Street Food Mumbai: The history of food in Mumbai is equivalent to the city’s growth. Mumbai emerged from a fishing village to a Megalopolis, Metro as its popularly known.
Street food in Mumbai and its variety have evolved over the years.
There are waves of immigrants from all over the country trying to make a living in this big city. They bring with them various culinary treasures to relish.
Here are the top street foods that everyone from billionaires to beggars relishes.
01. Pani Puri
Want to taste something heavenly? Try this lip-smacking street snack. Known by various names throughout India, this blissful dish is a burst of flavors in your mouth.
It consists of round, hallow crisp fried puris stuffed with a mixture of chickpeas, potatoes, spices, tamarind chutney, and most importantly, mouthwatering spicy water – Pani.
Cost – Rs. 30 per plate
02. Vada Paav
Known as a poor man’s burger, the Vada Paav can be found in every nook and corner of Mumbai.
Paav stands for Indian bread bun, and Vada is a mixture of boiled potatoes crisply fried and spices.
It is served with sweet and spicy chutneys, fried chilies, and powdered garlic chutney. Mumbai boasts of more than 50,000 Vada Paav stalls.
Cost – Rs. 15 per vada pav.
03. Paav Bhaaji
An assortment of various mashed and cooked vegetables and seasonal spices and seasonings, Paav Bhaji is an evergreen favorite!
Served in a tray with onions, lemons, and a dollop of butter, you can never get enough of its mouthwatering flavors.
If you want to relish the best Paav bhaji Mumbai offers, head to Cannon Paav Bhaji joint near CST railway station.
Cost – Rs. 50 per plate.
04. Frankie
It is impossible to have never heard of Frankie when in Mumbai. Mumbai boasts of being the birthplace of this dish.
It was created by Mr. Amarjit Tibb, who was heavenly inspired by the Lebanese-style pita bread wraps when he visited Beirut.
Frankie consists of flour wraps filled with Mutton, Chicken, eggs, mashed potatoes, and spicy sauces.
Cost – Rs. 50 per veg roll and Rs. 80 for non-veg roll
05. Bhel Puri
Want to taste the best Bhel Puris, head straight to Mumbai beaches.
Made from puffed rice, tomatoes, onions, spices, tamarind sauce, and coriander leaves. It is a flavorful delicacy that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. It’s impossible to have enough of this dish, and it leaves you wanting more.
Cost – Rs. 30 per serving
06. Dosa’s
Originally a South Indian delicacy, this dish has made its way into every Mumbaikar’s heart and home.
Made from a fermented rice batter, this round and crispy dish is often served with coconut chutney, tomato chutney and pudina chutney, and Sambar.
The list of Dosa’s is never-ending. Ranging from plain Dosa to Schezwan Dosa, Chinese Dosa, American Choupsey Dosa, Masala Dosa, and the newest Chocolate Dosa.
Head to Nandu’s in Mumbai to relish the flavorful delicacy.
Cost – Rs. 50 per dosa on average as there are many varieties
07. Kebabs
Now let’s take about some non-vegetarian delights. Head straight to Mohammad Ali Road to feast on smoking skewered Kebabs.
Nothing else will soothe your desire for the best non-vegetarian cuisine other than the varieties of Kebabs offered, ranging from fish to mutton and chicken.
Chunks of meat are marinated and grilled on charcoal giving birth to its distinct smokiness.
Cost – Rs. 150 per plate (Around 2 to 3 Kebab sticks)
08. Sandwiches
The Englishmen would have never imagined that Mumbaikars would revamp their breakfast. Two slices of bread are stuffed with edibles between them.
The hordes of chutney offered along with Mayo, butter, cheese, and other endless possibilities give Mumbai’s sandwiches their distinctness. Both veg and non-veg options are available with many more varieties.
Cost – Rs. 30 to 50 per sandwich
09. Kheema Paav
I think you already have enough of Paav (Bread); wait for Kheema Paav. A pav served with finely minced meat cooked in spices is Kheema Paav for you.
