Horse Shoe Bar & Restaurant — Restaurant in Goa Island

Horse Shoe Bar & Restaurant stands as a quiet sentinel to the rich blend of Portuguese and Goan culinary traditions, nestled along the serene waterfront at Rua de Ourem, Panjim. The restaurant, led by Vasco Silveira, draws its essence from his childhood in Angola, Africa, where the culinary roots of authentic Portuguese cuisine were deeply planted.

Walking into this charming establishment feels like stepping into a timeless piece of history. The walls, adorned with framed photographs and sketches, evoke nostalgia. One such sketch, created by the legendary Mario Miranda, tells the story of a cherished connection between the artist and the restaurant. The artist’s admiration for the place led him to frequent it whenever he was in Goa, and upon returning from Portugal, he even gifted Vasco a beautiful artwork. This piece, now proudly framed in the restaurant, serves as a testament to the deep bonds formed over time and the enduring appeal of this special spot.

The flavors at Horse Shoe Bar & Restaurant are nothing short of spectacular. With a menu that includes authentic dishes rarely found elsewhere, you are in for an unforgettable experience. From the rich, velvety Caldo Verde soups, bursting with vibrant greens and delicate meat slices, to the comforting Canja de Galinha, each bite brings a taste of nostalgia. The main courses, like the tender Caril de Hortaliças (vegetables cooked in a traditional Goan-style curry), are seasoned with love and tradition, while every dish seems to tell a story from Vasco’s childhood, infused with a sense of place that you can taste.

The ambience mirrors the food—warm, inviting, and rich in history. The quaint interior, with soft lighting and simple, elegant decor, offers an intimate space for friends and families to gather, much like the cozy gatherings that once took place in these very walls. The blend of Luso-Goan flavors, steeped in tradition and expertly prepared by Vasco himself, supported by his equally amiable wife, adds a personal touch that few places can replicate.

Horse Shoe Bar & Restaurant has truly preserved the unique cultural fusion that makes Goa’s culinary heritage so special. It's a place where each meal is not just a feast for the senses, but a journey through time. Whether you’re indulging in the nostalgic dishes or simply soaking in the serene surroundings, this restaurant ensures you take a piece of history with you. It remains, proudly and humbly, a beacon of the past, serving the present with love, tradition, and an unforgettable taste...

Horse Shoe has been on my list of places to dine at for a very long time. It was over the last weekend that I finally got a chance to have a meal here at dinner time. It is a small, but warm and cozy place inside. I was greeted by the host and chef, Vasco Silveira who personally sat us down for dinner. I have heard so much about this gentleman and watched his videos online and I finally was here. We ordered the Balchão de Peixe, the Porco Feijoada and unde for main course. The smoky, salty and earthy flavor of the fish was so good that it still lingers on my palate. The meat was cooked to perfect softness and the beans just added to the texture. The food was not very sophisticated and complex. It was simplicity personified. The meal and the accompanying chat with Vasco and Evelise was so heartening. It was a trip down nostalgia lane. A trip to the good old times. Hands down the best Luso Goan food I have ever had. Will highly recommend that place to anyone.

Will definitely visit more often and whenever I feel saudade !! Muito Obrigado Chef Vasco aani...

Divine food. Come here for a soul and senses exhilarating experience.

We have been coming to Goa for 20 years and as foodies have explored so many goan eateries over the years.

Horseshoe stands out for so many reasons. Its distinct portuguese influences, its ability to please diverse palates whether you are a spice lover or non spice lover. Its attention to fresh catch and quality of seafood and meat. For eg we have had clams in many places but the ones here are meatier, fuller and bigger. The clams in white wine sauce is a must try even if you are not into clams.

I loved the beef steak. The thoughtful addition of an egg fry on top, simple as it is just elevates the dish. The prawns chilly fry..so so good we just had to order two plates. Everything else was good too be it the chonak goan fish curry and rice, beef roast

More left to try for another visit.

In the desert section you have to try the serradura. The best in Goa. Mum in law demanded a second plate!!

They have published a cookbook if you are adventurous to attempt some of these...