10 Must-Try Street Foods in Mumbai, India

Mumbai, the bustling metropolis of India, is not only the financial capital of the country but also a paradise for food lovers. The city's street food scene is a vibrant reflection of its diverse culture and rich culinary heritage. From spicy snacks to sweet treats, Mumbai's streets offer an array of flavors that cater to every palate. Here are 10 must-try street foods in Mumbai that you simply cannot miss.

1. Vada Pav
Vada Pav is often referred to as the "Indian burger" and is one of Mumbai's most iconic street foods. This delicious snack consists of a spicy potato fritter (vada) sandwiched between a soft bun (pav), accompanied by a variety of chutneys and green chili. The combination of the crispy vada and the soft pav, along with the tangy and spicy chutneys, makes Vada Pav a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

2. Pav Bhaji
Pav Bhaji is a hearty and flavorful dish that originated in Mumbai. It consists of a thick vegetable curry (bhaji) made with a mix of mashed vegetables, spices, and butter, served with soft bread rolls (pav). The dish is often garnished with chopped onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lemon. The rich, buttery flavor of the bhaji paired with the soft pav makes Pav Bhaji a comforting and satisfying meal.

3. Bhel Puri
Bhel Puri is a popular Indian street food snack that is both crunchy and tangy. It is made with puffed rice, sev (crunchy chickpea noodles), chopped vegetables, and a mix of chutneys. The combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors, along with the various textures, makes Bhel Puri a refreshing and delightful snack.

4. Pani Puri
Pani Puri, also known as Golgappa or Puchka, is a beloved street food snack across India. It consists of hollow, crispy puris filled with a mixture of spicy, tangy water (pani), tamarind chutney, and mashed potatoes or chickpeas. The burst of flavors and textures in each bite makes Pani Puri an irresistible treat.

5. Misal Pav
Misal Pav is a spicy and flavorful dish that is a specialty of Maharashtra. It consists of a spicy curry made with sprouted lentils (misal), served with pav and garnished with chopped onions, cilantro, and farsan (crunchy toppings). The dish is often accompanied by a side of yogurt to balance the heat. The bold, spicy flavors of Misal Pav make it a must-try for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

6. Kebabs
Mumbai's street food scene is incomplete without its variety of kebabs. From seekh kebabs to chicken tikka, these grilled meat skewers are marinated in a blend of spices and cooked to perfection. The smoky, spicy flavors of the kebabs make them a popular choice among meat lovers.

7. Ragda Pattice
Ragda Pattice is a popular street food dish that consists of spicy white pea curry (ragda) served with potato patties (pattice). The dish is garnished with chopped onions, cilantro, and a variety of chutneys. The combination of the soft patties and the flavorful ragda makes for a satisfying and delicious meal.

8. Kheema Pav
Kheema Pav is a flavorful dish made with minced meat (kheema) cooked with spices and served with pav. The rich, spicy flavor of the kheema paired with the soft pav makes this dish a favorite among meat lovers. It is often garnished with chopped onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lemon.

9. Dabeli
Dabeli is a popular street food snack that originated in the Kutch region of Gujarat but has become a favorite in Mumbai. It consists of a spicy potato filling sandwiched between a pav, along with a variety of chutneys, sev, and pomegranate seeds. The combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors makes Dabeli a unique and delicious snack.

10. Falooda
Falooda is a popular Indian dessert that is perfect for cooling down on a hot day. It is made with vermicelli noodles, rose syrup, basil seeds, and ice cream, all layered in a tall glass. The combination of the sweet, floral flavors and the creamy texture makes Falooda a refreshing and indulgent treat.

Conclusion
Mumbai's street food scene is a testament to the city's rich culinary heritage and diverse culture. Each dish offers a unique blend of flavors and textures that reflect the diversity of Indian cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, exploring the street food of Mumbai is an experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a satisfied palate. So, the next time you find yourself in the bustling streets of Mumbai, be sure to indulge in these 10 must-try street foods.