Eat & Stay Goa - June Issue 2025

Page 1


Eat & Stay Goa

Mochasa Coffee House

Mochasa Coffee House serves soulful Indian coffee and cuisine in a warm, minimalist space.

Ana Bar goa

Ana Bar Goa fuses Goan tradition with global flavours in a sustainable, heritage-rich, rustic setting.

Grumpy Cat Bakes

Grumpy Cat Bakes crafts bold, heartfelt brownies in Goa, blending creativity with local ingredients.

Hi Café

Hi Café in Colvale offers premium coffee and comfort in a serene, community-focused setting.

Editorial

Dear Readers,

Welcome to this edition of Eat & Stay, where we celebrate a soulful blend of specialty coffee, conscious cuisine, and community-first spaces across Goa’s ever-evolving lifestyle landscape.

This month, our stories spotlight creators who are pouring heart, heritage, and hospitality into every plate, brew, and beautifully designed corner— shaping Goa’s identity beyond the beach.

Our cover feature explores Mochasa Coffee House, a serene café in Candolim that beautifully blends Indian specialty coffee, regional cuisine, and intentional hospitality. With its minimalist design and deep sense of connection, Mochasa is more than a café—it’s a love letter to community and calm living.

We also shine a light on Ana Bar Goa in Old Goa, a rustic gem led by Chef Vasco. With a seasonal menu that merges Goan roots with global culinary techniques, Ana Bar is a true celebration of sustainability and heritage served with heart.

In the world of homegrown bakes, Grumpy Cat Bakes has been winning hearts one brownie at a time. With bold flavours, local ingredients, and big dreams, this passionate home baker is redefining

indulgence—with plans for a cozy dessert café on the horizon.

Up in Colvale, Hi Café invites both locals and travellers to slow down and savour. From rich brews to comfort food, it’s a space designed with warmth, creativity, and community at its core.

Ishna, a peaceful vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant in Panjim, promotes conscious consumption through wholesome meals crafted from locally sourced produce. Rooted in wellness and sustainability, it’s a haven for those seeking balance and nourishment.

Greta Fernandes, a Mumbai-based certified nutritionist and food blogger, shares her vibrant Mango Smoothie Bowl recipe. Refreshing, protein-packed, and completely vegan-friendly, it’s a quick summer staple with endless feel-good flavours.

Finally, for those chasing the perfect vibe, V-U at Taj Holiday Village is Goa’s most Instagrammable poolside spot—offering ocean views, umami cocktails, and golden-hour charm for honeymooners, creators, and sundowner lovers.

This issue is a tribute to those who are shaping Goa's culinary future, with dedication, creativity, and a deep respect for tradition. From indulgent desserts to mindful, nutritious creations, these individuals bring their unique talents and passion to the forefront, enhancing Goa’s vibrant food culture.

Well, that's all I have for you from my desk this month. I hope you enjoy reading this month’s issue of our magazine. Do share it with your friends all across the globe.

Until next time, cheers!

Index

01 Mochasa Coffee House

02 Ana Bar Goa

03 Grumpy Cat Bakes

04 Hi Café

05 Ishna

06 Mango Smoothie Bowl

07 Sip, Dip, Repeat: Inside Goa’s Most Instagrammable Pool Bar Scene

Introduction

Goa, the tiniest state on the western coast of India, boasts golden pristine beaches, palmfringed avenues, flavourful food, delicious Portuguese-influenced sweets, and warm, hospitable people. Also known as the Ibiza of India for its partying. A tropical paradise of flora and fauna, from the very famous 'almi' (mushrooms) endemic to its forests, that grow only on the red mud anthills, to the solar prawns that are fished immediately after the monsoons, Goa is unique. Tourists are also attracted to Goa for its cultural heritage - from the famous old Portuguese churches like Se Cathedral in Old Goa, the 16th Century Safa Masjid in Ponda and Shree Mangesha Temple in Mardol, the legendary Arvalem or Pandava Caves where the Pandavas of the Mahabharat fame lived, to its two unique festivals - Carnival and Shigmo. Goa plays host to many festivals - the International Film Festival of India that promotes cinema, the Serendipity Art Festival, Sunburn Music Festival, The Grape Escapade to name a few. To showcase this varied heritage of culture, art, tradition, food, and people, in 2015 ItsGoa was born. The main aim was to make it the premier portal for all things Goa. We were able to showcase Goa like never before. Soon our blogbased website transcended the virtual space, with the ItsGoa magazine – a sought-after resource for visitors to Goa from countries like Norway, Germany, UK, USA, UAE, etc.

