Mumbai, the city of dreams and aspirations is a melting pot of cultures. It has been home to people from all over India for centuries now. With its cosmopolitan culture, it is no wonder that street food has become an integral part of life here. From the famous chaats to the mouthwatering kathi rolls, there are many delicious treats on offer at every corner of the city. The best thing about Mumbai is that you can find anything and everything under one roof. So whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, you will be able to find what you want. In this article, we have compiled a list of 5 must-try street foods in Mumbai which are sure to leave your taste buds wanting more!
1) Chaat
Chaat is a popular Indian snack made up of spicy lentil balls served in a tangy yogurt sauce. Chaat stalls are scattered across the city, but some of the most famous ones include the famous Kala Ghoda Chaat Stall (near the Gateway of India), Shivaji Park Chaat Stall (in Colaba), and the famous Bombay Bhelwali Chaat Stall (in Bandra).To prepare this dish, first, mix the ingredients well. Then roll them into small balls and serve with chutney. There is a great history behind Chaat. Legend has it that it was invented by a Muslim trader called Shahji who lived during the Mughal era. He used to sell his wares along the seashore where he would make these tasty snacks using whatever was available around him. These days, chaat is enjoyed as much as it was back then. You can even buy readymade chaat mixes online
.2) Kathi Rolls
Kathi rolls are another popular street food found in Mumbai. This is a bread roll stuffed with spiced vegetables like potatoes, carrots, peas, and onions. They are usually eaten with tamarind-based sauces. There are different types of kathi rolls depending upon the region they originate from. For example, the rolls from Thane are known for their sweet flavor whereas those from Navi Mumbai are very spicy. The origin of Kathi rolls is also interesting. According to legend, Kathi rolls were created when a man named Babuji wanted to impress a woman. He ordered a bunch of veggies to be cooked and rolled into a dough. However, the cook didn’t know how to do it so he asked his wife to help him out. She took the dough and started rolling it. When she finished, she realized that it looked like a bun and hence decided to call it kathi.
3) Pani Puri
Pani puri is a crispy fried ball of deep-fried batter filled with water. It is similar to the Mexican dish burrito. It is often sold in pairs and comes in two varieties – plain and mint flavored. It is usually eaten with a dipping sauce such as tamarind or lemon pickle.Pani puri originated in Maharashtra. It is believed that it got its name because it resembles the shape of a fishbowl. Its popularity spread across the country after being introduced in Delhi. Today, pani puris are available almost everywhere and can be easily bought from any roadside vendor.
4) Vada Pav
Vada pav is a savory snack consisting of a soft flatbread topped with potato curry. It is usually served with onion salad and a special type of yogurt relish.Vada pav is a Punjabi specialty. It is said that the recipe came from Punjab during British rule. Today, vada pavs are prepared in various parts of India including West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. You can find vada pav stalls all over the city. Some of the best places to try this delicious snack include Khopoli, Karveer Nagar, Wadala Road, Versova, and Andheri East.
5) Litti Chokha
Litti chokha is a crunchy snack made of deep-fried chickpeas mixed with spices. It is usually accompanied by raita, a yogurt-based dip.Litti chokha can be traced back to ancient times. It is mentioned in Hindu epic Mahabharata. The snack is usually prepared on festive occasions, especially Holi. In some regions, litti chokha are dipped in sugar syrup while in others, they are dusted with ghee. You can find good quality little chokha at many restaurants in Mumbai. Some of the top locations to get your hands on this mouthwatering snack include Juhu Beach, Bandstand, Girgaon Chowpatty, Dadar, Worli Sea Face, and Marine Drive.
6) Bombay Duck
Bombay duck is a sandwich made of layered roti (chapati), which is then soaked in curd and grilled. It gets its name according to the ingredients used for stuffing the chapatis – the original version contained just duck meat but now there are several variations. One common variation contains mashed potato instead of duck meat.Bombay duck was first sold at the legendary Kalyan restaurant in Mumbai. Most people go for the traditional version where the duck is marinated in vinegar and ginger. But today, you can find several other variants of Bombay duck both inside and outside Mumbai. One of the most famous vendors is Raj Dhobyal who has been selling the sandwiches since 1983. You can find his stall at Churchgate station every morning.
7) Chicken 65
Chicken 65 is a chicken burger sold in Mumbai. It consists of a patty of minced chicken breast stuffed into a bun along with lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, cheese, and chaat masala. The mixture is sealed within the bun and steamed. This creates a sort of pocket around the filling without squishing out any of the contents. Chicken 65 is considered an affordable treat and easy to order from street carts. For long-time Mumbaiites, ordering a chicken 65 means going back to their childhood when mom would pack them a lunchbox full of goodies including a chicken 65.
Conclusion
Mumbai is a food lover’s paradise. Whether you love street foods or fine dining, there is always something new to explore in one of the world’s greatest cities. Remember, If you’re planning a visit, make sure to check the local laws before eating. Wherever you decide to eat, have fun, relax, and enjoy.If you want to visit this great place grab your ticket at Cathay Pacific and fly to Mumbai with us!
