In the heart of Candolim, Goa, stands a pastel-hued haven that beautifully blends passion, creativity, and heartfelt hospitality, Nova Café & Bakehouse. Founded by Fatima Silveira, a Goan entrepreneur with deep roots in the hospitality industry, Nova is more than just a café, it’s a story of love for baking, family, and new beginnings.
From Hobby to Heartfelt Venture
Fatima’s journey began during the lock down when she turned to baking as a creative outlet. What started as a simple hobby soon grew into a fullfledged passion. Encouraged by the appreciation from family and friends, she decided to take her baking to the next level.
With over two decades of experience running a restaurant in Candolim, hospitality was already second nature to Fatima and her family. So when her family suggested opening a café, the idea felt like a natural extension of what they loved doing. And thus, Nova was born, out of passion, experience, and the dream to bring something fresh and special to Goa’s café culture.
The Meaning Behind Nova
The name Nova means “a new star,” symbolizing a bright beginning filled with promise and creativity. This sentiment perfectly mirrors Fatima’s journey, a new chapter that shines with warmth and enthusiasm.
Located in Candolim, a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike, Nova feels perfectly at home in its lively surroundings. For Fatima, Candolim wasn’t just a choice, it was the obvious home for her little venture, where energy and community blend seamlessly with the café’s welcoming spirit.
A Touch of Paris in Goa
The design and concept of Nova were inspired by the elegance of Ladurée, the world-famous French café known for its soft pastel tones and timeless charm. Fatima’s daughter, Anusha, brought this inspiration to life, creating a space that feels both chic and comforting.
From its soothing color palette to the detailed interiors, every corner of Nova reflects warmth and refinement. The goal was to make it a cozy, Instagram-worthy spot where people could unwind, connect, and indulge in delicious treats surrounded by beauty and comfort.
Curating a Menu That Excites
At Nova, the menu is ever-evolving. Fatima and her team constantly experiment with new recipes and trending dishes while ensuring that quality remains uncompromised. Every dish and drink is thoughtfully created using fresh ingredients and a commitment to consistency.
Their philosophy is simple, keep it fresh, exciting, and full of flavor. Whether it’s a hearty breakfast, a refreshing beverage, or a decadent dessert, each item on the menu embodies care and creativity.
Signature Delights Loved by All
Among Nova’s most loved creations are the Kunafa Cheesecake and the Viral Matilda, both of which have become signature favorites. These unique desserts perfectly capture the café’s spirit of innovation and indulgence, keeping customers coming back for more.
Quality and Conscious Choices
Quality has always been the cornerstone of Nova. Fatima ensures that every ingredient used is fresh and sourced responsibly, often supporting local vendors and small businesses.
All dishes and desserts are made in small batches to maintain freshness and taste. The café also caters to diverse dietary needs — offering eggless, gluten-free, and healthier options so that every guest finds something to enjoy wholeheartedly.
Overcoming Challenges with Passion
Launching a café from scratch came with its fair share of challenges. From sourcing the right ingredients to managing operations, every step was a new learning curve. But with perseverance, family support, and a commitment to continuous improvement, Fatima turned those early challenges into stepping stones.
Today, each success at Nova stands as a testament to the resilience and passion that built it.
Standing Out in a Competitive Industry
With Goa’s café scene booming, competition is inevitable. However, Fatima sees it not as a challenge but as motivation. Nova continues to stand out through quality, consistency, and a personalized experience that guests remember.
By staying updated with trends and constantly innovating, the café ensures that it remains a step ahead while keeping its core values intact.
Building Community Through Social Media
In today’s digital age, Nova embraces social media as an essential part of its journey. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook allow the café to connect with customers, share behind-the-scenes moments, and celebrate guest experiences.
For Fatima, it’s more than marketing, it’s about building a community that feels connected to the café, both online and offline.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Fatima envisions Nova expanding across Goa with more outlets that carry the same warmth, charm, and character that define the original café. The long-term dream is to make Nova a name synonymous with creativity, consistency, and heartfelt hospitality.
A place where every guest feels at home — no matter which branch they walk into.
Nova Café & Bakehouse isn’t just a café; it’s a reflection of passion, family, and the joy of creating something beautiful. With every dish served and every smile shared, it continues to shine brightly , just like the new star it was meant to be.
