Meet Brainard Colaco, the dreamer and ideator behind Momoka, a unique brand that has captured the hearts of food lovers in both Thailand and India. With more than two decades of experience in the food and hospitality industry, Brainard has become a pioneer in introducing innovative food concepts to the Indian market. His latest venture, Momoka Goa, which opened its doors in September 2023, is a perfect blend of artisan bakery and bistro-style dining that draws inspiration from traditional Japanese tea houses.
With a successful cake studio in Margao for nearly a decade, Brainard decided to expand his horizons and bring his expertise to India, specifically Goa. He noticed a gap in the market for authentic, high-quality desserts and beverages that could cater to the growing tastes of modern Indian consumers. Drawing from his vast experience of setting up over 50+ restaurants and cafes across the country, he envisioned Momoka as a brand that would introduce people to the flavors of Japan, offering a cultural experience that goes beyond food.
Momoka’s Concept: A Taste of Japan in Goa
The concept behind Momoka is simple yet profound. The restaurant was born out of a deep connection to Japan’s food culture, particularly the traditional Japanese tea house experience. Brainard was inspired by the rich history and calming ambiance of Japanese cafes, and sought to recreate this essence in Goa.
Momoka Goa serves a range of desserts and beverages that reflect the traditions of Japanese tea houses. Matcha, sourced from the renowned Uji region in Kyoto, forms the base of many of the cafe’s drinks, while classic Japanese sweets called wagashi (Western-style Japanese desserts) are a highlight of the menu. Sando (Japanese milk bread sandwiches) and Okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) are also served, providing an authentic experience for guests. These offerings are complemented by a calm, serene atmosphere designed to transport guests to the heart of Japan.
A Nod to Tradition with a Modern Twist
The name Momoka translates to “Peach Child” and holds a special meaning in Japanese culture, where the number “100” (represented in Kanji) is considered auspicious. Brainard chose this name as a tribute to the brand’s cultural roots while adding an element of hope and longevity. The sakura flower featured in the logo, which was a symbol used in India, and the dandelion symbol was used in Thailand, as a nod to the local heritage and cultural shift.
The location of Momoka Goa was also a strategic decision. Located in Panjim, Goa’s vibrant capital, the cafe sits at the heart of the city, making it easily accessible to locals and tourists alike. With its central location and proximity to the scenic beauty of Goa, Momoka Goa has quickly become a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique culinary experience.
Curating the Perfect Menu: Bringing Japan to Goa
When it comes to the menu, Brainard drew heavily from his Bangkok operation, which had a strong Japanese influence. About 70% of the Goa menu mirrors the offerings in Bangkok, ensuring that the dishes maintain consistency and quality. The remaining menu items were specially curated for the Indian market, adding a variety of food items that would appeal to local tastes.
The culinary team at Momoka Goa ensures that every dish is prepared with the finest ingredients, sourced from Japan and Thailand. This commitment to quality ingredients allows the restaurant to maintain authenticity, while also introducing a variety of flavors that cater to both local and international guests.
Signature Dishes: What Keeps Customers Coming Back
While every dish on the menu has its own charm, Liam’s Teddy Bear—a dessert crafted with 46% Belgian chocolate and a tangy raspberry compote—is by far the most popular item on the menu. The dessert, named after Brainard’s nephew, Liam, was created in collaboration with three chefs in Bangkok and was patented until 2022. The Teddy Bear dessert is a customer favorite and continues to be one of the most photographed items at Momoka Goa.
Additionally, the café’s signature wagashi, plated desserts, and sando (Japanese milk bread sandwiches) are top-selling items. Udon noodles, imported directly from Japan, have also become a crowd favorite for their rich flavor and their adaptability to the Western palate. Momoka Goa stays true to its ethos of serving Japanese-inspired cuisine while innovating to meet local tastes.
Sourcing Ingredients: The Pursuit of Quality
The restaurant imports key ingredients directly from Japan and Thailand to maintain the authentic flavors Momoka is known for. Trusted suppliers source items like matcha, udon noodles, curry powders, and dried fish (including bonito) to ensure consistent quality and taste. While Momoka Goa doesn’t cater to vegan or gluten-free preferences, it prides itself on using only the best quality butter, couverture chocolate, and premium ingredients sourced from Japan.
Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere: A Slice of Japan in Goa
The ambiance of Momoka Goa reflects the tranquil beauty of a traditional Japanese tea house. The design of the cafe blends modern and traditional Japanese décor, featuring curios, personal collectibles, and unique accessories. The space also has cozy seating arrangements, providing a comfortable and intimate atmosphere for guests to enjoy their meals.
The lighting and décor further enhance the overall experience, ensuring that customers feel like they’ve stepped into an authentic slice of Japan right in the heart of Goa. The design of the space is carefully curated to make guests feel at home, while also offering them a space to unwind and relax.
Customer-Centric Approach: Building a Loyal Following
Brainard and his team have always focused on delivering exceptional customer service. At Momoka Goa, the management trains the staff to provide a welcoming and personalized experience for every guest. The team goes above and beyond to ensure that each customer feels valued and that every aspect of their visit meets the highest standards.
Over time, Momoka Goa has garnered a loyal following, particularly from Goa’s southern region. Some of the customers who once frequented Brainard’s previous cake studio now visit regularly with their families, creating a sense of continuity that brings immense satisfaction to Brainard and his team.
Challenges and Overcoming Them: Entrepreneurial Growth
As an entrepreneur, Brainard overcomes obstacles with expertise. Running a business comes with its share of challenges, especially when it comes to maintaining consistency and ensuring the quality of every dish. One of the biggest hurdles for Momoka Goa has been the changing availability of ingredients, but Brainard always finds ways to maintain the food’s quality.
Brainard believes that tackling challenges head-on and preparing for the unexpected are key to succeeding in the hospitality industry. He views each problem as an opportunity to improve and innovate, ensuring that Momoka Goa remains a leader in Goa’s culinary scene.
The Role of Social Media: Connecting with Customers
In today’s digital age, social media plays a vital role in Momoka Goa’s marketing strategy. Brainard emphasizes the importance of digital engagement with customers, as it allows the restaurant to connect with both existing and potential guests. Social media platforms, especially Instagram, have been pivotal in expanding the restaurant’s reach.
Momoka Goa has created a unique Instagram funnel, where customers can tag the restaurant in their posts and win prizes. This system not only rewards loyal customers but also helps spread the word about the restaurant through social sharing. By leveraging the power of social media, Momoka Goa has been able to build a strong community around the brand, further cementing its position as a leading café in Goa.
The Future of Momoka: Expansion and Innovation
Looking ahead, Brainard plans to expand Momoka’s reach within India. Building on the success of Momoka Goa, Brainard plans to open new outlets in Pune and Mumbai, starting with Pune in February 2025. Goa will continue to serve as the brand’s innovation center, while the expansion into new cities will bring the brand’s unique blend of Japanese-inspired cuisine and culture to a broader audience.
Conclusion: A Brand Built on Passion and Authenticity
Momoka Goa stands as a testament to Brainard’s vision of offering authentic, high-quality, and innovative food experiences. By blending traditional Japanese flavors with modern culinary techniques, and by creating a space that celebrates Japanese culture, Momoka Goa has become more than just a café—it is a cultural destination in Goa.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Momoka Goa offers an unforgettable dining experience that combines culinary excellence, cultural richness, and a personal connection to the community.
