It’s cool, comfy; it’s classical Italian and its Baba Café. Far away from the madding crowd, in the corner of the Latin corner (Fontainhas), is an eatery of Maria Grazia ably assisted by the vivacious Linda Chong. Now what have these two ladies managed to created? Wood specialties… and there in lies the secret. Maria believes in of wood on wood by wood. Walk through the store, rough and authentic, the laterrite walls scraped to showcase its original form. Then you are in the lounge- the Baba Wood Café Lounge. The seating here too amidst green plants under the open canopy of the stars has the same comfort style quotient. Perch on high stools by the bar, or flop on these comfortable sofas, and see the flickering fire of the wood-fired oven as the chef dexterously pushes in his creative preparation.
The interesting aspect of this place is that Maria plans her menu daily with the chef depending on the market purchase. The well designed menu has the ‘Tonight’s Special’ tucked in on a slip of paper. Some of her specialities are Anatra all’Arancia (duck with orange and brandy), Filetto Rossini (beef fillet with pate, mushrooms and red wine), and the pastas. The pastas change everyday freshly made by the chef (macroni, spaghetti, penne, ravioli). But before discussing the food, a peek into the concept of Baba Wood Café. The lounge now this is one area that is the most popular part of the restaurant. From 6 pm to 8 pm every evening Maria offers complementary snacks with every drink.
From the open wood-fired oven come the pizzas three vegetarian and three non vegetarian. Try the Salami Picante… with mozzarella and pepperoni. No heavy toppings or sauces, its classical nuances register with the first bite. On the weekends once a week there are grills for the asking… Pork Ribs, Vegetable Skewers to name a few. And then there is the gelato. A must order. Try the Coppe Mangia a Bebi (hazelnut), or coffee lovers go for the Affogato al Café (icecream drowned in coffee). Baba Wood Café is a place for Italian cuisine with a classical twist.
0832 3256213, 9823714098
49, Mala Fontainhas, Panaji, Goa
