Habanero Goa opened up a few months ago in the midst of scenic Baga, by the sister-brother duo of Rohan and Pooja Ghotage. Even though it is a franchise outlet, Habanero Goa continues to honor the founders’ culinary vision by offering an exciting menu of fresh, authentic Mexican American cuisine – full of lightness and brightness, color, punch and enthusiasm. For years I have been told that the Mexican culinary tradition is a unique thing full of depth and wonder. The only problem was access to ingredients, and really, if you can’t make it to Mexico itself, you have to try the food here.
The Habanero Goa menu includes everything we in India have come to love about Tex-Mex cuisine like nachos, quesadillas, fajitas, and burritos. You can also choose from a wide variety of light bites like the Holy Guacamole, made fresh at your table and served with 100% homemade corn chips. The handmade ‘Jalapeno Poppers,’ or the ‘Macho Nachos’ that come in mini or macho sizes, are other light favorites. For other tasty options, you could also try the Habanero Fiesta Salad, which is accompanied by cheese quesadilla triangles, or the Mexican Burger. And if you like to customize everything on your plate, take it a step further by building your whole meal from their special ‘Build Your Own’ menu. This section has many styles that have a distinct Habanero touch, from burrito bowls to soft shell calamari tacos to Enchiladas – and fillings that range from Barbacoa (beef) to Carnitas (braised pork) to refried beans and grilled vegetables – to go along.
The lively bar features a bartender who is an expert arsonist, setting drinks on fire! Try one of the signature cocktails like the amaretto flavoured ‘Rock Lobster,’ the signature beer based margarita ‘Beeritas,’ or the ‘El Chingon Pomegranate Margarita’. If you’re in a group, experience the giant Margarita pitcher that resembles a fish bowl.
The interiors are vibrant and spacious while exuding a casual, fun atmosphere, and I’ve been told it will soon include Goa’s first micro-brewery in April. The décor creates a warm and rustic environment with bright colours, delightful murals all along the boundary walls and fun props like the over-sized sombrero hats, which make for great selfies and group photos. There is a shaded area with picnic tables, besides the long bar and a sprawling indoor area wrapped with a pretty balcony upstairs.
Habanero is not just about the food and beverage, the vibe is completed with its live stage. Fast becoming one of Goa’s live hot-spots, Habanero plays host to two days of live music – Friday Chilli Vibes nights, which is a platform for some of the best established as well as upcoming acts in Goa, and Sunday’s ‘Fiesta de Brunch’ which is their brunch buffet that has the soulful singing of Goa’s well-known songstress, Joanne Fernandes.
With its bright and festive ambiance, Habanero is sure to make your mood as colourful as its vibe.
Sinéad McManus 