Success isn’t always measured by the amount of cash you make, but rather by the satisfaction you feel at the end of the day, once you've managed to shape that perfect round dough at your 10th attempt or that smile you can't hide after a customer compliments your culinary skills.
Sometimes, success, is as simple as putting your heart into the things you love.
And, something that was built from that very desire of giving one's best shot, is the latest entrant, Miradouro Bakery and Café, housed right in the capital city of Panjim.
Having opened their doors in December last year, the bakery-cum-café is a neat and vibrant hangout space, serving some enticing delights.
Owned by Chef Chirag and his better half, Harsha, Miradouro came into being, thanks to their combined expertise – Harsha’s project management expertise and Chef Chirag's seasoned baking skills – honed over the years at various hotels.
Despite his successful stint in Pune, Chef Chirag's heart was always tied to Goa, his hometown, and like he calls it, ‘his playground’.
It was this unbreakable bond with his roots that not only bought him back to the state, but inspired him to create something special for the community.
“Our aim, right from the onset, has been to offer not just food, but an experience that encourages people to pause and immerse themselves in the present moment, fostering a sense of peace,” says Chef Chirag, who crafts delectable treats, and pours his heart into the place that nurtured him.
“We are thrilled to witness serene expressions and cheerful smiles every day as we fulfill this vision,” expresses Harsha, the co-owner of the space.
The duo shares that as soon as they stumbled upon the space, the building where Miradouro is now located, they knew it was special.
“The moment we laid eyes on the old-Portuguese charmer, we had a gut feeling it was destined to become a bakery. The rest, as they say, is history... or should I say, bakery history!” Chef Chirag smiles.
Like the name suggests, Miradouro, a Portuguese word meaning 'viewpoint' or 'an elevated place with a view', the cafe is that warm hug you need on an exhausting day.
With its soft lighting and an indoor-outdoor seating, overlooking the lively Panjim city, one is invited to relax and savour every moment.
It’s true for most bakeries in Goa, with the air around wafting with the heavenly aromas of baked delights just out of the oven, you know you’re welcomed.
And, as Chef Chirag suggests, “The optimal times to visit are in the morning, when the aroma of freshly-baked items fills the air, or late afternoon, for a tranquil coffee break against the backdrop of the sunset.”
He quickly adds, “We don't have anything that’s considered "least favorite!"
The menu at Miradouro includes (but is not limited to) a variety of offerings such as Korean Garlic Bun (a popular choice), Cheese Cake, Berliners, Maritozzi, Focaccia Sandwiches, burgers, beverages (including shakes, sodas and coffee), pizza, and Pesto Pasta and like the duo mentions, “We take pride in every item we offer.”
They further add, "We source the finest ingredients, ensuring that every dish we serve is crafted with love and care. Everything is made from scratch in-house."
The café also accepts cake and catering orders for private parties and events.
Chef Chirag and Harsha's dedication to quality, authenticity and hospitality is truly making the difference on this journey, with those who've visited the space always leaving back kind words.
Here are a couple of samples: "It's like we've stepped into a cosy retreat, escaping the hustle and bustle and simply enjoyed the moment" or "The cleanliness and hygiene is a real plus".
“We, at Miradouro, also strive to minimise our environmental footprint by using eco-friendly packaging, sourcing locally grown produce and implementing energy-saving practices, whenever possible,” Chef Chirag says, highlighting their commitment to sustainability.
What’s more? The café also welcomes all to choose their workspace. Speaking about the cafe's co-working space.
Says Chef Chirag, "Our only request is that you order something from our menu. At the moment, we aren't charging anything extra for using our café as a workspace."
The journey to start something on your own may not be the smoothest ride, but the duo, despite the challenges, has managed to create a space that radiates a passion that echoes ‘we do this with love’ and when you visit Miradouro, you are bound to notice that, too.
DETAILS:
LOCATION: Miradouro Bakery and Café, near Panjim Church, above Cotton King Showroom, Panjim
CONTACT: +91 90490 06787
TIMINGS: 10 am to 9 pm
PRICING: Approx Rs 600-800 for two
SOCIAL MEDIA: @miradourogoa (Facebook & Instagram)