Tito's Goa

In the era of flower power, places like Tito’s were the precursor to Goa’s stronghold as a vacation destination. Back in 1971 Tito Henry De Souza moved back to his home state from Kenya and decided to develop the tourism potential of Goa. Tito’s came to life on the sands on the coast of the Arabian Sea; domestic and international travellers were served dinner by the gentle light from the balao (traditional lantern) to the symphony of waves.

Evolving over the years, today it exudes a sophisticated aura. The newly renovated open air dining section is the Tito’s Courtyard, which seats 120 people and is a delightful setting for a meal from an informal breakfast to a formal dinner. Transparent glass allows diners a peek into the kitchens and the wait for dinner passes soothingly with energising cocktails and reflexology treatments.

Cool sea breeze fans across the large rectangular space which doubles up as the arena for fun events like Fashion Fridays and the famed New Year bashes. Each evening during the ‘season’ (October to April) there is varied entertainment – fire dancers, serenaders and karaoke.

Living up to expectations, Tito’s nightclub provides clever touches; mirrors reflect fascinating images of the ever-throbbing clutch of people. The club with an entrance of its own has reinforced shatterproof glass walls to contain the sound of the music which is mainstream commercial. Come Christmas and New Year’s Eve, 3000 revellers party between the two spaces.

Further along, hugging the curve of the road to the beach is Mambo, with 60 covers. Blending the warmth of wooden floors with the airiness of a high thatched ceiling, the front opens out, creating a mood that is informal and laidback. Food here is good and is served from a snack counter. Here too is a glass cabin of a dance floor where the emphasis is on house and experimental music. For those who want to get more adventurous, there is a bucking bronco to challenge.

After Tito passed away, his wife Lucille held the reins until her two sons David and Ricky learnt enough to run the business. They believe in constantly pushing the ante up; they renovate, remodel and create a fresh look almost each season.

Says David De Souza, “We do our best to live up to the expectations of our guests. We do not stint on costs when it comes to giving value, whether in renovations or adding more entertainment.” A striking feature in all three places is the strict security; guests are screened at the entrance, their bags, pockets checked and there is constant monitoring to prevent unpleasantness.

The family Tito has a driving ambition to place its stamp on the entertainment map of the state; between them the brothers are part owners in a clutch of nightclubs; Kamaki, Cocktails and Dreams, and Ivy. Each club has a distinct identity with its own regulars.

The Tito’s Foundation runs a free ambulance service and also offers vocational training to women and children. “We would like to give back to the community that has nurtured us,” says De Souza.

Text: Sanjana Mendes