Cost – Rs. 150 per plate
Served along with onion, lemon, and pudina. Kheema Paav is yet another light and pocket-friendly dish to savor your taste buds.
10. Falooda
Enough of spice-loaded dishes, right? How about some sweet and colorful Falooda?
Served in a glass bowl along with vermicelli, milk, tapioca pearls, and various flavors. A scoop of ice cream is like a cherry on top of a cake.
Garnished with rose syrup and chunks of dried fruit and nuts, Falooda is heaven served in a glass. This is one of the best Street food in Mumbai.
Cost – Rs. 70 to 150 per glass of Falooda
11. Misal Pav
Maharashtra’s most famous dish is misal pav. It is made up of misal and pav. It is finished with farsan, sev, onions, and lemon.
It’s usually served warm with bread, rolls, buttermilk o,r papad, and toasted with butter, buttermilk, or dahi. It can be served hot as a breakfast or snack, but it also makes a great side dish.
Cost – Rs. 50 per plate
12. Chat Puri
Chat puri, also known as papdi putri, is a deep-fried flat disc snack made from all-purpose flour (maida) and spices. It is often used in chaat recipes and as an evening snack. This recipe will show you how to fry papdi Putri quickly. You can store it in an airtight container for several months. It has a long shelf life.
Original chaat is made with potato pieces, crispy fried bread, Dahi vada, Dahihalla, chickpeas, and tangy, salty spices. Garnished with saunth (dried ginger, tamarind sauce), fresh coriander leaves, yogurt, and other popular variations like alu tikkis and samosa
Cost – Rs. 40 per plate
13. Ragda Pattice
Ragda patties are a combination of mashed potato patties with pea sauce. It is part of the street food culture in Maharashtra, India. It’s similar to chole-Tikki, which is more popular in North India. This popular street food is also available at Indian fast food restaurants.
Ragda Chaat Recipe is a delicious and easy recipe made with dried white peas, safed matar, and spices.
Ragda in Mumbai is served with Ragda patties, a popular chaat snack. Ragda patties are as famous as Bhhel Puri, Sevpuri, Misal Pav, and Pav Bhaji.
Cost – Rs. 30 per plate
14. Kanda Poha
Kanda Poha, a delicious and filling breakfast made from Maharashtrian cuisine using beaten Rice, is mouthwatering. This street food is popular in Mumbai and is well-known beyond Maharashtra. Maharashtrian style Kanda Poha is quick and straightforward to prepare.
Poha is not a native English word. The term “flattened” rice was created for poha by Anglo-Indians. It can be described as a rice flake. Corn-flakes are made from corn, while poha and chira/chiwda are made of rice.
Cost – Rs. 30 per plate
15. Dabeli
Double roti, Kutchi dabeli, or dabeli is popular Indian snack food. It originated in Gujarat’s Kutch and Kachchh regions. This sweet snack is made from boiled potatoes and a unique dabeli mixture. The mixture is then placed in a ladi Pav (burger bun) and served with chutneys made of tamarind, garlic, red chilies, and other ingredients. You can garnish it with pomegranate seeds and roasted peanuts.
Dabeli in Gujarati means “pressed.” Keshavji Chudasama, also known as Kesha Mamalam, is believed to have invented the dish. He was a Kutch resident in Mandvi during the 1960s. When he started his business, he sold dabeli for one anna or six paise. A later generation of his family still runs the Mandvi shop. Apart from Mandvi, authentic dabeli masala is made in the Kutch region.
Cost – Rs. 25 per Dabeli
Here’s an expanded article based on the original 15 street food places, detailed with cost, address, and additional information:
Mumbai’s Street Food Gems: A Journey Through 15 Iconic Spots
Mumbai’s street food scene is as diverse and bustling as the city itself. Known for its affordability, flavors, and vibrant atmosphere, each snack has a story and every vendor a loyal fanbase. Here’s a journey through 15 iconic street food spots that no visitor or local should miss.
1. Anand Stall, Vile Parle – Vada Pav Delight
One of the most famous Vada Pav stalls in Mumbai, Anand Stall is a hotspot for college students from nearby Mithibai and NM Colleges. The crispy vada, the spicy chutney, and the soft, buttery pav are a match made in street food heaven.