Editorial Team

Chief Editor

Jessyl Fernandez

Sales

Donald Fernandez

Content & Social Media

Saviola Dias

Renata Fernandes

Graphics & Layout

Latisha Govekar

For advertising queries: +91 7887330620 / 9370502124

ItsGoa Media Group

Nordic Intent HQ - Floor 3, PDA

Colony, Porvorim, Goa 403521

Email: mail@itsgoa.com

Website: itsgoa.com

Mochasa Coffee House

Mochasa Coffee House in Candolim blends Indian specialty coffee, regional cuisine, and heartfelt hospitality, creating a minimalist, soulful space rooted in love, community, and genuine human connection.

Article by: Team ItsGoa
Images by: Mochasa Coffee House cafe

In the serene streets of Candolim, tucked away from the bustling tourist trails, Mochasa Coffee House stands as a quiet revolution in Goa’s evolving café culture. Founded by Harsh Raikar, a seasoned barista, café consultant, and hotel management graduate, Mochasa brings together the worlds of specialty coffee, regional cuisine, and genuine human connection.

A Love Story Brewed in a Cup

Harsh’s journey into the world of coffee began with a shift away from the structured world of luxury hospitality. His early years with brands like Taj Mumbai and Grand Hyatt gave him foundational experience, but it was a brief stint at Café Coffee Day that introduced him to the world of espresso and brewing. That spark led him to Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, where he deepened his expertise in specialty coffee, brewing techniques, and the nuances of Indian single-estate beans.

His consulting work with cafés across India sharpened his operational skills, preparing him for something personal and long-term. That moment arrived with Ashwini, now his wife, whose love for soulful café spaces inspired a shared vision — to open a coffee house that feels like home.

The name “Mochasa” carries that personal touch. Their first interaction began over a mocha Harsh made — a cup that sparked a connection and, eventually, a life together. Today, Mochasa stands as a tribute to that moment and everything it represents: warmth, intention, and love.

Minimalism, Mindfulness, and Indian Coffee

Mochasa’s interiors reflect its ethos — minimalist and serene, offering guests a sense of calm and personal space. Whether you're reading, painting, working, or simply enjoying solitude, the environment invites presence and peace.

The coffee program is designed to showcase 100% Arabica beans, sourced directly from Indian roasters and farms. Manual brews use single-estate beans, celebrating local terroir and craftsmanship. Mochasa doesn’t rely on artificial syrups — instead, it champions natural flavours, house-made sauces, and seasonal offerings.

Harsh Raikar
Brunch at Mochasa

What truly sets Mochasa apart is the careful balance between exceptional coffee and thoughtfully prepared food — a rare pairing in many cafés. Their menu is rooted in regional flavours, curated in collaboration with Harsh’s mother, who brings over 35 years of culinary experience to the table. Every recipe carries her skill and warmth, from savoury dishes to decadent bakes.

Signature Sips and Heartwarming Bites

The café’s Mocha, of course, remains a bestseller — not just for its flavour but for the story behind it. Another crowd favourite is the On the Rocks Cold Brew, inspired by the classic Old Fashioned, offering a bold, layered twist on a summer staple.

On the food front, the Chicken Ghee Roast and Goan-style Chicken Cafreal on sourdough toast are consistent hits, particularly among travellers. Their brownies and cookies — rich, gooey, and made with love — round out a comforting, soulful menu.

