Honest Reviews

Aunty Maria, Hotel Fidalgo, Goa : Restaurant Review

Aunty Maria is a delightful little snacks and coffee shop located in Hotel Fidalgo in the heart of Panaji, Goa.

The cafe’s decor is simple yet elegant, with comfortable seating. The menu is small but perfectly formed, featuring a range of snacks and light bites that are perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch.

The highlight of Aunty Maria’s menu is undoubtedly the coffee, which is some of the best you’ll find in Panaji. The coffee is brewed to perfection, resulting in a rich and satisfying cup that’s perfect any time of day.

The snacks on offer are equally impressive, with a range of sandwiches, salads, and light bites that are bursting with flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savoury, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes.

If you’re a fan of sweet treats, you won’t be disappointed with the selection of pastries and bites on offer at Aunty Maria. The caramel doughnut is a must-try, with its soft and fluffy texture and sticky caramel filling that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Another winner on the menu is the butterscotch pastry, which is light and flaky with a rich butterscotch cream that’s simply divine. Pair it with a strong cappuccino for the perfect pick-me-up, and you’ll be in pastry heaven.

If you’re looking for something lighter, Aunty Maria also offers a selection of cookies that are perfect for a quick snack or to take on the go. The cookies are freshly baked and come in a variety of flavours, including chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, and peanut butter.

But it’s not just the sweet treats that shine at Aunty Maria. The pizzas and sandwiches are also fairly hearty snacks. What’s more, the cappuccino is strong and satisfying, making it the perfect complement to any pastry or snack.

Aunty Maria is a wonderful way to pass your time in the heart of Panaji city. With its warm hospitality, excellent coffee, and delicious snacks, it’s the perfect spot to relax and recharge while exploring all that this vibrant city has to offer.

It caters to a wide range of clientele, making it the perfect place to meet friends, colleagues, or even do business over a cup of coffee. The comfortable seating and warm ambiance make it an ideal spot for catching up with old friends or networking with new ones.

For those who need to mix business with pleasure, Aunty Maria’s coffee shop provides a welcoming atmosphere that’s conducive to productivity. You can hold a casual meeting or a brainstorm session.

Overall, Aunty Maria is a versatile cafe that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to catch up with friends, do business, or simply enjoy a delicious cup of coffee and a snack, it’s the perfect spot to have up your sleeve day or night.

The Pier Seaside Bistro, Vasco, Goa: Restaurant Review

I recently had the pleasure of dining again at The Pier Seaside Bistro in Mormugao, Goa, and I must say it was a delightful experience. From the stunning seaside location to the scrumptious food and refreshing cocktails, The Pier tingles with freshness.

I’ve been to the Pier Seaside Bistro both in the night and the day, and I must say it can be appreciated more fully in the daytime. The view is simply to die for and the food doesn’t disappoint.

First and foremost, I must highlight the rawa fried mussels, which were an absolute treat for seafood lovers. The mussels were perfectly cooked and coated in a crispy rawa (semolina) batter that added a wonderful texture. The flavors were well-balanced, allowing the natural taste of the mussels to shine through. It was a fantastic appetizer that set the tone for the rest of the meal.

Moving on to the next starter, the bosun chicken was a standout dish. The chicken was tender and juicy, marinated in a flavorful blend of spices that created a delightful burst of flavors with every bite. The portion size was generous, ensuring a satisfying and filling meal.

The aloo paratha, a popular Indian bread stuffed with spiced potatoes, was simply delicious. The paratha was beautifully cooked, with a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful filling. It paired perfectly with the other dishes, adding a comforting element to the overall meal.

When it comes to beverages, The Pier offers a variety of tantalizing options. The feni cocktail was a unique and refreshing choice. Feni, a traditional Goan spirit made from cashew apples, was blended with a perfect mix of fruit juices and garnished with fresh mint. The result was a well-balanced and flavorful cocktail that captured the essence of Goa’s coastal vibe.

