I am really tired of seeing Facebook status of people saying Goahhhhh. While we not so lucky souls sweat it out and get burnt in Delhi heat, there are those few fortunate who enjoy vacations in Goa every two months. I personally miss the shacks, the seaside lazing around on the benches, the relaxed and fun environment and yes of course good sea food. I always wondered if it is possible to get the same atmosphere back in Delhi.
And then one fine day, on the invitation of AD Singh – a brilliant restaurateur who has many ace brands up his sleeves like Olive, Monkey Bar, Guppy by Ai, Soda Bottle Openerwala, Soul Fry, The Fatty Boo etc, I went to meet him at CP where Monkey Bar used to be. I saw the name Lady Baga written over the signboard. Intrigued, I got in to be mesmerised by the interiors done by his lovely wife, Sabina Singh in this upcoming property. Still giving the final touches, she was lost in her own world and I was lost in my own thoughts of the place.
Lady Baga is the name of new beach themed restaurant which will soon be coming on other parts of the country (as divulged by AD). With the front projection giving the sea feel, the effect of water came from the artificial water-curtain especially created. Sand, beach chairs, Goa pottery, bead curtains, tie dye cushions, hammocks, brocade cholis helps in completing the look and giving the much desired funk and vibe while the colourful bar and decor compliments the subdued sea view.
I ask AD Singh if he is confident of this place to do well in a market which is notorious for ubiquitous drinking watering holes, and he says, “Since there aren’t too many good food focussed place with relaxed atmosphere, I am very sure that guest will grab it”. He also feels, “Lady Baga will also be one of the few eateries that focuses on Goan food and completes the experience with its ambience”. Given that CP will also see new food focussed restaurants like ‘The G.T. Road’ which is soon opening and done by another ace restaurateur Rajan Sethi and the newly opened The Masala Trail by Osama Jalali, I too would like to see the CP market welcoming and showering their love (and money) on these outlets.
Since I had already had my lunch at The Masala Trail, I did not eat much (Food review will come soon), but whatever little cocktails I tried, I could see the hardwork gone behind. Don’t miss the Bloody Mary that uses Goan chorizo infused vodka or just the vodka shots flavoured with coconut, jamun etc. Now waiting for the litmus test which is the people’s verdict when Lady Baga launches for public on 11th Jan 2017, while I do hope this becomes a game changer for the CP market.