Personal Touches and Community Roots

Freshness and quality are non-negotiable at Mochasa. The team sources local vegetables and ingredients, prepares everything fresh to order, and accommodates dietary preferences, including alternative milks and customizations. In many cases, they even go beyond the printed menu to honor customer requests.

In cases, honour

Hospitality here extends beyond service. Ashwini shares her personal book collection with guests, often sparking deep conversations and lasting friendships. Mochasa hosts coffee workshops, fostering curiosity and deeper engagement with coffee culture. These little details create a welcoming atmosphere where customers feel seen, heard, and valued.

Built on Feedback, Fueled by Gratitude

Fuelled by Gratitude

What fuels Mochasa through the challenges of independent ownership is the unwavering support from its patrons. From glowing Google reviews to customers offering help with social media, the café has become more than a business — it’s a community. One guest even created original artwork as a tribute, reflecting the emotional connection Mochasa inspires.

Dark chocolate Mocha, our love potion
Mrs. Trupti Raikar, Chef

Navigating Challenges with Heart

Operating in a tourist-heavy location comes with challenges, especially in connecting with the local crowd. Mochasa has addressed this by hosting events and workshops, building a bridge between travellers and locals. Ingredient sourcing is another hurdle, but strong relationships with vendors help ensure consistent quality. In terms of competition, Harsh takes a collaborative view. He believes that the rise of specialty coffee across Goa benefits everyone, creating a more educated and appreciative customer base. Mochasa stays focused on genuine connection, not rivalry.

Social Media as an Extension of the Brand

Mochasa uses platforms like Instagram as a window into its world — sharing behind-the-scenes

moments, menu updates, and café life. While still refining their digital strategy, Harsh and Ashwini value authenticity over marketing polish, letting their passion speak for itself.

A Vision Grounded in Purpose

Looking ahead, Mochasa Coffee House envisions expanding into coffee roasting and opening multiple café outlets across India. At the heart of this growth is a singular philosophy: to serve Indian specialty coffee with pride, and to foster real, meaningful relationships — one cup at a time.

Mochasa isn’t just a café. It’s a living, breathing space where every detail — from the menu to the music — is curated with care. A place where coffee meets comfort, and every visit feels like coming home.

Mochasa Coffee House
Mochasa’s cozy corner
Chicken ghee roast
chicken cafreal

Ana Bar goa

Ana Bar Goa in Old Goa, led by chef Vasco, blends Goan tradition with global cuisine, offering a sustainable, seasonal menu in a rustic, communitydriven setting rich in culinary heritage.

Article by: Abisha Fernandes Images by: Ana Bar Goa restaurant

A Taste of Tradition and Travel - Ana Bar Goa in Old Goa

Located in the historic streets of Old Goa, Ana Bar Goa is a culinary gem that reflects the rich heritage and passion of its owner, Vasco Alvares also known as Vasquito. With a legacy spanning three decades in the food industry, Vasco brings a unique blend of traditional Goan flavours and global cuisine.

A Family Legacy

Vasco's journey in the culinary world began at a young age, influenced by his parents' pioneering work in the food industry. His father, Roberto Alvares, was a trailblazer in producing and packaging sausages and frozen ready-to-fry foods in Goa. His mother, Laura, introduced the popular 'Perada' guava cheese, a sweet treat that remains a favourite among locals. This family legacy has instilled in Vasco a deep appreciation for quality, innovation, and tradition in food.

Rastafarai Pork Chop is calling! Jerk pork + rice & beans = pure island magic

Vasco's culinary experiences span the globe, from working as a Roast Cook on Carnival Cruise Lines to operating and consulting for various restaurants in Goa and beyond. His travels have inspired a diverse menu that showcases his take on international cuisine, with dishes like barbeque pork ribs, Galinha Zambeziana, Bife a Portuguesa, and chicken Cafreal. Each dish is a testament to Vasco's creativity and passion for flavours.

