Divo Café & Bar, the new hotspot for global fusion food, delectable café bites and excellent cocktails along with euphoric sounds of live music, recently opened its doors amidst much fanfare in Calangute, Goa. With a vision to create an unmatched value proposition in the hospitality industry in India, two young and dynamic entrepreneurs, Trivesh Ajgaonkar and Shikar Kumar, have come up with this one-of-a-kind premium café and bar in Goa’s flagship beach destination.
Present at the grand opening of Divo Café & Bar were Mr. Michael Lobo, Deputy Speaker of Goa Legislative Assembly, and MLA Calangute Manohar Ajgaonkar, Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, along with other dignitaries.
Speaking at the launch, Lobo stated, “I congratulate Trivesh Ajgaonkar and Shikar Kumar on their new venture which is located not only in my constituency but also in the prime coastal belt that draws lakhs of tourists looking for new hot spots in Goa. I am delighted that Divo Café & Bar has been conceptualized to give tourists an all new experience of fine dining while simultaneously showcasing Goa’s heritage and culture. I wish this new venture grand success and a prosperous future.”
Other dignitaries present at the launch of Divo Café & Bar included Vijay Sardesai, Minister for Town and Country planning, Rohan Khaunte, Revenue Minister, Vinod Palyekar, Water Resource Minister, Jayesh Salgaonkar, Minister of Housing, Deepak Pawaskar, GSIDC Chairman, Shrinivas Dempo, Chairman of Dempo Group of companies, Suraj Lotlikar, GCA president, Victor Albuquerque, Chairman and Managing Director of Alcon Victor Group, Agnelo Fernandes, Ex-MLA of Calangute, Anil Counto, Chairman and Managing Director of Alcon Enterprises, Savio Messias, President TTAG, Babu Quenim, Managing Director, Mandovi Hotels, Babush Monserrate, Chairman GPPDA, Mrs. Jennifer Monserrate, Taleigao MLA, Nandan Kudchadkar, Founder, LPK waterfront and Suraj Morajkar, Managing Director, Sun Estate Developers.
Sharing his inspiration behind the launch, Mr. Ajgaonkar, who will be spearheading the operations of Divo Café & Bar stated, “It was early April this year, when I along with my team of young enthusiasts got together to brainstorm on a business idea. We wanted to open a contemporary restaurant that would represent the charming heritage of Goa and draw upon international flavours through an innovative menu. Hence, the idea of opening Divo Café & Bar was born.”
Located right on the main street of Calangute, the Divo Café & Bar has been given a vibrant and energetic vibe by Rhea Kumar, the brain child behind the chic interior of the place along with Manuela Mendonca Gomes, noted Goan illustrator. The interiors of the café have been seamlessly blended with its adjoining busy street by adding a beautiful glass facade. To give a luxurious feel of a bar and yet remain true to the concept of being a café, there is a subtle infusion of varying degrees of neutral grey with vibrant colours such as red and green. Tropical plants and artwork interspersed with chic interiors has given Divo a casual yet plush look.
Ajgaonkar believes that today, the designs of restobars in Goa have moved beyond coconut branches and laterite stones, to modern minimalistic influences and twists. He adds, “We have worked tirelessly on the interiors which have been inspired by the rich cultural heritage and artistry of Goa. We have also added a wall inspired by the arts of India’s most well recognized illustrator, Mario Miranda. The Mario Miranda wall is the key element within the café which showcases some of the illustrator’s most noted drawings.”
Apart from the impressive décor, the cuisine at Divo Café & Bar is equally worth remembering. Be it breakfast, lunch or dinner, there is a perfect dish for one to savour. One can start the meal with a humble yet overwhelming bowl of Tomato Basil Soup. The colourful and photogenic Divo Signature Sandwich served with a side of fries is something one must try for a quick fill. Handcrafted, delicately prepared and ready to be devoured, the Watermelon Feta Salad is perfection in every mouthful. Grilled chicken marinated in a mélange of Mediterranean spices, gives this meat dish a flavour par excellence. Back in history one of the most famous cocktails was the Moscow Mule. This age-old spirited combination has found its way into their menu as well, where it is served in the traditional Highball Copper Mug. One can also try their Kiwi and Banana Smoothie, a healthy alternative to kick-start the weekend.
The day-to-day operations at Divo Café & Bar will be handled by General Manager Sahil Joshi, an energetic and passionate hospitality professional. Looking after the kitchen operations will be Executive Chef Manas Patra, known for whipping up some of the best continental and global delicacies alongside his dedicated and most hospitable team. Divo Café & Bar located right on the Calangute-Baga main road is all set to offer a range of scrumptious food and exciting events as the tourism season commences in Goa.