If you have a passion for street flavours that transport you to the past and evoke a sense of nostalgia, then Mumbai is your ultimate destination. This lively metropolis, celebrated for its rich and vibrant culture, is a paradise for food aficionados. Its eateries promise to fulfill your cravings for soulful, comforting fare. When it comes to street food in Mumbai, the vada pav is the most popular. It started life as the humble man's affordable snack to curb hunger and quickly became a big hit with everyone. The best ones are made with soft and fresh pavs, freshly fried vadas with a thin batter coating, and zingy garlic paired with the mild heat of red chillies. These top street food joints are among the best places to visit in Mumbai for vada pav.
In Mumbai, you can discover some of the finest vada pav eateries situated near colleges, catering to the constant flow of hungry students. This particular establishment has served numerous renowned Bollywood celebrities, including Sushmita Sen, Madhuri Dixit, and Sonu Nigam. One must definitely try their choora pava, a delightful combination of choora mixed with chutney stuffed inside a pav.
Address: Kashinath Dhuru Marg, Dadar West, Dadar, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400028
This popular street food stall, known as Nitin Vada Pav, may not have a formal name, but it is hugely popular among locals. Come evening, a large crowd gathers near IC Church, eager to savor the delicious vada pav offered by Nitin. Operating only in the evenings, Nitin closes his stall once all the vada pavs have been sold.
Address: I C Colony, Maryland Complex, Borivali West, Mumbai
One can often find excellent vada pav options in the vicinity of the train stations in Mumbai. This particular eatery is more than 70 years old and is known for its exceptional vada pav, which is meticulously prepared and presented with a choice of either aromatic dry garlic chutney or delectably sweet chutney. The unwavering commitment to quality has made this spot outside Capitol Cinema near Victoria Terminus a perennial favourite for vada pav enthusiasts over the years.
This cosy little stall, nestled near Sena Bhavan in Dadar, emanates the irresistible aroma of freshly-fried vadas. Each vada boasts a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior, enveloped in a light, golden besan batter. The vadas are complemented by a zesty dry garlic chutney and fiery green chillies, offering a delightful burst of flavors with every bite.
Address: Shiv Sena Bhavan, N C. Kelkar Marg, Bhawani Sankar, Dadar, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400028
This charming shop offers an array of mouthwatering Maharashtrian snacks, with a standout item being the vada pav. The vada pav is accompanied by a one-of-a-kind chutney, which has become a favourite among patrons. The generously-sized vadas make them a popular choice for hungry workers and students alike. After 5pm, the shop becomes a bustling hub of activity, making it essential to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Address: Shop No.: 1 Habib Terrace Lalbaug, Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar Rd, Ganesh Gully, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400012