Delfino’s Goa is not just a supermarket; it is a retail landmark that has redefined the shopping experience in the sunshine state. Since its establishment in 2012 by the Armacar Group of Companies, a family-run conglomerate with over 55 years of history in Goa, Delfino’s has grown into a "one-stop destination" for locals and tourists alike.
With major outlets in Porvorim, Candolim, and Taleigao, Delfino’s stands out for its vast inventory, high-quality fresh produce, and a range of on-site amenities that transform a simple grocery run into a lifestyle outing. The Delfino’s Experience: What to Expect
Delfino’s is widely regarded as one of the best hypermarkets in North Goa, often compared to other giants like Newton’s but frequently praised for its friendlier staff and more organized layout.
Freshness First: The supermarket is famous for its fresh perishables. Regulars recommend visiting between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM when the day’s stock of fruits, vegetables, fish, and meats is replenished.
The In-House Bakery: A major highlight, particularly at the Taleigao branch, is the live bakery where chefs prepare everything from local Goan pãos and poees to Western-style cakes and snacks.
A "One-Stop" Hub: Beyond groceries, you can find a comprehensive liquor store with rare foreign brands, a pharmacy, gardening tools, and even home appliances like BBQ grills. Dining and Social Spaces Delfino's Megamart
Teen Building, Alto Porvorim, PORVORIM, Penha de Franc, Goa 403521, India Delfino's | Goa's most loved Supermarket
What we sell * Fruits & Vegetables. * Grocery & Staples. * Poultry. * Fish. * Meats. * Cooked Food. * Dairy. * Liquor & Beverages. www.delfinos.in Retail done right - Business Goa
Delfino's Hymart is a prominent family-run supermarket chain in Goa, known for offering a "one-stop-shop" experience that blends modern retail with local Goan flavor . Established in 2012 by the Armacar Group
, a business with over 55 years of history in the region, the chain is currently managed by the Pereira family. Business Goa Key Locations & Features
Delfino's operates three major hypermarkets across North Goa, each serving as a hub for both daily essentials and specialty goods: www.delfinos.in
Located on the main Fort Aguada Road, this branch is highly popular with tourists for its extensive liquor collection, including rare foreign brands and local miniatures.
Situated on the Panjim-Mapusa Highway (NH-66), it is one of Goa’s largest supermarkets. It features a large wine store, pharmacy, florist, and restaurants. Taleigao (Panjim):
A newer 7,000-square-foot outlet located near St. Michael's Church, serving the capital city's community. Business Goa Product Offerings
The stores are well-organized and air-conditioned, providing a vast range of products: Fresh Produce & Meats:
Daily restocks of fruits and vegetables (best visited between 8–10 AM) and a clean, dedicated meat and seafood section. Specialty & Health Foods:
Includes Goan masalas, pickles, sausages, gluten-free pastas, and traditional flours like Ragi. Home & Lifestyle:
Kitchenware, home appliances, stationery, gardening tools, and basic linen.
Known for a comprehensive selection of wines, beers, and spirits at fair prices. Business Goa Dining at Delfino's: Kokum Curry A standout feature of the Candolim and Panjim locations is Kokum Curry , a restaurant located on the upper floors. Tripadvisor Kokum Curry Above Delfino's Hymart Candolim Goa
Delfino’s HyMart (often misspelled or searched as "Delfino 39-s") is a leading supermarket chain in Goa, known for its extensive range of local and imported goods. Whether you are a local resident or a tourist in the Northern belt, Delfino's serves as a one-stop shop for everything from daily groceries and fresh produce to international chocolates and a massive liquor collection. Store Locations & Hours
All three major outlets typically operate from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
Porvorim (Megamart): The largest branch, located at Teen Building, NH 17 (NH 66), Alto Porvorim. It's a massive shopping complex near Mandovi Hospital that includes a pharmacy, florist, and nearby restaurants.
Candolim (HyMart): A popular tourist spot on Fort Aguada Road, near Alor Holiday Grand Resort. It is highly rated for its convenience and reliable stock.