To complete the dining experience, I indulged in a classic pina colada. The Pier’s version of this tropical favorite was spot-on. The combination of creamy coconut and sweet pineapple created a smooth and delightful cocktail that transported me to a beach paradise. It was the perfect way to end the meal on a sweet and refreshing note.

The ambiance at The Pier, Seaside Bistro was truly captivating. With its stunning seaside location, the sound of the waves crashing, and the warm sea breeze, it provided a serene and relaxed atmosphere. The service was attentive and friendly, adding to the overall positive experience.

In conclusion, The Pier, Seaside Bistro in Vasco, Goa, is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy a memorable dining experience with terrific ocean views. There’s much here to stimulate your senses and your palate!

Fisherman’s Wharf Panaji, Goa : Restaurant Review

Driving around Panaji city on a Saturday night gave me a taste of how weekend nightlife around the capital city is these days, after the soul fell out of it.

The few Saturday nights we’ve spent in Panaji city over the last few months have been similar. Go with great expectations, only to return quietly subdued.

We stopped by the Fisherman’s Wharf in Panaji, Goa. It’s a somewhat posh seafood and Goan cuisine restaurant that has served us plenty of happy experiences in the past. When we entered, the restaurant was semi-full with patrons, most of them tourists putting up at nearby hotels. We couldn’t help but notice the lone singer trying her very best to entertain the spiritless guests.

Let’s start with the pros. Firstly, I’ve always been a fan of the location and ambience. Housed in a heritage home, it comes with all the right feels. The open balcao, courtyard in front, along with indoor seating if you feel like it. The walls are adorned with quaint Goan artifacts along with a few pots and pans, lest you forget that the kitchen is in the vicinity.

The service is quite good. The steward was with us in minutes and came back at least twice to take our orders.

In the past, I’ve tried plenty of seafood dishes. From succulent prawns to the freshest fish, every dish was cooked to perfection and bursting with flavour. I have highly recommended the Goan fish curry, with its spicy kick.

However, this time around we asked our waiter for recommendations. He recommends the wok tossed broccoli. I’m somewhat wary about this choice. Nonetheless, we go with it.

Cooked with garlic and chilli, the wok-tossed broccoli is somewhat hit-and-miss. I can’t say it was terrible but it just didn’t hit the right spots.

Next, after some deliberation we order the grilled chicken. Presented on a bed of mashed potato, it was not much of a surprise. However, it was good to taste and came with a decent sauce. Overall, nothing to rave about but at least inoffensive to the palate.

By and large, everything in Panjim and beyond is rather expensive wherever you perch your derriere, and Fisherman’s Wharf is no exception. Prepare to pay Rs.350/- upwards for vegetarian starters and 450/-+ for seafood.

It was not quite 10 pm when we noticed most of the crowd dispersing while some seemed about ready to nap at their table.

My dining at Fisherman’s Wharf, Panjim experience is symbolic of a lot of my eating out in Panjim on weekends : practical, occasionally delectable, sometimes sloppy and lacking any zing. I am quickly losing reasons to drop by Panjim on a Saturday night again.

Cashew Fest Goa- A celebration of all things cashew!

As I sit down to write this, my taste buds are still tingling, my ears are ringing with the tunes of live music, and my mind is buzzing with memories of the technical sessions and the fashion show by Verma D’Mello.

Let’s start with the food. Oh, the food! Around 50 food and beverage stalls lined the D.B. Grounds at Campal, each one offering a unique culinary experience. Tataki’s sushi was so fresh and flavorful that it almost transported me to Japan. Petisco’s cashew based cocktails were a dream come true. Black Sheep Bistro’s spiced cashew and jackfruit tacos were a culinary masterpiece, and Jamun’s modern Indian cuisine was a delightful fusion of flavors, textures and cashew.

Avo’s Kitchen had some interesting flavours. Their Bibya Usli (tender cashew nuts) and Millet Pulav were simply divine. Cavatina and Juju, both run by Chef Avinash had a fair bit of patrons.

