The rooster crows…the world awakes. Does one remember that in Goa…perhaps in the 1940’s, the highest point between heaven and earth for the mere mortals would perhaps be the rooster seated on the rooftops of their humble abode. A vantage point, and now the descendant of that very rooster crowing in Panaji, is at the Upper House opposite the beautiful Gracia de Orta Gardens. While the area is a hub of activity in the morning, the ambience at night is magical. Walk up a beautifully decorated flight of stairs with drawings of regal old homes on the walls…a touch of the 40’s perhaps? The proprietors Prakash and Anil Periera have retained the same gracious warmth and splendor of the days gone by, but have been sensitive to the needs of the present day with a beautiful air-conditioned dinning room.
Around 80% of the diners are local Goans, which speak a lot about the authenticity of the preparations. Sorpotel, Fejuado, Beef Roulade is outstanding, perhaps their signature dish, as is the the Samarchi Kodi. Just like mother makes it. Their Feijuado and Fish Balchao evoke pleasant memories of good home cooked food. Perhaps it could be due to the fact that most of the ingredients- vinegar, coconuts, rice – are carted from the beautiful island of Divar. The deserts too are traditional. Home made bread pudding, rich with raisins and cashew nuts and the famous Alla Belle – the stuffing of coconut, honey and jaggery – a pure delight. It is ancient belief that the cock’s crow breaks enchantments and evil spells, but it is also a symbol of hope…This rooster creates enchantment, and after a meal of the local favourites you would end feeling on top of the world.
0832 2426475/ 6456330
12/24/2A Rua Cunha Rivara, Opp. Garcia de Corta Gardens, Panaji, Goa