Ana Bar: A Rustic Haven

Located on Karmali Station Road, in Old Goa, Ana Bar is a simple yet charming restaurant that symbolises the village vibes of Old Goa. The ambience is airy and comfortable, with good music and lush green surroundings that transports guests to a tranquil oasis. The menu changes frequently, reflecting Vasco's love for seasonal produce and innovative flavours.

Chef. Vasco Alvares
Galinha Zambeziana

At Ana Bar, sustainability is a core value. The restaurant recycles oil, minimises plastic use, and composts to reduce waste. Vasco also prioritises locally sourced ingredients, supporting local vendors and farmers to promote the community's economic growth. This commitment to sustainability is reflected in the restaurant's operations and menu offerings.

Vasco's goal is to take guests on a culinary journey, sharing stories and flavours from his travels and heritage. The menu is designed to be flexible, with options for vegetarians, and vegans, and customised dishes to suit every dietary preference. Whether it's a traditional Goan dish or an international favourite, Vasco's passion for food shines through in every bite.

Beyond the Restaurant

Vasco's culinary ventures extend beyond Ana Bar. He is working on a range of food products for retail, including barbecue sauces, dry rubs, and ready-toeat products. His expertise is also sought after by entrepreneurs looking to start their restaurants, and he continues to consult on various projects

A True Goan Gem

Ana Bar is a true gem in Old Goa, offering a unique blend of tradition, innovation, and community spirit. Vasco's dedication to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction makes it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. As you savour the flavours of Ana Bar, you'll experience the warmth and hospitality of Goan culture, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

ambience
Grilled Baramundi Steak with Mango Salsa

Grumpy Cat Bakes

Grumpy Cat Bakes delivers Goa’s boldest brownies with heart, creativity, and local ingredients—crafted by a passionate home baker with dreams of opening a cozy dessert café.

Article by: Team ItsGoa Images by: Grumpy Cat Bakes
home baker

double chocolate brownie cake with Oreo’s fresh blueberries & strawberries

lovers across Goa, Grumpy Cat Bakes has quickly become a name synonymous with indulgent, bold, and unforgettable brownies. The passionate baker behind the brand began her journey as a child, thanks to summer baking classes at Don Bosco Oratory. That first encounter with batter sparked a lifelong love for baking—a love that steadily evolved from baking for friends and family to creating standout desserts that are anything but ordinary.

Where Comfort Meets Creativity

At the heart of Grumpy Cat Bakes lies a unique style that blends comfort with imagination. Specialising in rich, decadent brownies, the baker has redefined what a brownie can be. From gooey centres to perfectly crackled tops, each creation is a testament to flavour balance and thoughtful experimentation. Her approach doesn’t just replicate the classics—it elevates them. Inspired by nostalgic flavours and global influences, she constantly pushes the boundaries, aiming to craft the most distinctive brownies in Goa.

But the magic doesn’t end at brownies. One of her personal favourites is the Baileys Milk Chocolate Cake—a dessert that combines rich moisture with the subtle warmth of Irish cream, delivering a perfectly balanced and indulgent experience.

Crafted with Care, Baked with Purpose

Behind every batch is a meticulous process rooted in precision, patience, and instinct. She understands that baking is both an art and a science—where the interaction of ingredients, the timing, and even the environment play crucial roles. Over time, she has mastered the techniques needed to get her textures just right, especially for her signature brownies, while constantly tweaking recipes based on taste and feel.

Her commitment to quality is unwavering. She insists on using only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients—from rich cocoa powders to locally sourced chocolate, butter, and eggs. By partnering with local Goan suppliers, she not only ensures freshness but also adds a personal, homegrown touch to her bakes.

