Make your way to Goa's new restaurant, Fireback if you're craving authentic Thai food

There are a few dishes—spanning across cuisines—that I consider to be comfort foods. From a bowl of mushroom soup to a decadent cheesecake, I turn to this list every time I need a pick-me-up. The number one spot though belongs to a bowl of warm Green Thai Curry. There is something soothing and satiating about this creamy coconut-y dish that feels like a hug from your best friend. Here is the thing though, I didn’t think I could love this Thai curry any more than I already did but that changed when I walked into Goa’s new authentic Thai restaurant—Fireback. 

Launched by restaurateur Rohit Khattar—the man behind India’s award-winning restaurants, Indian Accent, Hosa, and Comorin—Fireback sits hidden behind an old Portuguese bungalow, with a gorgeous view of St Anthony’s Church in Siolim, Goa. This new restaurant serves authentic homestyle Thai dishes (accented with a few tweaks and excellent presentation, of course) presented in astonishing new curations. This is no surprise given that multi-award-winning chef, David Thompson is heading the kitchen as the culinary director for Fireback.

Expect authentic Thai food with unique tweaks

Our very first dish, Coconut & Galangal Soup with Mushrooms, set the tone for the rest of the meal; we knew we were in for a culinary treat that would transport us into a comfortable food coma. The menu boasts authentic Thai cooking in small plates like Red Snapper and Miang Kham, assorted curries like Massaman Curry Lamb, Sour Orange Curry, and, of course, the classic Red and Green Thai curry. The open kitchen and the Josper grill take centerstage, providing guests with a host of grilled food options such as the Smokey Eggplant and Pork Spare Ribs.  

The menu boasts dishes that are unapologetically prepared using only the essential ingredients it needs—the food does away with undue additions of veggies and other ingredients thrown in just for show. Some dishes are prepared using a few tweaks to enhance the flavour whilst balancing the fusion of Thai and Indian flavours. A fine example is the Grilled Sugar Bananas which are marinated in turmeric, or the Pineapple Som Tam which uses cardamom (not commonly used in Thai cuisine). But this is not the only element that blew our minds. While in conversation with Fireback’s brand chef Swatantra Gautam, we found out that the restaurant makes its coconut milk from scratch over canned versions used by most establishments. This is a game changer as it proves their commitment to the authenticity of the food they serve. 

An intimate ambience 

Located right behind Khatter's Hosa, Fireback has an intriguing setting. With indoor and outdoor seating, you can choose to dine by the fish pond or the riverside that overlooks St Anthony’s Church. You can also sit facing the open kitchen to see the hustle-bustle of the chefs. The ambience is intimate and relaxed. So, if you're looking to try Thai food that isn't influenced by what is served in mainstream restaurants but stays true to its roots, Fireback should be on your Goa bucket list.  

Address: Fireback, At Irada Home, House No. 60/1 A1, Near St Anthony’s Church, Vaddy, SiolimBardez, North Goa 403517