Mumbai, the City of Dreams, pulsates with a frenetic energy that extends far beyond its towering skyscrapers and Bollywood glamour. It’s on the vibrant streets, amidst the honking chaos and friendly banter, that Mumbai’s true magic unfolds – and a significant part of that magic is its legendary street food.
Forget Michelin-starred restaurants; Mumbai’s culinary crown jewels are served from sizzling carts and friendly vendors who’ve perfected their recipes over generations. Each bite is a symphony of flavours, a kaleidoscope of textures, and a journey into the heart of Mumbai’s rich culinary heritage.
Ready to embark on this delicious adventure? Here’s a curated list of 10 street food gems that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more:
Kheema Pav at Gulshan-e-Iran, Marine Lines
This iconic eatery is a pilgrimage site for kheema pav aficionados. Succulent minced lamb, fragrantly spiced and cooked to perfection, finds its home in a soft pav bun. Each bite is an explosion of flavour, further enhanced by their tangy green chutney and a dollop of creamy rabdi for a sweet contrast. Don’t forget to indulge in their legendary Chicken Tikka Masala, a true Mumbai comfort food.
Where: 15, Corner Of MRA Marg, Musafir Khana Road, Crawford Market, Mumbai CST Area, Mumbai
Price: INR 450 for two
What you must try: Chicken tikka masala, Garlic naan, Firni, Rabdi Kulfi
White Biryani at Noor Mohmaddi, Bhendi Bazaar
Step into a world of pure culinary artistry at Noor Mohmaddi. Their legendary White Biryani is a masterpiece; fluffy rice infused with delicate spices and flecked with tender chicken pieces. It’s a dish that speaks volumes about simplicity and masterful technique. Pair it with a cooling raita to truly appreciate its nuanced flavours.
Where: 179, Wazir Building, Abdul Hakim Chowk, Bhendi Bazar, Near Girgaum, Mumbai
Price: INR 300 for two
What you must try: Chicken Hakimi, White biryani
Bun Maska and Mava Samosa at Mervan’s , Grant Road
This legendary Irani cafe is a Mumbai institution. Their Bun Maska is a love letter to simplicity – a soft, buttery pav generously slathered with creamy butter. It’s the perfect accompaniment to their piping hot Mava Samosa, a golden-fried pastry filled with a sweet and rich, melt-in-your-mouth mawa (khoya) filling.
Where: Ali Bhai Remji Road, Opposite Station, Grant Road East, Mumbai
Price: INR 150 for two
What you must try: Pastries, Irani chai, Bun Maska pav
Samosa with Chola at Guru Kripa, Sion
Craving a classic street food experience? Head to Guru Kripa for their legendary samosas. These crispy, golden parcels encase a perfectly spiced potato filling that explodes with flavour in every bite. But the real star of the show is their chola – a rich and flavourful chickpea curry that complements the samosas beautifully. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself ordering seconds (or thirds!).
Where: 40, Guru Kripa Building, Road 24, Near SIES College, Sion, Mumbai
Price: INR 300 for two
What you must try: Gulab Jamun, Sweet Lassi, Chole – Bhature, Samosa Chole, Chole tikki
Tandoori Delicacies at Jai Jawan, Churchgate
For a taste of smoky, flavourful perfection, Jai Jawan is your answer. Their tandoor churns out an array of succulent kebabs, tikkas, and marinated meats, each infused with the unique smokiness of charcoal. Pair your choice of protein with their creamy mint chutney and cooling onions for a truly satisfying experience.
Where: Opposite National College, Next to Chappal Market, Linking Road, Bandra West, Mumbai
Price: INR 600 for two
What you must try: Tandoori Chicken, Punjabi Prawns Masala, Punjabi Prawn Fry
Seasonal Delights at Bachelorr’s , Charni Road
Mumbai’s street food scene isn’t just about savoury delights. Bachelorr’s in Charni Road offers a seasonal treat that’s perfect for beating the heat – the Strawberry and Cream. During the short strawberry season, this iconic stall doles out fresh, juicy strawberries generously drizzled with whipped cream. It’s a simple yet refreshing indulgence, a delightful way to cleanse your palate after a spicy street food adventure.
