There’s something magical about Mumbai’s food. It’s loud, flavorful, sometimes fiery—and always unforgettable. Whether you’re strolling down Marine Drive or lost in a bustling bazaar, the city’s food finds a way into your heart.
And guess what? It’s not just us locals—international stars love it too. Here’s your guide to 5 iconic Mumbai dishes that have fans from Hollywood to London, along with where to try them and how to pay with zero cash hassles (hello, Mony app!).
1. Vada Pav – Mumbai’s Burger
The Dish:
Spiced potato mash, deep-fried in gram flour, tucked into a soft bun with chutney and fried green chili.
Who Loves It:
- Anthony Bourdain tried it on his Mumbai episode and called it “the perfect street snack.”
- Russell Brand enjoyed it during his India tour and raved about its “unexpected punch.”
Where to Try:
- Anand Stall, Vile Parle
- Aaram Vada Pav, opposite CST station
▶️ Watch: Vada Pav Street Legends – Foodie Incarnate
🌶️ 2. Misal Pav – The Spice Bomb
The Dish:
A spicy lentil curry topped with farsan, chopped onions, coriander, and served with fluffy pav.
Who Loves It:
- Gordon Ramsay tasted it during his India travel series and praised the complexity.
- Padma Lakshmi, Indian-American food expert, called it “the original comfort food with a kick.”
Where to Try:
- Mamledar Misal, Thane
- Aaswad, Dadar (they even won a global award!)
▶️ Watch: Spiciest Misal Challenge – Curly Tales
🐟 3. Bombil Fry – The Bombay Duck That Isn’t Duck
The Dish:
A soft, boneless fish native to Mumbai’s coast, marinated in masala and shallow-fried till golden.
Who Loves It:
- Nigella Lawson featured it on her blog after tasting it at Trishna.
- Chef Jamie Oliver called it “a surprising texture with bold Indian flavors.”
Where to Try:
- Gajalee, Vile Parle
- Trishna, Fort
- Explore Koli fishing village eateries in Versova for an authentic taste
▶️ Watch: Seafood Tour in Mumbai – The Food Ranger
4. Bhel Puri – Street-Style Crunch at the Beach
The Dish:
Puffed rice, sev, onions, chutney, and raw mango – a sweet, spicy, tangy explosion served in a paper cone.
Who Loves It:
- Julia Roberts reportedly tried it during a spiritual visit to India and loved its “chaotic flavor.”
- Will Smith, during his Mumbai trip, was seen snacking on Bhel Puri with locals on Marine Drive.
Where to Try:
- Juhu Chowpatty stalls
- Sharma Bhel, CST
- Gupta Bhelwala, Dadar
▶️ Watch: Bhel Puri by the Sea
5. Prawns Koliwada – The Fisherfolk Fry
The Dish:
Juicy prawns marinated in a spiced batter and deep-fried—born in the Koli communities of Mumbai.
Who Loves It:
- David Beckham, on a charity trip to India, was served Prawns Koliwada and reportedly asked for seconds.
- Trevor Noah raved about it on his Instagram after a visit to a local friend’s home in Bandra.
Where to Try:
- Highway Gomantak, Bandra East
- Jai Hind Lunch Home, Fort
▶️ Watch: Mumbai’s Koliwada Cuisine Tour
Quick Tip: Pay Like a Local (Without the Cash Drama)
Forget fumbling with foreign cards or carrying wads of rupees. The Mony app lets you scan and pay at most eateries across India with your mobile. Link your international card, load your wallet, and you’re good to go.
🎉 Bonus: No need to convert currencies in your head. Just tap, scan, eat, and enjoy.
📍Final Bite
Mumbai’s food is more than just sustenance—it’s a cultural high. From street corners to sea-facing diners, every plate tells a story. And clearly, you’re in great company—from Julia Roberts to Beckham, the world is already digging in.
So what are you waiting for? Get eating. Get Mony. And get lost in the taste of Mumbai.