Ah, Mumbai. The city that never sleeps, the land of Bollywood dreams, and, for the die-hard foodie, a paradise of explosive flavours. But forget the posh restaurants and overpriced cocktails – the real magic of Mumbai’s culinary scene unfolds on the bustling streets, particularly the legendary Mohammad Ali Road. This narrow lane, teeming with life and aroma, is a pilgrimage site for anyone seeking a true taste of Indian street food.
Here, amidst the cacophony of honking rickshaws and chattering vendors, lies a haven for the adventurous eater – a place where melt-in-your-mouth kebabs sizzle on open grills, cauldrons overflow with rich nihari stews, and the air hangs heavy with the intoxicating fragrance of spices. So, grab a plate (and a few napkins!), because we’re about to embark on a delicious journey through the heart of Mohammad Ali Road.
The Nalli Nihari Nirvana: Chinese & Grill
Our first stop is Chinese & Grill, a name that might leave you scratching your head. But fear not, for this gem is renowned for its Nalli Nihari, a slow-cooked mutton stew so rich and flavourful, it’ll have you questioning everything you thought you knew about comfort food. The succulent marrow bones practically melt off the bone, and the gravy, a symphony of spices simmered for hours, is a revelation. Pro tip: pair it with their fluffy roomali rotis, and prepare for a food coma that’s pure bliss.
Price: INR 1,100 for two
Timings: 1 PM to 1 AM
Skewers of Succulence: Kebabs At Mashallah
Next, let’s tantalize your taste buds with a trip to Mashallah, a haven for all things kebab. Here, the air sizzles with the promise of deliciousness as skewered meats are cooked to perfection over glowing embers. From the classic Seekh Kebabs – minced lamb infused with aromatic spices – to the melt-in-your-mouth Chicken Tikka marinated in yogurt and tandoori masala, each bite is an explosion of flavour. Don’t forget to drizzle them with their signature mint chutney for an extra kick!
Price: INR 700 for two
Timings: 7 AM to 4 AM
A White Delight: White Biryani At Noor Mohammadi
No exploration of Mohammad Ali Road is complete without indulging in a plate of their legendary biryani. We head to Noor Mohammadi, a restaurant famed for its White Biryani, a fragrant masterpiece layered with succulent chicken, basmati rice, and a symphony of aromatics. Each fluffy grain is infused with the essence of saffron and cardamom, creating a dish that’s both delicate and incredibly satisfying.
Price: INR 350 for two
Timings: 7 AM to 4 AM
Baida Roti At Haji Tikka Corner
No meal is complete without the perfect accompaniment, and Mohammad Ali Road boasts some of the best in the business. Haji Tikka Corner serves up the legendary Baida Roti, a fluffy flatbread stuffed with a spiced egg mixture. It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors, a true testament to street food ingenuity.
Price: INR 150 for two
Timings: 4 PM to 12 AM
Kasturi Naan Chaap At Jilani Fast Food Corner
For something more decadent, head to Jilani Fast Food Corner and try their Kasturi Naan Chaap. This melt-in-your-mouth naan is infused with the subtle aroma of fenugreek and stuffed with a flavorful minced meat filling. It’s a flavor bomb waiting to explode in your mouth.
Price: INR 500
Timings: 12:30 PM to 12 AM
J.J. Jalebi
No exploration of Mohammad Ali Road is complete without a visit to J.J. Jalebi. Their Mawa Jalebi is a local legend – crispy, golden jalebis dipped in a rich, creamy mawa (milk solids) based syrup. It’s a guaranteed sugar rush and a testament to the expertise of these generations-old sweet makers.
Price: INR 300 per kilo (approx.)
Timings: 11 AM to 1 AM
Suleiman Usman Mithaiwala
After a savory feast, it’s time to tantalize your sweet tooth. Take a stroll down the lane and find yourself at Suleiman Usman Mithaiwala, a paradise for those with a penchant for all things decadent. Here, the Malpua reigns supreme. These fluffy pancakes, dipped in a rich sugar syrup and garnished with chopped nuts, are a textural delight – crispy on the outside, soft and pillowy within.
Price: INR 150 for a plate of two big malpuas (approx.)
Timings: 2 PM to 11:15 PM
Shabbir’s Tawakkal Sweets
For a creamy and cooling finale, head to Shabbir’s Tawakkal Sweets and indulge in their legendary Firni. This fragrant rice pudding, delicately flavored with cardamom and pistachios, is the perfect way to end your food coma-inducing adventure.
Price: INR 400 for two people
Timings: 8:30 AM to 10:30 PM
Fresh Hand Churned Ice-creams At Taj Ice Cream
Beat the Mumbai heat with a scoop (or two) of creamy ice cream from Taj Ice Cream. Watch in awe as they churn out flavours like mango, Sitaphal (custard apple), and the classic badam pista (almonds and pistachios) using traditional methods..
Price: INR 70 only
Timings: 10 AM to 11:30 PM
Milkshake At Noorani Milk Center
For a thicker, richer treat, head to Noorani Milk Center. Their milkshakes, made with fresh milk and a generous amount of flavourings, are legendary. Be sure to try the iconic kesar badam (saffron and almonds) or the refreshing rose milkshake.
Price: INR 400 for two
Timings: 6 AM to 1 AM
Spl. Idris At Idris Cold Drinks
Feeling adventurous? Try a Spl. Idris – a sweet and tangy concoction made with rose syrup, soda water, and a secret blend of spices. It’s an acquired taste, but a true Mohammad Ali Road experience!
Price: INR 100 for two
Timings: 9 AM to 8 PM
Patrel Biryani At Firoz Farsan
During Ramzan, Firoz Farsan becomes synonymous with Patrel Biryani. Patra, also known as aluwadi, are steamed colocasia leaves stuffed with a spiced potato mixture. These melt-in-your-mouth parcels are layered with rich buff meat gravy and fluffy rice, creating a biryani unlike any other.
Price:INR 50 onward
Timings: 7 AM to 8:30 PM
