Authentic Thali Restaurants Trail In Panjim
Fish thalis in Goa are more than a meal, they’re an entire emotion. Although this seaside state has more than enough access to fresh seafood, places that make a delectable fish thali are still a cherished find. Though you’ll find a passable thali at almost every restaurant in Panjim, it takes some practice to find the truly exceptional ones, but if you eat your way through this trail, you might just find your next favourite.
*Some restaurants listed in this trail serve non-vegetarian food, but have been added because they have good vegetarian options on their menu as well.
Casa Bhonsle
Situated in Panjim, on the first floor above the well-known Goan breakfast establishment Cafe Bhonsle, this restaurant is renowned for its superb fish thali served during lunch. The thali boasts an impressive spread, featuring a variety of fish every day. Included in the thali are delectable offerings such as fish fry, squid chilly, mackerel curry, kokum, and prawns curry, all served with truly satisfying steamed rice.Kokni Kanteen
Established in 1972, Kokni Kanteen, located in the heart of Panjim, has been serving a delightful array of traditional and contemporary Goan snacks. Its rustic wooden interior, adorned with Goan kitchen utensils, creates a homely feel, contributing to the restaurant's unique charm. Locals and tourists alike gather to relish their lunch thali, not featured on the menu but available upon request. The reasonably priced fish thali is a veritable feast, offering a variety of seafood dishes alongside the main course. Kokni Kanteen is renowned in North Goa for providing the best and most authentic fish thali experience. The restaurant presents a rustic yet modern setting, and seafood enthusiasts can indulge in Bappa’s Special Thali, featuring crabs, prawns, kingfish, and shells – a seafood lover’s delight with 12 different items on a single thali.
Ritz Classic
Hailed as 'the best seafood in all of Goa' by locals and online reviews, Ritz Classic is a renowned establishment. Situated on the first floor of a building, the restaurant exudes the ambience of a bustling eatery catering to its customers' primary desire: fish. Frequented by locals, sometimes twice a day, the restaurant offers a vast array of high-quality catches. A haven for seafood enthusiasts, the signature dish at Ritz Classic is their thali, featuring four different seafood preparations. The restaurant boasts an assortment of impeccably fresh seafood crafted into a variety of curries and flavourful dishes. Located in the heart of Panaji, it remains a popular choice for both locals and visitors. Must-try dishes include rice and fish curry, crab masala, fish thali, and butter-garlic calamari. Opting for the thali proves to be an exceptional value-for-money deal.
Anandashram
In the 1940s, a small establishment was initiated in Fontainhas, serving hot rice accompanied by a rich coconut curry of prawns. The name 'Anandashram' has since acquired a reputation for itself in delivering simple yet delicious Fish Thalis. Recently, a revamped version of Anandashram was opened at St. Inez by the Basilio’s Group, maintaining the same food quality in a different ambience.The Goan Room
Founded in 2016, The Goan Room at Dona Paula, Panjim, is known for its reasonable prices, Mario Miranda-esque paintings, and spacious seating. Specialising in the Patrao Thali, the restaurant offers a scrumptious lunch affair, complemented by an almost sports bar atmosphere. Despite its stylish presentation, the fish thali remains one of the finest, even recommended by locals.Shree Sateri Kamakshi Restaurant
Situated four kilometres from the centre of Panjim, this spot stands out as a delightful place to experience a fine fish thali with an authentic, homemade, personalised touch. Run by a family, the intimate restaurant adjusts its thali menu daily based on the available fish varieties, typically offering choices like kingfish, prawns, mackerel, and Lepo fishRoyal Ruchik
Tucked away in Panjim, Royal Ruchik has gained popularity among local food enthusiasts. As a family-run establishment, it offers pocket-friendly prices and caters to the office crowd while also capable of arranging feasts. The noteworthy Ravan Thali, consisting of 15+ non-veg and seafood items priced at only Rs 700, and suitable for sharing among four people, is a highlight. Local recommendations emphasise trying the Ravan Thali for a delightful mix of Goan flavours.
