Goa is ready to introduce a new way of experiencing its culinary charm. The Goa Tourism Department has announced plans to set up integrated food and beverage experience hubs across the state, designed as lively community spaces where locals and visitors can eat, relax, work, and connect.
What makes this initiative exciting is its approach. Instead of simply opening more food stalls, these hubs will blend Goa’s food culture with shared spaces, encouraging people to spend time, interact, and immerse in the Goan way of life. The project will be implemented under a public-private partnership, allowing private operators to run and manage the facilities while keeping the focus on community and cultural experience.
In the first phase, two locations have already been identified. One is a 400 sqm orchard plot in Colva, surrounded by greenery and easy access to the beach, making it perfect for relaxed outdoor dining. The second is a 400 sqm site at Mala in Panaji, a location known for its charm and close-knit neighborhood feel.
Both hubs will feature a thoughtful layout that includes food halls, outdoor seating, and co-working spaces for those who enjoy working in vibrant surroundings. Visitors will be able to enjoy a meal while reading, working, or simply spending time with friends and family. The spaces will be built using eco-friendly materials, and will follow every local environmental and building guideline.
Although the structures will be temporary in nature, they will include modern amenities such as power outlets, LAN connections, and high-speed internet. The idea is to keep the environment grounded and natural while providing the convenience people expect today.
Private operators who manage these hubs will be given the freedom to set their own prices and menu offerings. However, they will need to maintain digital records of their operations to ensure transparency. Each site will come with a 15-year license period, with the option to renew for another 15 years, allowing businesses and the community to grow together over time.
This initiative is more than just a food project. It reflects a thoughtful effort to create spaces where food, culture, and community come together. Instead of quick meals and rushed visits, these hubs encourage lingering conversations, shared experiences, and an appreciation of Goa’s rhythm — slow, welcoming, and full of flavor.
As these hubs start taking shape in Colva and Panaji, they promise to become small but meaningful cultural landmarks, celebrating the everyday beauty of life in Goa.
