The region ‘Taluka’ of Malvan (from the Sanskrit word MAHA-LAVAN, or the great salt pan) is situated on the western coast of India and is known for its untouched greenery, pristine beaches, historical forts, culture, and its unique cuisine. Malvani cuisine is known for its flavorful and spicy dishes, particularly those featuring seafood. While predominantly non-vegetarian, with a strong emphasis on seafood, Malvan cuisine also offers a variety of vegetarian options, a unique blend of Maharashtrian and Goan culinary influences. Executive Chef Eric McCarthy, a native of Goa, was exposed to Malvani cuisine while he was employed at the acclaimed Taj Group in Goa and Mumbai. Chef Eric refers to Malvani cuisine as a ‘cousin cuisine’ to his native Goan cuisine, with many overlapping spices and cooking techniques, yet having its own distinct flavors, or as he puts it, ‘all malvan food is Konkan, but not all Konkan food is Malvan’