Goa’s growing café culture has welcomed a new addition with the launch of AAMI Café & Bistro in Candolim. Designed around comfort, community, and a slower way of living, AAMI introduces a space where guests can unwind and connect at their own pace.

The name AAMI translates to “we” in Konkani, a philosophy that forms the foundation of the space. More than just a café, the property combines an all-day dining experience with thoughtfully designed Airbnb stays and a restored Portuguese villa, creating an atmosphere inspired by Goa’s easy and unhurried lifestyle.

Built alongside a restored Portuguese home by the Lobo family, AAMI preserves the charm of traditional architecture through details such as laterite stone walls, terracotta roofs, skylights, high ceilings, and a classic balcao-style porch. Adding to its warm and lived-in character are carefully designed gardens by Vintage Gardens and curated furniture pieces from Pink Elephant.

The interiors continue this calm approach through soft lighting, natural materials, muted tones, and simple design details that reflect Goa’s relaxed rhythm.

The food menu focuses on comfort-led all-day dining with a mix of continental dishes and approachable Asian flavours. Guests can choose from breakfast options such as Turkish Eggs, Eggs Benedict, Avocado Toast, Hawaiian Style Breakfast, and Cinnamon Coffee French Toast. The larger menu includes dishes like Goa-inspired Podi Calamari Rings, Chilli Lime Prawns, Chicken Satay, Thai Curry Bowls, Wild Mushroom Risotto, Sriracha Chicken Pizza, and the signature AAMI Croissanwich.

The beverage menu has also been carefully curated with drinks such as Guava Chilli Martini, Espresso Spritz, Virgin Cosmopolitan, Apple Ginger Spritz, and AAMI Cold Coffee. The café has also collaborated with homegrown brands including Cream Choc artisanal Italian gelato and Mumbai-based TOISE Coffee, adding another layer to its dessert and coffee offerings.

Speaking about the concept, Rohit Lobo, co-founder of AAMI Café & Bistro, said, "There is a lot of value today placed on experiences that are louder, faster, or more visually driven. We wanted to create something that felt quieter and more lasting. A place where people could genuinely make part of their everyday lives."

Adding to this, Sudhir Lobo, co-founder of AAMI Café & Bistro, said, "Goa already has an incredible café culture, but we felt there was room for a space that felt a little softer and more grounded. AAMI isn’t built around occasion dining or spectacle. It’s built around everyday comfort and the idea of belonging."

As part of the larger experience, the property also includes Airbnb stays and a restored heritage villa featuring an indoor pool and media centre, designed for relaxed stays and intimate group experiences.

With Goa’s café culture continuing to evolve, AAMI brings a more grounded and personal approach, reflecting a growing shift towards meaningful hospitality experiences.

• Address: Casa velha block A, Candolim Rd, opposite Montero, beside Bosio Hospital, Pintos Vaddo, Candolim, Goa 403515
  
• Operational Hours: 9 AM to 3 PM | 6 PM to 11 PM
  
• Closed on: Tuesday.