Mumbai, often referred to as the "City of Dreams," is not only a hub of Bollywood but also a paradise for food lovers. The city's bustling streets are adorned with a diverse range of dishes that will surely leave you super impressed. From the spicy vada pav to the tangy sev puri, each dish captures the city's vibrancy and is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the heart and soul of Mumbai's street food scene.
Here are 8 foods that you must try when you are in Mumbai.
Vada Pav:
Recipe - Kunal Kapur
Vada Pav is Mumbai's answer to the burger. This beloved street food consists of a spicy potato fritter sandwiched between a pav along with spicy red chilli powder. It's served with chutneys like green chutney and tamarind sauce. Vada Pav is a quick and satisfying snack, and its fiery flavours make it an iconic Mumbai staple.
Pav Bhaji:
A mouthwatering medley of spiced vegetables, primarily potatoes, lauki, carrot, bell peppers, beans and tomatoes, cooked to perfection. The mixture is served with buttered pav, the more makkhan the better the pao tastes! This dish is a favourite among Mumbaikars and is relished by all, from students to office-goers.
Sev Puri:
Recipe - Cook With Parul
Sev Puri is a popular Mumbai chaat that's as visually appealing as it is delicious. It consists of crispy puris topped with a mixture of diced potatoes, onions, chutneys, and, of course, sev. This tangy and spicy snack is a must-try for those who appreciate a flavour explosion in every bite. This is the perfect snack to enjoy while strolling in the beautiful lanes of South Bombay.
Pani Puri:
Pani Puri, also known as Golgappa or Puchka in different regions of India, is truly the king of street foods. It consists of hollow, crispy puris filled with spicy tamarind water, ragda, mashed potatoes, and various chutneys. This yummy dish is available at pocket-friendly prices in many stalls and even restaurants.
Misal Pav:
Misal Pav is a spicy curry made from sprouted moth beans, topped with farsan and served with pav. It's a breakfast favourite among Mumbai locals as well as tourists and is celebrated for its rich flavors and heat. Misal Pav can be customized to your spice preference and is a must-try for those who enjoy a fiery start to their day.
Bhel Puri:
Recipe - Chef Ranveer Brar
Bhel Puri is a delightful and light snack that combines puffed rice, chopped onions, tomatoes, and an array of chutneys. It's a sweet, tangy, and spicy mixture that's often enjoyed while strolling along Mumbai's beaches. The addition of peanuts and sev adds a nice little crunch to this popular street food.
Dabeli:
Dabeli is a unique sandwich that originates from the state of Gujarat but has firmly entrenched itself in Mumbai's street food scene. It features a spiced potato filling with a generous drizzle of sweet chutney, hari chutney, and a crunchy peanut garnish, all enclosed in a buttery pav. Dabeli's mix of flavours and fuss-free eating makes it a very popular snack among Mumbaikars.
Kheema Pav:
Kheema Pav is a hearty dish made from minced meat, often mutton or chicken, cooked with delicious spices and served with pav. The flavours are rich, and the dish is known for its satisfying, meaty goodness. It's a popular choice among non-vegetarians and readily available in Parsi cafes spread across the city.