worth travelling for. I sampled two of their quiches and attacked one of their sandwiches – bacon and perfectly done scrambled eggs in hot, buttery bread – I’m telling you, I inhaled it!!!

 

I’ve visited this cafe several times and have always left with a smile, especially after eating the carrot cake or some other cake that the owner, Linsiya whips up. Oh, did I mention they are pet-friendly AND are perfect for working out of? Go over, and experience this family-run cafe in Goa for yourselves.

Padaria Prazeres, Panjim

Padaria Prazeres is undeniably the crown jewel of bakeries in Goa. Tucked behind its iconic yellow and blue facade, this establishment has graced the pages of numerous food magazines and Instagram reels, drawing food enthusiasts from far and wide. As you step foot inside, the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked treats beckons, paired with an artful display that sets the scene for a culinary journey.

Under the meticulous care of Ralph and Stacy, a husband-wife duo, and their exceptional team, the menu, inscribed on a classic blackboard, invites guests to explore a world of delectable confections showcased in the display case. While renowned for their pasteis de nata (egg custard tarts), Padaria Prazeres also wows patrons with heavenly Berliners, palmiers, onion focaccia with garlic and cream cheese, brioche, and more. Due to its immense popularity, getting seats is a rarity, and parking space is virtually non-existent. Nevertheless, like many, I opt to savor their delights on the go. A visit to Padaria Prazeres is a must for anyone seeking the epitome of baking mastery in Goa – it’s an experience that’s truly unmatched.

Cafe Zelo, Margao

A delightful breakfast experience awaits at Cafe Zelo, a charming, comfortable spot that caters to a wide range of morning cravings. Whether your taste buds crave some carb-heavy American classics, the comforting embrace of English breakfast fare, or the lively notes of Mediterranean flavors, this petite café has something for everyone.

Dive into a satisfying spread of traditional breakfast favorites or peruse their diverse a la carte offerings, featuring an array of wraps, sandwiches, salads, flatbreads, pasta creations, and more. Be sure to savor their tantalizing tacos and scrumptious chicken wings, perfectly complemented by a refreshing charcoal honey lemonade.

For dessert aficionados, the sinful chocolate fudge cake at Cafe Zelo is a must-try – a coveted treat that disappears quickly among eager diners. While this culinary gem may be tucked away from the bustling streets, make it a point not to overlook it.

 

Urth Cafe, Chapora

Urth Cafe and Eatery in Chapora is an absolute hidden gem! This charming space is bathed in sunlight, creating a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere. It’s hard to believe that just minutes away from the bustling Vagator, you can find such a peaceful retreat. The menu is packed with nutritious and delicious dishes that cater to all tastes. I couldn’t get enough of their lemon and blueberry gluten-free pancakes, refreshing carrot salad, indulgent matcha croissant, and colorful salad bowls. Oh, and don’t forget the energy balls – they’re the perfect pick-me-up without any artificial sugars.

best cafes in Goa - Urth Chapora

While you’re there, make sure to check out their store which offers a range of interesting and healthy products from local brands. The best part? The service is friendly and always accompanied by a smile. You won’t want to miss out on all the goodness that Urth Cafe and Eatery has to offer! Psst – It’s pet-friendly too!

Perfect Cup, Miramar

I’ve dropped by Perfect Cup a few times, and it’s a pretty cool spot. The hot chocolate and cold chocolate are my favorites – they both strike the perfect balance with their rich flavor that’s not too sweet. When it comes to food, you can’t go wrong with the Pork sizzler and BBQ chicken pizza. The place always has a lively vibe, but I do wish they had Wi-Fi for those who need to work remotely. It’s not an ideal spot for catching up with work, but it’s great for casual meetings.

What sets Perfect Cup apart is that it offers more than just the usual cafe fare – think pizzas, continental dishes, sizzlers, and pub-style appetizers. Plus, they even host karaoke nights and have beers on tap! And to top it off, they have ample parking- which is a rare find in and around the capital city.

Baba au Rhum, Anjuna

Baba au Rhum in Anjuna is the perfect blend of hippie-vibes and wholesome dining. Its open and rustic seating area overlooking the fields is one of the things that make this Goa cafe popular. The ambiance creates a relaxed atmosphere, and the extensive menu caters to both, the vegan and health-conscious diners as well as those seeking indulgence. I savoured their mouthwatering bacon delight baguette, featuring crispy bread loaded with bacon, eggs, cheese, avocado, and spring onion, but I also loved their pizza, beef salad, and English breakfast.

