Jolene by the Sea in Goa is the new dining spot with a view

Experience elevated bohemia at Jolene by the Sea in Anjuna, Goa, with modern global comfort food and stunning sea views.

Jolene — the fiery redhead who has been haunting country music playlists and singer Dolly Parton since 1973 — is not just a name anymore. She has had quite the makeover. In 2024, Beyoncé rewrote ‘Jolene’ for her Grammy-winning album Cowboy Carter, but this time, rather than pleading, she was laying down the law.

But if Jolene were in Goa in 2025, would she really be flirting with anyone’s man? I reckon, she would be too busy sipping a spritz, watching the sunset, and living her best life. You can imagine finding her at Jolene by the Sea, her eponymous restaurant in buzzy Anjuna.

This swanky 140-seater restaurant is not about heartbreak; it is about good food and great views. Former actor Amrita Arora Ladak and her husband Shakeel Ladak had always dreamed of owning a restaurant, but life got in the way — until the pandemic hit.

“Shakeel and I travel a lot, and every time we’d come across an incredible place, we’d look at each other and say, ‘One day, we have to do this,’” says Amrita. “Shakeel is obsessed with discovering bars, and me? I love fine dining — places that make you want to dress up, sit back and savour every bite.”

With time suddenly on their hands, the couple began shaping Jolene in 2020. But things really picked up pace last year, and, before they knew it, Jolene by the Sea was ready to welcome guests.

Step into Jolene by the Sea, and it feels like walking into elevated bohemia. Rattan, rope, and textured cabanas break up the space beautifully, while the indoor section channels Balinese charm with towering palm leaves and amoeba-like chandeliers. The alfresco area has stunning views of the sea and swaying coconut trees in the distance — perfect for lingering over a cocktail while the sky turns pink over Anjuna’s cliffs.

At the heart of Jolene by the Sea is its menu, designed by Chef Suvir Saran, who was part of the Michelin-starred Dévi in New York. It is modern global comfort food, indulgent yet unexpected.