Taleigao (Panjim): Located at Adwalpalkar's Stellar near St. Michael's Church, serving the Panjim community with a spacious layout. What to Buy Delfino's Hymart
grande resort, Fort Aguada Rd, near alor, Candolim, Goa 403515, India Delfino's Megamart
Teen Building, Alto Porvorim, PORVORIM, Penha de Franc, Goa 403521, India
The Palolem Experience
Eating at Delfino’s is an atmospheric event. The shack opens directly onto the sand. By day, it is a refuge from the heat, filled with backpackers comparing tan lines and reading dog-eared paperbacks. By night, the soft light of kerosene lamps and the sound of lapping waves create a vibe that money cannot buy.
There are no reservations. There are no airs of pretension. You sit on plastic chairs, sink your feet into the sand, and wait patiently. During peak season (November to March), a queue forms from 7:30 PM onward. Locals advise arriving early or ordering a takeaway to avoid the rush.
7. Common Complaints (And How to Avoid Them)
No place is perfect. Here are the honest downsides reported by guests searching for "delfino 39-s goa" reviews.
- Slow Service During Rush Hour: If you order a pizza at 8:30 PM on a Saturday, it will take 45 minutes. Solution: Order your second pizza before you finish your first.
- Persistent Vendors: While Delfino’s staff won't bother you, local women selling beaded jewelry or henna will walk past your sunbed every 20 minutes. A polite "No, thank you" suffices.
- The High Tide Factor: In January, the tide comes up very high. If you are sitting on the front row at 3 PM, your bag might get wet. Solution: Move your towel to the rear rows after lunch.
How to Book the "Delfino 39-s"
Addressing the typo: Since the official name is "Delfino’s," be careful when booking online. Do not search for "39-s."
- Direct Booking: Call the number listed on their official (though basic) website or Instagram. This is often cheaper than aggregators.
- Price Range: Expect to pay between ₹5,000 to ₹12,000 per night (approx $60–$150 USD) depending on the season and room type (Sea View vs. Garden View).
5. The Pandemic Effect (2020-2022)
During the COVID-19 lockdowns, Palolem Beach was deserted for two consecutive seasons. Delfino’s survived by pivoting to home delivery within Canacona town and selling packaged spice blends and bottled sauces online. The crisis accelerated digital adoption: a WhatsApp order system and an Instagram presence with over 15k followers. By 2023, Delfino’s had regained 90% of pre-pandemic revenue, but staffing shortages remain an issue as young workers migrate to city jobs.
The Cottages
Delfino’s offers roughly 10 to 12 permanent concrete and bamboo structures right on the high-tide line.
- Amenities: Unlike basic camping, these come with air conditioning (essential even in winter for some), en-suite Western bathrooms with hot water, mini-fridges, and private sit-outs with hammocks.
- Seasonality: The shacks are erected in October and dismantled in May (before the monsoon).
- Noise Warning: While romantic, understand that you are on a beach. You will hear the waves (beautiful) and the neighboring shacks' music (manageable).
1. Introduction
Goa’s hospitality sector relies heavily on beachfront shacks—temporary, family-run restaurants operating between October and May. Among these, Delfino’s stands out for its consistent quality, loyal clientele, and strategic location at the quieter southern end of Palolem. Unlike the party-centric northern beaches, Palolem attracts mid-range travelers seeking relaxation, making Delfino’s a key player in “slow tourism.”
5. Tips for Visiting
- Reservations are Key: Delfino 39 is extremely popular, especially during the peak season (November to February). Walking in without a reservation can lead to a long wait. Call them or book via Instagram/WhatsApp if possible.
- Dietary Requirements: The staff is knowledgeable about allergies and dietary restrictions. They have excellent Vegetarian and Vegan options (especially the vegan pizzas and pasta).
- Best Time to Go: Go around 7:30 PM for dinner. It allows you to enjoy the transition from twilight to the twinkling lights of the restaurant at night.
- Parking: Parking in Vagator can be tricky. There is usually limited parking near the restaurant, so you may have to park a bit further down the lane and walk.