Founded by Neha Mehta and Zubin Mehta in Sangolda, the interactive dining concept features live Puchka counters, table side Barf Ka Gola carts and a menu rooted in regional Indian flavours
National, 23 February 2026: In a restored 160 year old home in Sangolda, Goa, Vaarta introduces an immersive dining concept centred on Indian street food, memory and conversation. Founded by Neha Mehta with support from her husband Zubin Mehta, the restaurant positions itself as a refined yet approachable space where street food traditions are experienced in an intimate heritage setting.
Rather than recreating a conventional chaat counter or nostalgia themed café, Vaarta presents Indian street food within a structured dining format that allows flavours and stories to unfold at an unhurried pace. The restored Goan home retains its original arches, aged flooring and vintage windows, with interconnected lighting and preserved round bakelite power switches contributing to the old world character of the space.
At the heart of the experience is a live Puchka counter where each puchka is assembled fresh. Guests can select fillings such as Aloo Masala, Aloo Dum, Dahi Aloo and Churmur, followed by house made waters including Sharp Jaljira, Tangy Tetul, sweet Saunth and cooling Pudina. The ritual recreates the anticipation of street side service within a seated dining environment.
A table side Make Your Own Barf Ka Gola cart adds an element of participation, allowing diners to personalise flavours, textures and spice levels. The interactive element turns a familiar childhood treat into a shared experience.
The menu draws from street food traditions across regions. It moves from Palak Patta Chaat, Jhal Muri and Tokri Chaat to snacks such as Chelo Kebab, Suz Ke Seekh and Aloo Ki Taheri. Bar bites include Spinach Chop, Tujj Tikka and Chicken Roast Kulcha. Main courses feature Dalcha Gosht, Gavran Chicken, Bharwaan Karela, Moti Pulao and Cholar Dal. Desserts such as Bhapa Doi, Patishapta, Payasam, Shahi Tukda and Basundi complete the meal with familiar flavours.
The beverage programme reflects the same approach, with cocktails inspired by Indian tastes. Options include Pani Puri Popper, Kala Khatta Kamikaze, Masala Chai Martini, Nimbu Mirch Margarita and Aam Panna Sour. Non alcoholic selections such as Shikanji Sparkler and Rose and Cardamom Lassi offer lighter alternatives.
Neha Mehta, Founder of Vaarta, said, “Vaarta was born from a simple longing, the kind of food that carries memory and invites conversation. I did not want to recreate street food; I wanted to give it the space and respect it deserves.”
Neha Mehta brings over 23 years of professional experience across banking, media and IT. Educated in Political Science at the University of Calcutta, she transitioned from corporate leadership to hospitality after relocating to Goa. What began as a personal aspiration to create a bookstore evolved into Vaarta when she identified a gap for authentic Indian street food presented in a thoughtful setting.
Vaarta is located at House 280, Livrament Vaddo Casa Livrament, Sangolda, Goa 403511. The average cost for two is INR 2000 plus taxes. The restaurant operates from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
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