Where: 45, Sattar Sea View, Chowpatty Sea Face, Dr. Purandare Road, Marine Drive, Chowpatty, Mumbai
Price: INR 199 for the Strawberry and Cream.
A Vegetarian’s Paradise at Swati Snacks, Tardeo
Vegetarians, rejoice! Swati Snacks in Tardeo is a haven for those seeking flavourful, meat-free options. Their Panaki – a deep-fried pastry filled with a spicy potato and lentil filling – is a must-try. The Veg Malpoa, a fluffy pancake soaked in a sweet sugar syrup, is a delightful dessert option. Don’t miss their Khichdi, a comforting and wholesome dish made with rice and lentils, simmered with a variety of vegetables and spices.
Where: 248, Karai Estate, Opposite Bhatia Hospital, Tardeo Road, Mumbai
Price: INR 700 for two
What you must try: Pav Bhaji, Pav Vada, Panki Chatni, Satpadi Roti- Gatta Nu Shak, Rava Dosa
Non-Veg Snacks at Aaron’s, Orlem Church, Malad
If you’re a die-hard carnivore, Aaron’s in Malad is your happy place. Their menu boasts a plethora of non-vegetarian delights, from kebabs to rolls to succulent curries. Be sure to try their signature Keema Pav – a Mumbai street food staple done right.
Where: 5, Lourdes Heritage, MarveRoad, Orlem, Marve, Mumbai
Price: INR 250 for two
What you must try: Chicken Mayo Sandwich, Chicken Makhanwala rolls
The Classic Ice Cream Sandwich at K. Rustom, Churchgate
No street food adventure is complete without a sweet ending. K. Rustom’s iconic ice cream sandwich is a timeless classic. Rich, creamy ice cream sandwiched between two crisp wafers – it’s a nostalgic treat that’s sure to bring back childhood memories.
Where: 87 Stadium House, Opposite Ambassador Hotel, Veer Nariman Road, Churchgate, Mumbai
Price: INR 150 for two
What you must try: Almond Crunch and raspberry! Don’t shy from experimenting!
Rajesh Corn Corner, Churchgate
No exploration of Mumbai’s street food scene is complete without succumbing to the buttery, cheesy magic of roasted corn on the cob. Rajesh Corn Corner, a Churchgate mainstay, elevates this humble snack to an art form. Golden kernels are slow-roasted over charcoal, acquiring a smoky depth before being slathered in a secret recipe of butter, spices, and cheese. One bite, and you’ll understand why Rajesh has a loyal following that stretches back generations.
Where: Jeevan Saurabh Building, Road 10, Jawahar Nagar, Goregaon West, Mumbai
Price: INR 100 for two
What you must try: Pizza Pasta Roasted Corn, Spicy Cheese Corn, Mexican Corn, Sriracha Corn.
Frankie’s Follies: Breadkraft, Lokhandwala
Mumbai’s street food scene isn’t afraid to borrow inspiration. Breadkraft in Lokhandwala offers a delightful twist – the Frankie. Imagine a roti (flatbread) wrapped around a delectable filling of your choice, be it chicken tikka masala, schezwan paneer, or keema (minced meat). This global fusion is a testament to Mumbai’s ever-evolving culinary landscape.
Where: 15, Sun Swept Building, Lokhandwala Complex, Andheri Lokhandwala, Andheri West, Mumbai
Price: INR 300 for two
What you must try: Paneer Chilli Frankie, Chicken Chilli Cheese Frankie, Veg Mix Mayo Shawarma, Egg Paneer Tikka Frankie, Butter Chicken Chipotle Frankie.
Pav Bhaji at Amar Juice Center, Vile Parle
Mumbaikars hold Pav Bhaji in almost religious reverence. This seemingly simple dish of soft bread rolls (pav) dipped in a rich, thick vegetable curry (bhaji) explodes with flavour. Head to Amar Juice Center in Vile Parle for a legendary rendition. Their bhaji, simmered to perfection, is a symphony of spices, each bite revealing a new layer of deliciousness. Dip your pav in, savour the creamy richness, and understand why this is a Mumbai must-try.
