Nestled within the charming, colorful lanes of Fontainhas, Goldspot Canteen stands as a vibrant tribute to Goa’s rich and diverse culinary heritage. Spearheaded by an all-women team from the successful Café Goldspot, this new venture brings a refreshing twist to traditional Goan dining while offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all. Combining authentic local dishes with an inviting space to relax or work, Goldspot Canteen is more than just a place to eat—it’s an experience that celebrates culture, community, and culinary artistry.
Their story
Iram and Sameera are childhood best friends who decide to act on their teenage dreams right in the middle of COVID lock down. That is when the idea was formed. In Nov of 2022, they began their culinary journey with Cafe Goldspot. A cosy place that serves all day breakfast with delicious fresh juice blends, shakes, coffee and bowls. Iram’s experience as Cabin Crew for Qatar airways and her current exposure leading design for tech start ups helped conceptualize the menu and the aesthetics of the cafe.
Iram simultaneously leads design at a start-up called Smallcase. Sameera with her background in Psychology, love for the community and experience in building tech start-ups for over 10 years helped with the business aspect. She currently is the Head HR at a Tech Start-Up called inFeedo along with managing Goldspot. After running the cafe for 2 years where Chef Saira closely worked with them taking care of daily operations, they thought it would be a great addition to have Chef Saira lead the kitchen. That gave birth to Goldspot Canteen. A local delight serving local rice plates commonly known as Thalis along with Goldspot special Paos & snacks.
A Culinary Vision Born from Passion
Head Chef Saira Khan, the heart and soul of Goldspot Canteen, has crafted a menu that beautifully reflects Goa’s multicultural influences. Having embraced her culinary passion from an early age, she recalls childhood memories of helping her elderly neighbor make mango pickles during summer vacations. While growing up across different parts of Goa, Saira immersed herself in diverse culinary traditions, from crafting Christmas sweets with Catholic neighbors to preparing festive delicacies with Hindu families during Ganesh and Diwali celebrations. Her own Muslim upbringing further enriched her repertoire, blending these distinct cultural influences into a unique culinary style.
Though she spent over four decades sharing her creations exclusively with friends and family, Chef Saira’s dream of sharing her food with the world took shape when she pursued a culinary arts diploma at the age of 55. Now, through Goldspot Canteen, she channels her lifelong passion into a menu that not only celebrates her journey but also tells the stories of Goa’s diverse communities.
An Authentic Taste of Goa
Goldspot Canteen’s menu offers a thoughtfully curated selection of Goan classics, capturing the essence of the region’s culinary heritage. For breakfast enthusiasts, the eatery serves a delightful array of local specialties, including Xacuti, Ross Omelettes, Polle (traditional rice pancakes), and the ever-popular Cutlet Paos. Each dish is crafted with care, using locally sourced ingredients to ensure authenticity and flavor.
As the day transitions into lunchtime, the menu expands to include hearty Goan rice plates, also known as thalis. These plates bring together a harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and spices, reflecting the culinary traditions of the region. From the tangy flavors of a traditional prawn curry to the comforting aroma of freshly steamed rice, every bite offers a taste of Goa’s vibrant food culture.
A Cozy Corner with a Purpose
Beyond its culinary offerings, Goldspot Canteen’s ambiance is equally captivating. Located in the serene lanes of Fontainhas, the eatery boasts a cozy library corner, making it an ideal spot for those who wish to dine, unwind, or work. Whether you’re a local seeking a quiet retreat or a traveler exploring Goa’s heritage, the canteen provides a perfect blend of comfort and charm. With its welcoming vibe and thoughtfully designed interiors, Goldspot Canteen creates an environment where guests can immerse themselves in the stories of Goa while savoring its flavors.
A Celebration of Women Empowerment
The all-women team behind Goldspot Canteen is a testament to the power of collaboration, passion, and resilience. Following the success of Café Goldspot, the team’s latest venture embodies their commitment to celebrating Goan cuisine while fostering a space where creativity and community thrive. By showcasing the talents and dedication of women, the canteen serves as an inspiring example of how culinary ventures can empower individuals and uplift communities.
Operating Hours and Details
Goldspot Canteen welcomes guests from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, offering the perfect setting for breakfast and lunch. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or spending a leisurely afternoon in Fontainhas, the eatery promises a memorable experience. Please note that the canteen remains closed on Tuesdays, ensuring the team has time to recharge and continue delivering exceptional service.
Why Goldspot Canteen?
A small local haven for those who absolutely love Goan Fish Curry Rice. In the center of Fontainhas, a quick stop for your breakfast, lunch or snacks. Perfect spot to indulge in your local cuisine with authentic masala rava fried fresh fish, fish thalis and snacks curated with local produce. A special menu for vegetarians to enjoy Goan Cusine without any guilt!
Must Try: Fish Thali, Alsande Pao, Cutlet Pao, Kokam Soda
Chef Saira’s Culinary Philosophy
At the heart of Goldspot Canteen’s success is Chef Saira’s unwavering dedication to preserving and celebrating Goa’s culinary heritage. Her personal journey, deeply rooted in the cultural tapestry of the region, has shaped her approach to cooking. By blending traditional techniques with a modern sensibility, she has created a menu that not only delights the palate but also honors the diverse influences that define Goan cuisine.
“I discovered my passion for cooking as a child, helping an elderly neighbor make mango pickles during summer vacations,” Saira shares. “Growing up across Goa, I embraced diverse culinary traditions—making Christmas snacks and sweets with Catholic neighbors, preparing festive dishes with Hindu families during Ganesh and Diwali, and mastering Muslim cuisine in my own home. Over four decades, I’ve crafted food that blends these rich cultures, but it was limited to my friends and family. Through Goldspot Canteen, I’m thrilled to share this unique culinary journey with the world.”
An Invitation to Experience Goa’s Stories
Goldspot Canteen is more than just a restaurant; it is a culinary journey that invites guests to explore the stories, traditions, and flavors of Goa. From the first sip of a warm beverage to the last bite of a perfectly spiced dish, every aspect of the experience is designed to create lasting memories. Whether you’re a foodie seeking authentic Goan cuisine or a traveler looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, Goldspot Canteen offers a dining experience like no other.
By combining exceptional food, a cozy ambiance, and a commitment to community, Goldspot Canteen has quickly established itself as a must-visit destination in Fontainhas. So, the next time you find yourself wandering through the picturesque lanes of Goa’s heritage quarter, be sure to stop by and discover the flavors and stories that make Goldspot Canteen a true culinary gem.
