From traditional Goan cuisine, a delicious blend influenced by Portuguese, hippies and native cultures, to a wide range of Indian and international delicacies, along with some refreshing beverages and cocktails on the side, restaurants in Goa cater to every palate and preference. Here, Culture Trip brings you the 10 best breakfast and brunch spots, from à la carte menus and sumptuous buffets to restaurants in top-notch hotels and resorts to beachside cafés, that are nothing short of scrumptious.
Nestled on the first floor of Panjim Inn, the Verandah Restaurant attracts a swarm of people from all corners of the city. Overlooking Fontainhas Street, this restaurant’s menu is brimming with Goan delights, Continental and Indian cuisine, along with local wines. The brunch menu is a blend of Western and Indian breakfast staples, perfect for indulging. The décor is antique coupled with wooden chairs and finely carved marble topped tables, thus, creating an old-warm charm.
You want fancy and posh? Then make your way over to the AZ.U.R, pronounced ‘As You Are’. Located in the Goa Marriott Resort & Spa, the AZ.U.R is a mix of café and lounge. It wows visitors with its stylish décor, bay views and mouth-watering food that ranges from western classics to Continental and Goan cuisine. Bar fare options, such as potato skins, calamari fritters and other finger food, along with a variety of coffee, tea and alcohol also fill the roster. To satisfy your sweet tooth, try out their pastries and cakes that are to die for!
For a hearty breakfast and brunch in Goa, Infantaria Restaurant & Bar is the spot for you. It is a crowd-pleaser known for its Continental breakfast, homemade croissants and pastries, and Goan delicacies such as chicken cafreal, pork vindaloo, seafood platter, beef burger and samosa, and chicken quiche, to name a few. For breakfast, do try out their fluffy masala omelette, along with a cuppa, brewed coffee or fresh juice. This spot is jam-packed any time of the day, so if you find yourself a place here, you are in for a gastronomic treat.
Where else can you get a sumptuous breakfast all day long in a beautiful garden setting and at a price that will make you happy? Artjuna, that’s where. It is an al fresco café with vivacious energy and focuses on healthy food made from fresh local produce. From muesli, eggs, salads, sandwiches and hearty snacks to decadent pancakes, smoothies, energy shots, cuppa, and fresh vegetable and fruit juices, you will get everything to stay healthy and happy. Do not leave without digging into their special breakfast that includes tuna, eggs, salad and cheese. No wonder they are one of the best breakfast and brunch spots in Goa!
Located in Anjuna, along the Calangute-Arpora-Siolim road, the Lila Café is popular for many things – perfect location, picturesque setting and, of course, finger-licking food. Freshly baked bread, omelettes, sausages, ham and cheese croissants, hand-rolled pasta, and other Continental, European and American dishes clog the breakfast and brunch menu. Also, Lila Café has an extensive selection of sweet dishes and fresh, unique and delicious beverages. It’s an excellent spot to enjoy breakfast or brunch with a view!
A refreshing cup of coffee with a delicious sandwich and croissant is just the way to start your day in Goa. Located on the Anjuna-Baga backstreet, Babu Au Rhum is a perfect spot to hang out and grab a bite to eat. You will find a large selection of quiches, bread, pastries, wood-fired pizzas, omelettes, hamburgers, homemade baguettes, salads and exotic French delights; you’ll definitely be spoilt for choices here. Another crowd-puller is the music performances held on Friday evenings.
Nestled on Candolim Beach, La Brise allows you to feast on delicious international and Indian dishes that will make your day a great one. Its lively vibe, beach setting, spectacular sea views and beautiful lawns are what makes it stand out. Its buffet, which is an eclectic mix of everything from succulent barbeque to seafood delicacies, keeps this spot crowded all day long. It also has one of the best dessert menus, with variety and lots of flavours. It’s a must-visit place for out-of-towners as well as locals!
Vegan and vegetarian lovers, rejoice! Situated in Anjuna, Bean Me Up is an ideal spot to nosh on some lip-smacking vegan and vegetarian food made from fresh ingredients and organic produce. Light and healthy eats populate the breakfast menu, with delicious highlights including tofu burgers, BBQ seitan sandwich, whole-wheat pasta, ravioli and lasagna. Its chocolate chia porridge and a variety of puddings and pies will definitely make you fall for it even more. Also, if you’d like to sip on something, there are ‘Zenergy’ juice cocktails. Soothing music and lush green surroundings heighten the experience.
Named after a blue migratory bird, Cafe Cotinga is a refreshing and vibrant spot with artistic décor and al fresco seating. You can savour a variety of Indian, Asian and European food here, and delectable highlights include sandwiches, pasta, fresh bread, organic salads and yummy desserts. Do not leave without trying its strawberry shortbread, Mississippi mud pie cake with ice cream or banoffee pie. The food, ambience and service – everything is a win here. There’s also music almost all day long.
Villa Blanche Bistro is a small café nestled in a beautiful courtyard of a Portuguese villa and features an incredible Sunday brunch buffet. From eggs, cheese and sausages to quiches, salads, desserts and cakes to fish and meat main courses, you’ll get it all here. There is also vegetarian and vegan options, plus it also serves amazing cocktails and juices. The bright walls and colourful mosaic tables combined with the lively ambience and food warrant a visit, especially on Sunday!
