Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Feb 12: The ‘Goan Food Festival 2025’, organized by Ruchik Multicuisine Family Restaurant, Bantakal, a part of the Fernandes Group, had a grand opening on Tuesday, February 11.
MLC Ivan D'Souza, Daijiworld Media founder Walter Nandalike, BJP leader Jagadish Adhikari, former DySP Valentine D'Souza, and businessman Rons London inaugurated the festival along with Ruchik restaurant proprietors Wilson Fernandes and Leena Fernandes.
The Goan Food Festival will be held on February 12, 13, and 14 from 6:30 pm to 11:30 pm, featuring a variety of mouth-watering Goan delicacies. The festival experience is enhanced with a Goan DJ, live band performances, fun games, and entertainment.
Inaugurating the event, MLC Ivan D'Souza said, “Wilson Fernandes was active in the tourism sector and recognized the vast opportunities in the food industry. This led him to establish Ruchik Multicuisine Family Restaurant. 'Ruchik' in Konkani means 'tasty’, and through this restaurant, he has brought the Goan Food Festival to life. If such an event were organized in the city centers of Udupi or Mangaluru, it would attract a massive crowd. Food is always our first preference, and every state and village in India has its own unique culinary traditions. Goan food is recognized worldwide and has drawn tourists from across the globe. The coastal belt, including Mangaluru, is famous for its seafood cuisine. I commend Wilson for his courage in organizing this food festival in Bantakal. The food industry never slows down.”
Daijiworld Media founder Walter Nandalike, wishing success to the festival, said, “If this festival were extended to the weekend, it would be a grand success. I wish Wilson Fernandes all the best in his efforts to bring a new and thriving establishment to Bantakal. There is ample opportunity for enjoyment here, and with growth, support will follow.”
BJP leader Jagadish Adhikari remarked, “The objective of this food festival is not just profit-making but also introducing good food to people. Wilson is a long-time friend, and I wish him all the best in this new endeavour.”
Former DySP Valentine D’Souza added, “When I visited this place a few months ago, it was in poor condition, but today, it has been completely transformed. During my time in Karwar, I often visited Goa for its delicious food. Now, Ruchik Multicuisine Family Restaurant is bringing the same ‘Ruchik’ taste here.”
Businessman Ron Rodrigues from London also extended his best wishes for the event.
The festival was hosted by VJ Dixon, while a Goan band, traditional Goan songs, and a lively Goan DJ entertained the audience, complementing the superior-quality, authentic Goan cuisine served throughout the event.