Desserts for Everyone

Inclusivity is at the core of Grumpy Cat Bakes. The baker is currently perfecting gluten-free brownie recipes inspired by her mother’s dietary restrictions. She’s also experimenting with health-conscious alternatives by incorporating less refined sugar, healthier fats, and nutrient-dense ingredients. Her goal is simple: to make sure everyone, regardless of their diet, can experience the joy of dessert without compromise.

pillowy soft bombolonis stuffed with mango cream and chunks of fresh mango

She also welcomes custom requests, going the extra mile to personalise cakes for special occasions or adapt recipes for specific dietary needs. Every order is freshly made, with extra care taken to ensure that the final product isn’t just delicious—it feels personal.

Learning, Growing, and Staying True

Consistency has been one of her biggest challenges. Baking from home in small batches, she initially struggled with achieving uniformity. But through keen observation, practice, and perseverance, she learned that baking goes beyond measurements—it’s about reading the room, the ingredients, and even her own intuition. Today, each batch of brownies reflects not only technical skill but also a deep connection to the process.

To stay inspired, she turns to platforms like Instagram and YouTube, where bakers and food creators across the world share trends, techniques, and ideas. However, she always ensures her creations carry her own unique stamp—original, soulful, and true to what her customers love.

double chocolate filled bomboloni

The Dream Ahead

In the coming years, the baker behind Grumpy Cat Bakes envisions opening her own café—a cozy space filled with the aroma of fresh bakes, where people can gather over desserts and coffee. Her dream café isn’t just about food; it’s about creating a warm, welcoming environment where guests feel at home. Alongside the café, she hopes to introduce baking workshops, sharing her knowledge with aspiring bakers and building a sweet, supportive community.

From a child mesmerised by cake shows on television to a baker driven by heart and hustle, the journey of Grumpy Cat Bakes is one of dedication, flavour, and fearless creativity. As her oven continues to churn out Goa’s boldest brownies, one thing’s certain—this grumpy cat is making a lot of people very, very happy.

assorted brownie box

Melt in your mouth, tiramisu brownie layered with coffee soaked biscuits

brownie with coffee soaked ladyfinger biscuit and mascarpone cream

tiramisu

Hi Café

Hi Café in Colvale blends premium coffee, comfort food, and soulful design, creating a warm, communitydriven space for locals and travellers to pause, connect, and unwind.

Article by: Team ItsGoa Images by: Hi Café
cafe

Tucked in the lush surroundings of Colvale, Mapusa, Hi Café is not just another coffee stop—it’s a thoughtfully crafted space that blends elegance, comfort, and community.

Founded by brothers Anwar Khan and Akbar Khan, directors of the Hindustan Group Enterprise, the café fills a much-needed gap along the Mopa–Porvorim belt, which previously lacked a premium coffee destination for locals, professionals, and travellers alike.

A Vision Rooted in Connection and Comfort

The idea for Hi Café stemmed from a simple but powerful insight: the joy of coffee lies not only in its aroma or flavour, but in the conversations and quiet moments it encourages. Over time, this appreciation turned into a mission to create a soulful, premium boutique café that North Goa could call its own.

Hi Café was built as a place to pause—to enjoy a quality brew, indulge in familiar comfort food, and find a pocket of peace amidst the rush. Its purpose is to offer more than caffeine; it’s about genuine hospitality, attention to detail, and creating a personal experience for every guest.

Minimal Design, Maximum Soul

The café’s theme revolves around minimalism, calm, and creativity. Drawing inspiration from the premium aesthetics of airport lounges, it combines modern design with soft ambience, making it suitable for all— from solo readers and remote workers to families and business professionals. Every corner is designed to inspire ease and invite guests to stay awhile, whether for a quick espresso or an extended meeting.

The name Hi Café reflects the essence of hospitality. It’s the first word of any warm interaction—friendly, inviting, and open. It also nods to its roots, with “Hi” representing the first two letters of Hindustan. This thoughtful branding speaks to the café’s mission: keeping things simple, sincere, and welcoming.

www.itsgoa.com itsgoa_ Itsgoa

Hi Café, Colvale
Anwar Khan and Akbar Khan

A Menu of Moments

Hi Café’s menu is a tribute to slow, sunny afternoons and comfort food with flair. Featuring over 50 varieties of hot and cold brews, the beverage selection is robust and curated for both the casual coffee drinker and the connoisseur. The beans are specially selected from Indian estates, ensuring freshness and quality in every cup.

