Must-Visit Panjim Places to Explore on Your Goa Trip in 2024

When you think of Goa, you might picture sun-kissed beaches, bustling markets, and an endless supply of seafood. But if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find that Panjim, the heart of Goa, has its own rhythm—a beat that resonates with the curious traveller. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Goaphile, this list of the best places to visit in Panjim for 2024 promises to surprise and delight. And to kick things off, we’re diving into a spot that’s all about the sound—literally.

For The Record – Vinyl Bar: Where Music and Cocktails Groove Together
 

Hidden in a charming Portuguese-era building, For The Record (FTR) – Vinyl Bar is where Panjim’s cool factor hits a high note. India’s first vinyl records bar, FTR draws inspiration from Japan’s iconic listening bars, creating a space where music and cocktails harmonize perfectly. Owner Buland Shukla, an audiophile and jazz musician, has curated an experience where the tunes take centre stage, backed by a top-tier sound system and an eclectic vinyl collection.

FTR’s drinks menu is as inventive as its music. From craft Feni cocktails to kombucha, each sip is a revelation. The food doesn’t miss a beat either—think sourdough pizzas, aged meats, and a black garlic dessert that will have your taste buds dancing. The recently launched Vegetarian Tasting Menu adds a fresh twist, inspired by the chef’s culinary travels.

With minimal decor letting the sound and flavors shine, FTR is one of the best places to visit in Panjim. It’s a must-stop for those looking to vibe with Goa’s creative side. When in Panjim, skip the usual Panjim tourist spots and let FTR take you on a sensory journey—one record at a time.

IG Handle: @ftr_vinylbar
Operational Hours: 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Closed On: Sundays

Larder + Folk: A Must-Try Culinary Gem in Panjim
 

At Larder + Folk, Chef Priyanka Sardessai turns sandwich-making into an art form. With experience from the Culinary Institute of America and training under top chefs like
Marcus Samuelsson–Sardessai serves up sandwiches that are a cut above the rest. From the buttermilk fried chicken in ‘The OG’ to the rich roast beef sandwich, every bite is pure satisfaction.

But it’s not just sandwiches that shine here. The decadent cookies, savoury donuts, and unique bakes like babka and challah make Larder + Folk stand out among places to visit in Panjim. Their pantry items, like raw mango mustard and prawn pepper chili oil, add a gourmet touch to any kitchen.

If you’re seeking hidden places to visit in Panjim, Larder + Folk should be at the top of your list.

IG Handle: @larderandfolkgoa
Operational Hours: 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
Closed On: Mondays

Praça Prazeres: European Vibes in the Heart of Panjim
 

Nestled in São Tomé, near Fontainhas, Praça Prazeres brings a slice of Europe to Panjim. Chef-owner Ralph Prazeres and his wife Stacy Graciashave created a cosy neighbourhood spot that blends Goan charm with contemporary flair. The two-level restaurant features a live kitchen on the lower level and a moody attic bar upstairs.

The menu, inspired by Chef Ralph’s travels across Europe, offers dishes like Short Rib Croquettes, Roast Chicken, and Gnocchi, using local ingredients to keep things fresh. The cocktail menu, crafted by Hideaway—ranked #66 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list and #5 on India’s 30 Best Bars list—complements the food perfectly with classics like the Picante and Jiggle Juice.

With live music on Thursdays and Sundays, and a Late Night Dessert Bar from Wednesday to Friday, Praça Prazeres is one of the best places to visit in Panjim.

IG Handle: @praca.prazeres
Operational Hours: 9:00 pm - 12:00 am
Closed On: Thursdays

The Jaffna Jump: Spice, Spirit, and Sri Lankan Charm in Panjim
 

This bar and bistro, with its spice-infused cocktails and mouth-watering dishes like Bone Marrow Varuval with Ceylon Parotta, transports you straight to the island's shores.

