Mumbai may be famous for Bollywood, but its vibrant street food scene is a flavorful reflection of its diverse cultural influences. From the aromatic spices of Muslim cuisine to the tangy delights of South Indian fare, from the distinctive flavors of Parsi dishes to the comforting simplicity of Maharashtrian cuisine, Mumbai offers a culinary adventure like no other. If you're a food enthusiast planning a trip to Mumbai, be sure to delve into its street food offerings.
Check out this article to discover the top 10 must-try street foods in Mumbai!
# Misal PavWhen it comes to Mumbai's street food, Misal Pav reigns supreme. This dish boasts a harmonious blend of curried lentils topped with poha, potato bhaji, chivada, tomatoes, and chopped onions. A spicy delight found on the bustling streets of Mumbai, it's typically enjoyed with pav. Locals in Mumbai often start their day with Misal Pav, relishing its burst of flavor and invigorating energy. Some opt to pair it with yogurt to temper the spice. For those craving tasty and spicy street food, Misal Pav is a must-try.
Where to Find: Mamledar Kacheri Misal, Thane West
# Vada PavVada Pav stands as one of Mumbai's most iconic street foods, beloved by all. It features a deep-fried potato dumpling nestled within a soft bun or pav. The dish is generously adorned with sweet and spicy chutneys, garlic powder chutney, and fried chilies. Locals often accompany this flavorful treat with a steaming cup of tea in their daily routine. Available throughout Mumbai, Vada Pav is quick, flavorful, and economically priced. Locals adore it, often grabbing one for a quick and satisfying snack. When it comes to good street food in Mumbai that's simple and incredibly delicious, Vada Pav tops the list.
Where to Find: Parleshwar Vada Pav Samrat, and Anand Stall, Vile Parle West
# Ragda PatticeAnother must-try Mumbai street food is the popular Ragda Pattice. This dish is renowned for its delightful mix of flavors and textures, featuring spiced mashed potato patties (aloo tikki) topped with a savory white pea curry known as ragda. The tikkis and ragda are then garnished with various chutneys, chopped onions, and sev, creating a satisfying and flavorful street food option. Ragda Pattice is a treat for the taste buds and a comforting snack enjoyed by both locals and visitors on the lively streets of Mumbai.
Where to Find: Kailash Parbat, Colaba
# Bhel Puri and Sev PuriTwo unmissable dishes in Mumbai's street food scene are Bhel Puri and Sev Puri, celebrated for their simplicity and amazing flavors. Bhel Puri consists of puffed rice mixed with chopped vegetables, tamarind sauce, and an array of chutneys, creating a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy tastes heightened by the crunch of sev. Sev Puri features flat puris topped with diced potatoes, onions, and a mix of chutneys—tamarind, chili, and garlic—then loaded with layers of sev. Both dishes offer contrasting textures and bold flavors, providing a quick, satisfying, and delicious experience on Mumbai's vibrant streets.
Where to Find: Juhu Beach and Badshah’s at Girgaon Chowpatty Beach
# Pav BhajiA Mumbai street food exploration is incomplete without savoring the iconic Pav Bhaji. This popular and flavorful dish consists of a spiced vegetable mash served with soft pav. The bhaji is a hearty mix of mashed vegetables like potatoes, peas, and tomatoes, cooked with aromatic spices and butter, while the pav is toasted in butter, adding a soft and buttery texture to complement the savory bhaji. Garnished with fresh coriander, chopped onions, and a dash of lemon, Pav Bhaji offers a perfect balance of spice and buttery goodness, making it one of Mumbai's most famous street foods.
Where to Find: Cannon Pav Bhaji, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
# Bombay SandwichThe Bombay Sandwich is another fantastic Mumbai street food that never fails to impress. Layers of thinly sliced vegetables, smeared with chutney, and sandwiched between buttered bread create a colorful and delicious snack. It's the perfect choice for those seeking a refreshing and wholesome street food experience in Mumbai's bustling streets, offering a quick snack to grab on the go while exploring the city.
Where to Find: Juhu Beach, Mafco Farm Fair, Worli Sea Face, and Sandwich Wallah, VT
# Baida RotiFor those craving a unique and savory delight, Baida Roti is the answer. A thin dough stuffed with a spiced mixture of minced meat or vegetables, eggs, and onions is folded and shallow-fried to perfection. This savory parcel exemplifies Mumbai's diverse culinary landscape, offering a burst of flavorful goodness with each bite. Baida Roti stands out as the best street food in Mumbai, enticing food enthusiasts with its crisp exterior and flavorful filling.
Where to Find: Bademiya, Colaba
# Pani Puri
No Mumbai street food journey is complete without indulging in Pani Puri. These bite-sized puris are filled with a spicy and tangy mixture of flavored water, potatoes, chickpeas, and tamarind chutney, providing an explosion of flavors with each bite. Pani Puri stalls are plentiful throughout the city, offering various water variants like Khatta Meetha and Hing Jeera, allowing you to adjust the taste to your preference. Pani Puri is a popular street food across India, capturing the essence of Mumbai's vibrant street food scene.
Where to Find: Juhu, Santa Cruz, Bandra
# Keema PavMumbai's delectable Keema Pav is a must-try for those who enjoy non-vegetarian dishes. This popular dish features minced meat cooked with aromatic spices, served with soft pav. The rich and flavorful Keema complements the warm pav, offering a hearty and satisfying option for meat lovers seeking a taste of Mumbai's culinary delights.
Where to Find: Parsi cafes and restaurants
# FrankieFrankie is a famous Mumbai street food packed with flavor. It features naan filled with spiced meat or vegetables, generously garnished with chutneys and onions. Available in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, Frankie is a perfect choice for a quick and flavorful snack on the go.
Where to Find: Tibb’s Frankie