Category: #food

#food

Exclusive Interview: Komal Bhatia, Founder of Paz Café, Goa

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In a candid conversation, Komal Bhatia, the visionary behind Paz Café, shares the inspiring story of her entrepreneurial journey, the values that drive her business, and the secrets to Paz Café’s success.

Komal’s love for creating warm and welcoming spaces led her to establish Paz Café, a haven where people can pause, connect, and find peace. The name “Paz” – meaning “peace” in Portuguese – pays homage to Goa’s rich heritage and laid-back vibe.

With a background in the corporate world, Komal took a leap of faith to pursue her passion for hospitality. Four years ago, she left her job to chase her dream, and Goa’s unique blend of travelers, artists, and entrepreneurs proved to be the perfect setting for her vision.

At Paz Café, Komal prioritizes authenticity, quality, and community. She focuses on creating an immersive experience, using fresh ingredients, and curating a space that fosters connections. Sustainability and ethical business practices are also at the forefront of her mission.

Paz Café embodies a unique blend of bohemian-chic and European charm, reflecting Goa’s relaxed yet vibrant energy. The cozy atmosphere invites customers to unwind and savor delicious food and drinks.

Paz Café offers an eclectic mix of all-day breakfast, healthy, and comfort food, showcasing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From artisanal sandwiches to specialty coffee and smoothie bowls, the menu caters to a diverse crowd.

The café is particularly famous for its mouth-watering chicken basil sandwich, mango smoothie bowl, and classic cold frappe.

Komal recounts the challenges she faced, including staffing and operational hurdles. She attributes her success to being hands-on, adapting quickly, and focusing on building a strong brand identity.

Paz Café has achieved notable recognition, including features in prominent publications like Gomantak Times, Curly Tales, and It’s Goa magazine. The café has also built a loyal customer base, with many recommending it as a must-visit spot in Goa.

In conclusion, Komal Bhatia’s inspiring journey and commitment to values-driven business have made Paz Café a beloved destination in Goa.

#food

Preserving Goan Cuisine and Culture: The Inspiring Story of Sonika Lotlikar, Founder of SouthMouth

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In a world where traditional recipes and cultural heritage are often lost in the midst of modernization, Sonika Lotlikar, founder of SouthMouth, is on a mission to preserve the authentic flavors and traditions of Goan cuisine. Her journey, which began with a passion for cooking and a desire to showcase her cultural heritage, has inspired countless food enthusiasts and entrepreneurs alike.

Sonika’s journey into the world of food entrepreneurship was not a conventional one. With a background in government and media, she never thought she would end up cooking for a living. However, after quitting her job, she decided to take the plunge and start her own business. With the encouragement of her mother, who shared her passion for cooking, Sonika began experimenting with traditional Goan recipes and ingredients.

SouthMouth, which gets its name from the fact that the chefs and recipes are from South Goa, was born out of Sonika’s desire to create a brand that showcased the essence of Goan cuisine and culture. Starting with packaged pickles and masalas, Sonika soon expanded her product line to include traditional Goan delicacies, salads, and snacks.

For Sonika, preserving traditional recipes and culture is not just about business; it’s about passion and love for her heritage. She believes that food is an integral part of any culture, and that it has the power to evoke emotions and create nostalgia. With SouthMouth, Sonika aims to take people on a culinary journey through Goa, showcasing the state’s unique flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques.

Sonika is committed to using only the freshest and healthiest ingredients in her products. She believes that food should not only taste good but also be good for you. With a focus on sustainability, Sonika ensures that her business practices are environmentally friendly and socially responsible.

Sonika’s journey has not been without its challenges. From facing financial difficulties to managing a one-woman show, she has had to overcome numerous obstacles to keep her business afloat. However, her passion and commitment to her vision have kept her going. Sonika’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to stay true to their vision, do their research, and never give up on their dreams.

As SouthMouth continues to grow and expand its product line, Sonika remains committed to her vision of preserving Goan cuisine and culture. With plans to launch new products and collaborate with other food enthusiasts, Sonika is excited to take her business to the next level. For her, the ultimate goal is to make SouthMouth a household name, synonymous with authentic Goan cuisine and culture.

#food, Spotlight

Discovering the Flavors of Goa with Anushka from Goa Food Journal

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Goa, a state known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. To delve deeper into the world of Goan food, we spoke with Anushka, the talented influencer behind Goa Food Journal. Her passion for food, travel, and photography has led her to create a stunning online journal that showcases the best of Goa’s culinary scene.


Anushka’s love affair with food began during her college days in Goa. Alongside her sister, she would explore the state’s many restaurants, initially drawn to their aesthetic appeal but eventually falling in love with the local cuisine. This passion for food and travel led her to start Goa Food Journal, a platform where she shares her culinary adventures with the world.


When asked about what makes Goan cuisine unique, Anushka emphasized the bold flavors, rich masalas, and distinct cooking techniques that set it apart. From the spicy kick of the xacuti gravy to the delicate flavors of the Goan thali, every dish is a testament to the state’s rich culinary heritage. Anushka recommends visitors try the Chicken Cafreal, Ross Omelette, and Seafood Delicacies to experience the true flavors of Goa.