The bright yellow exterior, adorned with lush foliage, is hard to miss and sets the tone for the lively experience inside. Step in, and you’ll find vintage-inspired decor with a stunning chandelier, Sri Lankan movie posters, and a 100-year-old map that adds a touch of history. Chef Lisa’s menu, packed with Sri Lankan ingredients like fiery nai miris chilli, delivers bold flavours in every bite. From Devilled Prawns to Triple Cooked Plantain Chips, the Short Eats are a must-try. For those looking for hidden places to visit in Panjim with a unique twist, The Jaffna Jump is the perfect stop.

IG Handle: @thejaffnajump
Operational Hours: 12:00 pm - 1:00 am
Closed On: None

Bar Outrigger: A Tropical Escape in Panjim (Temporarily Below Deck)
 

Bar Outrigger made quite the splash when it opened in July 2024, but the monsoon rains had other plans. After an unfortunate electrical incident, the bar is temporarily closed for maintenance. However, in true Goan spirit, the Petisco crew came to the rescue, offering their basement bar for a month-long pop-up—a perfect example of industry camaraderie at its finest.

Running from August 1st to 31st, from 7 PM to 1 AM, the "Below Deck" pop-up is a collaborative effort between Bar Outrigger and Petisco. Spearheaded by maestro Arijit Bose, Outrigger’s pop-up showcases the best of their tropical-inspired menu, featuring standout drinks like the Coffee Painkiller and the Punks Not Dead. Expect a vibe reminiscent of 90’s London Soho, with a touch of tropical flair.

Getting to Bar Outrigger itself is part of the adventure—you’ll need to park near the Dona Paula Circle and take a scenic stroll down to the bar. Once there, prepare to be wowed by their BBQ chickpea chaat and creative drinks, served up by the Pirates, as they affectionately call their crew. Just a heads-up: this isn’t a kid-friendly spot after 5 PM, and they’re not shy about it.

With 75% of the ingredients sourced locally, Bar Outrigger is a must-visit for anyone exploring hidden places to visit in Panjim. Keep an eye out for their grand reopening, but in the meantime, don’t miss this unique pop-up experience.

IG Handle: @baroutriggergoa
Operational Hours: 7:00 pm - 1:00 am
Closed On: Mondays

Mo’s Café: Hidden in the Heart of Fontainhas
 

Hidden in Fontainhas like a well-kept secret, Mo’s Café is the spot you’d brag about discovering. This quaint little nook, run by Bombay chef Moina Oberoi (lovingly called Mo), offers a serene escape from Panjim’s usual scene. Whether you’re here for a leisurely Sunday brunch or a workday powered by great coffee, Mo’s got you covered.

The menu? It’s a love letter to good food. Picture this: a Goan twist on the Vietnamese banh mi, with Poee stuffed with buttery pork pate, spicy slow-cooked choriz, and a generous helping of pickles and herbs. And Mo’s desserts? Clean, low-GI, and downright irresistible—just like the café itself.

Mo’s Café isn’t just about food, though. It’s got character, from the homemade kombucha to the monthly Monsoon Film Series that celebrates Goa’s rainy romance. Plus, keep an eye out for the quirky graffiti by the mysterious TONA on the neighbour’s door—a little surprise for the keen-eyed explorer. If you’re meandering through Fontainhas, looking for hidden places to visit in Panjim, make sure you find Mo’s Café. It’s the kind of place where once you discover it, you’ll never want to leave.

IG Handle: @moscafegoa
Operational Hours: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
Closed On: None

Casa Noni: A Slice of Italy in Fontainhas
 

Casa Noni brings a touch of Italy to Panjim with a menu that’s as chic as the vibe. Owned by Hungry Thirsty Hospitality, this trattoria specialises in Italian small plates, pizzas, and risottos that are nothing short of amore on a plate. Whether you’re indulging in their famous Diavolo pizza or savouring the Artisan Burrata salad, every dish is a delightful nod to traditional Italian flavours.

