da Gama canteen
Modern Indian restaurant · Memorial ·
Portuguese-Indian fusion dishes, curries, paellas, and creative cocktails
%20Photo%20by%20Daniel%20Benavides.jpg "da Gama canteen by Daniel Benavides")
Portuguese-Indian fusion dishes, curries, paellas, and creative cocktails
"Took home a Bib Gourmand—recognition of great food at great prices—and, per Michelin, this designation signals 'good quality food for a good value' and is often a 'personal favorite' among inspectors." - H. Drew Blackburn
"Named for Vasco da Gama and located in Houston Heights, this kitchen from Chefs Shiva and Rick Di Virgilio fuses Portuguese and Indian cuisines inspired by Goa, East Africa and Portugal into a tapas-style menu of bold, vibrant flavors. Must-orders include chana masala (braised chickpeas and potatoes with basmati rice) and beef mishkaki (East African–style marinated beef tenderloin with fried yuca, kachumber and raita), while a piping-hot pastel de nata with flaky shell and rich custard makes for a perfect finish." - The MICHELIN Guide
"Husband-and-wife team Shiva Patel and Rick DiVirgilio draw inspiration from their Indian and Portuguese-Italian roots for the menu at Da Gama. Find fusion dishes like lamb keema pizza alongside Portuguese-style saffron paella, bullet naan, and crab pani puri. The dining room is as arresting as the food, with delicate arches above cushy booths, eye-catching artwork, and warm wood accents." - Brianna Griff
"This restaurant will host a festive night market featuring homemade chai, special Diwali confections, and curated dishes prepared by chef-owner Shiva Patel, alongside a lineup of local vendors and a henna artist, creating a casual, market-style celebration centered on food and community." - Brittany Britto Garley
"Operated by hospitality veterans Shiva Patel and Rick DiVirgilio of Oporto and the now shuttered Queen Vic, Da Gama harmoniously melds the flavors of Portuguese and Indian cuisines in a chic and modern setting. In addition to traditions like chili paneer, samosas, and pani puri, the menu intrigues with plates like arroz do campo, a Portuguese-style paella, and Mediterranean black mussels in curry. As a bonus, Da Gama has many plant-based plates." - Brittany Britto Garley, Eater Staff