Dreaming of Goan bargains; recommend the best Cheap Food in Panaji, Goa?
Oh, you're in for a treat! Panaji has amazing affordable food options if you know where to look. Here are my top picks for delicious cheap eats:For local Goan food:- Bhonsle Cafe near the municipal market - Their fish thali is legendary and costs barely anything for the quality and quantity you get- Viva Panjim in the Fontainhas area - Slightly more upscale but still very reasonable for authentic Goan-Portuguese fusion- Street food stalls around the Kadamba bus stand - Amazing bhaji-pav, samosas, and local snacksBudget-friendly favorites:- Cafe Tato - A no-frills local favorite serving proper Goan meals at unbelievable prices- Mum's Kitchen - While not super cheap, their lunch specials offer great value for quality Goan food- The Red Rose - Simple cafe with fantastic pork dishes and other local specialtiesDon't miss:- The municipal market in the morning for fresh snacks and local treats- Bebinca (traditional Goan dessert) from any local bakery- Pao bhaji from street vendors - the Goan version is unique and deliciousThe trick is to eat where the locals eat rather than the tourist-focused restaurants along the riverfront. Wander the smaller streets in the old Portuguese quarter - that's where you'll find the real bargains and authentic flavors!
As someone who visits Panaji regularly and loves good food without breaking the bank, here are my go-to cheap eats:Top budget-friendly spots:1. George Restaurant near the church - Their chicken cafreal and rice plates are fantastic value2. Anand Seafood - Simple place with fresh seafood at local prices, not tourist prices3. Souza Lobo in Calangute (short drive from Panaji) - Famous for their affordable seafood thalisStreet food and snacks:- Pao with choriz from any local bakery - the Goan sausage bread is iconic- Beef croquettes from Confeitaria 31 de Janeiro - a historic bakery with cheap prices- Fish cutlet burgers from street vendors near the ferry pointLocal secrets:- University canteens sometimes serve cheap meals to the public- Local "bars" (meaning small restaurants) often have amazing home-style food- Temple food festivals when they happen - incredible vegetarian food for donation pricesMy biggest tip: avoid the riverfront restaurants if you're on a budget. Walk just a block or two inland and prices drop significantly while quality often improves! Also, eat where you see lots of locals - that's always a good sign.For the most current recommendations, check out local food blogs or the "Goa Foodies" Facebook group - they have amazing up-to-date suggestions from residents!