Cocktails and Culture: The Best Bars in Goa for Drinks
No matter how many dinner parties you’ve been to, night concerts you’ve attended, or cocktails you’ve gulped, the vibrant nightlife experience is incomplete without visiting Goa. With a spell-binding convergence of sand and sea, one can see the deep-rooted influence of the Portuguese in the form of bars that have sprouted here. Be it an authentic Goan drink or a fancy cocktail, the bars here cater to every taste.
In this article, we will give you a walkthrough of some of the most famous bars in Goa that can render you a memorable drinking experience.
Petisco
Located in the heart of Panjim, this bar in Goa offers some of the best cocktails and culinary delights that one can find in Goa. Brought to you by the creators of Cafe Tato's, and chefs from Noma and Yauatcha, some of the must-tries include “Dodo”, “Golden Molasses” and “Smokey G&T”. Here, weekdays are power-packed with cheerful games and weekends come to life with the vibrant musical atmosphere. So, if you are looking to indulge in a delightful fusion of flavours and music, then Petisco is your 'go-to' place.
Café Mambo
Being a part of Tito’s Lane nightlife club located on Baga Beach, this bar in Goa is synonymous with the region’s vibrant night culture. A major attraction for beach enthusiasts and party lovers, it combines electrifying music nights with a vast drinks menu. Lay your hands on some of the classic Goan cocktails like Mambo’s Special, chilled beer, Long Island Iced Teas, Mojitos, and even shots, making it an ideal choice for those who want to drink and party the night away. With its chic interiors, the ambiance is elegant yet relaxing.
With its stunning beachside location, cocktails, and music, Café Momba is a quintessential Goa experience that one shouldn’t miss out on.
Bar de Goa
Peeping from the Anjuna Hideaway, Bar de Goa is known for its laid-back atmosphere and amazing cocktails. This rustic yet cozy bar uses locally sourced ingredients in its signature drinks, adding a contemporary flair to it. People usually enjoy drinks with live music performances that frequently take place here. In addition to that, one gets to gorge upon splendid Goan spread in the form of small plates, thus, making this bar in Goa an ideal hangout spot.
Cohiba Bar & Kitchen
Pinned close to the scenic Sinquerim beach, this is a bar in Goa that has the likes for its cheery atmosphere. With musical nights and a buzzing crowd, the drinks menu offers a vast selection. A much-demanded cocktail served here is the kokum and feni-infused tropical mix. Apart from that, you can try their classic “Cuba Libre”.
If you are looking for outdoor seating, then this can be your ‘go-to’ place. For party animals, the DJ nights are not to be missed. The bar’s casual yet sophisticated blend makes it a local as well as a tourist spot.
So, whether you are ravenous for a classic Goan dish along with the traditional Feni cocktail or in the mood to unwind after a day on the beach with some Long Island Iced Tea, Cohiba Bar & Kitchen does ensure that your time is well-spent.
Sanctuary Bar & Kitchen
Situated in a two-century-old Portuguese villa in Vagator, this bar in Goa offers a unique ambiance with its antique décor and globally-inspired dishes. Not just the delectable delights, Sanctuary Bar & Kitchen also takes pride in its sophisticated cocktail menu. Here, each cocktail isn’t just flavourful but also renders an experience to the drinker that is unique in itself. The signature cocktails are made out of locally sourced, authentic ingredients, providing an excellent pairing with the classic dishes. Its relaxed nightlight spirits make the Sanctuary Bar & Kitchen an excellent addition to any evening itinerary in North Goa.
Purple Martini
Sprouting from the rocky shores of Anjuna Beach, this place is all about sundowners, sea breezes, and seasoned cocktails. With stunning sunsets, one can sip through some tropical favorites like Mai Tais as well as their signature vodka-cranberry drink which shares its name with the bar “Purple Martini”.
With its vibrant setting, it’s one of the famous bars in Goa wherein the ambiance alone makes the drinks taste better than ever. So, whether you are here for the sunset, the cocktails, or the sea breeze, Purple Martini will provide you with a memorable experience.
Soro
Meaning ‘alcohol’ in the native Konkani, Soro brings together the charm of a village pub with modern cocktails. Located in Assagao, this is one of the few famous bars in Goa that has a rustic ambiance reflecting the rich Goan heritage. Along with locally made creative cocktails, one can also lay hands on a wide array of beers here. What makes Soro stand apart is its amalgamation of international flavors with traditional influencer elements.
Coming with fascinating labels such as the “Tamarind Whiskey Sour”, “Basilico”,
“Port Sangria”, and “Kokum Syrup Tonic”, Soro can be your place if you’re looking to experience the Goan culture in a glass.
Titlie
Hanging from a cliff in Vagator (not literally, of course), Titlie is all about an exceptional drinking experience with a majestic view of the Arabian Sea. This popular bar in Goa is reputed for its inventive blends that take Indian flavors to the next level through international mixology techniques. Some of the must-try cocktails include “Jalapeno Margarita”, a refreshing drink with a spicy kick, and “Old-Fashioned Coconut” which is a surprising twist of the classic Goan cocktail. To complement its drinks, the bar offers coastal and continental-flavored dishes.
Being one of the much sought-after bars, enjoy a sunset drink while taking in the relaxing views at Titlie.
Conclusion
There is not an iota of doubt that the bar scene in Goa offers as much diversity as its culture. From beachside locations to sundowner spots, and heritage pubs to cosmopolitan cocktail bars, Goa has something for every kind of drinker. Beyond vibrant cocktails, find the perfect beachside retreat or a cozy getaway with The Blue Kite.
Whether you seek a laid-back evening or a rave night out, the famous bars in Goa guarantee an experience in every sip.