The live music bands were another highlight of the festival. Shor Police, with their infectious energy and catchy tunes, had the crowd dancing and singing along. Stebin Ben’s soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics and on-stage histrionics left the audience panting for more. Raagas2Riches’ fusion of classical and contemporary music was a treat for the ears. Lorna, the queen of Konkani music, had the crowd swaying and singing along to her timeless classics.

The fashion show by Verma D’mello was a beautiful tribute to the local culture and traditions of Goa. The clothes made from the Kunbi weave were a celebration of the rich history and heritage of the region. The models strutted down the runway with confidence and grace, showcasing the intricate designs and vibrant colors of the fabrics.

The technical sessions in the afternoon were informative and engaging. The experts covered a wide range of topics, from sustainable farming practices to the health benefits of cashews. The sessions were interactive, with attendees asking questions and sharing their own experiences.

The ground kept getting stuffier and while this usually puts me off, I wasn’t pained at all this time round. It appears everyone else was of similar sentiment. Or maybe they were just overcome by the joy of good food and music in the company of friends and family.

What made the Cashew Fest Goa 2023 truly special was the crowds of locals and tourists who came together to celebrate the festival. The atmosphere was festive and inclusive, with people of all ages and backgrounds enjoying the food, music, and culture of Goa. The festival was a testament to the spirit of Goa, a place where different cultures and traditions coexist harmoniously.

In conclusion, the Cashew Fest Goa 2023 was a resounding success. It was a celebration of food, music, culture, and community. The festival showcased the best of Goa, from its rich history and heritage to its vibrant culinary scene and lively music culture. I can’t to experience the magic all over again next year.

Mama Miso, Goa : Restaurant Review

For foodies eager to discover another side of Goa, Mama Miso is a contemporary Asian fusion restaurant in Goa. The atmosphere is lively and pleasant, with a vibe that makes you want some great food right away. The restaurant Mama Miso is a hidden gem that offers an original twist on Asian cuisine by fusing conventional flavours with cutting-edge preparation methods to produce an unforgettable dining experience.

The meals on offer at Mama Miso are a great testament to the inventiveness and enthusiasm of the restaurant’s chef. The Crispy Katsu Chicken Roll sushi is a must-try with its softer surface and crunchy chicken interior that melts in your lips. Using both spicy and sweet sauces together transforms the the dish to the next level, making it an explosion of flavors that you won’t forget anytime soon.

Another delicious dish that stands out is the Egg fried rice, which has fluffy grains and is cooked to perfection with mixed vegetables. The Dry Red Chill Chicken Stir fry is the ideal companion, and the rice doesn’t overshadow. With soft chicken pieces sautéed with a combination of herbs and spices and finished with a hint of dry red chilies, this meal is a spicy delicacy that delivers a punch. The dish is flavorful and satisfying for those seeking a spicy bite.

The staff at Mama Miso provides prompt, cordial service and is knowledgeable and eager to answer any questions. The atmosphere in the restaurant is laid-back, and a carefully chosen playlist enhances the experience. Groups, couples, and families that want to come together for some wonderful cuisine and quality time can all benefit from going to Mama Miso.

The allure of Mama Miso, however, extends much beyond its mouthwatering meals. The restaurant’s warm and welcoming environment, which includes cheery interiors, soft lighting, and indoor-outdoor seating, creates a pleasant and private setting ideal for a family get-together or romantic supper for two. The helpful and attentive service just enhances the overall experience, making sure that each visitor feels welcomed and comfortable.

Overall, Mama Miso is a gastronomic Asian treasure in Goa that provides a thrilling and distinctive dining experience. This restaurant is a must-visit for anyone eager to try something new because it serves up inventive and flavorful Asian cuisine. With its friendly service, lively ambiance, and mouth-watering dishes, Mama Miso is a restaurant that is not to be missed.

