Hundreds of thousands of Goans live, work, and study in the Middle East. My parents did too, for close to 2 decades. You would think that given how large the Goans diaspora is in the Gulf, we’d have a wider range of Middle Eastern food and restaurants, but alas, we can count those establishments on one hand.
I was surprised to find how many Middle Eastern restaurants there were in Kerala though – both in cities like Kochi and in far-off places like Munnar as well. Keralites make up a huge chunk of Indian workers in the Middle East. I digress.
Middle Eastern Food in Goa
When it comes to Middle Eastern cuisine, most people think of classic dishes like hummus, pita, and shawarma. While these are certainly delicious, Middle Eastern cuisine has so much more to offer. Here are a couple of fantastic restaurants in Goa that serve authentic Middle Eastern delicacies, going beyond the usual suspects.
Kefi, Assagao
If you’re a fan of Mediterranean and Lebanese food, you’re in for a treat at Kefi in Assagao. This cozy 24-hour restaurant has been garnering popularity for its hummus, shakshuka, and mezze. But did you know that they also serve a fabulous breakfast spread? Brighten up your weekend mornings with a plate of Turkish eggs and a cup of coffee at Kefi. Trust me, it’s the perfect way to kickstart your day
When it comes to ordering, I highly recommend asking the manager for recommendations. They know the menu inside out, and their suggestions never disappoint. The Kibbeh is a must-try, and the Lebanese Platter allows you to sample a variety of mouthwatering Lebanese dishes. However, the star of the show, for me, is the Arabic Pilaf – a rich and fragrant rice dish with tender chicken and an abundance of nuts. It’s a true celebration on a plate. As a sweet ending to your meal, make sure to leave room for their Baklava. Kefi is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along for the meal.
Mezmiz, Sangolda
For a joyful riot of Middle Eastern flavors and textures, head to Mezmiz in Sangolda. This charming restaurant housed in an old Goan home on CHOGM Road, offers a delightful array of dishes like labneh, hummus, falafel, halloumi, koobideh, and baba ghanoush. From fragrant spices to the freshness of herbs, every bite is a culinary adventure that transports you to the heart of the Middle East.
Mezmiz not only excels in its food offerings but also in creating a welcoming ambiance. The beautifully done interiors and comfy seats make it an ideal place to celebrate special occasions. Immerse yourself in the faultless service and Arabic music playing in the background as you indulge in the flavors of the Middle East. One thing I should mention about Mezmis is that the portion sizes are quite small, and the prices – steep!
As an avid food lover, I want to assure you that I only write about places I’ve tried and loved. I’m constantly on the lookout for new Middle Eastern food experiences in Goa, and I’ll continue to update this list on my blog as I discover more, here in our sunny state.
If you have any other Middle Eastern food recommendations in Goa, I’d love to hear from you. Leave a comment or send me a DM on Instagram and Facebook at @thatgoangirl.
