Faced with the all-too-familiar Saturday night conundrum—where do we dine this time?—we found ourselves craving something more than the usual fare. So, we set our sights on North Goa, a destination known for its eclectic mix of eateries and laid-back vibes.
As we meandered through the serpentine lanes of Candolim, hoping for inspiration to strike, we stumbled upon a little gem, almost by serendipity—Coastal Crave.
If you’ve ever found yourself in North Goa, you know that culinary delights lurk around every corner. Coastal Crave , a local restaurant in Candolim, might not have the flashy façade of its neighbours, but it more than makes up for it with culinary finesse. Even more heartening is that it has its own private parking—a rare find in this neck of the woods. We’re already in a good mood.
The moment we stepped inside, we were greeted with a low hum of conversation, barely audible under the ambient lighting that whispers rather than shouts. The décor is decent—comfortably chic without veering into the territory of trying too hard. A wide bar dominates one side of the room, showcasing a selection of spirits that would make any cocktail enthusiast’s heart flutter.
And then there is Suresh, the affable restaurant manager. From the moment we walked into Coastal Crave, he greeted us with a warmth that felt less like the standard hospitality one might expect and more like an old friend welcoming you into his home.
He has that rare quality of being everywhere and yet never intruding—he floated between tables, offering just the right recommendations with the kind of confidence that only comes from someone who truly knows their menu. When we hesitated over what to order, he gently steered us towards the Bourbon Slam, a drink he promised would set the tone for the evening. It did, and we silently thanked him with every sip.
Speaking of the Bourbon Slam; it is a cocktail that promised to marry the richness of bourbon with a zesty twist. It did not disappoint. The first sip was a revelation—smooth, bold, and just the right side of smoky. It’s the kind of drink that makes you feel like you’ve earned it after a long day of doing absolutely nothing on a Goan beach. Or in our case, after a long day of doing absolutely everything at work.
As we settled into the evening, I found myself drawn to another cocktail with a name as intriguing as its ingredients—the Passionate Ananas. A vibrant concoction of white rum, passion fruit puree, fresh pineapple, lemon juice, honey, and a sprig of mint, it arrived at the table like a tropical breeze in a glass.
We get to know that Coastal Crave, is family owned viz. by Jeronimo Desouza and Anastazia Dmello. Nestled in their own yard, the restaurant exudes a cozy, welcoming vibe, enhanced by Anastazia’s boho-inspired interiors and the natural beauty of preserved trees. The menu offers a blend of Indian, Continental, and authentic Goan dishes.
We place our taste buds in the capable hands of Suresh, trusting his recommendations for the starters. They arrive in quick succession, carried by a steward who had perfected the art of appearing just when you need him.
Let’s talk about those cheesy jalapeño peppers. Imagine this: molten cheese and jalapeno oozing from the crust; every bite a tantalizing dance of heat and creaminess. That’s what a heady combination of both mozarella and cheddar does to you.
The bacon-wrapped prawns arrive next and these are my personal favourites; the prawns juicy and plump, wrapped lovingly in salty bacon that crackled with every bite.
And just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, the Crispy Chicken arrives—a reddish-gold, crunchy exterior giving way to tender meat within, the kind of dish that makes you wonder if there’s anything better in life than perfectly fried chicken.
For the main course, we choose the Spaghetti Aglio Olio. It’s a dish that’s deceptively simple—just garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of chili—but Coastal Crave’s version was a masterclass in restraint. Each strand of spaghetti was coated in a luscious garlic-infused oil, the kind that clings to your taste buds and lingers long after you’ve finished. It’s comfort food, yes, but elevated to a level that makes you appreciate the beauty in simplicity.
For dessert, we opted for the Chocolate Trifle. With layers of rich chocolate, sponge cake, and cream, each spoonful was a sinful blend of textures and flavors. It is the kind of dessert that makes you contemplate licking the plate clean and then feel slightly ashamed for even considering it. We are told it was made by the owner’s sister, and it shows. Every bite revealed not just layers of decadent ingredients, but also a touch of familial love that made it all the more special.
Throughout the evening, the service was impeccable. The staff at Coastal Crave know their food, and they know how to make you feel right at home. There’s no rush, no hovering—just warm, attentive service that lets you enjoy your meal at your own pace.
As I sipped on my Coastal Coco Musk mocktail—a refreshing concoction of coconut and tropical fruits that felt like a beach vacation in a glass—I realized that Coastal Crave had offered me more than just a meal. It had given me an experience, a taste of Goa that goes beyond the beaches and the sunsets, into the very heart of what makes this place so special.
There’s nothing hokey or gimmicky about Coastal Crave and my only regret is not ordering two of those Coastal Coco Musks.
So, if you find yourself in North Goa, do yourself a favor and wander into Coastal Crave, one of the best restaurants in Candolim. You’ll walk out with a satisfied belly, a warm heart, and perhaps, like us, the memory of the choco trifle lingering on your lips. Heaven knows we can all do with sugarspun Saturdays like these!
Honest Reviews 