5 minute read
Cafe El Mar
Nestled along the vibrant stretch of Baga Beach in Goa, Cafe El Mar stands as a picturesque haven where the rhythm of the Arabian Sea meets an atmosphere of relaxed sophistication. Founded by Lawrence, whose deep-rooted love for the ocean and passion for creating meaningful social spaces inspired this venture, the café is a testament to Goa’s unique blend of culture, community, and coastal charm.
Lawrence’s idea for Cafe El Mar was born from countless evenings spent watching the sunset over the sea. The name, El Mar—Spanish for “the sea”—is a deliberate nod to Goa’s Portuguese heritage and the Latin influences that resonate with both locals and international visitors. “The sea is eternal, everchanging, and endlessly inspiring,” he explains, and that philosophy flows through every aspect of the café.
A Theme of Coastal Bohemian Elegance
The concept is described by Lawrence as Coastal Bohemian Elegance, a chic boho ambiance that is both relaxed and refined. Natural textures, weathered wood, woven accents, and soft earthy tones, complement the golden glow of Goan sunsets, while greenery and organic shapes create a breezy, beach-house feel. The layout blurs the lines between indoor comfort and outdoor freedom, with
zones tailored for everything from romantic dinners to lively gatherings or quiet solo escapes.
Cafe El Mar’s core philosophy, Eat | Drink | Socialise extends beyond dining. It’s about curating an experience that celebrates both Goan and international flavours, merging Goa’s rich culinary heritage, marked by Portuguese influences, fresh seafood, and bold spices, with techniques and tastes from around the globe.
A Strategic Location Near Baga Beach
Choosing a location near, but not directly on, the busy beachfront was intentional. Situated close enough to benefit from Baga’s energy yet far enough to maintain its own distinct atmosphere, the café enjoys the best of both worlds. The spot offers stunning sunset views, a natural breeze, and the soothing soundtrack of waves, an environment that seamlessly transitions guests from daytime beach activities to a sophisticated evening setting.
Curating the Menu
The menu at Cafe El Mar is shaped by seasonality, freshness, and cultural balance. Lawrence works closely with local fishermen and farmers to ensure the highest quality seafood and produce. The offerings range from authentic Goan dishes, like prawns in traditional spice blends, to globally inspired creations such as pasta with Goan sausage. Seasonal variations keep the menu fresh, with lighter dishes in the tourist season and hearty comfort foods during the monsoon.
Signature Favourites
Two standouts define the Cafe El Mar experience. The El Mar Seafood Platter is a dynamic showcase of the day’s catch, tiger prawns in recheado masala, kingfish in Portuguese sauce, mussels in coconut curry, and Goan-style calamari rings, served with Goan bread and pickled vegetables. For drinks, the Sunset El Mar cocktail, premium Goan feni, fresh passion fruit, coconut water, lime, and a secret spice rim, is timed to be served at golden hour, its colours mirroring the sky.
Uncompromising Freshness & Dietary Inclusivity
Every morning begins with a “freshness ritual”, seafood delivered directly by trusted fishermen and market trips for hand-selected produce. A strict “first in, first out” policy ensures only the freshest ingredients make it to the plate. Vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, and gluten-free guests find carefully crafted options, with personal touches for regular visitors whose preferences the team remembers year after year.
A Philosophy of Exceptional Service
Lawrence describes Cafe El Mar’s customer service as “relaxed professionalism,” blending Goa’s natural warmth with attentive detail. Staff are trained to read the room, offering discretion for romantic dinners, matching energy for celebrations, and anticipating needs without intrusion. Empowered to make guest-pleasing decisions on the spot, the team turns occasions into memorable experiences, like the time a guitarist learned an elderly couple’s wedding song, leading to an impromptu sunset dance.
Overcoming Challenges
Running a beachfront café in Goa comes with its trials. Seasonal drops in business during the monsoon once threatened survival, but Lawrence embraced the season with a “Monsoon Local” menu, community-focused events, and catering services. Navigating complex coastal regulations and infrastructure issues led to investments in sustainability, from water recycling to waste management, ensuring environmental responsibility without compromising guest experience.
Standing Out in a Competitive Market
Rather than competing on price or trend-driven gimmicks, Cafe El Mar differentiates through authenticity, community ties, and consistently high standards. Local integration from ingredient sourcing to neighbour hood relationships, adds depth competitors can’t replicate. Experience-driven touches like the Sunset El Mar cocktail and community dining tables keep guests returning year after year.
The Role of Social Media
Social media serves as an extension of the café’s hospitality, focusing on authentic storytelling rather than generic food photography. Instagram showcases daily life at the café, while Stories highlight special dishes and events. The team actively engages with followers, answers queries, and collaborates only with influencers who align with Cafe El Mar’s ethos.
A Five-Year Vision
Looking ahead, Lawrence envisions Cafe El Mar as more than a restaurant, transforming into a cultural hub. Plans include Culture Nights blending cuisine with art, music, and storytelling, drawing both locals and tourists into meaningful exchanges. Environmental partnerships aim to position the café as a model for sustainable coastal tourism, ensuring growth that enriches rather than diminishes its magic.
In Lawrence’s own words, “If in five years I can look out over our deck at sunset and see the same mix of wonder, connection, and contentment on our guests’ faces that I see today, I’ll know we’ve achieved something truly special.”
