Bappa's Café Siddhi in Merces has a rich history and a strong connection within the community, offering authentic Goan breakfast and snacks that have become favourites over generations. Annoushka Fernandes of The Goan discovers what draws people to this café.
As the morning sun illuminates Merces, locals gather at an iconic spot to indulge in a delightful, authentic Goan breakfast, never leaving without a comforting cup of tea. Whether it's pouring rain or shining bright, this is the site at Bappa’s Café Siddhi in Merces every morning. Even as the sun sets, the café continues to draw crowds, maintaining its allure throughout the day.
Bappa's Café Siddhi has been warming hearts and plates with authentic Goan breakfasts for nearly 65 years. Started by Kashinath Palekar, his dream has been lovingly carried forward by his son Sudesh and grandson Shubham, who continue to serve up tradition and love with every bite.
The café is affectionately known as Bappa, named after Kashinath, who was fondly called Bappa in Merces, explains Shubham Palekar. "Originally named Café Siddhi, many customers now know us as Bappa’s. This change came about because we're renowned for our Bappa’le bhaji, and my grandfather's nickname, Bappa, has become synonymous with our establishment," he adds.
Recalling the humble beginnings of Bappa's Café Siddhi, Palekar shares a nostalgic glimpse into the cafe's rich history: “Started by my grandfather nearly 65 years ago, it began in a small stall near our house, just 100 metres away from where we stand today. After the construction of this building, we shifted here, and the rest, as they say, is history."
People are drawn to Bappa’s Café Siddhi for its authentic flavours, states Palekar. "The special recipe passed down from my grandfather and grandmother, they would use whole spices for the bhaji. We still uphold this tradition today, avoiding powders or preservatives. The recipe has been passed down to my mother, Mithila, who continues to prepare the masalas,” says Palekar.
Regarding competition with new restaurants, Palekar dismisses any concern, stating, "I don't see it as competition. The younger generation tends to favour trendy cuisine, but that hasn't posed a problem because many still appreciate 'Bappa’le bhaji'. Parents have even mentioned that children specifically request our bhaji."
The café offers a variety of dishes including mixed bhaji, channa bhaji, mushroom bhaji, mirchi, samosas, and vadas among other Goan snacks. “Locally, we’re particularly famous for our shira, affectionately known as ‘Bappalo shiro’, and Makhan peda," shares Palekar. "Each customer has their favourite; some are drawn to our channa bhaji or mix bhaji, while others crave our samosas. Preferences vary widely among our customers."
Reflecting on the people’s affection for Bappa’s, Palekar reminisces, "My grandfather was socially involved in Merces, known for his generosity in providing free meals to many. He often gave free shira to schoolchildren walking home. I believe this legacy of care is why people still hold us dear."
Bappa’s Café Siddhi not only has loyal customers from Merces, in fact, people from all over Goa come to savour the snacks and bhaji. "We have a loyal customer base from Merces, and people travel from far-off places like Sanvordem, Pernem, and Margao just to enjoy our bhaji and snacks," Palekar proudly remarks.
Discussing their infrastructure upgrades, Palekar elaborates, "In terms of infrastructure, we renovated the place almost 10 years ago. It used to be smaller, but we expanded it significantly. We revamped the seating area and enhanced its aesthetic appeal."
While Palekar and his father effectively manage day-to-day operations, they face significant challenges with staffing. "The major issue for us is finding staff willing to work in smaller cafes. It's increasingly difficult, so we often have to recruit people from outside Goa to fill these roles," informs Palekar.
Highlighting the legacy of community bonding, Palekar emphasises, "The strong connection nurtured by my grandfather and continued by my father Sudesh Palekar, who manages the business, is essential to us. We value our customers and are committed to preserving this deep relationship."
A loyal customer shared, "Since childhood, our parents have taken us to Bappa’s for their mix bhaji. If we can't dine in, we always take it home. We cherish the food they serve—it's comforting and nostalgic."