The restaurant’s popularity is evident from the fact that it’s always bustling, no matter the season, and while the staff is abundant, be prepared for potential delays in receiving your order due to high demand and the wide array of menu choices. This cafe is pet-friendly and their bakery products are simply outstanding.

Mojigao, Assagao

Mojigao in Assagao is a peaceful spot cradled in the middle of lush jungle surroundings. This charming cafe in Assagao has an aesthetic charm with interesting statues, paintings, and a fantastic bookshelf to browse through. Their menu is similar to Artjuna and offers a great range of options, including salads, smoothie bowls, sandwiches, delicious bakes (try the almond croissant!), Mediterranean dishes, and yummy breakfast choices.

Mojigao is one of the few cafes in Goa that opens as early as 7:30 AM, making it perfect for early birds. It’s a popular spot amongst tourists looking for a quiet escape and a bit of downtime with a good book. The only downside is that it can get a bit pricey and the service can be a tad slow, but the peaceful ambiance and great food make it worth the visit. So, if you’re in Assagao and looking for somewhere peaceful with great food and vibes, give Mojigao a try.

Kefi, Assagao

When in doubt about where to go or whether a cafe is open on a particular day, Kefi is my go-to destination. It’s a reliable spot that is open 24/7, 365 days a year, making it a fail-safe option. Whether you’re in the mood for desserts, snacks, or a full meal, Kefi will leave you impressed. The service is excellent, and they prioritize hygiene while ensuring that your food arrives quickly.

I enjoy their perfectly poached eggs with a delightfully runny center. Their juices and smoothies are wonderful, and if you want to try a little bit of everything, the Levantine Platter is a must. However, what truly stole the show for me was the Arabic Pilaf, bursting with flavors from dry fruits, fragrant spices, and tender meat. It was absolutely stellar and I would not have ordered it without the high recommendations from the manager.

Make sure to save room for dessert and try the Baklava and Bread Pudding, both packed with delicious dry fruits. Don’t miss out on visiting this Lebanese cafe-fum-restaurant on the weekend, when they have live music and performances. Plus, it’s pet-friendly too!

Fe’s Deli, Margao

I’ve already featured Fe’s Deli on my list of must-visit cafes in Margao. Fe’s Deli is a hidden gem that caters to all your cravings throughout the day. Tucked away at the side of a building without any noticeable frontage, it’s easy to overlook this small spot but trust me, the food will pleasantly surprise you!

 

The interior of the deli is cozy, although there are no windows or scenic views to enjoy. However, they make up for it with a collection of books and games to keep you entertained while you wait for your food. Despite the limited space, Fe’s Deli offers an impressive menu featuring a variety of options. From delectable burgers made with in-house baked bread, pita pockets, sweet and savory snacks, cakes, pastries, and venoisserie, to all-day breakfasts, salads, hot dogs, pizzas, sibs, calzones, shakes, and more – they have it all covered! Notably, their churros are a must-try for any churro connoisseur, and I highly recommend indulging in a portion or two.

Caravela Cafe, Candolim, Panjim, Margao

Everyone has a place that they believe has the best coffee in town – but did you know that the coffee at Caravela Cafe touted to be one of the Top 10 in India as per Architectural Digest? This is one of the cafes in Goa that I frequent the most and have written about it in earlier blog posts. But if you’re heading to the beach in Candolim or ambling through the beautiful lanes of Fontainhas in Panjim, you’ll find a Caravela Cafe outlet in your midst.

This family-run chain of cafe does not allow laptops, so digital nomads, you’ll need to take your coffee to go. However, if you can spare some time to grab a cuppa, an English breakfast, some amazing Goan snacks and pastries, you’ll be hooked!

Everyone has their favourite cafes in Goa – what’s yours?

Follow me on Facebook, X and Instagram and I’ll keep updating the guide on cafes in Goa when new ones launch – as I’m sure they will!

1 Comment

  1. September 3, 2024 / 10:09 am

    Great blog! Goa has so much to offer, and you’ve highlighted some amazing spots. Next time you’re in Goa, we’d love for you to experience the beauty of the coastline from the water. Come sail with us on one of our luxury yachts and add a new favorite to your list! ⛵ Visit us at http://www.skysailindia.in #SkysailIndia #YachtLife

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