It’s raining… it’s pouring, and like the
old man snoring, many restaurants take a monsoon siesta. But for those along
the river or sea front, this is the best season of the year yet. Throw in the
wholesome goodness of Goan cuisine served against the backdrop of the sea and
freshness of the rains and, voila, you have an unmatchable dining experience.
The White House Bar & Restaurant on the
hill at Dona Paula cannot be missed for two reasons. A solitary structure when
it first opened in 1989 and then re-opened in December 2014 after a six year
gap, this place still has a coveted panoramic view of the sea. And the second
reason – the menu is all Goan cuisine only! The rains have not deterred
entrepreneurs’ chef Aaron and his mother Maria de Graca Rodrigues. “Unlike
others, we prefer to keep our restaurant open during the monsoons. Local home
cooked food, a great ambience and a panoramic view of the sea are all great
draws especially for the locals who love to dine here,” avers Aaron.
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One
of the oldest and most popular places along the beach belt in Baga, Britto’s
downed shutters every monsoons. But capitalising on their biggest asset yet –
the beach front setting and sea view made even more charming during the rains –
the Britto’s have been keeping the restaurant open through the year for the
last three years. “Although we have an indoor sitting space, people love to sit
on the sea-facing area. Sometimes, during high tide, we even have a wave or two
touching this area, much to the merriment of the people,” explains son and Chef
Dominic Britto who mans the family kitchen along with his parents. “During this
time of the year, we have a large local and Indian crowd who really appreciate
our fresh seafood and desserts,” says this owner who enjoys an equally large
clientele for lunch as well as dinner during the monsoons.
Along the waterfront in Vasco is another
small place – Sheela Bar & Restaurant – that has been in the news for the
same reasons. “We have been running for the past 30 years and have never
closed, except on a rare occasion. No seasons apply to us,” avers owner and
Chef Sylvester D’Souza of his restaurant which encompasses an idyllic view of
the sea and the Sao Jacinto Island. A five-time Times of India Food awardee as
well as Goan Traditional Cuisine Award from IHA, the restaurant is famed for
its ambience and cuisine, especially seafood. “Our clientele comprises the
office-goers around the area and those who are travelling to and fro the
airport, particularly during lunch time. In the evenings, it’s largely families
that visit,” he states.
So if it’s the monsoons, serve it up with
some sumptuous seafood and an unbeatable view of the sea!