Alongside coffee, the café offers a mix of sandwiches, burgers, pastas, small bites, and desserts. Signature favourites include the Butter Chicken Burger, White Sauce Pasta and a freshly made Tiramisu that keeps guests coming back.

With a commitment to quality ingredients and hygienic preparation, the team ensures that every item is made to order. The café caters to vegetarian and eggless preferences, and plans to expand its plant-based options in response to customer needs.

Service That Sticks With You

Hi Café puts its focus on genuine, memorable service. Every customer is greeted warmly, with staff trained to remember names and preferences. The space also provides free Wi-Fi, making it ideal for digital nomads, students, or professionals who want to work in a relaxed setting.

What truly resonates with guests, however, is the interior experience. From the premium furniture to ambient lighting, first-time visitors are often surprised by how upscale yet comforting the space feels. Many have expressed a desire to linger longer —proof that Hi Café has created a lasting emotional connection through its environment and service.

Brunch at hi cafe
cafe, Colvale
Lattes

Building with Intent, Growing with Purpose

Starting a café of this standard came with its share of challenges. Sourcing the right products and assembling a skilled, dedicated team took time and personal involvement from the founders. But it’s these meticulous efforts that now define Hi Café’s high standards and smooth operations.

Instead of chasing trends or undercutting competition, Hi Café relies on authenticity and consistency. Its strength lies in maintaining a clean, sophisticated ambiance, offering honest food, and building relationships through collaboration with local creators and businesses. This community-first mindset helps them grow organically, without compromising on identity.

In today’s connected world, Hi Café leverages social media to amplify its presence. Platforms like Instagram act as a digital storefront—sharing updates, showcasing menu highlights, and giving a behind-the-scenes look at café life. The goal is to make people aware that a space like Hi Café exists— and that it’s ready to welcome all who walk through its doors.

Looking ahead, the vision for Hi Café is ambitious yet grounded. In the next five years, the founders aim to position it as one of Goa’s most loved neighbourhood cafés. While they’re open to expanding with more outlets, the heart of the brand will always be in offering comfort, quality, and community. The ultimate vision? A nationwide chain of at least 100 cafés—each retaining the soul of the original in Colvale.

Hi Café is more than a coffee destination; it’s a celebration of connection, comfort, and conscious design. For those who seek a warm hello, a meaningful pause, and a space that feels like an extension of home—this café in North Goa offers just that, one perfectly brewed cup at a time.

Ishna

Ishna in Panjim is a serene vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant promoting mindful eating, sustainability, and community through wholesome, locally sourced meals in a peaceful, nature-inspired setting.

Article by: Abisha Fernandes
Images by: Ishna restaurant

Ishna: A Haven for Conscious Dining in Panjim

In the heart of Panjim, Goa lies a culinary gem that symbolises the essence of mindful and joyful eating. Ishna, a vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant, has become a haven for those seeking wholesome food and a peaceful dining experience.

A Vision for Conscious Dining

Ishna's journey began with a simple yet profound vision to create a calm, conscious, and inclusive space where people can savour delicious food while connecting with nature and like-minded individuals.

The founders noticed a gap in Goa's dining scene, particularly in Panjim, for dedicated vegetarian, vegan, and Jain-friendly spaces that didn't compromise on ambience or creativity. This insight sparked the creation of Ishna, a restaurant that offers more than just food, it's a wholesome experience.

Cuisine and Signature Dishes

Ishna's menu is a curated mix of wholesome Indian and global vegetarian and vegan dishes, carefully crafted to be inclusive of Jain dietary preferences. The restaurant's standout dishes include vegan jackfruit biryani, dairy-free creamy pasta, signature smoothies and cold-pressed juices made with locally sourced fruits and herbs.

