If you think that Goa’s awesome cuisine is limited to non-vegetarian dishes, think again! Pork, beef, chicken and fish might be sacrosanct in most Goan culinary circles, but there are plenty of vegetarian dishes, which will have you begging for more! And, not many do it quite the way Kokni Kanteen does.
Savour the unique flavours of the restaurant, from Sol Kadi to mocktails and cocktails, in the midst of old-world charm. From the red walls to the period décor to the delicious curries, there’s nothing not to like about this Kanteen.
FISH & MORE
From fish thali to Fish Fry, you can enjoy the day’s freshest catch at Kokni Kanteen, which is best known for authentic Goan fish thalis. Situated in the heart of Panjim, right opposite Mahalaxmi Temple, Kokni Kanteen opened its doors in the 70s, and has been satisfying fish lovers and vegetarian cravings ever since.
Not only is it a popular venue for its delectable food, but also for the generous proportions as well as warm and friendly service. The restaurant takes customers back in time to a traditional Goan lunch home, and has a ‘70s ambience. The pleasant sound of Konkani music adds to the traditional feel, and that’s something you won’t find in most restaurants these days.
Kokni Kanteen is owned by Girish Desai, who also runs The Brasserie (Clube Tennis De Gasper Dias, Miramar). All of the restaurants Goan recipes are closely guarded secrets, which have been passed down from generation to generation.
Before you dig into the famous dishes on offer at the restaurant, be sure to sample the appetizers, which are just as tempting as the meals.
The fish thali is to-die-for, while another house special, the 'Bappa' thali is brimming with crab curry, prawn curry, mussels and fried fish, and is absolutely heavenly if you are a sea-food lover.
Kokum Saar, Surmai Rawa Fry, Sea Food, Fish Thali, Goan Thali, Prawns Fry, Mutton Biryani and Mussels Stir Fry are among the delicious Goan options that you need to check out, while Ceradura and Bebinca are must-try desserts. As far as sweets and desserts are concerned, Kokni Kanteen claims to have Goa’s best Ceradura.
The restaurant offers more than delicious main courses and sweet eats. There’s also quite a selection of in-house cocktails, mocktails and beverages, bearing fascinating names. For example, there’s an interesting orange and lime vodka, called Traffik Jaaam.
The menu at this family restaurant consists of not just Sea Food, but Indian and Goan fare, as well. Other facilities at the restaurant include a bar, smoking areas, AC and takeaway service.
The restaurant is frequented by office-goers as well as tourists alike. Great food, good prices, cozy ambience and friendly staff have all contributed to making this restaurant very popular, due to which it can get pretty crowded at lunch time, and you will likely end up having to wait quite a while before you get a vacant table.
WHERE: Near Mahalaxmi Temple, Panjim
TIMINGS: 12 pm – 3.30 pm, 7 pm – 11.30 pm
PRICE RANGE: Approx ₹ 700 (meal for 2)
CONTACT: 0832 2421972