The White Plate by Chef Jason

Want to try something new in Goa? Chef Jason DeSouza’s White Plate serves local food with the theatrics of molecular gastronomy wrapped in marble and crystal chandeliers. A graduate from a prestigious culinary school in London, Jason refined his skills in the renowned kitchens of Gordon Ramsay and Alain Ducasse, the two members of the culinary elite. Back home, he contributed to the launch of a number of high-end companies with a flair that has become Jason’s trademark. His goal is to offer ultimate gourmet dining intertwined with the nostalgic flavours of his own Goan backyards. “True fine dining is more than merely combining trendy techniques and ingredients to make something look appealing. It’s about the experience above all”, he claims.

At first glance, the restaurant’s entrance may seem unassuming, but don’t fall for the first impression. Inside, you’ll find a chic and elegant fine-dining experience, with room for 100 guests and a sleek white facade. The stylish interiors feature contemporary decor, including high ceilings, modern furnishings, marble accents, and sparkling crystal chandeliers. The overall vibe is upbeat and sophisticated, making for a memorable dining experience.

At White Plate, the focus is on molecular gastronomy, which means you can expect an exciting and unique culinary experience that’s sure to delight your senses. The menu features a range of creative dishes that showcase innovative techniques and unexpected flavor combinations. For example, you might try the savory olive oil snow, am sol foam, caviars made from honeysuckle and cider, kokum gels, or ghee clouds of dust. These dishes offer a modern twist on classic Goan flavors, making for a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

Chef Jason incorporates nostalgia into his cooking by drawing inspiration from his mother and grandmother’s kitchens. He also adds local flavors of Goa which are significant to him. One of his signature dishes is the classic Goan corned veal tongue. “A classic Goan corned veal tongue paired with edamame pearls and a kokum gel, transports one back simultaneously to one’s grandma’s kitchen and to foreign lands, in just one bite,” he explains.

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Goa is a culinary delight, offering a diverse range of cuisine that caters to all tastes. From traditional Goan dishes to international flavors such as Chinese, Mexican, European, and Italian, each menu is vast and impressive. I can confidently say that I haven’t had a single bad meal since arriving here.

For those seeking a unique gastronomic experience infused with Goan flavors, the White Plate is a must-visit. This restaurant, located in Candolim along Beach Road, is hard to miss due to its distinctive appearance. The owners have successfully made it stand out from the crowd.

The White Plate’s chef, Jason, is a master of his craft and creates exceptional dishes. He combines his expertise with Goan influences, resulting in an exceptional culinary experience.

Upon approaching the White Plate, it’s hard to miss the impressive building, especially when compared to the wooden hand-crafted and leather shops nearby. Despite the modern appearance, the Goan vibe is still very much present.

As you enter, you’ll be greeted by an elegantly dressed woman dressed in black. Don’t be surprised if you need to step over the resident dog on the stairs to take a seat, as it adds to the Goan charm. The first impression is striking, with the decor and ambiance reminiscent of high-end establishments in cities such as London, Dubai, or New York.

The restaurant is well-maintained and inviting, with the added bonus of air conditioning – a welcome relief in the heat of Goa. Our group of four decided to begin with drinks at the bar before being seated for our meal. We were pleasantly surprised to be served an appetizer that stimulated our palates, leaving us eagerly anticipating the rest of the meal. This gesture added an extra touch of excitement to our dining experience.

The vibrant bar area adds a pop of color to the White Plate and is incredibly inviting, although you may require assistance getting onto the high bar stools if you’re on the shorter side. The bar menu offers a refreshing change of pace from the traditional Goan drinks like feni, Kings, or Honey Bee. Instead, you’ll find a diverse range of beverages that cater to all tastes. The mixologists at the White Plate are knowledgeable and create the most impressive cocktails, served in exquisite glassware.

Our group decided to indulge in the tasting menu, which allowed us to savor smaller portions from the main menu. It was the perfect opportunity to try various dishes and flavors without committing to larger portions.

(CHOOSE ANY 5)

HUMMUS BI TAHINI
YAM TORCHED ECLAIR
CELEBRITY SHROOMS
PARMESAN WASABI GARLIC EDAMAME – CRUNCHED UP
VIETNAMESE CORN CAKES – KAFIR SCENT
BUTTERNUT, KOKUM & GOAT CHEESE BRUSCHETTA CHILLI CRUNCH CHICKEN SQUARES CORNISH CRAB TIMBALE JALAPENO MOTICHUR SALMON COMPOUND CORNED VEAL TONGUE CARPACCIO THE FAMED GOAN CHORIZO – POT PIED JAMAICAN RHUM & DEMERARA CHILLI PULLED PORK BELLY

(CHOOSE ANY 1)
FORESTIER GRUB
VINTAGE ASPARAGUS CAPPUCCINO
CARIBBEAN GUINEA FOWL CONSOMME
LOBSTER BISQUE

(CHOOSE ANY 1)
A YOU & ME PLATE – STRUDEL
GREEN BEAN, BAMBOO SHOOTS & WATER CHESTNUT MOUSSAKA RATATOUILLE TIFFIN
PAN-SEARED BREAST OF CHICKEN
FRUITS OF THE KONKAN SEA
ANDAMAN REEF COD
HONEYSUCKLE SMOKED DUCK BREAST
ZATAAR-INFUSED LAMB RACK
TENDERLOIN WITH VEAL MARROW
KAFFIR LIME & CHILLI PORK SPARE RIBS

(CHOOSE ANY 1)
THE FIRECRACKER
GIANDUJA FERRERO ROCHER BRICK
LE CITRON
WHISKEY SOUR CREME BRULEE
THE FALLEN ICE

The menu at the White Plate is well-described, with the tasting menu offering smaller portions of dishes from the main menu. The prices at the restaurant are incredibly reasonable, especially when compared to the cost of dining out in cities such as Leeds or London. It’s worth noting that you can eat well in Goa for as little as £3 or £5.

When I asked Chef Jason why the prices were so affordable, he explained that he recognizes the availability of high-quality yet affordable food in Goa and wanted to reflect that in his pricing. The value for money is truly remarkable, with the tasting menu priced at 2500 rupees, equivalent to around £25. It’s hard to find such an exceptional dining experience in a stunning setting with impeccable service at such a reasonable price anywhere else.

Back in the UK, I learned that the White Plate had received multiple award nominations. On the 15th of February, the restaurant was thrilled to be the recipient of two prestigious awards, confirming its status as a top-tier dining destination.

Best New Comer Restaurant

Best Luxury Dining Experience

The West Region

Wishing the White Plate team hearty congratulations on their well-deserved awards. I eagerly anticipate my return to the restaurant in 2024