Seafood, sun, and sand. These three elements aptly describe the vibe of South Goa. Most tourists visit this little gem in India for its pristine white beaches and fun and vibrant ambience. While all of this is reason enough for you to pack your bags and take a solo trip, there is more than South Goa offers.

For all the foodies out there, South Goa offers several options that will leave you spoiled for choices. There are numerous budget-friendly cafes and coffee shops in South Goa that are perfect for lazing around in the evening. The best part about cafes is that you do not need to burn a hole in your pocket to have a fulfilling meal. Unlike restaurants, which can be too expensive sometimes, cafes serve as the perfect place to try out the local Goan cuisine at reasonable prices.

On my solo trip to South Goa, I checked out a few cafes for some quick bites. In this blog, I will share the list of some of the top cafes that are not only a delight to the eyes but also quite reasonable. Read on to know more!

1. Blue Planet Cafe, Canacona

Along with being one of the most beautiful cafes in South Goa, Blue Planet Cafe is also among the hidden gems in the state. It is a lesser-known café set amidst the lush green bamboo trees and paddy fields. This cafe is also a paradise for people who prefer having their meals in a tranquil ambience. It is a vegan café, so check out if you want to try some delicious vegan dishes!

Must-try dishes at Blue Planet Café – Cheesecake, Smoothies, Salads

Average meal price for one – Rs. 500

Timings – 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM

2. Carpe Diem, Majorda

Carpe Diem is a cosy, little café located within the premises of an ancient Art Gallery. Since the Art Gallery dates back to the Portuguese era, you will find bits and pieces of that era in the café even today. Carpe Diem has, in fact, done a great job maintaining the rustic charm of the era, allowing visitors to get a glimpse into the history. The café exudes calmness in a comfortable setting, allowing you to relax after a long day. It is a great place to stop by for breakfast when you are running a bit late. Or, if you are in the neighbourhood, you can visit the cafe to try out some amazing dishes that are carefully curated to suit every palate!

Must-try dishes at Carpe Diem – Sandwiches, Waffles, Milkshakes

Average meal price for one – Rs. 300

Timings – 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

3. Café Inn, Palolem

Looking for a place that reflects the authentic Goan charm? If yes, head to Café Inn is one of the most prominent areas in South Goa – Palolem. The café has been designed in a shack-like structure, which does justice to the perfect Goan vibe. It is an open-air café, perfect for those sunny days where you can enjoy your delicious meal while the breeze flows through your hair! The café is quite famous in Goa and is visited by many locals and tourists alike to munch on platters of goodness. Their American breakfast is highly recommended, along with a wide array of other dishes and drinks.

Must-try dishes at Café Inn – English Breakfast, Fresh Juices, Turkish coffee

Average meal price for one – Rs. 250

Timings – 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM

4. Aroma, Benaulim

If you are looking for a budget-friendly café in South Goa that serves lip-smacking delights and drinks, visit Aroma. It is quite famous in the area, especially for its exquisite European delicacies. The warm ambience and cosy seating spaces make for the ideal place to have a simple breakfast, fulfilling lunch, or even late dinner. The staff is very friendly, adding to the overall dining experience. The café is located in a prominent area in South Goa on Colva Road. It is also a short distance from many tourist attractions in town, so you can even cut your transportation costs.

Must-try dishes at Carpe Diem – Pasta Salad, Coffee, Lemon Cheesecake

Average meal price for one – Rs. 350

Timings – 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Are these cafes in South Goa worth visiting?

I have been to many cafes in South Goa, which are some of my favourites. All you care about is a hearty meal without paying a bomb, and these cafes serve the right purpose. Additionally, the ambience at most of the cafes is quite nice, so you are sure to have a lovely time here! 

If you are visiting Goa for the first time, here are some things you should know about before booking your tickets and packing your bags.

For all the insights into Goa, check out my article on the ultimate solo travel guide to Goa.