For decades, Dabolim Airport (GOI) stood as the sole airport hub in Goa until the emergence of Mopa Airport (GOX) very recently. Even though the airport saw bustling crowds of passengers and their eager friends and families, finding restaurants in Dabolim to relax, grab a snack, or sit and wait was a challenge. The landscape is gradually evolving as the area undergoes rapid development, like much of Goa.
Familiar franchises like KFC have found their place and numerous little chai shops have cropped up for those with a few spare minutes to spare. But the quest for a casual dining experience persists for those who would like a more memorable spot to spend quality time with their loved ones. Be it for some final conversations before bidding them goodbye at the airport, or welcoming them to Goa with a sumptuous meal.
Here are some of my tried-and-tested places to head to in Dabolim.
Visit these restaurants in Dabolim if you’re flying in/out of Goa
Masak, Hollant
Masak is a quaint little Asian eatery tucked away in Hollant, just a stone’s throw away from Bogmalo. This is a family-run restaurant that focuses on offering Asian food that’s easy on the wallet and tweaked to suit Indian palates. The moment you step inside, you’re welcomed by the warm smiles of the Goan-Indonesian family who are the heart and soul of Masak.
What sets Masak apart is the personal touch from the family members themselves. From the daughter proudly sharing that ‘Masak’ means ‘cook’ in Indonesia, to the mother expertly crafting dishes behind the scenes, every meal at Masak is infused with love and tradition.
The menu, though compact, is a testament to their commitment to introducing Asian culinary delights to the locals. If you find yourself there, try their signature papaya salad made from papayas grown in their backyard – it’s a true delight. And the Chicken Katsu? A crowd-pleaser that will keep you coming back for more. At just 7-8 minutes from Dabolim Airport, it’s a great place to drop into once you land in Goa!
The Twin Bakes, Dabolim
Wow, The Twin Bakes is like an oasis in Dabolim – an area not commonly known for trendy, picturesque cafes. It’s hard to resist the allure of beautifully curated interiors and adorable crockery – it all makes for the perfect Instagram shot. The fact that it’s run by passionate twin sisters adds an extra layer of charm to the spot.
I ended up trying a range of bread-based dishes and later found out that they’re all made in-house. That explains why they were so fresh and perfect. The bagel, the focaccia sandwich, and the avo and eggs on toast will be loved by any brunch enthusiast. And don’t get me started on those desserts – a feast for the eyes and the taste buds! The coffee could be better, though.
So if you find your flight delayed and don’t want to spend time in the Dabolim Airport waiting area (which is quite crappy), head down the road to this cafe and while away your time. That is if you haven’t entered the airport already. Even if you don’t have a flight to catch, The Twin Bakes is the perfect spot to gather the girl squad for a fun and delightful afternoon. Here are more of my picks of great cafes in Goa
Know of any more restaurants in Dabolim?
If you know of any great restaurants in Dabolim you think I should try, hit me up on Facebook, X or Instagram!