If there’s one city in India that never sleeps, never stops, and never disappoints when it comes to food, it’s Mumbai! 🌇🥘
Whether you’re a traveler seeking adventure or a foodie on a mission, Mumbai’s street food culture is something you simply cannot ignore. The city’s charm isn’t just in its sea-facing promenades, iconic landmarks, and Bollywood buzz-it’s in the food stalls tucked into busy lanes, the legendary eateries that have stood the test of time, and the aroma of sizzling pav bhaji that greets you at every corner.
Food in Mumbai isn’t just a meal-it’s an experience. Whether you’re catching a quick bite between train rides, relaxing at Marine Drive with some chaat, or indulging in a rich, buttery keema pav at a century-old Irani café, every dish tells a story of the city’s rich history and diverse culture.
So, if you’re traveling to Mumbai, come with an appetite because we’re diving into the famous foods of Mumbai you absolutely shouldn’t miss-and, of course, where to find them!
Famous Foods of Mumbai:
1. Vada Pav – Mumbai’s Iconic Burger 🤩
What’s special?
Vada Pav is the heart and soul of Mumbai’s street food scene. A spicy potato fritter (vada) sandwiched between a soft pav (bun) with a generous spread of chutney and fried green chilies-this humble yet fiery snack is a lifesaver for Mumbaikars on the go.
Where to eat?
- Anand Vada Pav (Opposite Mithibai College, Vile Parle) – A legend in the vada pav world.
- Ashok Vada Pav (Near CST Station) – Even Bollywood stars swear by it!
How to reach?
- Anand Vada Pav: Take a local train to Vile Parle Station and walk for about 10 minutes.
- Ashok Vada Pav: The Closest station is Churchgate, then a short taxi or walk to CST.
2. Pav Bhaji – The Ultimate Street Feast 🤩
What’s special?
A buttery, spicy blend of mashed vegetables served with soft, butter-laden pav-it’s a must-try! The magic of pav bhaji lies in the way it’s prepared on a massive tawa, with aromas that can lure you in from miles away.
Where to eat?
- Sardar Pav Bhaji (Tardeo) – The most legendary pav bhaji in Mumbai.
- Cannon Pav Bhaji (Near CST Station) – A hotspot for locals and tourists alike.
How to reach? 🚍
- Sardar Pav Bhaji: Take a local train to Mumbai Central, then a quick rickshaw ride.
- Cannon Pav Bhaji: Walkable from CST Station.
3. Bombay Sandwich – A Desi Twist to the Classic Sandwich 🥪
What’s special?
Layered with spicy chutneys, boiled potatoes, beetroot, cucumber, tomatoes, and a generous helping of sev, this crispy grilled sandwich is the perfect mix of spice, crunch, and tang.
Where to eat?
- Sandwichwala at Churchgate – A hidden gem near Churchgate station.
- Raju Sandwich (Near HR College, Churchgate) – A favorite among college students.
How to reach? 🚍
- Both places are easily accessible from Churchgate Station-just a short walk away.
4. Misal Pav – A Spicy Marathi Delight
What’s special?
If you can handle spice, Misal Pav is your go-to dish! A fiery mix of sprouted lentils, spicy gravy, topped with crunchy farsan and served with pav-it’s a burst of flavors in every bite.
Where to eat?
- Mamledar Misal (Thane) – Known for its spice levels!
- Aaswad (Dadar) – An award-winning misal pav joint.
How to reach? 🚍
- Mamledar Misal: Take a train to Thane Station, then a short auto ride.
- Aaswad: Located near Dadar Station, just a 5-minute walk.
5. Keema Pav – A Meat Lover’s Dream
What’s special?
Minced mutton slow-cooked with spices, served with buttery pav-this Irani café classic is something you shouldn’t miss if you love non-vegetarian food.
Where to eat?
- Kyani & Co. (Marine Lines) – An old-world charm with delicious keema pav.
- Olympia Coffee House (Colaba) – A no-frills spot with mouth-watering keema.
How to reach?
- Kyani & Co.: Marine Lines Station, then a short walk.
- Olympia Coffee House: Located in Colaba, best reached by cab or bus.
6. Bhel Puri & Sev Puri – The Beachside Snacks 😛
What’s special?
These tangy, crispy chaats are Mumbai’s beachside staple. A mix of puffed rice, chutneys, sev, and fresh veggies makes for the perfect light snack.
Where to eat?
- Juhu Beach Stalls – Perfect for an evening snack by the sea.
- Elco Pani Puri Centre (Bandra) – A hygienic and famous chaat joint.
How to reach?
- Juhu Beach: Take a train to Vile Parle/Santa Cruz, then an auto to Juhu Beach.
- Elco Pani Puri: Near Bandra Station, walk or take an auto.
7. Kheema Ghotala – A Unique Meat Dish 😜
What’s special?
A crazy mash-up of minced meat, eggs, and spices, Kheema Ghotala is the ultimate indulgence for non-veg lovers.
Where to eat?
- Bademiya (Colaba) – Famous for its kebabs and kheema dishes.
- Sarvi (Byculla) – A hidden gem with an authentic taste.
How to reach?
- Bademiya: Located in Colaba, best reached by taxi or auto.
- Sarvi: Take a local train to Byculla Station, then walk.
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8. Falooda – The Perfect Sweet Treat 🍨
What’s special?
A cold, creamy dessert made with vermicelli, rose syrup, basil seeds, and ice cream-this is the best way to cool off after a spicy Mumbai meal.
Where to eat?
- Badshah Falooda (Near CST) – Serving legendary faloodas for decades.
- Haji Ali Juice Centre (Worli) – Perfect for a late-night sugar fix.
How to reach?
- Badshah Falooda: Walkable from CST Station.
- Haji Ali Juice Centre: Closest station is Mahalaxmi, then a cab.
Final Thoughts!
Mumbai is more than just a city-it’s a flavor-packed journey waiting to be explored. 🚍
Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or a curious traveler, the city’s street food will leave you craving for more. So, the next time you’re in Mumbai, ditch the fancy restaurants, hit the streets, and eat like a true Mumbaikar!
Which of these iconic Mumbai foods are you excited to try first? Let us know in the comments! 🍽️✨