- Address: Opposite Mithibai College, Gulmohar Road, Vile Parle West, Mumbai 400056
- Cost: ₹20 per Vada Pav
- Highlight: The spicy chutney that leaves you wanting more.
2. Shivaji Vada Pav, CST – A Commuter’s Favorite
Catering to the thousands of commuters pouring out of CST Station every day, Shivaji Vada Pav offers a quick, delicious snack that doesn’t disappoint. The crispy vadas and a generous side of fried chilies make it perfect for a midday pick-me-up.
- Address: CST Station Exit, Mumbai 400001
- Cost: ₹15 per Vada Pav
- Highlight: Proximity to CST makes it convenient for those on the move.
3. Aaram Vada Pav, CST – Classic Taste
Located right opposite CST Station, Aaram Vada Pav is a perfect stopover for travelers and office-goers alike. The Vada Pav here is known for the buttery buns and perfectly spiced potato filling.
- Address: Opposite CST Station, Mumbai 400001
- Cost: ₹25 per Vada Pav
- Highlight: The balance of flavors in the vada.
4. Cannon Pav Bhaji, CST – Pav Bhaji Perfection
Cannon Pav Bhaji sits right outside CST and serves a richly spiced and buttery bhaji that has become an essential part of the Mumbai food experience. It draws in crowds from early evening until late at night.
- Address: Mahapalika Marg, Opposite CST Station, Mumbai 400001
- Cost: ₹100 per plate
- Highlight: The spicy and buttery Pav Bhaji is perfect for a heavy snack or light dinner.
5. Sardar Pav Bhaji, Tardeo – A Buttery Feast
Known for its signature buttery Pav Bhaji, Sardar in Tardeo doesn’t skimp on the butter, and that’s part of the appeal. The bhaji is a deliciously spiced vegetable mash that pairs perfectly with their toasted pav.
- Address: Tardeo Road Junction, Opposite Bus Depot, Mumbai 400034
- Cost: ₹150 per plate
- Highlight: Extra buttery bhaji, perfect for indulgent evenings.
6. Amar Juice Centre, Vile Parle – Late-Night Haven
Amar Juice Centre is famous for staying open late into the night, serving some of the city’s best Pav Bhaji. Whether it’s midnight cravings or post-movie munchies, Amar is always buzzing with people.
- Address: Near Cooper Hospital, Vile Parle West, Mumbai 400056
- Cost: ₹120 per plate
- Highlight: The late hours and the rich, spicy bhaji.
7. Elco Pani Puri Centre, Bandra – Hygiene First
Located on the bustling Hill Road, Elco Pani Puri Centre is a go-to for those who want to enjoy Pani Puri without worrying about hygiene. The puris are filled with mineral water and the flavors are spot on.
- Address: Elco Market, Hill Road, Bandra West, Mumbai 400050
- Cost: ₹40 per plate
- Highlight: Mineral water is used for safety, and the taste remains authentic.
8. Chowpatty Beach Stalls – Pani Puri with a View
The street food stalls at Chowpatty Beach offer a culinary experience with the Arabian Sea as your backdrop. The Pani Puri here, served with a blend of tamarind water and spicy filling, is irresistible.
- Address: Marine Drive, Mumbai 400004
- Cost: ₹30 per plate
- Highlight: Eating Pani Puri while watching the sunset over Marine Drive.
9. Juhu Beach Stalls – The Ultimate Snack Spot
Juhu Beach isn’t just famous for its views but also for its street food. The Pani Puri here is a must-try, especially if you enjoy the mix of flavors and the lively beach ambiance.
- Address: Juhu Beach, Mumbai 400049
- Cost: ₹35 per plate
- Highlight: The salty sea breeze combined with the spicy Pani Puri is a classic Mumbai experience.
10. Mamledar Misal, Thane – A Spicy Adventure
Mamledar Misal is not for the faint-hearted. Known for its fiery Misal, this spot is a favorite among spice lovers. The curry is topped with crunchy farsan and served with soft pav.
