Ye Catarina Seafood and Cocktail Lounge Debuts in Panjim

The new restaurant and bar from the Ritz Classic family pays homage to the ‘50s golden era of Goa through a contemporary lens

December 2024, PANJIM: Inspired by a popular Goan song by Henry D’Souza and Helen D’Cruz’s discography, Ye Catarina is the new entrant to the world-class Panjim culinary scene. True to its name, the restaurant is framed in a vintage setting in the Latin Quarter Fontainhas, where it blends the traditional with a dash of modern flair. By reimagining the rich cuisine, taverna, and music culture of Goa, it invites travelers to revel in an exciting new experience.

Tuzo Mog

Building on the legacy of Ritz Classic, the first restaurant to serve a fish thali, Ye Catarina’s menu features their well-connected supply of the freshest seasonal seafood. The flavours, however, are contemporised for an innovative experience of Goan-inspired, gourmet offering.

Grilled Spanish Mackerel

From delectable bar bites like the Fiery Fish Taco Bajra Tortilla to elegant mains like the Ghee Poached Reef Cod with Mussel Curry and Rice, every dish brings together French culinary styles with local ingredients. Savour the freshness of the raw and cured selections, such as the Kingfish Crudo and Grouper Carpaccio. For a truly unforgettable experience, dive into the dessert menu, featuring exquisite treats like the Gluten-Free Fig Frangipaneand the Chocolate Delice.

Channeache Rati

Curated by Countertop, one of the leading mixology curators in India, the bar menu is sure to delight with its original takes on the classics, along with a wide selection showcasing the popular Goan spirit, feni.

Named after popular Konkani hits from the 60s, the bar menu becomes common ground for sonic and palate notes. Try the Fotkiro Mog, which unlike the Konkani song translating to ‘Cheating Love’, is sour but doesn’t leave you feeling betrayed, at least taste-wise. Brandy, whiskey, and Rosso Vermouth blend with grapefruit for a happier marriage. For those of you who haven’t seen the sea, try Maka Darya Dislo Na, the rich flavours of pink guava and coconut water transport you straight to Goa’s beach.  For the picante-leaning crowd, there’s Maria Pitache—the Goan spin on everyone’s favourite cocktail replaces jalapenos with cafreal.

Grouper Carpaccio

Shanavi Dessai from the Ritz Classic Family, conceptualised Ye Catarina, after returning from Washington, D.C. Having experienced a world-class dining scene, Shanavi was keen to create something special in her hometown. “Ye Catarina is more than just a restaurant… It’s an experience. We’ve meticulously curated every detail, from the vintage decor to the soulful music, to transport you to a bygone era of elegance and charm.”

beetroot carpaccio

An inviting fusion of old-world aesthetic and modern sophistication, Ye Catarina attracts guests into a two-level building. With a dedicated zone for live performances, a stylish bar, and cozy lounge seating, one is impressed as soon as they walk in. Up the stairs, a larger space creates an ambiance for dining while enjoying the live music below, screened on a projector. The interior design draws inspiration from the trendy Goan-Portuguese architecture, deep azulejo blues, warm accents, and rustic decor. Handpicked artifacts and soft lighting further enhance the nostalgic setting. Every corner of Ye Catarina allows guests to slip back in time and experience the magical Goa of the past.

Ye Catarina plans to contribute to Panjim’s live music scene by organising unique performances of Portuguese-origin fado songs, nostalgic Konkani songs, and vibrant jazz. Travelers and residents alike can be entertained regularly with some of the best talent Goa has to offer.