Top 5 Best Vada Pav in Mumbai: Must-Try Street Food Gems
Mumbai, the city of dreams, is also the city of vada pav—a humble yet iconic street food that has won the hearts of millions. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, no visit to Mumbai is complete without savoring this delicious snack. In this guide, we’ll take you through 5 of the best vada pav joints in Mumbai, each with its unique flavor and charm. From hidden gems to gourmet twists, here’s where you can find the best vada pav in Mumbai.
- 1. MM – A Hidden Gem for Vada Pav Lovers
- 2. Aram Vada Pav – The Iconic CST Snack
- 3. Aswad – The Maharashtrian Delight
- 4. Spice Klub – The Fancy Take on Vada Pav
- 5. Mangesh – The Best Vada Pav Spot
- Overhyped Vada Pav Places in Mumbai
- Why Are These Places Overhyped?
- Pro Tip for Best Vada Pav:
- Final Thoughts on Best Vada Pav
- FAQ on Best Vada Pav in Mumbai
1. MM – A Hidden Gem for Vada Pav Lovers
This place might come as a surprise to many Mumbaikars, but MM in Malad is a hidden treasure for best Vada Pav enthusiasts. What makes their Vada Pav special is the chutney—it’s absolutely mouthwatering! If you’re in Malad, don’t just stop at their Vada Pav; also try their lassi and pani puri, which are just as delightful.
- Location: Opposite Malad West Station, Malad West
- Why It’s Famous: MM is a hidden treasure for vada pav enthusiasts in Malad. What sets them apart is their mouthwatering chutney, which adds a burst of flavor to every bite. The vada is perfectly spiced and crispy, while the pav is soft and fresh.
- Must-Try: Apart from their vada pav, don’t miss their lassi and pani puri, which are equally delightful.
- Pro Tip: Visit during the evening for a quick snack after a long day. The bustling street vibe adds to the experience.
- Why Visit?: Unique chutney, perfect street food experience.
If you are craving some of the best Pani Puri, one spot in Bandra will make you fall in love. Want to know what else you can eat? Check out the Bandra Food Guide.
2. Aram Vada Pav – The Iconic CST Snack
One of the oldest Vada Pav joints in Mumbai, Aram Vada Pav is an institution. Located near CST Station, this spot is perfect for those looking for a quick and delicious snack. The hot and crispy Vada Pav served here hits every spot, making it a must-visit for street food lovers.
- Location: Near CST Station, Mumbai
- Why It’s Famous: Aram Vada Pav is one of the oldest and most legendary vada pav joints in Mumbai. Located near the bustling CST Station, this spot is perfect for a quick, delicious snack. The vada is hot, crispy, and perfectly spiced, while the pav is always fresh.
- Must-Try: Pair your vada pav with their sweet and tangy tamarind chutney for an extra kick.
- Pro Tip: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid the long queues of office-goers and tourists.
- Why Visit?: A legendary place, fresh and hot vada pav.
Find this legendary Vada Pav spot near CST Station—just follow the delicious aroma! Let’s go!
3. Aswad – The Maharashtrian Delight
Situated in Dadar, Aswad is known for its authentic Maharashtrian cuisine. Their Vada Pav is one of the best in the city, with perfectly spiced potato filling and a soft yet crispy texture. If you’re craving a traditional Maharashtrian Vada Pav, Aswad should be on your list.
Location: Dadar, Mumbai
Why It’s Famous: Aswad is a beloved spot in Dadar, known for its authentic Maharashtrian cuisine. Their vada pav is a standout, with a perfectly spiced potato filling and a soft yet crispy texture. The chutneys are freshly made, adding a burst of flavor to every bite.
Must-Try: Along with their vada pav, try their misal pav for a traditional Maharashtrian meal.
Pro Tip: Visit during lunch hours to enjoy a full Maharashtrian thali alongside your vada pav.
Why Visit?: Authentic flavors, traditional Maharashtrian vibe
Find Aswad in Dadar and treat yourself to one of the best Vada Pavs in Mumbai! Follow the flavor!
4. Spice Klub – The Fancy Take on Vada Pav
Feeling a little fancy? Spice Klub is the place to be if you want to experience a gourmet twist on this classic snack. Their Vada Pav Fondue is a unique twist on the classic. Instead of the usual Vada, they serve it in liquid form, similar to a cheese fondue, with small pavs for dipping. Their garlic chutney is another innovation—it comes in a transparent edible wrapper made of potato starch. If you’re up for an experimental food experience, this is a must-try!
Location: Lower Parel, Mumbai
Why It’s Famous: Spice Klub offers a gourmet twist on the classic vada pav. Their Vada Pav Fondue is a unique creation—instead of the usual vada, they serve it in liquid form, similar to a cheese fondue, with small pavs for dipping. The garlic chutney comes in an edible wrapper made of potato starch, adding a fun and innovative touch.
Must-Try: Their Vada Pav Fondue and edible chutney wrapper are a must for foodies looking for something different.
Pro Tip: This is a great spot for a fun dining experience with friends or family.
