Best Goan Food in Mumbai: A Visit to Poie and Pao

If there’s one thing that can instantly transport you to Goa, it’s the food. The mix of bold spices, fresh ingredients, and Portuguese influences makes Goan cuisine truly special. But what if I told you that you don’t have to board a flight to experience this magic? Right here in Mumbai, Poie and Pao is dishing out some of the best Goan food in Mumbai, offering an authentic taste of Goa without leaving the city.

From traditional breads like poie and pao to rich, flavorful curries and unique desserts, this place delivers an authentic Goan experience on a plate. I recently had the chance to dine here, and let’s just say—I left with a happy heart and an even happier stomach. If you’re on the hunt for the best Goan food in Mumbai, keep reading for my complete Poie and Pao review.

Breaking the Myth: Goan Food Isn’t Just Seafood!

As a pure vegetarian, I always associated Goan cuisine with seafood and non-vegetarian dishes like prawn curry, pork vindaloo, and recheado fish. I assumed my options would be limited, but Poie and Pao proved me wrong!

This restaurant does an incredible job of showcasing Goan vegetarian dishes without compromising on authenticity. From Veggie Xacuti to Kaju Kothimbir Vadi, every dish was packed with rich Goan flavors. If you’ve ever hesitated to try Goan food because you’re vegetarian, trust me—this place will completely change your mind!

A Quick Intro to Goan Cuisine

Goan cuisine is a beautiful mix of Indian and Portuguese influences, giving it a distinct identity. Some key elements that define Goan food include:

• Spices & Coconut – Most curries are coconut-based with bold spices like cinnamon, cloves, and red chilies.
• Bread Culture – Unlike most Indian states that rely on rice and roti, Goa has a strong bread culture, with poie and pao being the most popular.
• Kokum & Tamarind – These ingredients add a tangy twist to many dishes, balancing the richness of coconut and spices.
• Unique Desserts – Goan sweets like Serradura and Bebinca reflect Portuguese influence, making them different from typical Indian desserts.

With all these elements, Goan food is a mix of comfort and adventure on a plate!

The Ambience: Goa in the Heart of Mumbai

Walking into Poie and Pao instantly feels like stepping into a cozy Goan café. The warm, earthy tones, wooden accents, and beachy decor create a laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can sit back, sip on a kokum cooler, and imagine the sea breeze hitting your face.

The staff deserves a special mention here. They were welcoming, attentive, and more than happy to offer recommendations. If you’re new to Goan cuisine, they’ll guide you through the menu, ensuring you get the perfect mix of flavors on your plate. The only thing I’d tweak? A playlist with more Goan music could truly complete the experience.

The Bread: Poie and Pao Done Right

A meal at Poie and Pao wouldn’t be complete without trying their namesake breads.

What is Poie?

This whole wheat, pocket-style bread is a Goan staple. It’s slightly chewy, with a hint of sourness, making it perfect for soaking up curries.

What is Pao?

The classic, soft, and fluffy bread that pairs beautifully with everything from gravies to fried snacks.

Just like Maharashtra has vada pav, a beloved street food staple, Goa has poie, a traditional bread that pairs perfectly with rich curries and flavorful fillings. If you’ve ever searched for the best vada pav in Mumbai, you know how a simple bread can define a region’s food culture. Similarly, poie plays a crucial role in Goan cuisine, adding an authentic touch to every dish it accompanies.

The Food: A Feast of Goan Flavors

Now, let’s talk about what really matters—the food! I tried a mix of vegetarian dishes, and each one stood out in its own way.

1. Veggie Xacuti with Poie (₹175)

Xacuti is one of Goa’s most popular curries, known for its deep, nutty, and slightly spicy flavor. The veggie version here was rich, aromatic, and had just the right balance of coconut and spices. The poie complemented it beautifully, absorbing all those wonderful flavors.

2. Paneer Hyderabadi with Poie (₹175)

I wasn’t sure how paneer and Goan cuisine would mix, but this dish was a pleasant surprise. The gravy was thick, flavorful, and packed a nice punch of spice. Also, the red gravy looked very tempting. While not traditionally Goan but maybe Hyderabadi, it worked well with the poie and felt like a fusion done right.

3. Veggie Cafreal with Pao (₹165)

Cafreal is another Goan classic, typically made with chicken and marinated in a green masala paste. The veggie version here retained that bold, herbaceous flavor, and the pao provided the perfect contrast to the rich masala.

4. Kaju Kothimbir Vadi (₹125)

If there’s one dish I’d go back for in a heartbeat, it’s this. Hands down, the best Kaju Kothimbir Vadi I’ve ever had. The crisp, golden-brown exterior gave way to a soft, flavorful inside packed with coriander, cashews, and spices. Absolutely addictive!

Poie & Pao Drinks: Refreshing Goan Coolers

Goan cuisine is known for its bold flavors, and the right drink can make all the difference in balancing the richness of the food. I tried two coolers, both of which were refreshing and unique:

• Kokum Mint Cooler (₹75) – A tangy, slightly sweet drink with a refreshing minty twist. Kokum is known for its digestive properties, making this the perfect way to cleanse your palate between bites.
• Raw Mango Cooler (₹85) – A delightful mix of sweet and sour, reminiscent of aam panna. Light, refreshing, and a great companion to the heavier dishes.

Desserts: The Sweet Ending

No meal is complete without dessert, and Poie and Pao did not disappoint. I tried two, and both were winners.

• Serradurra – Also known as sawdust pudding, this Goan-Portuguese dessert is a creamy delight layered with crushed biscuits. Light, airy, and just the right amount of sweet. I had never tried Serradurra before, but I absolutely loved it! It reminded me of a white cake with lots of cream, but with a unique texture that made it stand out.
• Coffee Panna Cotta – A fusion twist that worked beautifully. The smooth, creamy panna cotta had a rich coffee flavor, making it a dream for coffee lovers.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit for Goan Food Lovers

If you’re craving the best Goan food in Mumbai, Poie and Pao is a spot you absolutely need to check out. From the authenticity of their poie and pao to their well-executed curries, snacks, and desserts, every bite here is a treat.

What I Loved:

1. Authentic Goan flavors
2. Freshly baked poie and pao
3. Delicious vegetarian options
4. Warm, welcoming service
5. Refreshing coolers and indulgent desserts

Why Poie and Pao is the Best Goan Food Spot in Mumbai

Poie and Pao is one of the best Goan cuisine restaurants in Mumbai, hands down. From the welcoming ambience to the incredible vegetarian food options, everything about this place makes me want to go back! If you’re a vegetarian like me and want to explore authentic Goan flavors, this is the place to be.

So, if you’re searching for the best Goan food in Mumbai, add Poie and Pao to your list. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed!

Have you been to Poie and Pao? What’s your favorite Goan dish? Let me know in the comments!

Location & Socials of Best Goan Food in Mumbai

Poie and Pao Address: Takandas Kataria Marg, opp. Mahim Head Post Office, City Light, Shivaji Park, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400016 – Google Map

Follow them on Instagram: @poieandpao

My Google Review: Best Goan-Portuguese Style Restaurant to Visit in Mumbai