At Ishna, freshness and sustainability are paramount. The restaurant sources most of its produce from local farms and organic vendors across Goa, ensuring not only flavour and quality but also supporting a sustainable food chain. This approach reduces the restaurant's carbon footprint while promoting local agriculture.

Everyone’s Favourite Rajma Chawal
Paneer Butter Masala with Cheese Garlic Naan
Millet Wraps

Ambience and Space

Ishna's ambiance is a serene oasis located in Bhagwan Mahaveer Children’s Park which is in the heart of Panjim. The space is designed to be airy, peaceful, and surrounded by lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for unwinding, working, or reconnecting with friends. The interiors reflect nature, simplicity, and positivity, creating a welcoming atmosphere for solo lunch dates, weekend catchups, or family gatherings.

Sustainability is deeply ingrained in Ishna's operations. The restaurant minimises single-use plastics, composts kitchen waste, and uses ecofriendly packaging for takeaways. Reusable glass bottles for water and support for local farmers and artisans further reduce the restaurant's environmental impact.

Looking ahead, Ishna plans to launch a line of prepackaged vegan meals and snacks for retail, allowing customers to enjoy their favourite dishes at home. The restaurant is also exploring wellness brunches, pop-up dinners, and collaborations with local sustainable brands, solidifying its position as a leader in the conscious dining movement.

A Message from Ishna

Ishna invites everyone to experience the joy of mindful eating and sustainable living. Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, Jain, or simply looking for a delicious meal, Ishna offers a haven where you can slow down, savour your food, and connect with likeminded individuals. As the founders say, “Ishna is more than a restaurant; it's a mindful movement in the middle of the city.”

Veg Seekh Kebabs
Special Veg Thali

Mumbai-based nutritionist and food blogger Greta Fernandes shares a refreshing Mango Smoothie Bowl recipe—quick, nutritious, and perfect for summer, with vegan and protein-packed options.

Mango Smoothie Bowl

345 calories per 100g serving

In this fast-paced world we hardly have the time and the energy to prepare a nourishing meal. The answer to your woes can be a nice big smoothie bowl.

Summer time and smoothies are a match made in heaven. You’ll find a wide array of tropical fruits in this season and we all want to avoid getting into elaborate meal preparation because of the heat and humidity.

Smoothies can be made in a jiffy and are wholesome & nutritious at the same time.

Smoothies are a great way to save your precious time. They are tummy-filing and rich in vitamins and minerals. A great option for those who cannot consume milkshakes due to

You could add coconut milk or almond milk and skip the dairy. I personally don’t add any sweetener because the fructose present in the fruits makes the smoothie naturally sweet.

I would recommend you first taste the smoothie and if you still need it sweeter you could add some honey or maple syrup to the bowl.

You can add fruits of choice, top it off with healthy nuts and seeds, you can make them with dairy or vegan, you could also add your favourite protein powder to them. A generous sprinkling of granola will give the smoothie a nice crunchy texture.

Another natural choice for sweetness is pitted Medjul dates. Add one or two of these and let the blender complete the task. How awesome your smoothie will be!

Mango Smoothie Bowl

Slices of Banana

tsp pomegranate seeds

Ingre ients

½ cup frozen mangoe

½ cup frozen pineapple frozen banan

20g oat

⅓ cup milk

For topping:

tbsp toasted Walnuts chopped finely

tbsp Dried Cranberries Cubes of Mango

In a blender, add frozen mangoes, frozen pineapples, frozen bananas and milk

Blend everything till it's smooth in

Pour the smoothie in a bowl and garnish with toppings of choice. Serve cold!

You can turn this recipe into a vegan smoothie by replacing milk with almond milk or coconut milk

his can be a post workout smoothie by adding a scoop of your favourite powder

Instead of milk you can also use yoghurt for a creamier smoothie.

