With a gorgeous coastline, picturesque villages, and proliferating beach resorts, Goa has become an exciting and sophisticated destination for those seeking a unique cultural experience. With its rich Portuguese heritage, magnificent colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and delicious fusion cuisine that blends local flavours with international influences, Goa is particularly made for those with an interest in art, design, or food.
One such gem is Barfly, the newest Al Fresco Agave bar located in Assagao, which finds its address in a 150-year-old expansive Goan-Portuguese bungalow that has been refurbished to exude a contemporary charm while maintaining its original essence. This newest jewel in Goa’s thriving hospitality market, will debut its enchanted realm on August 25, 2023.
Barfly, housed in a 150-year-old expansive Goan-Portuguese bungalow.
As one steps into the space, Barfly invites you to a compelling atmosphere where real flavours and local charm converge to create an amazing dining adventure. The softly lit interiors at Barfly exude a sense of mystery and intrigue with their eclectic decor and cosy seating. The space is a collaborative project designed by Karrtik Dhingra, Shyaam Khurana, Bipin Sibal, and Tarun Sibal and promises to enchant guests with its captivating restoration of a 150-year-old Portuguese-Goan bungalow, intelligently curated cocktails, and a continental dining experience. This culinary cult is also famous for Goa’s popular culinary bar, Titlie. With meticulous attention to detail, the team has painstakingly restored the bungalow, preserving its architectural heritage while infusing modern elements to create a unique and inviting space. The moment you step into Barfly, you will be transported to a bygone era, where every corner tells a story and every serving dish is a culinary masterpiece.
The Entry Walkway to Barfly
With its seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, the main house offers a truly unique and immersive experience that combines modern comfort with the timeless beauty of the bungalow’s architecture. The interiors at Barfly, maintain its original shell windows and roof while introducing modern conveniences for comfort and pleasure. The house offers guests access to the grazing room, a bar with a verandah facing the outdoor living areas, a candle room, a wine and cigar room, and a dining area that can be transformed into a party area. The Al Fresco Living Rooms also provide stunning views of the surrounding gardens and lush greenery, creating a serene and picturesque setting for one to relax and unwind.
The Grazing Room
The core of Barfly is the beverage programme, which includes two specialty bars. The two bars at Barfly, Tales from the Villa: Elevated Classics and the Agave Bar, offer a unique and diverse experience for cocktail enthusiasts. The bars are transformed into the ideal location for people who can relish a drink and the drinking experience by using a cocktail menu created by Tulleeho, a leading beverage training and education platform in India led by Vikram Achanta.
The Wine Room
Tales from the Villa: Elevated Classics, have been meticulously designed to complement the flavours of the dinner while showcasing the amazing history of the bungalow and the culture it embraces. These cocktails are crafted using locally sourced ingredients and innovative techniques, ensuring a unique and unforgettable drinking experience. Each cocktail tells a story and adds an extra layer of sophistication to the overall dining experience at this space.
The other is a pioneering Agave Bar that honours the Columbian Exchange, one of the most significant historical occurrences, by integrating historical context with regional culinary traditions. In addition to serving as a reminder that every taste and every swig narrates a tale of exploration, discovery, and the development of culinary customs, its name, Christopher Columbus, whose explorations launched this revolutionary period, symbolises the connectivity of civilizations. The Agave Bar offers a unique experience by blending the flavours of different cultures and showcasing the rich history behind each drink. With its carefully curated menu and immersive ambiance, it allows one to embark on a journey through time, savouring the fusion of ingredients that were once exchanged between continents. The bar’s commitment to preserving and celebrating this historical legacy makes it a must-visit destination for both history enthusiasts and food connoisseurs alike.
The Agave Bar is a haven for spirits enthusiasts, offering unique drinks that narrate tales of exploration and evolution in the spirits realm. Each cocktail at the bar is expertly crafted, tantalising the taste buds and creating an unforgettable drinking experience. Whether you love bourbon, tequila, or coffee, this bar caters to all palates.
Tales from the Villa Bar
Tales from the Villa: Elevated Classics allows you to learn about the extensive history of Barfly Villa. Where I enjoyed the contemporary Caramel Milk Punch, a wonderful reimagining of a traditional beverage enhanced with opulent caramel. Rich caramel is infused into Johnnie Walker Blonde Label whisky as a nod to the beverage’s heritage. Inspired by a fascinating villa story, the Melon Negroni gives the traditional Negroni a pleasant and somewhat bitter variation by infusing Bulldog Gin with green melons.
The culinary experience
Not only does Barfly cater to spirit connoisseurs, but it also offers a wide variety of decadent meals using both local and imported ingredients. The continental cuisine programme at Barfly offers a delightful experience for food enthusiasts. The culinary team at Barfly ensures that each dish is prepared with precision and artistry, leaving guests craving more. The two chefs, Tarun Sibal and Viraf Patel, set the artistic direction for it with the freshest ingredients and the highest level of craftsmanship. The dining experience also extends to a carefully curated dessert menu that perfectly complements the main courses.
Outdoor seating at Barfly
The Agave Bar
The ambiance at Barfly further enhances the dining experience, with its chic and contemporary decor creating a stylish and inviting atmosphere. The attentive and knowledgeable staff add to the overall enjoyment by providing excellent service and ensuring that every detail is taken care of. With a menu that caters to diverse tastes and dietary preferences, Barfly offers something for everyone, from mouthwatering appetisers to delectable main courses and indulgent desserts. The thoughtfully curated wine list and extensive offerings of cocktails further enhance the dining experience, allowing one to pair their meals with the perfect libation. Whether you’re seeking a cosy corner booth or a lively communal table, Barfly’s inviting atmosphere sets the stage for an evening filled with laughter, conversation, and culinary.
Words Keshvi Kamdar.
Image Courtesy of Barfly.
