Nora’s Cantina, located inside the newly opened Novotel Goa Panjim hotel, offers a refreshing take on Spanish and Portuguese cuisine. Nestled in the bustling Patto area of Panjim, this vibrant spot promises to be a culinary destination that seamlessly blends fresh ingredients with traditional flavors.
An Inviting Atmosphere
As you step into Nora’s Cantina, the first thing that captures your attention is the striking interior design. A lush collection of greenery cascades from the ceiling, complementing the soft, circular lighting that creates a dramatic yet welcoming atmosphere. The design exudes an island vibe, making you feel as though you’ve stepped into a luxury, standalone restaurant, far removed from the noise and hustle of the city.
The layout of the restaurant is thoughtfully planned, with distinct areas designed to cater to different dining preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for tapas, a family-style meal, or a relaxed alfresco setting, Nora’s Cantina has it all. The space is airy, with minimalist décor that offers a comfortable and bright atmosphere, thanks to ample natural light. Located next to the swimming pool, the cantina provides a serene and inviting environment to enjoy your meal.
A Blend of Nature and Architecture
The Novotel Goa Panjim hotel itself is an architectural masterpiece. The design features curvilinear balconies, giving the building a smooth, undulating exterior. Inside, the hotel’s natural light-filled courtyard serves as a tranquil focal point, and the rooms are designed with clean lines and soft pastel colors, contributing to an overall sense of brightness and cheer.
A Culinary Journey Through Spain and Portugal
At Nora’s Cantina, diners are treated to a delightful menu inspired by the flavors of Spain and Portugal. The restaurant’s name draws inspiration from the ñora pepper, a small red pepper essential to Spanish cuisine. The ñora is typically dried and ground into a spice that adds a unique smoky-sweet flavor to various dishes, including the beloved Romesco sauce.
Sous Chef Utsha Chakraborti shares that the ñora pepper plays a significant role in many dishes on the menu, especially the seafood Paella Española de Marisco. The dish features a red sauce made from these peppers, which gives the paella its distinct depth of flavor. In addition, a delicious red sauce made from ñora peppers accompanies tapas like the Churros de Queso de Cabra, adding a smoky sweetness that complements the dish.
A Culinary Exploration of Fresh Ingredients
The food at Nora’s Cantina is a celebration of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each dish is carefully crafted with minimal manipulation, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through. From comforting starters to rich mains, the menu offers something for everyone.
We begin the meal with Queso de Cabra, a warm goat cheese dish topped with fresh tomato, zucchini, onion jam, and greens. It’s a perfect balance of flavors, with the tangy cheese complemented by the sweetness of the vegetables and the richness of the onion jam. For fish lovers, the Pintxos Matrimonio is a delightful option. A crisp puff pastry topped with anchovies and parsley salsa creates a balance of salty and fresh flavors.
One standout dish is the Burrata Caprese, a creamy rendition of fresh burrata served with ripe tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. The combination of sweet tomatoes, fragrant basil, and smooth burrata creates a harmonious flavor profile.
The food at Nora’s Cantina is a true testament to the art of balancing flavors and textures. The chef’s restraint ensures that each dish is a thoughtful, well-composed reflection of the ingredients, resulting in meals that are satisfying but not overwhelming.
A Soup to Remember
Though it may sound surprising considering the array of dishes available, my favorite part of the meal was the soup. The Sopa de Hongas, a clear porcini mushroom soup, is a comforting dish with deep umami flavors. The soup is light yet satisfying, with the addition of croissant pieces, onions, and thyme, providing a contrast of textures and a rich depth of flavor.
The Paella Experience
Nora’s Cantina’s paella is a must-try, and while the vegetarian version is tasty, it’s the seafood paella that truly stands out. The seafood version bursts with flavors from fresh clams, mussels, calamari, and prawns, making it the perfect dish for seafood lovers. The Goan Ukade red rice, a local variety with a nuttier flavor and firmer texture, lends the dish a unique touch, making it different from the typical paella.
A Slice of Pizza and Drinks
To complete the meal, we try the pizza, which is perfectly light and airy. The dough, fermented for 36 hours, provides a delicious balance of chewiness and crispness, making it a satisfying end to the meal.
Nora’s Cantina also offers a curated cocktail menu, perfect for pairing with the dishes or enjoying on their own. One standout drink is the Malt O Nora, a cocktail that surprises with its blend of oaky, vanilla, and peach notes, enhanced by a spicy kick of Tabasco. Another favorite is the Purple Cloud, a gentler drink made with vodka, blueberry, basil, lemon, and lavender.
Commitment to Local Sourcing
Chef Utsha is passionate about using locally sourced ingredients, and Nora’s Cantina embraces the zero-kilometer concept. The restaurant supports local agriculture by using Goan red rice in its vegetarian paella. The rice, with its nuttier flavor and firmer texture, adds a unique element to the dish. Additionally, the restaurant sources fresh seafood from local vendors, further emphasizing its commitment to sustainability and local sourcing.
Visit Nora’s Cantina
Nora’s Cantina is located at Novotel Goa Panjim, EDC Complex, Patto Centre, Panaji. The restaurant is open from noon to midnight, offering a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for both lunch and dinner. A meal for two costs around ₹3,500, making it a great value for the quality of food and experience offered.
If you’re in Goa and looking for an exceptional dining experience that celebrates the best of Spanish and Portuguese flavors, Nora’s Cantina is a must-visit destination.
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