Sur La Mer
north Goa
We’d heard about Sur La Mer’s dining long before visiting; the word being that its restaurant was just as good as the best in the area. We’re happy to report this to be true, all aided by the lovely setting, solid service and one very well stocked bar.
There is no restaurant space as such, rather tables dotted around the pool that increase in number at night to give a lovely informal, alfresco atmosphere. The bar is situated in one corner of the property, and much like the restaurant is an informal collection of stools, antique tables and staff members ready to make your drink. This of course is all part of the charm; in many ways Sur La Mer is one big bar and restaurant.
The complimentary breakfast covers the bases but is unspectacular, while the day menu is small but well-crafted, with snacks and salads to the fore.
But really the whole place comes alive once the sun goes down, when Epicurean owner Aneel, an accomplished cook who has designed the menu and trained the chefs personally, can often be found overseeing the bar himself.
Food is available so long as the staff are awake, and the staff are awake as long as there are guests to be served. A bell system for calling waiters is a cute touch. In-room dining is available.
Or ask us anything about it: *
Your Email *
Unlike other websites, we stay at every property we review. So ask us anything! Our expert staff will help you find the perfect room.
Menu
While a meat and fish paradise, the menu also has decent veg options including some great salads and Indian dishes.
The Indian food includes a range of classic Northern dishes with the tandoori chicken being a real standout, though really everything is outstanding, cooked expertly and tasting just as it should. If you’re craving the marinated kebabs and tikkas of North India, Sur La Mer is the place to be.
The European menu features old-fashioned favourites like the prawn cocktail alongside beef carpaccio and ceviches, traditional and innovative steaks, French classics such as escargot and duck a l’ orange, while the wonderful lemon fish is a highlight. Definitely try the chocolate fondant, we found it a perfect way to finish the night.
Dining nearby
Though unable to compete with the range of dining options further south, the Pernem district still has some real treats:
La Plage is the most established of the restaurants here, with its French cuisine still some of the best. Nowadays it has stiff competition in the form of Morjim’s Sublime and its sister venture Café Nu, in Mandrem village. Both deal in inventive international flavours using local ingredients with flair and a great instinct to feed.
For something more local, Satpurush, a few minutes walk on the main road, has a great local thali and fish curry rice.
Also check out our guide to eating in Goa.