Mumbai, the city of dreams, is not just famous for Bollywood and its bustling lifestyle but also for its incredible street food. The city’s local markets are a paradise for food lovers, offering an explosion of flavors, textures, and aromas that define the essence of Mumbai. If you are a true foodie, you cannot miss indulging in these must-try dishes that reflect the heart and soul of Mumbai’s culinary scene.
1. Vada Pav – The Iconic Mumbai Burger
Vada Pav is undoubtedly the king of Mumbai’s street food. Often referred to as the Indian burger, this dish consists of a spicy potato fritter (vada) sandwiched in a soft pav (bread roll), complemented with garlic chutney, green chutney, and fried chilies. You can find Vada Pav stalls on almost every street corner, but the best ones are found at Anand Stall (Vile Parle), Ashok Vada Pav (Dadar), and Aaram Vada Pav (CST).
2. Pav Bhaji – A Flavorful Treat
A plate of buttery, spicy mashed vegetables served with soft buttered pav is what makes Pav Bhaji a staple in Mumbai’s food culture. The Bhaji (vegetable curry) is slow-cooked with a medley of spices, making it rich in taste. For the best experience, head to Sardar Pav Bhaji (Tardeo), Cannon Pav Bhaji (CST), or Shiv Sagar (Juhu).
3. Misal Pav – A Spicy Maharashtrian Delight
For those who love spice, Misal Pav is a must-try dish. Made with a spicy sprouted lentil curry, topped with crunchy farsan, chopped onions, coriander, and a squeeze of lime, it is served with pav. The best Misal Pav can be found at Mamledar Misal (Thane), Aaswad (Dadar), and Bedekar Misal (Pune-style Misal in Mumbai).
4. Bhel Puri & Sev Puri – Mumbai’s Favorite Chaat
Mumbai’s chaat culture is unparalleled, and Bhel Puri is the star of the show. A perfect mix of puffed rice, sev, chutneys, chopped onions, and coriander, this dish delivers a burst of flavors with every bite. Sev Puri, a crunchy cousin of Bhel Puri, consists of crisp puris topped with tangy and spicy ingredients. The best spots to enjoy these treats are Elco Pani Puri Centre (Bandra), Juhu Beach stalls, and Chowpatty Beach.
5. Kanda Bhaji – The Perfect Monsoon Snack
Kanda Bhaji (Onion Pakoras) are crispy, deep-fried onion fritters that taste best during Mumbai’s monsoons. This crunchy delight is usually enjoyed with a cup of cutting chai. Some of the best Kanda Bhaji can be found at Aaram Vada Pav (CST), street vendors in Dadar, and stalls near Marine Drive.
6. Bombay Sandwich – A Unique Twist on Sandwiches
Mumbai’s version of a sandwich is unlike any other. Stuffed with layers of spiced mashed potatoes, beetroot, cucumber, tomatoes, and chutney, and grilled to perfection, the Bombay Sandwich is a favorite street-side snack. The best places to try this are Right Place (Churchgate), Sandwich Wallah at VT Station, and Guru Kripa (Sion).
7. Ragda Pattice – A Tantalizing Street Dish
Ragda Pattice is a North Indian-inspired dish that has become a local favorite in Mumbai. It consists of a spicy white pea curry (Ragda) served with crispy potato patties (Pattice), topped with chutneys and sev. The best Ragda Pattice is found at Kailash Parbat (Colaba), Chowpatty Beach, and Elco Market (Bandra).
8. Pani Puri – The Ultimate Street Food Experience
Pani Puri is a quintessential Mumbai street food that no foodie should miss. The crispy puris are filled with spiced mashed potatoes, tangy tamarind chutney, and chilled, flavored water. The best Pani Puri can be found at Elco Pani Puri (Bandra), Badshah (Crawford Market), and Shivaji Park stalls.
9. Baida Roti – A Non-Vegetarian Delight
For those who enjoy non-vegetarian street food, Baida Roti is a must-try. It is a crispy, pan-fried flatbread stuffed with eggs, minced meat, and aromatic spices. The best places to indulge in Baida Roti are Bade Miya (Colaba), Olympia Coffee House (Colaba), and Ayub’s (Fort).
10. Falooda – A Sweet Treat to End Your Feast
Mumbai’s street food scene isn’t just about savory delights. A rich and creamy dessert, Falooda is a combination of rose syrup, vermicelli, basil seeds, milk, and ice cream. To satisfy your sweet tooth, head to Badshah Falooda (Crawford Market), Haji Ali Juice Centre, and Taj Ice Cream (Bhendi Bazaar).
11. Kebabs and Rolls – A Meat Lover’s Paradise
Mumbai is also famous for its succulent kebabs and rolls. Juicy, spiced, and grilled to perfection, these dishes are a must-try for meat lovers. The best spots include Bade Miya (Colaba), Ayub’s (Fort), and Noor Mohammadi (Bhendi Bazaar).
12. Bombay Duck Fry – A Coastal Specialty
Despite its name, Bombay Duck is actually a type of fish. This crispy, deep-fried delight is a coastal delicacy enjoyed by seafood lovers. Try it at Gajalee (Vile Parle), Mahesh Lunch Home, and Jai Hind Lunch Home.
Final Thoughts
Mumbai’s street food culture is an experience in itself. From spicy snacks to mouth-watering desserts, the variety is endless. Whether you are a local or a tourist, exploring the street food of Mumbai is a journey of flavors you should not miss.