- Address: Near Thane Station, Thane West, Mumbai 400601
- Cost: ₹80 per plate
- Highlight: The intense heat of the Misal is legendary.
11. Aaswad, Dadar – Award-Winning Misal Pav
Aaswad’s Misal Pav was once declared the world’s tastiest vegetarian dish, and rightfully so. The flavors are perfectly balanced, with a hint of sweetness and a burst of spice.
- Address: 61, Sadanand, Dadar West, Mumbai 400028
- Cost: ₹70 per plate
- Highlight: Internationally recognized for its taste and quality.
12. Tibbs Frankie – The Original Wrap
Tibbs is the original creator of the Frankie, a flatbread rolled with spicy fillings like chicken, mutton, or paneer. With outlets all over Mumbai, Tibbs serves both vegetarians and non-vegetarians.
- Address: Multiple locations across Mumbai
- Cost: ₹60-150, depending on the filling
- Highlight: The original and authentic Frankie experience.
13. Churchgate Frankie Stalls – Quick and Tasty
The stalls near Churchgate Station are a savior for office-goers and college students looking for a quick, tasty bite. The Frankies here are packed with flavor and wrapped tightly for on-the-go convenience.
- Address: Near Churchgate Station, Mumbai 400020
- Cost: ₹50 per Frankie
- Highlight: Ideal for a quick, flavorful snack between classes or meetings.
14. Ram Ashraya, Matunga – Authentic South Indian Flavors
Ram Ashraya is a bustling South Indian eatery near Matunga Station, known for its crispy dosas and coconut chutney. The place has an unassuming charm and serves breakfast from the crack of dawn.
- Address: Near Matunga Railway Station, Matunga East, Mumbai 400019
- Cost: ₹60 per dosa
- Highlight: The fresh coconut chutney and authentic taste make it worth the wait.
15. Nandu’s Dosa Stall, Bandra – Fusion Dosas
Nandu’s Dosa Stall on Linking Road serves some of the most creative fusion dosas in the city. From Schezwan Dosa to Cheese Burst Dosa, you’ll find a variety that caters to the city’s adventurous palate.
- Address: Linking Road, Bandra West, Mumbai 400050
- Cost: ₹50-100 per dosa
- Highlight: Fusion dosas with bold flavors that attract the young crowd.
Reference Table for Easy Access
| Street Food | Location | Address | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vada Pav | Anand Stall, Vile Parle | Opposite Mithibai College, Gulmohar Road, Vile Parle West, Mumbai 400056 | ₹20 |
| Vada Pav | Shivaji Vada Pav, CST | CST Station Exit, Mumbai 400001 | ₹15 |
| Vada Pav | Aaram Vada Pav, CST | Opposite CST Station, Mumbai 400001 | ₹25 |
| Pav Bhaji | Cannon Pav Bhaji, CST | Mahapalika Marg, Opposite CST Station, Mumbai 400001 | ₹100 |
| Pav Bhaji | Sardar Pav Bhaji, Tardeo | Tardeo Road Junction, Opposite Bus Depot, Mumbai 400034 | ₹150 |
| Pav Bhaji | Amar Juice Centre, Vile Parle | Near Cooper Hospital, Vile Parle West, Mumbai 400056 | ₹120 |
| Pani Puri | Elco Pani Puri Centre, Bandra | Elco Market, Hill Road, Bandra West, Mumbai 400050 | ₹40 |
| Pani Puri | Chowpatty Beach Stalls | Marine Drive, Mumbai 400004 | ₹30 |
| Pani Puri | Juhu Beach Stalls | Juhu Beach, Mumbai 400049 | ₹35 |
| Misal Pav | Mamledar Misal, Thane | Near Thane Station, Thane West, Mumbai 400601 | ₹80 |
Amazing list…
made me curious to try a few of the stuff mentioned
Thinking of those old days
Relishing all street foods
Thanks for making me relive those memories
Don’t think about old days live your today alive.
Go out and grab it