Perched atop a building in the vibrant city of Margao, The Kitchen On Top is not just another restaurant—it’s a thoughtfully crafted experience that blends warmth, flavor, and innovation. At its helm is Yudhik Guglani, a passionate entrepreneur who transformed his love for food into a thriving culinary venture, even without formal industry training. Since its inception in 2018, the restaurant has grown into a space where every dish tells a story and every guest is treated like family.
The idea was seeded back in 2016-17, driven by a desire to create a place where food goes beyond sustenance—it becomes a journey. That vision took form in the heart of South Goa, making The Kitchen On Top a local favorite for families, foodies, and travelers alike.
A Concept That Balances Flavor and Ambience
From the very beginning, The Kitchen On Top stood out for its unique approach. The restaurant harmoniously marries North Indian culinary traditions with a multi-cuisine menu, offering something for every palate. Whether it’s a hearty Indian curry or an exotic Asian dish, the offerings are curated with thought and detail.
The space itself is quirky and inviting, designed to be a family-friendly hub that exudes charm and cheer. The ambience encourages guests to linger, laugh, and indulge in an experience that feels both familiar and exciting.
What’s in a Name?
The restaurant’s name, The Kitchen On Top, is a literal nod to its rooftop location. Positioned in Margao—the cultural capital of South Goa—the venue benefits from excellent visibility and accessibility, without the rush of the inner city. It’s a location chosen as much for its charm as for its convenience, offering a calm retreat with a panoramic vibe.
Menu Curation: A Biannual Refresh of Flavors
Culinary innovation is central to the restaurant’s philosophy. The menu is refreshed every six months, ensuring that it evolves with trends while staying true to its roots. While the North Indian dishes remain crowd favorites, the menu spans global flavors, allowing diners to explore a diverse selection.
The beverage program follows the same rhythm, featuring seasonal options and creative concoctions. Signature drinks like the Green Island—a non-alcoholic delight—have become staples, alongside a curated mix of classic and contemporary cocktails.
The Crowd Favorites
While variety is a hallmark of the menu, certain dishes have won loyal followings. Guests rave about the signature momos, the rich and flavorful Murg Musallam, and the ever-comforting Dal Makhani. Meanwhile, the Thai curry has quietly cultivated a fanbase of its own, offering a taste of Southeast Asia in the heart of Goa.
Authentic Ingredients, Honest Cooking
Quality is non-negotiable at The Kitchen On Top. Ingredients are sourced from local vendors, and where tradition demands, specialized elements are brought from their places of origin—Lucknow for spices, and Malvan for authentic masalas. This ensures each dish carries an honest, distinctive flavor profile.
The restaurant is also sensitive to dietary preferences, offering a wide selection of vegetarian and vegan options, making it inclusive for a broad spectrum of diners.
A Personal Touch to Service
Customer service goes beyond just hospitality—it’s about creating connection. The restaurant emphasizes a welcoming, colorful environment, where guests feel at home from the moment they walk in. The staff is trained to be attentive, warm, and adaptive to each customer’s needs.
One of the most touching moments came from an elderly guest who arrived during his recovery, needing homely, comforting food. His heartfelt appreciation and continued loyalty have left a lasting impression on the team, symbolizing what The Kitchen On Top truly stands for.
Challenges, Creativity, and Consistency
Running a restaurant, as Yudhik puts it, is like hosting an ongoing dinner party—unpredictable but endlessly rewarding. The key lies in staying agile, creative, and deeply committed to quality. From building a consistent team to managing dynamic operations, every challenge has been approached with a solution-oriented mindset.
Competition in Goa’s bustling dining scene is fierce, but The Kitchen On Top chooses to stand apart rather than race ahead. Community engagement plays a vital role, with initiatives like Latin Socials and themed events drawing patrons for more than just food—they come for the atmosphere, the music, and the sense of belonging.
Digital Presence with Purpose
In today’s world, a restaurant’s reputation lives both offline and online. The team understands the power of social media, using it effectively to offer behind-the-scenes peeks, showcase signature dishes, and share customer stories. Their digital strategy focuses on authenticity and interaction, fostering a sense of connection beyond the physical space.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, the vision is clear: expand with purpose while preserving the identity that made The Kitchen On Top a beloved name. Growth will come from adaptability, innovation, and staying rooted in the core values of hospitality and excellence.
With every plate served and every guest welcomed, The Kitchen On Top continues to build not just a restaurant, but a legacy—one where food, family, and flavor come together on the rooftop of South Goa.