Why Visit?: Creative and modern twist on vada pav, fun dining experience.
Dunk, dip, and devour—Spice Klub’s Vada Pav Fondue in Lower Parel is a game-changer! Land here to find it!
5. Mangesh – The Best Vada Pav Spot
If you’re shopping in Borivali and don’t know where to grab a quick bite, head straight to Mangesh. This spot is famous for its flavor-packed Vada Pav, featuring sukhi garlic chutney and crispy fried chilies. A bite of this Vada Pav will make your heart say “wowww!”
Location: Borivali, Mumbai
Why It’s Famous: Mangesh is a local favorite in Borivali, known for its flavor-packed vada pav. The vada is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a generous layer of sukhi garlic chutney and crispy fried chilies. Every bite is a perfect mix of spice and crunch.
Must-Try: Their schezwan vada pav is a hit among younger crowds.
Pro Tip: If you’re shopping in Borivali, this is the perfect spot for a quick and satisfying snack.
Why Visit?: Perfect mix of spice and crunch, ideal for shoppers.
Spice, crunch, and a whole lot of wow—find Mangesh Vada Pav in Borivali! Take me here
Overhyped Vada Pav Places in Mumbai
While Mumbai has some incredible vada pav joints, not all popular spots live up to the hype. Here are a few overhyped vada pav places that might not be worth the long queues or high expectations:
1. Aram Vada Pav, Vile Parle
- Location: Vile Parle
- Why It’s Overhyped: Aram Vada Pav in Vile Parle is often praised, but it falls short of expectations. The vada pav here is overpriced and relies heavily on excessive butter, which masks the authentic flavors of the vada and chutney. While it’s convenient for those in the area, it doesn’t stand out in terms of taste or quality.
- What to Expect: Long queues, overpriced vada pav, and a greasy aftertaste due to the excessive use of butter.
- Verdict: Skip this if you’re looking for an authentic vada pav experience.
2. Kirti College Vada Pav, Dadar
- Location: Near Kirti College, Dadar
- Why It’s Overhyped: Kirti College Vada Pav is famous for its churra (fried besan crumbs) topping, but that’s about it. The vada pav itself is basic and doesn’t justify the long queues. While the churra adds a crunchy texture, it doesn’t elevate the overall taste significantly.
- What to Expect: Crowded spaces, long waiting times, and a vada pav that’s good but not extraordinary.
- Verdict: Not worth the hype unless you’re a fan of churra-topped vada pav.
3. Ladu Samrat, Lalbaug, Parel
Location: Lalbaug, Parel
Why It’s Overhyped: Ladu Samrat is a legendary spot, but its vada pav doesn’t live up to its reputation. While the vada pav is huge and nice, it’s not exceptional enough to be called one of the best in Mumbai. The place relies more on its legacy than the actual quality of the vada pav.
What to Expect: A decent vada pav experience, but nothing that will blow your mind.
Verdict: Visit for the nostalgia, but don’t expect a life-changing vada pav.
Why Are These Places Overhyped?
- Excessive Butter or Oil: Many overhyped places use too much butter or oil, which can overpower the authentic flavors of the vada and chutney.
- Long Queues: The hype often leads to long waiting times, which may not be worth it for a basic vada pav.
- Legacy Over Quality: Some places rely on their reputation rather than consistently delivering exceptional taste.
- Overpriced: Many overhyped joints charge more for their vada pav without offering anything extraordinary.
Pro Tip for Best Vada Pav:
Ask Locals: Mumbaikars know the best-kept secrets and can guide you to authentic spots.
Final Thoughts on Best Vada Pav
Mumbai is packed with amazing spots to enjoy the best Vada Pav. Whether you’re a street food enthusiast or a first-time visitor, these recommendations offer something for everyone. Which of these spots is your favorite? Or do you have a hidden gem to share? Let us know in the comments! Whether you prefer the traditional flavors of Aram Vada Pav and Aswad, or want to experiment with Spice Klub’s Vada Pav Fondue, there’s something for every Vada Pav lover in Mumbai. So, the next time you’re in the city, make sure to check out these spots and indulge in the magic of Mumbai’s favorite street food! And if you want to explore more Maharashtrian delicacies, Aswad and Ladu Samrat are legedary places to start.
FAQ on Best Vada Pav in Mumbai
1. What is the average price of Vada Pav in Mumbai?
The average price of a Vada Pav in Mumbai ranges from Rs. 20 to Rs. 50, depending on the location and toppings. Some gourmet or specialty Vada Pavs (like cheese or schezwan) may cost up to Rs. 100.
2. What Makes Mumbai’s Vada Pav So Special?
Vada pav is more than just a snack—it’s a symbol of Mumbai’s vibrant street food culture. The combination of a spicy potato vada, soft pav, and flavorful chutneys creates a taste that’s hard to resist. Each vada pav joint in Mumbai has its unique recipe, making the hunt for the best one an exciting culinary adventure.
3. What is the best time to visit vada pav joints in Mumbai?
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds is the best time to visit vada pav joints in Mumbai.
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