Nora’s Cantina at Novotel Goa Panjim is a place where Spanish flare meets Portuguese Soul- one plate at a time
Tucked away in the vibrant heart of Panjim, Novotel Goa Panjim offers a seamless blend of contemporary sophistication and subtle Goan charm. Its central location in Patto places it within easy reach of the city’s colonial-era architecture, bustling streets, and cultural
attractions. Among its many offerings, Nora’s Cantina, a Spanish and Portuguese inspired tapas bar, stands out as a culinary destination in its own right.
Nora’s Cantina is a celebration of Spanish and Portuguese flavours brought to life in an inviting, thoughtfully designed space. The interiors evoke a rustic Mediterranean ambiance, with blue-and-white Portuguese pottery adorning the walls, and cascades of hanging greenery softening the contemporary edges. The setting is warm, intimate, and perfect for both casual dinners and festive gatherings.
The drinks menu presents an imaginative array of in-house mocktails, cocktails, and classic spirits. We began our evening with two of their signature non-alcoholic creations: the Bubbly Nora, a playful blend of bubblegum syrup, pineapple juice, and sparkling water; and Drive Me Home, a more complex mix of raspberry syrup, ginger, fresh lime, and mint. Both were refreshingly balanced and served as a vibrant introduction to the meal.
Our tapas journey commenced with Gambas al Ajilo, − succulent prawns sautéed in garlic, thyme, chili flakes, white wine, and lemon. The dish was executed with precision; the prawns were tender and infused with aromatic depth, offering a beautifully layered flavor profile.
From the selection of mains, the Pollo alla Antigua stood out for its comforting, soulful character. The braised chicken, slow-cooked in white
wine with figs and rosemary, was paired with seasonal vegetables and silky mashed potatoes. The dish achieved a fine harmony between sweet and savory, with the richness of the chicken and figs offset by the herbaceous undertones.
No Spanish menu would be complete without Paella, and Paella Española de Marisco delivered on all fronts. Featuring Bomba rice studded with clams, mussels, calamari, and prawns, the dish was infused with smoked paprika and bell peppers, creating a smoky, briny depth. The rice retained the perfect al dente texture, absorbing the richness of the seafood stock without becoming overwhelmed by it.
Desserts at Nora’s are not an afterthought, they are a grand finale. We sampled three standout options: the Spanish Turrón Tiramisu, which offered a novel twist on the classic with a pistachio nougat base and subtle notes of Baileys and dark rum; the Pastel de Nata, a delicate Portuguese custard tart with a flaky crust and creamy cinnamon-scented filling; and the Crema Catalana, a traditional custard with lemon zest and cinnamon, finished with a glassy caramel top and fresh mango cubes. Each dessert was executed with finesse, reflecting the kitchen’s dedication to honoring authentic flavours while adding thoughtful flourishes.
Nora’s Cantina succeeds not just in serving food, but in creating a transportive experience, an evocative journey through Portuguese and Spanish coastal towns, right in the heart of Goa. It being housed within Novotel Panjim adds convenience without compromising on character.
Whether you are a local exploring new flavours or a traveler seeking a memorable meal, Nora’s Cantina is well worth the visit.
