Goa is known for its vibrant food scene, but when you find a slice of Thailand hidden among the palm-lined paths of Candolim, it’s a celebration you cannot miss. As part of my series “Trying the Best Asian Restaurants in Goa,” I visited Banyan Tree at Taj Holiday Village to experience their exclusive Songkran Menu — and what an unforgettable experience it turned out to be!

The Cultural Significance of Songkran

Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year, is much more than a festival of water. Celebrated in mid-April, it marks a time of cleansing, renewal, and merit-making. Symbolizing the washing away of past misfortunes, people take to the streets with water guns, flower garlands, and smiles that reflect joy and gratitude.

What’s beautiful is how closely it resembles Holi in India — the festival of colors. Both celebrations are deeply rooted in joy, community, and new beginnings. Just as Holi uses color to spread happiness, Songkran uses water as a spiritual and physical cleanser.

While Thailand bursts with water fights and temple rituals during Songkran, Banyan Tree brought the celebration to Goa through a different — yet equally delightful — medium: food.

First Impressions: A Zen Escape

From the moment you walk across the quaint little bridge leading to Banyan Tree, you are transported into a different world. Nestled around a 300-year-old majestic banyan tree, the restaurant exudes a calm, almost spiritual vibe. Flowing water, lush greenery, and beautifully curated Thai decor set the tone for what was going to be a soulful experience.

A Refreshing Start

Before the feast began, we were welcomed with an amuse bouche and a refreshing mocktail to cleanse our palates. That very first sip instantly took me back to the bustling yet serene streets of Thailand. It was a small but thoughtful gesture, setting the stage for the culinary journey ahead.

The Culinary Journey

Appetizers

• Grilled Scallop, Pomelo Salad: A delightful balance of textures and flavors. The scallop was perfectly grilled and paired beautifully with the tangy sweetness of pomelo.
• Stir Fried Chicken Wings in Garlic Pepper: Crisp, juicy, and packed with garlic-pepper goodness. Finger-licking delicious!

Soup

• Tom Soup Bai Phak Praew – Shredded Chicken: A clear, light broth infused with Thai herbs freshly plucked from the Banyan Garden. Comforting and aromatic!

Salads

• Raw Mango Salad with Roasted Coconut and Chilli Garlic: A refreshing burst of flavors, this salad had the right balance of tang, spice, and crunch.
• Fried Rice Salad with Ginger, Mint, and Chilli: A unique and stunning dish. The salad-style rice offered bold flavors and an incredible texture play.

Mains

• Sikhrong Kaea Phad Cha – Lamb Chops with Green Peppercorns and Thai Ginger Root: Melt-in-the-mouth tender! The lamb was cooked to perfection, and the green peppercorn sauce added a zesty kick.
• Phad Thai Woonsen – Stir Fried Glass Noodles with Prawns and Chicken: This Chicken Pad Thai made with glass noodles was a standout — perfectly cooked, flavorful, and had that authentic sweet-savoury balance that makes Thai food irresistible. A true crowd-pleaser!
• Shrimp Fried Rice and Chicken Fried Rice: Ordered especially for my son, both versions were comforting, well-seasoned, and packed with umami. The kind of food that hits just right when you’re craving something familiar yet flavourful.
• Thai Green Curry with Jasmine Rice: Creamy, fragrant, and one of the best I’ve had! The richness of coconut milk blended beautifully with the bold green chili, Thai basil, and kaffir lime — making each bite warming and memorable.

Dessert

• Mango Sticky Rice with Coconut Cream: The showstopper! Honestly, this version was better than what I’ve tasted even in Thailand. The mango was fresh and sweet, and the sticky rice was perfectly balanced with luscious coconut cream.

Chef’s Touch: The Heart Behind the Flavors

Special mention must be made of Chef Lily, who hails from Thailand herself and heads the kitchen at Banyan Tree. Her personal touch, authenticity, and commitment to flavors shone through every single dish. Having had her scallops years ago, it was only because of her magic that I dared to try them again — and I’m so glad I did!

The Taj Hospitality

Needless to say, the Taj hospitality made the entire experience even more memorable. The service was impeccable, warm, and intuitive, making us feel truly celebrated.

Watch the Full Experience Here

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Relive every bite, laugh, and moment of joy with me — from the zen walkway to the last spoonful of mango sticky rice!

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Goa and craving a true Thai experience, especially during Songkran, Banyan Tree at Taj Holiday Villageshould be at the top of your list. From the serene ambiance under the banyan tree to the unforgettable flavors crafted by Chef Lily, it was nothing short of a foodie’s dream come true.

📈 Cost for Two: ₹2,500 – ₹3,000 (approx)

Till next time, keep exploring, keep tasting, and keep celebrating life — one bite at a time!

Follow more foodie adventures on Instagram: @ikreatepassions