Where: 3, RN Cooper Hospital Compound, Gulmohar Road, Vile Parle West, Mumbai
Price: INR 600 for two.
What you must try: Pav Sandwich, Tomato Cheese Pav Bhaji, Amar Special Pav Bhaji
Anand Dosa and Vada Pav Stall near Mithibai College, Vile Parle
For a taste of South India amidst Mumbai’s chaos, look no further than the Anand Stall near Mithibai College. Their crispy, golden dosas – paper-thin fermented crepes – come with a variety of fillings, from the classic potato masala to the more adventurous cheese masala. Pair this with their piping hot vada pav, a deep-fried potato fritter nestled within a soft pav bun, drizzled with chutneys for a textural and flavour explosion.
Where: Opposite Mithibai College, Gulmohar Road 1, Vile Parle West, Mumbai.
Price: INR 200 for two.
What you must try: Paneer Masala Dosa, Pizza Dosa, Grilled Vada Pav, Jinny Dosa.
Black Pav Bhaji at Maruti Pav Bhaji , Vile Parle
Forget the standard orange pav bhaji. At Maruti Pav Bhaji, another Vile Parle gem, they push the boundaries with their “Black Pav Bhaji.” This isn’t your goth phase on a plate; the jet-black colour comes from burnt garlic and chillies, infusing the bhaji with a smoky intensity that complements the soft pavs perfectly. Be warned, this one packs a punch!
Where: Ground Floor, Angelina Apartment, Shop No:24, Old Police Station Rd, Kamala Nagar, Vile Parle, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400056
Price: INR 250 for two
What you must try: Kali Pav Bhaji, Maruti Pav Bhaji, Spicy Pav Bhaji, Khada Pav Bhaji, Cheese Pav Bhaji
Sandwich Stories: Vasu’s Laxmi Balaji, Goregaon
Mumbai’s love affair with sandwiches is legendary, and Vasu’s in Goregaon exemplifies this perfectly. Their creations are an explosion of textures and flavours – fluffy bread piled high with succulent meats, tangy pickles, and a secret sauce that elevates every bite. Be sure to try their signature “cheese grill sandwich,” a molten masterpiece that’s guaranteed to leave you grinning from ear to ear.
Where: Opposite Cinemax Multiplex, SV Road, Goregaon West, Mumbai
Price: INR 300
What you must try: Bahubali Sandwich, Chocolate Sandwich
Chilli Cheese Toast at Raju Sandwich, Churchgate
For a taste of pure indulgence, head to Raju Sandwich near KC College. Their legendary “Chilli Cheese Toast” is a symphony of simplicity. Golden-fried bread is smothered with a fiery chilli sauce and a blanket of molten cheese. Each bite is a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and crunchy – a true street food masterpiece.
Where: Behind Samrat Hotel, near to HR College, Churchgate, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400020
Price: INR 250
What you must try: Bombay Sandwich, Cheese Chilli Toast
Malai Kulfi at Kapoor Kulfi, Marine Lines
After a spicy adventure, cool down with a royal treat at Kapoor Kulfi near Marine Lines Station. Their malai kulfi, a dense, creamy Indian ice cream flavoured with cardamom and saffron, is a revelation. Each lick transports you to a Mughal palace garden, the delicate sweetness a perfect foil to the heat of your street food journey.
Where: 75/D, Opp. C Ward Municipal Office, Shree Kant Palekar Marg, Chandanwadi, Marine Lines, Mumbai
Price: INR 200 for two
What you must try: All the kulfis!
Pav Bhaji Paradise: Sardar , Tardeo
Sardar Pav Bhaji, nestled within the bustling AC Market in Tardeo, is a haven for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Their classic pav bhaji is a rich tapestry of vegetables cooked to perfection in a fragrant masala, perfect for soaking up with soft pavs. For a carnivorous twist, try their Keema Pav Bhaji, a version that incorporates succulent minced lamb for an extra layer of flavour.
