Goa is a place where memories are made. No matter what you come for – adventure, culture or food – the state has something to offer everyone.
And, if you are up for a night out and looking for a place to grab a bite and a drink, what a coincidence, you’re just in time for some flavourful offerings!
Inspired by flavours from the streets of Spain, Isabella’s Tapas Bar in Panjim, is serving up homemade vermouths and delicious tapas, too.
“Our travels to Spain and inspired most of the food on the menu,” says Anushri Naik, Marcom and HR head at Isabella’s Tapas Bar.
She adds, “Since there wasn’t any other tapas bar in Goa, we wanted to get a small slice of Spain to Goa.”
While the design of the space was created keeping in mind a typical Spanish taberna, the name of the bar, ‘Isabella’ came from a close enough Spanish translation of the owner’s name ‘Arati’, who’s passion for Spanish and Portuguese food led to the idea of the .
Walk into this cosy bar, and given its very chill vibe, you instantly feel comfortable and relaxed. But, what makes the space stand out is their homemade vermouths, a quintessential part of Spanish cuisine.
“We are one of the first bars in Goa to make our own vermouths, and use them in most of our signature cocktails,” Arati proudly states.
FIRST OF A KIND: Vermouth, a quintessential part of Spanish cuisine, is homemade at Isabella’s. When it comes to Isabella’s most popular tapas, Gambas aj Ajillo (Spanish Garlic Prawns) tops the list.
“It’s the most selling tapas, famed for its freshness and robust flavours; we serve it with our local and it’s truly comfort in a bowl,” describes Anushri, stating the other popular dishes include Stuffed Grilled Aubergine and the Piri Piri Chicken, and in desserts, churros are a crowd favourite.
Speaking about how local flavours are infused in the menu, Anushri shares, “The paellas at the restaurant are made on traditional paella pans, the rice used for it is the local ukde rice. The local seafood also plays a role in making the Seafood Paella one of our most-liked dishes on the menu.”
Isabella’s Tapas Bar also has ample selections for vegetarian dishes with some tapas naturally vegan and gluten-free, too.
“Wherever possible, we accommodate any dietary restrictions our customers may have, and recommend alternatives to tapas which they can’t have,” Arati adds.
When it comes to drinks there’s a great selection of Spanish wines like Rioja and Tempranillo that go very well with the menu.
“Among beers, we have some popular local beers that compliment some of the tapas perfectly,” the duo recommends vermouth to start any meal.
What’s more? The space also organises karaoke nights every Friday, live music on Saturday evenings, and occasionally, hosts pub-quizzes, too.
“All of October, we are celebrating by having special offers on our beers. We also have a fun Halloween night on Sunday, October 27, 2024,” shares Arati.
So, weekend or not, head to Isabella’s Tapas Bar and create the best memories, indulge in small plate tapas of your choice and don’t forget the churros that are a must to end your meal!
DETAILS
WHERE: Isabella’s Tapas Bar, Panjim
WHAT'S SPECIAL:
Fridays - Karaoke Night, 8 pm to 11 pm
Saturdays - Live music
INSTAGRAM HANDLE: @isabellasgoa
