Where GQ's Eating

MAAI |THE COFFEE | THE READY-TO-DRINK| THE WHISKY | BALSA |PEOPLE OF TOMORROW

- SAUMYAA VOHRA

MAAI GOA

Within the walls of a formerly crumbling (but now restored) Portuguese villa in Assagao, Maai manages to be perfectly emblematic of New Goa-a version of Feniland for the traveller, not the tourist. A far cry from the beach shacks bursting at the seams with urban partygoers, Maai mirrors its aesthetic in its menu, a blend of Goan and Portuguese recipes—think braised peri-peri clams, chorizo hummus, and raw banana cutlets.

A cocktail in hand at all times is a good philosophy—particularly the Maai sage (tequila, guava, and homemade pepper liqueur), which might evoke a childhood memory of eating guavas sprinkled with salt and chilli powder.

THE COFFEE

EARLY HARVEST, POCKET BREW, AND CASCARA BON BONSARAKU COFFEE