Where: Tardeo Road Junction, Opposite Bus Depot, Tardeo, Mumbai
Price: INR 250 for two
What you must try: Butter Pav Bhaaji, Cheese Pav Bhaaji
Kurries and Burries, Girgaum Chowpatty
Mumbai’s street food scene isn’t afraid to embrace global influences. Kurries and Burries in Girgaum Chowpatty is a testament to this. Here, you’ll find fiery kung pao potatoes alongside juicy momos, and crispy Mexican burritos nestled next to flavourful Asian stir-fries. It’s a culinary adventure playground for those with an adventurous palate.
Where: 29/A, Jethabhai Govindji Building, Opposite Merchants Club, Metro Motors Lane, Rangekar Road, Chowpatty, Mumbai
Price: INR 400 for two
What you must try: The Kung pao potatoes, Paneer Chilli wrap
Falooda at Baadshah, Crawford Market
scape the midday heat with a trip to Crawford Market, a historical landmark known for its vibrant spice stalls. Here, nestled amidst the cacophony, lies Baadshah – a haven for the iconic Indian dessert, Falooda. This chilled concoction is pure magic in a glass. Think layers of rose-flavored vermicelli, scoops of creamy ice cream, tangy jellies, crunchy falooda sev (thin vermicelli noodles), and a dollop of whipped cream. Each spoonful is a delightful surprise, a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you begging for more.
Where: Dr DN Road, Crawford Market, Mumbai CST Area, Mumbai
Price: INR 450 for two
What you must try: Royal Falooda, Special Pav Bhaji
A Taste of Zoroastrian Heritage at Kyaani & Co.
For a unique culinary experience, head to Marine Lines and delve into the world of Parsi cuisine at Kyaani & Co. The Parsi community, descendants of Zoroastrians who migrated to India centuries ago, boasts a rich culinary heritage with subtle Persian influences. At Kyaani & Co., indulge in Keema Pav – minced mutton simmered with fiery spices and served with fluffy pav buns. Don’t miss the Bun Maska – a seemingly simple dish of buttered buns, but trust us, the melt-in-your-mouth softness and the perfect hint of salt will have you coming back for seconds.
Where: JSS Road, Jer Mahal Estate, Opposite Metro Cinema, Marine Lines, Mumbai
Price: INR 300 for two
What you must try: Chocolate mousse, Rose Jelly, Khari, Cheese Scrambled Eggs, Irani Chai, Kheema, Mawa Cake
Mughlai Marvels at Delhi Zaika, Mohammed Ali Road
As the sun sets, Mohammed Ali Road transforms into a dazzling open-air food court. Amidst the cacophony of vendors hawking their wares, Delhi Zaika stands out for its mouthwatering Mughlai fare. Their succulent Tandoori Chicken, marinated in aromatic spices and cooked to perfection in a clay oven, is a must-try. Pair it with their creamy Butter Naan, a pillowy flatbread generously coated with butter, for a truly decadent experience.
Where: Near A.P College, Chapra Hotel, M.S Ali Road, Near Nishat Cinema, Grant Road, Mumbai
Price: INR 800 for two
What you must try: Chicken Kepsa, Malai Chicken, Chicken Reshmi Kabab and Tandoor dishes
Seekh Kebabs Fit for Royalty at Farhid’s, Jogeshwari
Head to the suburbs for a taste of Farhid’s legendary Seekh Kebabs. These melt-in-your-mouth morsels of minced lamb, infused with heady spices and chargrilled to perfection, are a true labour of love. Served with a squeeze of lemon and a dollop of creamy mint chutney, they’re an explosion of flavour and a testament to the art of street food mastery.
Where: Behram Baug, Jogeshwari West, Mumbai
Price: INR 250 for two
What you must try: Kebabs and Parathas
Bademiya’s Rolls: Mumbai’s Answer to a Gourmet Wrap
Bademiya’s Rolls are an institution in Mumbai. These generously stuffed wraps come in a variety of options, from the classic Chicken Seekh Kebab to the fiery Keema Roll. Each roll is a symphony of textures – the crisp outer layer giving way to succulent meat, chopped onions, and a secret sauce that adds a touch of magic. Be prepared to fight back the urge to lick your fingers clean!
