nada : the goa we love
We’re excited to share a conversation with the lovely founders, Ridima Khandelwal & Aakarsh Choubey, of one of our favourite morning spots in Goa - NADA, Panjim
1. We know you love coffee and are a seekers of perfection in good taste. How has the landscape of specialty coffee in terms of awareness and consumption changed in Panjim since you opened?
Panjim’s coffee culture has evolved significantly. People are more curious and discerning, appreciating the stories behind their cup—sourcing, brewing, and flavor. Specialty coffee is now celebrated as an experience, not just a beverage.
2. Tell us about your coffee. Where is it sourced from? Did the wild monsoon hamper your storage and operations here in Goa?
We stay fluid with the coffees we serve, constantly seeking roasters doing something unique. We like to source with specific brewing ideas in mind, we offer 4–5 different coffees at any time to keep things interesting for both, us and our customers. We love coffees that are slightly forward-leaning yet deeply rooted in tradition. During the monsoon, we managed moisture by stocking for only a week ahead and vacuum-packing in small batches.
3. Your space, nada, is very calming and depicts a sense of slowing down, appreciating the beautiful products around. It definitely sparks conversations. Does that happen more in the coffee tasting room or mostly around the products?
It’s been incredibly humbling to see how people connect with the space. Sharing what we love with others has been very rewarding. For us, coffee will always be a mood—a way to create meaningful connections. The porcelain objects are displayed in a deliberately random way, inviting a sense of play and discovery as people explore the store, this often sparks fascinating conversations, while coffee helps add a soft touch to it.
4. What was the most recent exploration that inspired you? Are you busy creating anything?
We’re currently designing a line of glassware that will help enhance the coffee experience. The goal is to create pieces that amplify the intricate aromas, tastes, and flavors inherent in coffee. By focusing on elements like shape, weight, and rim design, we hope to highlight the nuances of each brew, making every sip more immersive and intentional. The collection should be ready for retail later this month.
