Indian Cuisine Is Reimagined In Contemporary Style At Juju In South Goa

The South of Goa is best known for its pristine beaches and sleepy villages; so the arrival of a fine dining Indian restaurant in the heart of Colva may come as a pleasant surprise to many. In 2022, Juju was launched by sibling hospitality entrepreneurs Raghav and Bhavna Talwar Bahl, who are the minds behind the resort Beleza By The Beach that is located half a kilometre away. While that practically makes it a must-do for hotel guests, it also makes for a delightful stop for a lively night out when passing through the neighbourhood. Located in the vibrant coastal town of Colva in Goa, Juju stands out as one of South Goa's premier fine dining establishments and a purveyor of cuisine from across the entirety of India, served with a modern flair.

(Also Read: Sustainable Tourism Comes First For Beleza By The Beach In South Goa)

Juju's ambiance perfectly merges modernity with traditionalism, creating a space that is buzzing and inviting. The interior features an eclectic mix of warm and earthy tones featuring a well-stocked bar at its centre surrounded by zesty orange walls. Mood lighting woven through the booth seating is set with intricate metallic decor. Glass-panelled windows are structured through the restaurant, with a stage in the corner for the live band to bust their hits; a charming touch you'd only ever find in Goa. The vibe is casual yet refined, making it an ideal spot for both intimate dinners and family gatherings.

The heart of Juju's appeal is its well-curated menu, which showcases a variety of Indian dishes ranging from North Indian staples to Southern delicacies and coastal favorites. After all, the menu is helmed by celebrity chef and principal culinary artist Avinash Martins, famous for his restaurant Cavatina in Benaulim and his fare served at the 2024 Ambani wedding. The restaurant prides itself on using locally-sourced ingredients to craft dishes that are both rich in flavour and full of authenticity, which is reflected within the menu.

The theme of reimagining Indian ingredients begins at the bar with a snappy range of signature cocktails. Peru Smash combines coconut feni with a guava liqueur and the addition of hibiscus and pineapple. Karnatakila is the ideal blend of sweet and sour notes which mixes tamarind tequila with honey, tabasco and pineapple puree. Ginger Snap delivers an earthy swig with punches of ginger and honey, blended with agave.

Their signature dishes include the Stuffed Crab, generous with Kerala pepper spice and the Slow Braised Shanks, with meat falling off the bone. The Betul Mussels were rich in comforting familiarity; not just because I know the shores they were caught from at the back of my hands but also because of how the oceanic flavours mingled with the citrus notes of the gremolata. Vegetarians visiting the spot can pick from the trendy Tofu Samosa, the Truffle Mushroom Galouti or more from within their expansive choices available.

The Gochujang Barbequed Beef Poizza made for a spectacular bite from the small plate menu as the beef was delightfully tender to marry the Korean chilli speciality and the iconic Goan bread with absolute ease. The Zafrani Jhinga Tempura was complemented perfectly with the cooling touch of the Avocado Crema. Gunpowder Calamari made a hero of the seafood catch when it was delightfully tossed with the legendary Keralite spice and served crisp. Satiate your Goan hunger pangs by choosing from the Xacuti Chicken Tikka or Goan Chorizo Chilli Tacos, which also find a place of pride on the menu. The classic Beef Steak from the Mains menu delivered a tenderloin cut that was tender enough to tear into with a fork. The Chargrilled Cilantro Prawns avoided being one-note with South Indian accompaniments of Tomato Chutney and Curd Rice. The Coconut Beef Chilly Fry and Thalassery Prawn Biryani proved once again that Juju excelled when it came to serving dishes using Kerala's signature blend of spices. Expect the unexpected within the dessert menu too when you pick the Cream Caramel Phirni and Tender Coconut Rasmalai, which marry flavours from across India with beloved Goan ingredients on a plate.

With its flavourful dishes and inviting atmosphere, the restaurant is a top choice for those looking to experience modern fare in a casually chic setting. Ideal for dinner with the family or catching up with friends over a round of cocktails, Juju exceptionally blends traditional Indian flavours in a contemporary style and a lively ambiance, all served with the warm hospitality that Goa is renowned for.

(Also Read: At Beleza By The Beach, Peaceful Serenity Meets South Goan Charm For A Spectacular Stay)