Where: Behram Baug, Jogeshwari West, Mumbai
Price: INR 250 for two
What you must try: Kebabs and Parathas
Sadguru Pav Bhaji: A Chembur Classic
Chembur boasts a hidden gem – Sadguru Pav Bhaji. This unassuming stall serves up a legendary Pav Bhaji, a thick, rich vegetable curry simmered with spices and served with fluffy pav buns. The secret lies in the slow-cooking process, which allows the flavours to meld into a harmonious symphony. Don’t forget to add a dollop of butter for that extra touch of decadence.
Where: Apollo Bunder, Colaba, Mumbai
Price: INR 700 for two
What you must try: Kebabs, Rolls
Snacks at Monginis, Multiple Locations
Mumbai isn’t just about savoury delights. Monginis, a beloved bakery chain peppered across the city, is a haven for sweet tooths. Their array of pastries, cakes, and puffs is a visual delight. Sink your teeth into their signature veg puff, a flaky pastry filled with a creamy and flavourful vegetable mix, or indulge in a decadent chocolate pastry for a sugar rush.
Where: Everywhere!
Price: INR 200 for two
What you must try: Chicken pan pizza, puffs
Jalebis at Panchratna Jalebi House, Khau Galli
For a taste of pure indulgence, head to Panchratna Jalebi House. Their glistening Jalebis, deep-fried batter spirals soaked in a sweet saffron syrup, are a true testament to Indian sweet-making expertise. Each bite is a burst of sugary goodness, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.
Where: Opera House, Near Roxy Cinema, Tata Road 1, Girgaum, Mumbai
Price: INR 100 for two people
What you must try: Anything from the namkeens that are freshly fried to the Jalebis.
Chilled & Spicy Bhel at Jay Jalram Ice Bhel, Mulund
Bhel puri is a classic Mumbai street food – a delightful combination of puffed rice, chopped vegetables, chutneys, and sev (crispy noodles). But Jay Jalram in Mulund takes it a step further with their Ice Bhel. Imagine the sweet, tangy, and spicy explosion of bhel puri, perfectly balanced with a layer of shaved ice. It’s a textural and temperature rollercoaster that’s guaranteed to awaken your taste buds and cool you down on a hot Mumbai day.
Where: Patel Building, Ganesh Gawade Rd, Vidya Vihar, Mulund West
Price: INR 100 for two
What you must try: Icy Bhel
Masala Papad at Kalbadevi
Head to the bustling streets of Kalbadevi and you’ll find countless vendors hawking their wares. Amongst them, you’ll spot the telltale signs of a masala papad stall – a sizzling tawa (griddle) and a vat of vibrant red chutney. The masala papad itself is a simple yet delightful affair. A large papad (flat lentil cracker) is toasted on the tawa, then generously slathered with a sweet and spicy chutney, sometimes with chopped onions and tomatoes for added crunch. It’s an explosion of textures and flavors – the perfect street food snack.
Where: Kalbadevi, Mumbai
What you must try: Masala Papad
Bun Maska at Qutuz (Stays Open Till 1 AM)
Mumbai is a city that never sleeps, and neither does its hunger. When those late-night cravings hit, head to Qutuz in Malad West. This iconic joint is a haven for night owls and boasts some of the best bun maska in the city. A simple yet soul-satisfying dish, bun maska features a soft, pillowy bread roll generously slathered with creamy butter. It’s the perfect midnight indulgence, best enjoyed with a steaming cup of chai.
Where: Qutuz, Chincholi Bunder Road, Mindspace, Malad West, Mumbai
Price: Rs 150 for 2 (approx)
What you must try: Bun Maska
Chocolate Sandwich at Mamaji near Ruia College
Craving something sweet? Take a trip down memory lane with Mamaji’s legendary chocolate sandwich. This isn’t your average chocolaty treat. Imagine two slices of soft white bread generously stuffed with a sweet, nutty chocolate spread – a childhood favorite for generations of Mumbaikars. The line at Mamaji’s is a testament to its popularity, but the wait is well worth the reward.