“Where the Crawdads Sing” Book Review

“Where the Crawdads Sing” is a compelling novel by Delia Owens that recounts the narrative of a girl named Kya Clark, who experiences childhood in the marshlands of North Carolina during the 1950s and 60s. The book’s perfect combination of romance, mystery, and nature keeps the reader turning the pages until the very end.

Kya’s family abandons her at the beginning of the story, leaving her to fend for herself in the marshes. She learns to rely on the land and the creatures that live there to survive on her own. Kya’s adoration and appreciation for the natural world are perfectly portrayed in the book, making the marshes a magical spot that readers will feel like they’re encountering first-hand.

When a local teenager named Chase Andrews is found dead, the plot takes an intriguing turn, and Kya emerges as the primary suspect. The reader is kept on the edge of their seat as the riveting courtroom drama of the story unfolds. We learn about the people in the small town through Kya’s trial, each with their own secrets and motives.

The lyrical and evocative writing of Owens makes it simple to imagine the setting and the characters’ emotions. She expertly weaves the scientific knowledge of the marshes and their inhabitants into the narrative, enriching it with depth and intrigue. The book’s beautifully detailed and captivating descriptions of the marshlands reflect the author’s background as a wildlife scientist.

The mystery encompassing the demise of Chase Andrews is key to the plot, but at the same time it’s a catalyst for Kya’s self-awareness and improvement. As she explores the intricacies of the trial, she starts to go up against the traumas of her past and defy the biases of the general public around her.

One of the qualities of the book is the manner in which it investigates the subjects of loneliness, disengagement, and connection. Kya’s relationships with the people in the town are fraught with tension and mistrust, and her isolation in the marshes is both a strength and a vulnerability. The book likewise digs into topics of bias and class, as Kya’s destitution and impoverished status make her an objective for doubt and scorn.

The book is a celebration of nature and the wonder and beauty of the marshes, despite its darker themes. Owens’ composition is rich and distinctive, rejuvenating the setting and filling it with a feeling of magic and mystery.

Overall, “Where the Crawdads Sing” is a moving and thought-provoking novel about the power of nature to heal and transform and the complexities of human relationships. It is a book that readers will want to read again and again long after the last page has been turned.

Murder Mystery 2: Movie Review

A fun and enjoyable comedy, Murder Mystery 2 is the sequel to the popular 2019 film Murder Mystery. It follows the exploits of Nick Spitz (Adam Sandler) and his wife Audrey (Jennifer Aniston) as they become involved in yet another investigation.

Murder Mystery 2’s plot is more complicated than what the title might imply because the plot doesn’t really revolve around a murder. The characters are involved in a high-profile kidnapping case, which adds a new level of mystery and tension to the narrative.

This shift in course may surprise some fans of the original picture, but it ultimately benefits the movie. The kidnapping plot offers more suspects and motives, and it keeps the audience engaged right up until the very end.

The story begins when Nick and Audrey are invited to an exclusive island for a wedding and end up becoming the prime suspects in a kidnapping investigation.

Once again, the film’s highlight is the connection between Sandler and Aniston, whose sharp repartee and comic timing add to the movie’s charm. Even with a limited role, Akhtar serves as a wonderful counterpoint to the film’s comic sequences.

The movie’s plot is expertly written, with plenty of twists to keep the audience riveted.

The movie’s pacing is also excellent, with a wonderful mix of humorous and tense parts. The language and action flow seamlessly, making for a gripping and enjoyable film from start to finish.

The kidnapping narrative may not be what viewers were anticipating, but it is still a fantastic addition to the picture, making for a lively and interesting watch that is likely to please fans of the original movie.

The movie isn’t particularly groundbreaking in terms of its storytelling or plot, but it is a great follow-up to the original film, delivering more of the same humor and entertainment that fans of the first movie will love. Overall, Murder Mystery 2 is a fun and enjoyable movie that is perfect for a night in with friends or family.

Will Don Draper fit in a modern ad agency?