Casa Noni’s commitment to quality shines through in every bite, with locally sourced ingredients (except for the essential olive oil, Parmesan, and balsamic, which come straight from Italy). The house-made vermouth perfectly complement the food, adding a sophisticated twist to your dining experience.

And for dessert? The Casanoni Tiramisu is a must-try. Served straight from the pan, it’s an ode to sweet nostalgia—a comforting embrace in every bite.

Casa Noni definitely earns a ranking on the list of best places to visit in Panjim - you’ll see why once you visit.

IG Handle: @casanoni.trattoria
Operational Hours: 12:30 pm - 11:00 pm
Closed On: None

Outpost: A French-Inspired Retreat
 

Outpost is a charming French-styled bistro that’s perfect for unwinding after a stroll through Fontainhas or a busy day in Panjim. Step through the green door, and you’re greeted by friendly staff, the nostalgic tunes of the 80s and 90s, and an atmosphere that effortlessly transports you back in time. The decor is quaint, with soft lighting and old pub-style seating, making it a cosy spot to relax.

Outpost’s menu pays homage to great thinkers, artists, and travellers, offering tapas-style dishes that are small in portion but big on flavour. Truffle fries, crispy and drizzled with truffle oil, are a familiar favourite. The Pandi Fry Taco, with its perfectly spiced pork, mango and apricot pickle, and crunchy potato shelli, is a must-try. For dessert, the Macchiato Crème Brûlée is a delightful treat.

As you wait for your meal, take a moment to admire the antique art pieces on the walls or gaze through the long French windows at the wall art outside. Whether you’re sipping on a Posh G&T or indulging in Freud’s Folly, Outpost offers a culinary escape that’s as thoughtful as it is delicious.

IG Handle: @outpostgoa
Operational Hours: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Sundays - 5:00 pm - 12:00 am | Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays - 5:00 pm - 1:00 am
Closed On: Mondays

GreenR Goa: Where Vegan Meets Vibrant
 

New to the Fontainhas scene, GreenR Goa is making waves with its plant-based, California-inspired cuisine. Originally from Delhi, with stops in Mumbai before landing in Goa, GreenR isn’t just a café—it’s a movement towards conscious living. Set in a charming century-old bungalow, this vegan hotspot blends global health trends with local flavours, offering a menu that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.

Expect dishes that are both tasty and thoughtful, like their Anjuna Hilltop Risotto, sweet potato salad, and the must-try Pumpkin Spice Mousse. GreenR is all about clean eating, with options like gluten-free noodles, dairy-free cheeses, and even homemade tomato ketchup. Plus, their pet-friendly space is perfect for a relaxed meal with your furry friends.

If you’re looking for a spot that’s as good for the planet as it is for your palate, GreenR Goa is your go-to in the best places to visit in Panjim.

IG Handle: @greenrgoa
Operational Hours: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm
Closed On: None

Elevate Your Goan Escape with a Stay at V Escapes
 

For the discerning traveller, there’s no better place to stay than V Escapes Goa in Sangolda. Just a quick 13-minute drive away from Panjim, our villa offers a sanctuary where comfort meets elegance. Enjoy a dip in your private pool, unwind in your heated jacuzzi, or rejuvenate with sound healing, yoga sessions or spa therapies—every moment here is crafted for relaxation.

Your Villa Experiences Manager will be at your service to book the best tables at Panjim’s hottest spots, and your chauffeured Mercedes SUVs will ensure your journey to every hidden gem is smooth and stylish.

At V Escapes, our staff, including personal chefs, butlers and housekeepers, will ensure you and your loved ones are taken care of and your Goan getaway is elevated to a whole new level.

Discover the difference with our amenities, curated experiences, and explore our gallery to discover our award-winning villa in North Goa.

Ready to turn your holiday into an unforgettable escape? Reserve your stay at V Escapes today - call or WhatsApp +91 93 7232 3328 to book the 5-bedroom villa for your next holiday.

Follow V Escapes on Instagram to stay posted on the latest in Goa and learn about our latest offers.