Tucked away near one of Panjim’s historically significant yet forgotten roads, Rua de Ourem, lies a cocktail bar that is not just a place to drink, but an immersive journey through time and tradition. Aptly named Ourém, the bar draws its identity from the Portuguese name “Rua de Ourem,” which means “road to the creek.” This old trading route once witnessed the exchange of valuable goods—including gold, which in Portuguese is also “Ouro.” The name Ourém beautifully encapsulates this golden past, marrying local heritage with a modern-day concept of community and hospitality.
An Ode to Hospitality
The bar’s founder draws inspiration from those who breathe life into the hospitality industry—bartenders, service staff, brand ambassadors—people whose passion and dedication define the experience. That admiration laid the foundation for a space where not just drinks, but people matter.
Housed in a meticulously restored old Goan-Portuguese bungalow, Ourém blends history with charm. The setting evokes a sense of nostalgia—whitewashed walls, wooden rafters, and colonial architecture—offering a warm, unpretentious ambiance that invites you to settle in and savor.
A Menu That Tells a Story
Rather than chasing trends or following the crowd, Ourém’s cocktail menu is rooted in history and creativity. Inspired by ancient trade, the bar introduces a currency menu, drawing on items that once held monetary value—pepper, salt, leather, and of course, gold. Each cocktail reflects an era when these items were traded instead of coins or bills, giving guests not just a drink but a narrative in every glass.
The menu avoids complexity for complexity’s sake. Ingredients are locally available, and each cocktail is crafted with simplicity, passion, and precision. The bar doesn’t identify a single signature cocktail because every repeat order is considered a bestseller. “If a guest orders the same cocktail four times, you know it’s made an impression,” the founder shares, recalling one such memorable moment.
At Ourém, their menu embraces classic Goan-Portuguese flavours — the kind you’d find at traditional family gatherings and laid-back susegad-style home parties. Signature dishes like their crisp prawn rissois, slow-cooked stews, and Bife em Sangue Amante evoke comfort, nostalgia, and a hint of indulgence. It’s food crafted for sharing, savoring, and creating lasting memories.
Creating Connection Over Cocktails
For Ourém, great hospitality goes beyond aesthetics and alcohol. The key is genuine interaction. Staff members take time to converse with patrons, understand their preferences, and guide them toward drinks they’ll love. This personal touch enhances the experience and fosters a sense of belonging.
Serving a diverse clientele—locals, tourists, and international visitors—the team has developed an instinct for knowing what each guest might enjoy. And it shows.
Always Evolving
While the foundation of the cocktail program is simple and historically inspired, Ourém adapts with the seasons. The bar frequently updates its offerings to highlight seasonal ingredients and introduce new specials, staying fresh while staying true to its roots.
Events, live music nights, and themed evenings further enrich the atmosphere, giving guests more reasons to return beyond the drinks. Though mixology trends don’t necessarily influence the bar’s direction, it continues to thrive by doing what it does best—getting the basics right and creating an honest, heartfelt space.
Looking Ahead
Running a cocktail bar in a city like Panjim comes with its fair share of challenges—be it logistics, staffing, or the unpredictable nature of the F&B industry. The team at Ourém approaches these hurdles with a mindset of continuous improvement. Waste is kept minimal, systems are always under review, and the goal remains clear: to be a bar where people want to work and guests want to return.
As for the future, the founder envisions Ourém becoming a happy bar—a place defined not just by profits but by positivity and passion. In the next three years, the aim is to become sustainably profitable, with possible expansions or collaborations evolving organically from that growth.
A Golden Experience
In a city brimming with bars, Ourém stands out by looking inward—toward its heritage, its people, and its values. It’s not just about serving cocktails; it’s about reviving stories, honoring tradition, and offering a heartfelt experience in every sip.
In many ways, Ourém is more than a bar—it’s a toast to Goa’s golden past and a celebration of its vibrant present.