Anushka’s insider knowledge of Goa’s food scene led us to some hidden gems and underrated restaurants. River Touch Bar & Restaurant in Revora, North Goa, offers stunning views of the river, while Jess Family Restaurant and Sawant Restaurant in Verna, South Goa, serve up delicious local cuisine. These recommendations are a must-try for anyone looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

Anushka’s strategy for creating engaging content involves exploring both high-end restaurants and local eateries. By showcasing the diversity of Goa’s food scene, she provides her audience with a one-stop destination for all their culinary needs. Her consistent posting schedule and stunning visuals have earned her a loyal following, and her detailed reviews ensure that readers can make informed decisions about where to dine.

Anushka has exciting plans for Goa Food Journal, including collaborations with new restaurants and cafes. She’s eager to feature newly opened spots and hidden gems, providing her audience with fresh recommendations. With her influence set to expand in the coming years, Anushka aims to explore different food cultures beyond Goa and create more travel-food content.

As our conversation came to a close, Anushka shared a heartfelt message with her audience: “Find something you truly love doing and invest time in it—you won’t regret it. Passion and consistency will always lead to something fulfilling.” These words of wisdom encapsulate the spirit of Goa Food Journal, a platform born out of passion and dedication to showcasing the best of Goan cuisine.

Stay tuned for more updates from Goa Food Journal, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey through the flavors of Goa!

#food

International Muffin Day: Celebrating the Delicious Treat

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February 20th marks a special day for foodies around the world – International Muffin Day! This beloved treat has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, and today, we’re celebrating its rich history, versatility, and of course, its irresistible taste.

Muffins have their roots in 10th-century Wales, where they were made with yeast, flour, and water. These early muffins were more like bread rolls, but over time, they evolved to incorporate various ingredients like fruits, nuts, and spices. The modern muffin, with its characteristic dome shape and sweet flavor, emerged in the 19th century in the United States.

Types of Muffins

From classic blueberry to decadent chocolate chip, muffins come in a staggering array of flavors and textures. Some popular varieties include:

  1. Blueberry Muffins: Made with fresh or frozen blueberries, these muffins are a staple in many bakeries.
  2. Banana Muffins: Moist and sweet, banana muffins are a favorite among fruit lovers.
  3. Cinnamon Apple Muffins: Perfect for fall, these muffins combine the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of apples.
  4. Savory Muffins: For a twist on traditional sweet muffins, try savory varieties like cheddar and herb or spinach and feta.

Celebrating International Muffin Day

So, how can you celebrate International Muffin Day? Here are a few ideas:

  1. Bake Your Own Muffins: Try a new recipe or experiment with different ingredients to create your own unique muffin flavor.
  2. Visit a Local Bakery: Support your local bakeries and indulge in a freshly baked muffin (or two, or three…).
  3. Share Your Favorite Muffin Recipe: Spread the love and share your favorite muffin recipe with friends and family.
  4. Host a Muffin-Themed Party: Invite friends over for a muffin-tasting party, complete with a variety of flavors and toppings.

International Muffin Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in these delicious treats and celebrate their rich history and versatility. Whether you’re a fan of classic blueberry or adventurous enough to try new flavors, today is the day to indulge in the joy of muffins. Happy International Muffin Day!

#food

Upgrade Your Hobby: Learn to Cook French, Goan Cuisine and Baking 

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Panaji, February 2025 – Culinary enthusiasts looking to pick up new tips in French and Goan cuisine and refine their pastry skills can register for the newly unveiled culinary hobby courses jointly hosted by Kamaxi College of Culinary Arts (KCCA) and Kamaxi Skills. Designed for food enthusiasts of all levels, the courses begin on February 10.  

The hands-on hobby courses will be held across two locations, namely, the KCCA campus in Verna and Kamaxi Skills culinary centre in Margao and aim to teach people a mix of traditional and innovative culinary techniques, with three renowned chefs imparting their expert knowledge over four-hour classes, each commencing at 2 PM. Participants can look forward to mastering over 10 dishes in Goan, French cuisine and the pastry section. 

Chef Patrick Albert, Maître Cuisinier de France and Head Chef Faculty at KCCA, will guide participants in the art of French cooking, ensuring adeptness in creating classics like flavourful ratatouille (an iconic vegetable stew comprising eggplant, zucchini, peppers, tomato), hearty cassoulet (a stew of beans, sausage, and a confit of duck or pork), and decadent mousse au chocolat (chocolate mousse), among others. Chef Patrick’s modules will take place on February 10, 17 and 24.

Chef Anjali Prabhu Walavalkar, an award-winning home chef known for her mastery of Saraswat and Goan cuisine, will introduce the heady flavours of coastal Goan cuisine – aromatic chicken shagoti (xacuti), rich bhikanacho ros (a gravy of jackfruit seeds cooked with tur dal), mangana (a dessert made from chana dal, sago, cashews, jaggery, coconut milk) and more. Chef Anjali’s sessions will run on February 12, 19 and 26.

Chef Playton Dias, Master of Pastry and Bakery at KCCA, will train participants to bake fluffy genoise sponges, springy and savoury focaccia, sugary cinnamon rolls and other treats. Chef Playton’s courses will be held on February 14, 21 and 28.

Parixit Pai Fondekar, the founder of the Kamaxi Group, which operates KCCA and Kamaxi Skills, highlights the importance of cooking as an art form that connects us to our culture and history. “Cooking is more than just a skill—it’s a way to connect with our roots and share joy through food. These chefs bring a wealth of knowledge and creativity to the table, and this hobby course is a fantastic opportunity to learn from their expertise while exploring new culinary horizons,” said Parixit Pai Fondekar.