Don Draper, the classy and dapper ad man from the popular TV series Mad Men, may have been a legend in his day, but he would have a hard time fitting into the structure of a contemporary advertising firm.

For one thing, Don Draper was well-known for his continuous chain smoking, but nowadays, smoking inside is strictly prohibited. He would have to go outside and wait like everyone else on the sidewalk. Imagine Don Draper walking down the street, smoking, and appearing as calm as a cucumber, while passerbys glare at him with annoyance.

Second, although Don Draper was a master of print and television advertisements, he would struggle to adjust to social media. Twitter? Instagram? TikTok? These ideas are alien to him. Would he be able to think of a hashtag or a trending meme?

Don Draper always wore a suit and shirt and looked impeccable. However, the dress code at advertising companies has become more lax in recent years. Imagine that Don wears a three-piece suit to work while his coworkers are sporting hoodies and trainers.

Collaboration is essential in the contemporary advertising firm. Don Draper had a reputation for working by himself, locking himself in his office, and only leaving when he had an excellent idea. He would presumably struggle to adapt to the team-oriented environment of the modern advertising industry.

Data is king in the realm of advertising today. Analytics and metrics are used by advertisers to monitor the effectiveness of their campaigns and make rational choices. Don Draper was more of a “gut feeling” type of person who relied on his ingenuity and intuition to generate ideas.

In order to grab people’s attention, today’s marketers constantly push the envelope, creating unique and unconventional campaigns. Even though Don Draper was an expert at creating print and television advertisements, could he come up with a viral marketing campaign or guerilla marketing strategy?

Artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, and other cutting-edge technologies are used to create immersive and interactive campaigns, placing technology at the vanguard of contemporary advertising. Although Don Draper was undoubtedly a creative genius, he would probably find it difficult to manage the sophisticated world of technology.

In conclusion, while Don Draper may have been a legend in his time, he would definitely struggle to fit into a modern advertising agency setup. But hey, we can still appreciate his impeccable style and smooth talking ways!

Fishka – Restaurant Review

Fishka is somewhat my best kind of review – a restaurant I wasn’t really planning to write about, but somehow it waylaid me. Hence, the lack of photos. Well, I’ve posted a couple but these are from previous visits.

People will always compare its previous location to where it has settled these days, and there’s no getting around that.

Its earlier location opposite the Alila Diwa fed it some uber cool crowd and it felt somehow shinier and full of that elusive thing called “buzz.”

Its current location isn’t bad. Well, it has more room, there’s a long balcony area, picture frames all over the walls and plenty of tables.

I’ve eaten at least thrice at Fishka with my friend, who helps me rage across the menu with a few cold glasses of mango margarita. This time, we were placed at a table across from the bar. But there are cosier tables, if you’re on a snug date.

We began with the starters section, particularly the chicken banjara kebabs and the veg pakodas. The kebabs were sleek, semi-soggy chunks that we polished off in a jiffy. Delicious!!!

I’m more of a meat and potatoes person. I’m fine with an occasional vegetarian meal, but not a huge fan of vegetarian pakodas. I can only give you my friend’s account on this, as I wasn’t inclined to take even a peck. According to him, the pakodas were air-light and melt-in-the-mouth, the perfect food to go with a glass of martini. Pakodas and martinis in the same sentence? Well, there’s a first :).

Meanwhile, twice we were interrupted by a confused looking steward who made to hand us a parcel of some sort. Apparently, the delivery orders seemed to have gotten mixed up. At this point, I wondered if the ever-smiling congenial owner was around. I wanted to suggest that he take a trip around the kitchen and initiate a judicial proceeding into its goings-on.

For main, we choose the Chicken Kolhapuri with rotis. A fearsome dark brown plate of gravy with chicken pieces, it looked “hot” and tasted “hotter”- all in a good way.

We almost passed on dessert, but the bebinca sizzler with vanilla ice-cream leaped out at us as delectable. When it came in, it was a stunner. We grabbed spoons and fully committed to walloping it all without looking up for a breath.

