If you thought Goa was all about parties, shacks, and fancy sundowner spots for drinks, wait until you discover the hole-in-the-wall or simple-looking bars that evoke the true feeling of susegad - spots where locals gather to unravel their stories and make happy conversations over local booze and Goan bites. If you're planning a trip to Goa for the New Year, make sure to check out these bars.
Joseph Bar - Altinho, Panaji
Joseph Bar is an iconic bar stop known for its feni-based cocktails and the joyous barman, Gundu. The worn-out walls, a collection of clocks, chequered tablecloths, happy faces, and friendly conversations create a sense of belonging and add to the ambience at this place. When you visit, make sure to try their signature drink, Tambde Rosa.
Address: Gomes Pereira Road, Altinho, Panaji, Goa
Timings: 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Antonio@31 - Altinho, Panaji
Antonio@31 is an ode to Panjim and features cosy seating overlooking the colourful street. The Tapas (small plates) and Copos (drinks) menu brims with regional delicacies including Recheado Bhindi, Ros Omelette, and Chorizo Patoli and local ingredients like black jaggery and bimbli juice in their fun cocktails. A picture against their multi-coloured shutter is a must when here.
Address: Rua 31 de Janeiro, Altinho, Panaji, Goa
Timings: 12:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Cajy Bar - Mainath Bhatti, Arpora
This family-owned bar is one of Arpora's oldest and is well-known for its homemade Goan dishes. It serves a limited menu of Goan appetisers that include Recheado Mackerel, Pork Chilli, and Beef Cutlets alongside Susegado, a local craft beer, and more drinks. Sit back on their makeshift benches, play carrom, and hobnob with people from all walks of life.
Address: No 95, ( Mello Rosa Resort Road Mainath Bhatti, Arpora, Goa
Timings: 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays.
Esco Bar - Badem, Assagao
This house-turned-bar has lovely yellow walls, wooden tables and chairs, and street-side seating surrounded by trees. The simple yet elegant bar offers infused feni options such as ginger, cumin seeds, and honey, as well as flavoured mead for drinks, and bar bites such as poi, wraps, and nachos. Visit in the evening when the bar is at its best.
Address: Kerbside pickup Junction, Badem Rd, Badem, Assagao, Goa
Timings: 5:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Closed on Mondays.
Miski Community Bar & Dining Room - Altinho, Panaji
You've arrived at Miski Community Bar when you see scrapped blue walls, potted plants, and a narrow white shutter in the entrance with specials chalked on the blackboard on the walls. The bar is a great place to catch up with friends, and their offerings capture the essence of old Goa. On the menu, you'll find local Goan drinks like Urrak, Kaju Feni, and Teem Soda, as well as specials like jackfruit bread and crab stuffed papad.
Address: Near Head Post Office, Altinho, Panaji, Goa
Timings: 1:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Paulo’s Antique Bar - Dhabol Wada, Charpora
From ceiling to wall, the bar is covered in band posters, frames, and quirky quotes, with fairy lights and lamps elevating the bar scene. It has a communal bar table, long wooden benches, and tables facing the street. The bar only offers two things: incredible rock and roll music and cheap beer options; unlike other establishments, you can bring food from other shops.
Address: JP3R+FCC, Chapora Main St, Dabhol Wada, Down, Chapora, Goa
Timings: 6 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.
Darlings Bar, - Dhabol Wada, Vagator
Darlings Bar offers a wide range of liquor and cocktail options, including intriguing gin infusions with smoked cinnamon, pomelo, Thai ginger, and lemongrass. Pair your drink with one of their signature pizzas, play a game of pool in the bar, and have your photo taken against the artistic mural.
Address: Chapora Main St, Dabhol Wada, Vagator, Goa
Timings: 7:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m.
Guru Bar - St Antony Prais Waddo, Anjuna
The beachfront bar is quite spacious with teal blue and white interiors and artsy table tops and benches. The extensive menu features multi-cuisine dining options including Goan meals, as well as alcohol selections ranging from local wines to beer-based cocktails. Live performances and a beach view enhance the overall drinking experience here.
Address: St Anthony Prais Waddo Anjuna Bardez Goa guru bar line since 1967, Goa
Timings: 9:00 a.m. to 11:45 p.m.
Himani Sona
I’m a Bangalore based Culinary Chronicler who finds joy in food storytelling and photography. I like to research and document food narratives through writings, illustrations and photographs. When I’m away from the lens and pen, I’m mostly hiking in the woods.