Where: Nand Deep Building, L.N. Road, Oppo. Ruia College, Matunga East
Price: INR 350 for two
What you must try: Chocolate grill, cheese chocolate grill
Samosas at 5 am, Mumbai Local Train
Mumbai’s local trains are a lifeline for the city, but they’re also a unique culinary experience. As you board the train at the crack of dawn, you’ll be greeted by the aroma of freshly fried samosas. Vendors weave through the carriages, their baskets overflowing with these golden triangles of goodness. Filled with spiced potatoes and peas, these piping hot samosas are the perfect way to fuel your morning commute.
Kokum Sharbat at Vinay Health Home
Mumbai’s heat can be relentless. That’s where kokum sharbat comes in – a refreshing and healthy beverage made from the kokum fruit. Vinay Health Home in Charni Road whips up some of the best in the city. This deep purple drink is a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and slightly tart, offering a welcome respite from the Mumbai sun.
Where: Jawar Mansion, Dr BA Jaikar Marg, Charni Road, Mumbai
Price: INR 300 for two
What you must try: Thali Pit, Misal Pav, Kokum sharbat
Kulfis at Kandivali (near the HP Petrol Pump)
No exploration of Mumbai street food is complete without indulging in a kulfi. This traditional Indian ice cream comes in a variety of flavors, from creamy malai (milk) to nutty pista (pistachio). Head to the kulfi vendor near the HP Petrol Pump in Kandivali for a truly authentic experience. Watch as he hand-churns the kulfi in a wooden barrel, then patiently wait for your turn to savor this dense, flavorful treat.
Kala Khatta Sharbat at Kalingar
For a truly unique flavour experience, seek out Kala Khatta Sharbat at Kalingar, a historic ice cream parlour in Opposite Chatrapathi Shivaji Station. This inky black beverage is made from the jamun fruit and has a distinct sweet, tangy, and slightly smoky flavour. It’s an acquired taste, but those who love it swear by its refreshing and cooling properties.
Where: Opposite Chatrapathi Shivaji Station (Victoria Terminus)
Vada Pav at Central Telegraph Office (CTO) (Fountain, Victoria Terminus)
The undisputed champion of Mumbai’s street food scene, the Vada Pav is a simple yet ingenious creation. A golden, deep-fried potato patty (vada) nestled in a soft pav bun, slathered with a sweet and spicy chutney, is a symphony of textures and tastes. Head to the iconic Central Telegraph Office (CTO) near Fountain and Victoria Terminus. Here, amidst the city’s heartbeat, grab a piping hot Vada Pav, a true taste of Mumbai’s working-class soul.
Where: Opposite Flora Fountain, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
What to try: Spicy vada pav
The Bombay Sandwich: A Fusion Fantasy, Mafco Farm Fair
Mumbai’s colonial past whispers through its food too. The Bombay Sandwich, a legacy of the Parsi community, is a delightful fusion of sweet and savoury. Think soft white sandwich bread stuffed with boiled potatoes, cucumber, tomatoes, beetroot, onions and mint chutney.. Head to Mafco Farm Fair near Khan Abdul Gaffar Khan for a taste of this historical delight.
Where: Khan Abdul Gaffar Khan, Marg, Siddharth Nagar, Worli
What to have: Bombay Sandwich, Pizza, French Fries and a variety of juices.
Dabeli: A Sweet & Spicy Gujarati Treat, Kapil Dabeli Centre
Take a short train ride to Goregaon West and delve into the world of Dabeli. This Gujarati import is a flavour bomb, a potato patty tucked inside a soft bun, smothered with a sweet and tangy tamarind chutney, crunchy peanuts, and a sprinkling of pomegranate. Kapil Dabeli Centre is a legendary spot, known for their secret masala that adds a unique zing to every bite.
Where: 21, Vivek Vidyalaya Marg, Siddharth Nagar 4, Shri Nagar, Goregaon West
What to have: Dancing Dabeli, Jain Dabeli
