6 minute read
Smita’s Lake View Restaurant & Bar
Tucked away by the tranquil lake of Siridao, Smita’s Lake View Restaurant & Bar stands as a celebration of homely flavours, heartfelt hospitality, and the natural charm of Goa. Founded by Mrs. Smita Surendranath Blaggan and her son Rohit, the restaurant was born out of a lifelong passion for food and the simple joy of serving others. What began as a retirement dream has grown into one of Goa’s most beloved dining destinations — a place where authenticity meets comfort, and every meal is seasoned with warmth.
A Culinary Dream Turned Reality
After retiring from her government career, Mrs. Smita finally decided to pursue what she had always loved most — cooking. Known among friends and family for her exceptional culinary skills, she had long been encouraged to share her food with a wider audience.
When her son Rohit returned from Dubai in 2020, he helped bring that dream to life, combining his management skills with her passion. Together, they launched Smita’s Lake View just before the pandemic, driven by a heartfelt vision: to serve food made with love, inspired by authenticity and simplicity.
Smita’s Lake View blends homemade-style cooking with the calm beauty of its lakeside location. The restaurant’s design and ambience reflect Goa’s relaxed rhythm — rustic yet contemporary, serene yet welcoming. It’s the kind of place where guests can unwind, share conversations, and enjoy food that feels like home. The restaurant’s philosophy centres on good food, genuine service, and a soothing view that completes the experience.
The Story Behind the Name and Location
The name itself captures the essence of the brand — “Smita’s” reflects the founder’s personal involvement and identity, while “Lake View” pays homage to the restaurant’s picturesque setting in Siridao. The location was carefully chosen for its natural tranquility and proximity to Smita’s home, allowing her to personally oversee operations. The serene lake, visible from every corner of the restaurant, adds to the charm, making it a memorable dining spot for locals and visitors alike.
A Menu Inspired by Heritage and Heart
The menu at Smita’s Lake View is a reflection of Smita’s diverse culinary journey — from her Maharashtrian roots and Punjabi influences to the Goan traditions she has embraced over the years. Every dish is curated with care, emphasising freshness, authenticity, and balance. The restaurant prepares its spice blends in-house, sources fresh seafood and produce daily, and offers a wide range of cuisines including Goan, Maharashtrian, Punjabi, and Continental. From hearty thalis to rich curries and comforting home-style meals, the offerings cater to both local and diverse palates. Customer feedback plays a key role in shaping the evolving menu, ensuring that every dish resonates with the tastes of the people who dine there.
Signature Dishes Loved by All
Over time, certain dishes have become synonymous with Smita’s Lake View. The authentic Goan Fish Thali remains the restaurant’s most celebrated item — a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Other popular dishes include Prawn Dangar, Rawa Mussels, Chonak Green Masala Fry, and Chicken Cilantro. For starters, the Squid Bomb and Tisreo Cutlets are crowd-pleasers that keep guests coming back for more.
Quality, Freshness, and Care in Every Plate
Smita personally oversees the sourcing of all ingredients, ensuring only the freshest seafood and produce reach the kitchen. The restaurant’s in-house spice blends and marinades are prepared daily, preserving a consistency of flavour that guests have come to love. With both vegetarian and nonvegetarian options available, the kitchen also accommodates individual spice preferences, keeping every meal fresh, flavourful, and true to its homestyle roots.
The Essence of Hospitality
At Smita’s Lake View, hospitality extends far beyond service—it’s about making guests feel at home. Smita’s hands-on approach brings a nurturing, motherly warmth to the dining experience. The staff, trained to embody the same values of attentiveness and sincerity, ensure every visitor feels welcome and cared for. The serene lakeside backdrop enhances this sense of calm, creating the perfect environment for relaxation, connection, and comfort.
Customer Feedback: A “Home Away from Home”
Guests frequently describe Smita’s Lake View as a “home away from home,” praising its authentic flavours, cozy ambience, and the freshness of its food. The Goan Fish Thali and Prawn Dangar have received particular acclaim, often mentioned in glowing reviews. Constructive feedback is also welcomed and has helped the team continually improve — fine-tuning service standards, presentation, and even spice levels to deliver a consistently satisfying experience.
Overcoming Challenges with Determination
Opening just before the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown brought its share of obstacles — from supply disruptions to staffing issues. Yet, Smita and Rohit faced these early challenges with perseverance and the support of family and community. Their unwavering focus on quality and personal service helped the restaurant build a strong base of loyal customers. Over time, consistent standards and word-of-mouth recommendations allowed Smita’s Lake View to thrive despite the odds.
Standing Out in a Competitive Market
In Goa’s bustling restaurant landscape, Smita’s Lake View has carved out a niche by staying true to its values — authenticity, consistency, and heart. Rather than chasing fleeting trends, the restaurant focuses on timeless home-style cooking and an atmosphere that feels personal. Special events like karaoke nights and live entertainment add vibrancy, fostering a sense of community and encouraging repeat visits from regular patrons.
Connecting with Customers Through Social Media
Social media has played a pivotal role in Smita’s Lake View’s success. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are used to showcase the restaurant’s food, ambience, and scenic lakeside setting. Many guests first discover the restaurant online through engaging reels, influencer collaborations, and customer-shared posts. The team also values digital feedback, using it to fine-tune their offerings and stay connected with their growing audience.
Looking Ahead: Growth and Vision
With the recent opening of a second outlet in Bainguinim, featuring an air-conditioned dining area for added comfort, Smita’s Lake View is steadily expanding its footprint in Goa. Over the next five years, Smita and Rohit envision further growth — new outlets, enhanced service standards, and a stronger commitment to sustainability and local sourcing.
Their ultimate goal is to make “Smita’s” a name synonymous with authentic regional cuisine and heartfelt hospitality — a place where every guest experiences the warmth of home, the joy of good food, and the peace of dining by the lake.
Smita’s Lake View Restaurant & Bar isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a reflection of love, legacy, and Goan spirit. Whether it’s the aroma of freshly prepared seafood, the comfort of familiar flavours, or the serene beauty of the lake, every visit feels like coming home — one delicious meal at a time.