I can’t wind this up without a good word for the ‘frozen margaritas.’ I’ve slurped both the strawberry and the mango margaritas and they were evening-transforming. One is delicious, two is a wonderful idea, while after three, there’s a risk that you may end up abducting the bartender. So, stop while you’re not ahead.

If you haven’t been here yet, but want to check it out, Fishka is a useful place to keep up your sleeve for after-work drinks and some good food, without worrying too much about the price or the need to “dress up.”

As for me, I’m definitely planning to darken its doors again. Be warned, the next time you visit, it may be one bartender short!

Petisco, Goa- Restaurant Review

It’s a time of mixed blessings. And in the current situation, you count them all. One is having the liberty to drive around on a Sunday, walk into a restaurant and know that it’s likely you’ll get a seat without reservation.

This was an adventure we attempted last Sunday. A detour to one of the hottest new gastrobars in Panaji, Goa. Opened only a month ago, in the heart of the city, it’s one that we’ve been meaning to visit ever since.

While Panaji on a Sunday was unsurprisingly quiet, it’s still a reminder that Goa, like everywhere, is the sum of its people, many of whom visit during the season.

Petisco is a softly lit gastrobar, with staggered green and gold patterns that define contemporary chic. Spread across three levels, it is well-appointed with dark wood and brick hues emerging as an even theme. It is an informal yet ostensibly formal louche dinner spot.

We are greeted warmly by David, the affable restaurant manager. We select the upper level, and settle down comfortably. We browse through the menu. It’s a riot of ideas. The food philosophy stems from using local Goan produce to create dishes influenced by flavours from the Mediterranean and Spanish colonies. There are small plates, slightly large plates and an extensive bar list.

From the small plates, we order the Prawns a la Plancha and the Chimmichuri Chicken. For drinks, we order the Smoked G & T and the Penicillin, which is smoked whiskey with a gingery lime finish. The drinks come first. The G&T is garnished with a sprig of thyme and I enjoy its smoky boozy kick. God, it felt good, experiencing this raging bubble of happiness rise up inside me.

The Prawns a la Plancha follows suit. It is a powerfully created mixture of garlic and chilli olive oil, seafood bisque, pickled bimbli and served with poie. I’m tempted to surrender to some serious head suckage and I refrain only to prevent my companion from stomping out in a huff. The gravy was so good, I polished it all off with the poie.

The Chimmichuri chicken comes next. For the uninitiated (like myself), chimmichuri is growing in popularity and is the most perfect condiment to serve with chicken. Served with a sweet potato salad, each chicken piece is soft, moist and tastes intensely of itself.

Pranav Dhuri, the owner, works the room, cheerfully. And he has every reason to be. He stops by for a quick word and we reassure him that everything up until now is wonderful.

We pour over the drinks menu. Tipples run from quaffable, dependable, pocket-friendly stuff like beers and classic cocktails to the wine labels and other fancier spirits.

We settle for a classic Cosmopolitan and a Manhattan. From the slightly larger plates, we choose the Potato Rosti and the Roast Chicken.

The Roast Chicken comes replete with lyonnaise potatoes, fried okra and curried jus. It was so prettily presented that it could win a beauty contest. The Potato Rosti with chipotle salsa will be a favourite among vegetarians.

The dessert menu is short and to the point. We choose a Tart. To say that it was heavenly, isn’t poetic frippery. An explosion of flavours, it was quite wobblesome and had me sopping it down theatrically while making those “mmmm” sounds. Small sugar bursts whisk me away from everything for a second.

Petisco is a small, independent labour of love – imaginative small plates, a dizzying bar list and fabulous service. Since my dinner there, I’ve told several people to earmark this place for a visit. Petisco is a birthday or special-occasion place, true, but it is also a place for any given day.

The space is a welcoming, beating heart in the center of Panaji city for those in need of a respite of so many kinds. It’s like it’s name. Petisco. In this case size matters. And we say, smaller the better.