TikiBab is a typical beach shack that serves excellent seafood along with Italian cuisine. You can tuck into a lobster and also enjoy some pasta and pizza at the same shack. Situated on Benaulim Beach, it’s a wonderful place to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and listen to the waves hitting the shore—a lovely spot for a long beach walk. The whole place is decorated with a traditional Tiki theme, which is why the shack is called TikiBab in the first place.
For me, the best part was the cocktails. I had three large ones, all made with a bourbon and orange mix—it was simply out of this world. The liquor takes some time to kick in, but once it does, it’s mellow and relaxing. With the sea breeze hitting you, you’re transported to another plane. As the night approaches, there’s music and karaoke at the bar. People gather to dance and sing their favorite songs together. The place is frequented by many foreigners who want to experience the real feel of sun, sand, and food in Goa. They dance until midnight, drinking and enjoying the local fish with rice.
Benaulim Beach
Guests can sit on comfortable lounge chairs that give you that perfect sinking-in feeling. The lighting is low and mellow—just right to get everyone in the mood. The karaoke equipment is top-notch, with a screen for lyrics and two mics for people to sing. I was amazed at the talent of some guests—people were doing salsa and tango on the dance floor inside the shack!
It was a coincidence—but a happy one—that we met Rekha again at the shack. She had come with a friend from England. The chap looked cheerful and even gave me a few tips about how to get to the Everest Base Camp. The food was just as good as the cocktails—I had pork ribs and butter-fried prawns, just the appetizer I needed.
It’s fun to get a bit tipsy and walk along the beach. I paused to take some lovely pictures, and a few shots that Ani took of me turned out absolutely fantastic.
TikiBab is a fun shack with a lot of character. If one chooses, you can also enjoy sheesha and hookahs at the shack. Kids are welcome at TikiBab—it’s a family-friendly place where everyone can dine and soak in the vibrancy and color of Goa.
The feel and theme of the bar are inspired by Tiki culture—an American-born art, music, and entertainment movement inspired by Polynesian, Melanesian, and Micronesian cultures. It is known for its themed bars and restaurants decorated with Tiki carvings and artifacts, exotic cocktails, and a romanticized view of island life.
Tiki culture emerged in the 1930s during the Great Depression—it was a way for people to escape reality and romanticize their lives. “Tiki” refers to the first man in Māori tradition and culture.
Do try the rum-based drinks here, especially the Mai Tai and Zombie. Till then, enjoy the pictures of what was an almost perfect night for me—with close friends, lots of dancing, and joyful banter.
