This Independence Day weekend, Neighbors café in Assagao invites locals and travelers to drop the script and immerse themselves in the laid-back Goan rhythm with four days of soulful food, live music, and barefoot joy.

From August 14th to 17th, Neighbors transforms into a vibrant haven that mirrors monsoon-kissed Goa, simple, relaxed, and full of soul. The café presents a limited-edition menu crafted by Chef Konaark Sharma that blends nostalgia with creativity using humble ingredients in delightful ways.

Highlights include:

• Cream Cheese Thecha, Burrata, Crispy Onion & Fig Relish Toast — a crunchy, creamy, spicy-sweet starter.
  

  

• The Red Beet Salad — fresh and earthy to cleanse the palate.
  

  

• Cloud Sun Rise Baked Eggs with Salsa Macha — warm, bold, and perfect for holiday mornings.
  

  

• Roasted Chipotle Fish — smoky and juicy with deep spices.
  

  

• Pistachio Tiramisu — light, lush, and with a refreshing twist of green.
  

Chef Konaark shares, “We wanted this menu to feel like a weekend in Goa, easy, relaxed, and full of surprise. It’s simple food made with soul, nothing overdone, just really good and made to be enjoyed slowly.”

Adding to the vibe, live performances ranging from jazz vocals to percussion sets will fill the air, syncing with the mellow buzz of conversations and golden-hour lounging.

Completing the experience is The Aperol Ritual, a special spritz celebration, perfect for sipping alongside sunshine and laughter in the magical Goan setting.

No dress codes or fixed playlists apply,  just freedom to be yourself. Whether you pop in for a solo coffee, a long meal with friends, or a food experience worth sharing, Neighbors offers a welcoming space to relax and reconnect.

Details:

• Open: 9 AM – 8 PM
  

• Address: H.No 189, 14, Mazal Waddo, Assagao, Goa 403507
  

This Independence Day, 99 Pancakes, India’s leading QSR chain for pancakes, waffles, and desserts, is inviting guests to celebrate freedom with a sweet deal. On 15 August 2025, the brand will offer its signature Milky Way Waffle and Milky Mania Pancake for just ₹78, honoring the 78th anniversary of India’s independence.

The Milky Way Waffle pairs a crispy golden texture with rich sweetness, while the Milky Mania Pancake features soft, fluffy layers drizzled with chocolate, both perfect for an indulgent holiday treat. The special pricing is a tribute to the occasion, encouraging families and friends to gather and celebrate over something delicious.

“At 99 Pancakes, we believe in spreading happiness through our creations, and every celebration deserves its own flavor,” said Vikesh Shah, Founder of 99 Pancakes. “This Independence Day we invite everyone to enjoy a delicious treat at just ₹78. It is a privilege to be part of this important occasion and bring joy to our guests.”

With over 80 outlets in 18 cities across India, 99 Pancakes continues to innovate in the dessert segment while expanding its footprint nationwide. Guests can visit any outlet to take part in this one-day celebration and savor a bite of freedom.

Master Chef Rajesh Kumar Sharma stands as a beacon of excellence in the culinary world, celebrated for his remarkable ability to reinvent traditional recipes with a modern twist. Known affectionately as the Kebab King, Chef Rajesh's journey is deeply rooted in heritage, passion, and an unwavering commitment to preserving India’s rich gastronomic legacy.

Born into a family where cooking was more than just a profession, Rajesh inherited the flame from his father, Shri Panna Lal Sharma, a legendary chef who served iconic Indian leaders including Mrs. Indira Gandhi, Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and Shri Gyani Jail Singh. Inspired by this prestigious lineage, Chef Rajesh set out to make his own mark in the culinary world.

Professionally trained at the prestigious Imperial Hotel, he refined his skills in a wide spectrum of international cuisines. His career, now spanning over three decades, has taken him across the globe, from UAE and South Korea to Japan and Hong Kong, and across India’s major cities,  building a repertoire that bridges tradition and innovation.

A proud Gold Medalist Indian Chef, Chef Rajesh is admired for his bold recipe transformations and his ability to turn every dish into an experience. His culinary creations have consistently captured attention, earning him features in leading Indian and international publications like The Telegraph, Khaleej Times, and Skyzine Magazine. His expertise has also graced television screens on platforms such as DD Metro, Zee News, and KBS 1 TV in South Korea.

Beyond traditional media, Chef Rajesh has carved a niche for himself in the digital space. His YouTube presence serves as a culinary classroom for aspiring chefs and food lovers, where his authentic recipes and kitchen tips continue to inspire a growing audience.

Currently, Chef Rajesh works as an independent consultant, offering comprehensive guidance in launching new hotels and restaurants. From curating bespoke menus to training kitchen staff, his consultancy ensures excellence at every stage. Driven by a passion for nurturing young talent, he dedicates his time to mentoring upcoming chefs, shaping the next generation of culinary leaders.

Chef Rajesh’s work beyond Indian borders has become a cultural bridge, showcasing the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine to audiences worldwide. Whether it’s traditional tandoori fare or modern fusion concepts, his creations celebrate the essence of India in every bite.

Adding another feather to his culinary crown, Chef Rajesh Kumar Sharma’s excellence shines through in his unique dishes. One of the most celebrated being his Korean Skewered Mushrooms, a recipe that fuses international flair with Indian ingenuity.

This delicacy is a perfect example of how Chef Rajesh blends technique and taste, elevating simple ingredients into a gourmet experience.

 Ingredients:

• 8 fresh Songi mushrooms
  

• 1 lb lean beef, lamb, or goat (as preferred)
  

• 8 tbsp soy sauce
  

• 4 tbsp sugar
  

• 2 tbsp chopped medium green onion
  

• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  

• 2 tbsp sesame salt
  

• ½ tbsp black pepper
  

 How to Make:

1. Cook the mushrooms by boiling them in water.
   

2. Slice both the mushrooms and meat lengthwise into 1/8" thick strips.
   

3. Marinate them together in all the remaining ingredients for at least 2 hours.
   

4. Thread the marinated pieces alternately on skewers.
   

5. Broil until perfectly cooked and aromatic.
   

This simple yet refined dish reflects Chef Rajesh’s philosophy, using honest ingredients, smart technique, and deep tradition to craft global experiences.

With a deep-rooted mission to promote Indian flavors on a global stage, Chef Rajesh Kumar Sharma continues to transform kitchens, palates, and lives, one dish at a time.

For collaborations or inquiries, reach out to Chef Rajesh at chefrajeshkumar1969@gmail.com.