Greta Fernan es

Certifie Nutritionist  & Foo Blogger

Website : htt s://deliciouslyurs com

Mango Smoothie Bowl
Mango Smoothie Bowl

featured article

V-U at Taj Holiday Village is Goa’s most Instagrammable pool bar, offering umami cocktails, ocean views, luxe vibes, and golden-hour magic —perfect for creatives, honeymooners, and cocktail lovers.

Article & Images by: Ishan Bhardwaj - Director Food and Beverage, Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa, Goa

itsgoa_ Itsgoa

Where the cocktails are smoky, the playlists are moody, and the sea is always just a step away. There’s something unmistakably cinematic about Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa in Goa—the way the coconut trees lean over sun-soaked villas, the rhythmic soundtrack of the waves, and the goldenhour light that turns everything into a filter-free dream. But tucked just beyond the frangipani garden and a short stroll from the beach is V-U, the resort’s oceanfront pool bar that’s quietly earned cult status among creatives, honeymooners, and cocktail connoisseurs alike.

This isn’t your average hotel pool bar. V-U is a mood. A lifestyle. And quite possibly, the most Instagrammable pool bar scene in Goa.

Daytime: Poolside Bliss and Breezy Sips

By day, V-U Pool Bar is a sun-drenched paradise where pool loungers face both the aquamarine waters of the infinity pool and the Arabian Sea beyond. The vibe? Relaxed, understated, but undeniably luxe. It’s not uncommon to spot honeymooners sipping cocktails in oversized sunglasses, digital nomads tapping away with spritz in hand, or friends ordering round after round of “just one more” because they’ve lost track of time— in the best way.

The signature U-V Cooler, made with tender coconut water, white rum, kafir lime and lemongrass syrup, sets the tone—refreshing, tropical, and effortlessly cool. For those who like a bit of heat, the Chilli Mango Margarita—a fiery blend of tequila, raw mango purée, chilli salt and a smoked rim—is both a palate teaser and a photo-op favourite. Add to that curated poolside bites like calamari recheado sliders, masala-spiced fries, and cold mezze platters, and you've got the perfect all-day hang.

The Art of the Umami Cocktail

V-U’s cocktail menu is where it truly sets itself apart. With a focus on umami-forward drinks, the bar team explores savoury profiles that are rich, unexpected, and deeply satisfying. Take the Kokum Smoked

Negroni, a Goan reinterpretation of the classic, where kokum tincture adds a tangy depth and the whole drink is finished with a cloche-smoked flourish.

Another crowd favourite? The Feni Shroom Highball —a masterful mix of mushroom-infused local cashew feni, soda, and citrus bitters, served in a tall, chilled glass with a dehydrated orange wheel. “Guests come here expecting the usual tropical cocktails,” says Sonu Rahapade, “and then they discover we’re doing things like oyster leaf garnishes or mushroom-infused spirits—and they’re hooked.”

Twilight Transitions: From Golden Hour to After Dark

As the sun dips below the horizon, V-U pool and pool bar transforms. The Sunset Spritz Ritualguests choose their spritz base (rose vermouth, Aperol, or kokum liqueur), paired with prosecco and garnished with edible flowers or smoked herbs.

It's an ode to the golden hour and one of the most Instagrammed moments at the resort. For couples, private poolside tables are set with candles and champagne on ice. For groups, there's a curated selection of shared punch bowls, including the Smoked Sangria with roasted spices and a selection of wines.

More Than Just Pretty

What makes V-U more than just an aesthetic hotspot is its sense of ease. The service is intuitive but unfussy. The design is tropical-modern with handwoven accents and natural textures. And the people? A delightful mix of well-travelled guests, local creatives, and the occasional DJ or food stylist who heard about “that pool bar with the feni mushroom cocktail.” In a region bursting with beach bars and party spots, Drift holds its own as a serene, stylish, and seriously flavour-forward escape.

Because sometimes, all you need is a good drink, a better view and the luxury to do absolutely nothing Just sip, dip, repeat.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.