Feni and Tapas – Food Trail With Tastings & Drinks by Make It Happen

Goa’s rich culinary heritage comes alive in the ‘Feni and Tapas – Food Trail With Tastings & Drinks’ experience. Led by local experts, this guided tour immerses visitors in the flavors of traditional Goan cuisine, from aromatic curries to beloved snacks. But the true highlight lies in the opportunity to discover feni, Goa’s iconic spirit, through expertly-curated tastings and pairings. As participants uncover the history and cultural influences that have shaped this unique destination, they’ll be left eager to further explore the delectable treasures that Goa has to offer.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Food Tours In Goa.

Key Points

• This guided group tour in Panaji, Goa, offers a culinary journey to experience traditional Goan fare paired with the local feni liquor.
• The tour includes visits to local restaurants for sampling Goan dishes, as well as a trip to the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception and the Palace of Yusuf Adil Shah.
• Participants will have the opportunity to discover the unique taste of feni, a double-distilled spirit made from cashew or toddy palm, and enjoy local snacks like channa, bhajias, and kismoor.
• The tour provides an immersive experience to explore Goa’s thriving culinary scene, with a focus on the bold flavors of Goan cuisine.
• The package includes alcoholic beverages, dinner, snacks, private transportation, and coffee/tea, offering a comprehensive Goan food and culture experience.

Overview of the Tour

The guided group tour in Panaji, Goa takes visitors on a culinary journey to experience traditional Goan fare paired with the local feni liquor.

Guests will visit local restaurants and sample a variety of Goan dishes.

The tour also includes a visit to the iconic Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception and the Palace of Yusuf Adil Shah.

Throughout the experience, travelers will enjoy alcoholic beverages, dinner, snacks, private transportation, and coffee or tea.

With a maximum group size of 20 travelers, this tour provides an intimate and authentic exploration of Goa’s rich food and cultural heritage.

Goan Cuisine Highlights

Goa’s vibrant food culture takes center stage on this culinary tour, offering visitors a chance to savor the region’s signature dishes expertly paired with the local feni liquor.

As you navigate the bustling streets of Panaji, you’ll have the opportunity to:

1. Indulge in traditional Goan curry dishes, bursting with the flavors of coconut, tamarind, and aromatic spices.

2. Discover the unique taste of feni, a double-distilled spirit made from cashew or toddy palm, and learn about its cultural significance.

3. Sample local snacks like channa, bhajias, and kismoor, which perfectly complement the bold flavors of Goan cuisine.

This food trail promises an immersive experience, allowing you to dive deep into the heart of Goa’s thriving culinary scene.

Church Visit and History

While exploring the vibrant culinary scene, the tour also takes visitors to the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, a historic landmark that holds significant cultural and architectural importance in Panaji. This 16th-century church features a striking white façade and impressive baroque-style architecture, offering a glimpse into Goa’s Portuguese colonial heritage. Tourists can wander the serene interiors and learn about the church’s rich history and religious significance.

Architectural Style	Construction Date
Baroque	1541
Whitewashed Façade	1619
Bell Tower	1834
Ornate Altar	Original

The tour provides a well-rounded experience, blending Goa’s culinary delights with its captivating cultural and historical attractions.

Palace Exploration

Exploring the Palace of Yusuf Adil Shah rounds out the food trail, allowing participants to enjoy Goa’s rich history and learn about the region’s influential rulers.

The grand palace, constructed in the 16th century, showcases a unique blend of Mughal and Portuguese architectural styles.

Visitors can:

1. Admire the intricate carvings and ornate details that adorn the palace walls and ceilings.
2. Wander through the spacious courtyards and imagine the vibrant court life that once filled the halls.
3. Discover the significance of the palace in Goa’s political landscape, learning about the Adil Shahi dynasty that ruled the region.

This palace exploration provides a captivating conclusion to the Goan food and culture experience.

Feni Tastings and Pairings

One of the highlights of the food trail is the opportunity to savor the distinctive Goan liquor known as feni, which is expertly paired with traditional Goan dishes.

Feni, distilled from the fermented juice of either the cashew apple or the coconut palm, is a beloved local spirit with a rich, complex flavor.

During the tour, you will have the chance to sample various types of feni and learn about its unique production methods and history.

The knowledgeable guides will guide guests through the perfect pairings of feni with Goan specialties, allowing them to fully appreciate the nuances of this quintessential Goan experience.

Guided Group Experience

The guided group tour offers travelers an immersive and engaging experience, as they explore Panaji’s vibrant food scene alongside knowledgeable local guides.

The tour takes visitors to a variety of local restaurants, where they can savor traditional Goan fare and pair it with the region’s signature feni liquor.

Highlights of the tour include:

1. Visiting the iconic Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, a historic landmark in the heart of Panaji.
2. Exploring the Palace of Yusuf Adil Shah, a stunning architectural marvel that provides a glimpse into Goa’s rich cultural heritage.
3. Indulging in a delightful dinner and sampling a variety of snacks and beverages, all included in the tour package.

This guided group experience promises to immerse travelers in the best of Goan cuisine and culture, making it a must-do activity for any visitor to the region.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes a variety of offerings, such as alcoholic beverages, dinner, snacks, private transportation, and coffee or tea.

Travelers can expect to sample traditional Goan fare, including the local liquor feni, during the guided group experience.

The tour also includes a visit to the iconic Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception and the Palace of Yusuf Adil Shah.

With a maximum group size of 20 travelers, the experience provides an intimate and immersive exploration of Panaji’s culinary and cultural highlights.

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Gathering for the food trail tour takes place at the iconic Immaculate Conception Church, located on R. Emidio Gracia in Altinho, Panaji.

From this centrally situated meeting point, participants embark on their culinary adventure through the vibrant streets of Goa’s capital city.

The tour is operated by Make It Happen and can accommodate up to 20 travelers.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation options.

Pregnant travelers aren’t recommended to participate.

Cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Alcohol on the Tour?

No, participants cannot bring their own alcohol on the tour. The tour includes alcoholic beverages, so bringing outside alcohol would not be permitted. The tour provider will provide the alcoholic drinks as part of the tour experience.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Allergies to Consider?

The tour does not specify any dietary restrictions or allergies to consider. Participants should inform the tour operator of any special dietary needs or food allergies prior to the tour, so accommodations can be made.

Is There an Option to Have a Private Tour Instead?

Yes, the tour operator likely offers a private tour option. Travelers can inquire about a private tour when booking to accommodate their specific needs and group size. Private tours often provide a more personalized experience.

Can I Book This Tour for a Larger Group Size?

The tour allows a maximum group size of 20 travelers. However, it may be possible to book a private tour for a larger group if requested. Customers should contact the tour operator, Make It Happen, to inquire about availability and pricing for a larger group.

Is There a Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience. Travelers can cancel their booking and receive a full refund if they need to change their plans within this timeframe.

Recap

This immersive food tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore Goa’s rich culinary heritage.

Participants can savor traditional Goan curry dishes, discover the unique taste of feni, and explore the region’s diverse cultural influences through visits to historic landmarks.

The guided group experience provides a comprehensive introduction to Goa’s vibrant gastronomic scene and its captivating blend of Portuguese and Indian flavors.