Goa's Joseph Bar, understanding the charm of this old-school tavern

Earlier this year, I had to meet a Goanese friend in Goa, who quipped about this bar I must visit. That is how we landed at Goa's Joseph Bar, a very unassuming place in Panjim. Those from the metros might miss this place for it comes with no-frills, a very ordinary-looking place, with a few tables inside and a few stools by the roadside, arranged in a mostly unarranged manner. This is where the locals of Goa are, this is also where those who have made Goa their home from all over the country and the world also gather.

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Most evening at Joseph Bar are not what nightlife magazines rave about, but they are exactly what you need for a simple drink and, of course, some hobnobbing. Here, you will see an old woman poring over the day's newspaper, groups of locals discussing almost everything under the sun and the like. This is also where you would understand the meaning of Susegad, a term that's closely related to the state.
Inside, it is a small, one-room setup, equally famous for its craft beer, feni and Gundu Barman, the bartender. Most of the snacks served at the bar here are made by local women, adding to the charm. Jazz is also one of the typical feature, reserved for most of the evenings here. The bar dates back to the 70s, and was nearing extinction, thankfully revived in time by Atish Antonio Fernandes.

Walk in here for a breezy evening that is exactly what it promises, good beer, apt snacks, great company. Also, settings that are straight out of an Anurag Kashyap movie. More magical as the night advances.