Even though one never needs an excuse to go to Goa, if you are still looking for one, the state's culinary scene is a compelling one. From Assagao to Fontainhas, pick any area, and you will find some of the best restaurants serving up unique flavours. While the old-school favourites like Joseph's Bar and the fairly new ones like Makutsu and Bomras are still worth making a beeline for, here is our list of a few new spots you must put down on your must-try list for your next trip:

　　Issa

　　While it is completely justified to crave a beach view with your meal, Issa truly steers away from the obvious to present you with an equally charming sight—that of the placid Chapora River. Spread across two floors, the riverside dining space is infused with a calm vibe that is only affirmed with the fluid and bohemian decor, complete with line murals and rattan furniture. Even more exciting is the menu, which traverses through a range of cuisines—from Mediterranean to Goan. If you are a seafood lover, order the chonak ceviche and inji puli prawns.

　　Address: Vibe Hospitality Private Limited 168/1, next to RiverBanks, Siolim, Goa 403517

　　Timings: 12 pm to 1 am

　　Birch By Romeo Lane

　　If you can't get enough of how beautiful the riverside looks, then there is another spot where you can sit back and admire its beauty with a good cocktail in hand. Located in Arpora, this resto-bar sets just the right mood with its moody but quirky decor—think colourful face masks up on the wall, cosy cabana style seating, rattan furniture, and lots of plants. The menu also gives plenty of reasons to be excited, chief among them is the extensive list of refreshing cocktails that includes both classics and new mixes. Our pick is the cardamom-infused Kannur Queen and the heady Konkan Tej.

　　Address: 502/1, Sankwadi, Arpora, river, near lazy Lagoon, Baga, goa, Goa 403518

　　Timings: 12 pm to 2 am

　　Tanjore Tiffin Room

　　If you are missing home for a minute, head to Tanjore Tiffin Room's newest outpost in Goa. Set in a 150-year-old Portuguese bungalow, the ambience prepares you for the homely and delicious flavours characteristic of Tamilian cuisine. If it is your first time, their poondu kolumbu, Coromandel clams, prawn biryani and omelette curry are highly recommended. And their list of cocktails are also foolproof—sour patch is our favourite!

　　Address: 1111, Road, near Orchard Stores, near Corporation Bank, Mazal Waddo, Anjuna, Arpora, Goa 403509

　　Timings: 12 pm to 1 am

　　Juna

　　Located in the ever-happening Anjuna, Juna is just the place you want to head to after a long day at the beach to unwind with a chilled beer. Set in the courtyard of a Goan house and overlooking the paddy fields, Juna puts together a cosy and laidback atmosphere that takes on a lively avatar as night sets in. While the menu is just as fun with dishes like pork serranitos and hearty sliders, their cocktails is what steals the show. We vouch for their newest one, see-saw, which features a blend of vodka, pistachio, basil and green chili strained over crushed ice.

　　Address: 1108/1, Kutchem Bhat, Anjuna, Goa 403509

　　Timings: 8 pm to 2 am

　　Olive Bar and Restaurant

　　Yes, Olive Bar is not new and is an all-time favourite, but their revamped interiors will ensure a completely new experience. Located in Vagator and overlooking the sea, Olive is just the right place to head to for a romantic dinner. Infusing it with even more are the new furnishing, plants and the breezy setting. Must-haves from the menu are Pan Seared red Snapper with Romesco, Crispy Pork belly wIth vermouth Jus fennel & rosemary, Mushroom Tortellini, Seafood Gumbo Risottos.

　　Address: Unit 1 , Vagator Helipad Big Vagator, Anjuna, Goa, 403509

　　Timings: 12 pm to 12 am