Hey Goa, Where's The Party At

Given the sheer number of gastropubs, nightclubs and restaurants in Goa, it is not always easy to pick your place(s) to party. And, of course, you have to be at the right place at the right time, and on the right day. But fret not&mdashhere&rsquos a specially curated tried-and-tested nightlife trail that&rsquoll surely keep you in high spirits all through the night.

First, reach the new restaurant and pub, The BIG TAP (91-9130042325) in North Goa&rsquos Baga, between 9pm and 10pm on a Saturday evening to dance to the retro tunes of Goa&rsquos favourite western band, Syndicate. The colossal open-air interior has a lively bar, a casual rustic d&eacutecor and a menu consisting of Indian and international fare. Enjoy the entrancing fire and neon light bartending tricks that follow the band&rsquos performance. For drinks, ask the bartender to make you some of their special cocktails. They do a fine Black Diva (bourbon with coffee liqueur, cola and ginger), Bacardi Spice Bomb (rum with cinnamon, black pepper and mango) and classics such as Paradise and the Dry Martini.

By 12&ndash12.30am, be ready to move on to the next venue. Not too far is Candolim&rsquos Showbar (91-8805002432 ). Arrive here to find an exterior reminiscent of old cinema houses and an interior done with a retro Bollywood theme. Since it is Saturday, shake a leg to the tunes of the rock band. And, by now, do get some food in your system. Luckily, at Showbar, the grub is quite delectable. Go for the sumptuous &lsquocheezy&rsquo pav bhaji fondue (served with butter croutons) and burnt garlic chilli basil beef titbits (stir-fried beef cooked in an oriental style).

By 2am, step things up another notch by going back to Baga and hitting the dance floor at Cape Town Café (91-9923325638 ). This popular nightclub has recently been renovated to break the monotony of the old d&eacutecor and adopt a more gothic look, filled with many paintings and bright lights. Let us know if you weren&rsquot out dancing here till 4am.